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A tip from Rik: Outdoor space of Van Abbemuseum

Rik likes to take us to the unique spots of Eindhoven. Now that temperatures are rising, he shares his tip for a wonderful place to relax in the sun.

"I think this is perhaps the finest terrace in Eindhoven”, says Rik, pointing to the other side of the Dommel. The first thing you see is the impressive building of the Van Abbemuseum. But if you look more closely, you will also see the sunny terrace on the waterfront.

The Van Abbemuseum dates from 1936 and was renovated at the beginning of this century by architect Abel Cahen. It is now one of Europe’s leading museums in contemporary art.

The museum is definitely worth a visit. But even if you don't have a ticket, you can come and sit here: the terrace is also accessible from the back, coming from Stratumseind.

Van Abbemuseum
Van Abbemuseum

During the renovation in 2003, the surrounding nature got an upgrade. The river Dommel was widened and a small lake was created where the museum cafe is now located.

If you want to reach the terrace from the back, you first have to cross a very special bridge. The bright pink building, designed by Dutch architect and visual artist John Körmeling, is the smallest covered bridge in the world. 

With a wink to the nightlife at Stratumseind, Körmeling invites everyone who is still in doubt to cross the bridge, because the museum is 'really something for you’. Or: ‘echt iets voor u’, as the words on the little building say in Dutch.


About the host Rik Verhalle
Rik studied architecture and is a city guide in Eindhoven. Every month he shares a tip.