Valkenburg is a charming town in the Limburg Province of the Netherlands that offers a surprising variety of tours for visitors. Whether you’re a fan of classic cars, history, or exploring on foot, Valkenburg’s unique attractions make it a perfect day-trip destination. We especially love the Oldtimer Tour through South Limburg because it combines the thrill of driving a vintage car along scenic routes with a fun quiz to keep your brain engaged. Meanwhile, the Guided Tour of the Nuclear Bomb Shelter offers a compelling look into Cold War history underground, and the Guided Walking Tour in and around the city center reveals Valkenburg’s architectural highlights and stories in a relaxed setting.
If you’re planning your visit, consider what kind of experience you’re after. Are you interested in a hands-on, nostalgic drive? Or perhaps a deep dive into Cold War secrets? Or maybe just a leisurely walk to soak in the sights? The following list highlights the best tours available, each with its own charm and appeal.
Quick Overview
This guide covers three standout tours in Valkenburg, each offering a different way to experience the town:
- The Valkenburg: Oldtimer Tour through South Limburg gives you a chance to drive a classic car through picturesque Limburg countryside. []
- The Valkenburg: Guided Tour of the Nuclear Bomb Shelter takes you underground to explore Cold War defenses and learn about the shelter’s role in history. []
- The Valkenburg: Guided Walking Tour in and around city center offers a relaxed, informative stroll through the city’s main sights, including the impressive Geulpoort gate. []
1. Valkenburg: Oldtimer Tour through South Limburg
Rating: 4.5/5 (reviews)
Duration: 3 hours – Check availability for starting times
Location: Limburg Province, Netherlands
If you’ve ever wanted to sit behind the wheel of a classic car and cruise through the rolling hills of Zuid-Limburg, this tour is perfect. The Oldtimer Tour combines a nostalgic drive in a vintage vehicle—every car in a choice of colors—and a scenic route that showcases Limburg’s beautiful landscape. The tour starts at Oud Valkenburg, where you’ll receive a safety briefing and get acquainted with your classic ride. The route then winds through some of the prettiest parts of the province, with stops that include stunning views and photo opportunities.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility—starting times are adaptable to fit your schedule—and that it includes a fun quiz meant to spice up the drive. It’s a good pick for car lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a memorable photo-op in a timeless setting. The price is reasonable given the experience, and petrol is included, so you won’t have to worry about extra costs during your 3-hour adventure.
Bottom Line: If you want a hands-on, fun way to see Zuid-Limburg and enjoy some old-school motoring, this tour delivers. It’s an experience that blends scenic beauty with a dose of nostalgia.
2. Valkenburg: Guided Tour of the Nuclear Bomb Shelter
Rating: 4.5/5 (reviews)
Duration: 1 hour – Check availability for starting times
Location: Limburg Province, Netherlands
For those interested in Cold War history, the Guided Tour of the Nuclear Bomb Shelter offers a compelling journey underground. The shelter was built to protect the local population during tense periods of the Cold War and is now open to the public. The tour takes you into the tunnels of the Municipal Cave, where you’ll see the facilities that were designed to sustain people during a nuclear threat.
The guide shares detailed stories of how the shelter was used, the reasoning behind its construction, and the reality of life underground during a crisis. Walking through the dark, narrow tunnels gives you a tangible sense of what it might have felt like for those hiding below the surface. Visitors often comment on the authenticity of the space and the fascinating insights into 20th-century military preparedness.
This tour is ideal for history buffs, school groups, or anyone curious about the Cold War era. Because it’s only an hour, it’s a quick but impactful experience. The underground setting offers a stark contrast to the town above, making it a memorable part of any Valkenburg visit.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a powerful peek into Cold War fears made real underground. If you’re interested in 20th-century military history, it’s a must-do.
3. Valkenburg: Guided Walking Tour in and around city center
Rating: (reviews)
Duration: 1.5 hours – Check availability for starting times
Location: Limburg Province, Netherlands
Sometimes the best way to appreciate a town is on foot, and Valkenburg’s guided walking tour is perfect for discovering its most notable sights without rushing. Starting at Bogaardlaan, your guide will take you through the streets where you’ll learn about Valkenburg’s fortified past and see its main landmarks, including the Geulpoort, a 24-meter-high city gate rebuilt in 2014. The walk covers key parts of the city’s architecture, history, and local stories.
Along the way, you’ll stop at viewpoints that offer great photo opportunities and hear about how the city evolved from a medieval fortress to a lively tourist destination. The tour is a relaxed way to get oriented, especially if you’re new to Valkenburg or prefer an overview before exploring on your own. It’s also good for visitors of all ages and fitness levels, and the intimate setting allows plenty of chance to ask questions.
Guests often comment that the guide’s local knowledge makes the history come alive, and the easy pace means you won’t feel rushed. It’s a solid choice if you prefer a leisurely, informative stroll.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive yet relaxed introduction to Valkenburg’s highlights, this walking tour is an excellent choice.
How to Choose
When deciding which tour to take, consider your interests and time constraints.
- If you’re a car enthusiast or love a bit of adventure, the Oldtimer Tour offers a fun, scenic drive with a personal touch.
- For history buffs or those curious about Cold War secrets, the underground Nuclear Bomb Shelter provides a quick but intense glimpse into the past.
- If you prefer a more leisurely exploration of Valkenburg’s streets and architecture, the guided walking tour gives a detailed overview at a relaxed pace.
Think about your budget, how much time you have, and what kind of experience excites you most. Booking these tours early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slots.
Final thoughts
Valkenburg offers a surprising variety of tours that suit different interests—from vintage car rides to underground Cold War history and city walks. For travelers seeking a nostalgic drive through scenic Limburg, the Oldtimer Tour is a classic pick. History lovers will appreciate exploring the nuclear bunker, while those wanting a gentle introduction to Valkenburg’s charms should consider the guided walking tour.
No matter your choice, each experience adds a unique layer to your visit. If you’re eager to explore, book your spot early—these tours fill up quickly, especially in spring and summer. With options for almost every interest, Valkenburg’s tours promise memorable moments for all travelers.