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TILBURG
Autumn 2013/Winter 2014
Enjoy your COMPLIMENTARY COPY of Tilburg In Your Pocket
The Spoorzone Monumental Streets
Discover Tilburgs trendy Railway Zone
Discover the beauty of Tilburg
www.inyourpocket.com
N06 - 2.50
CONTENTS
E3
E S S E N T I A L C I TY G U I D E S
Contents
Foreword
A few words from the editor E4 E5 E6 E8
The Spoorzone (Railway Zone) is an ever-developing area next to Tilburgs railway lines, which measures a whopping 75 hectares. Its located between the East and West Ring Roads and has quickly become a trendy place where youngsters, entrepreneurs and everyday people meet. Read more on p.E21
Arriving in Tilburg
How to get to your hotel
The Basics
Getting to grips with Tilburg
History
The citys past on two pages
Culture & Events E10

Concerts, galleries and events
Where to stay Restaurants
E16 Beds for backpackers and business executives E20 The Dutch have much more than cheese to offer
Sightseeing
Museums, churches and other sights
E36 E42
Cafs E29
Classic cafs, bakeries and high tea
Getting around
Trains, buses and taxis
Nightlife E30
Bars, pubs, clubs and cafs
Directory
Shopping Lifestyle & Sports E44 E46 E4 E5 E6 E25 E31 E35 E37 E45 E46 E48 E48 E49 E50 E51 E52
List of small features

Cover story Message from the Mayor National holidays Monumental streets Tilburg: a genuine events city In Your Pocket Mobile Talking Textiles Tilburg for kids Football: Willem II Dutch words and phrases
Maps & Index

Old town street register Old town map Tilburg map Greater Tilburg map Netherlands map
Wander around the area just behind the citys main shopping street and discover a Tilburg you never knew. Exclusive shops, art galleries and cosy restaurants can all be found here. This is Tilburg at its best. Read more on p.E25
www.tilburg.inyourpocket.com
E4
FOREWORD
As you hold this snowy edition of Tilburg In Your Pocket in your hands, autumn is almost upon us and winter is coming. Yet Tilburg is, even in the cold months, a very special city to explore. The research team of In Your Pocket once again turned the city inside out visiting its restaurants, cafes, shops, museums and loads of other attractions found in the following pages. While not every review made it into this printed version, you can read plenty more about Tilburg on our website www.tilburg.inyourpocket.com.And unlike most other guides, our researchers personally ate, drank and slept in the places they wrote about. Culturally, Tilburg is a fascinating city with its many institutions including the Rock Academy, Textile Museum, Theatre, The Pont, 013, Paradox and De NWE Vorst. Despite the cuts in Dutch cultural budgets, the people behind these venues did their very best to come up with a strong progamme of events for the upcoming season. We also recommend you venture out to the Dwaalgebied, roughly, the area between the Spoorlaan and Heuvelstraat. Visit these unique streets and shops and youll see that Tilburg has more to offer than you might have thought! IIts a city youll have to explore deeply, but when you do, youll find that Tilburg has just as much to offer as more well-known cities like Amsterdam. And sometimes even more. As always, comments, recommendations, photos, tips or rants may be mailed to tilburg@inyourpocket.com.
E S S E N T I A L C I TY G U I D E S
Publisher In Your Pocket Netherlands Weikesstraat 21, 5335 LE Alem, The Netherlands tel. (+31) 653 79 91 46, tilburg@inyourpocket.com www.tilburg.inyourpocket.com Printed two times per year by Microdot in the EU 30,000 copies ISSN 2211-2553 Find us on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter Editorial Editorial team Theo Leerintveld (theo.leerintveld@ inyourpocket.com) & Martins Zaprauskis Contributors Frank van Bergen, Charlotte Backx, Joep van Aert, Peter van Lent (historie) & Sanne Stenvert Research Theo Leerintveld & Bob Oostelbos Layout & Design Martins Zaprauskis Photos Theo Leerintveld & Gemeente Tilburg Cover photo Persbureau Van Eijndhoven Sales & Circulation Advertising Theo Leerintveld, theo.leerintveld@ inyourpocket.com, tel. (+31) 653 79 91 46 Distribution Theo Leerintveld & ASEGA Media, tel. (+31) 135 453 298 Copyright notice
Text and photos copyright In Your Pocket Netherlands 2011 - 2014. Maps copyright cartographer. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, except brief extracts for the purpose of review, without written permission from the publisher and copyright owner. The brand name In Your Pocket is used under license from UAB In Your Pocket: Bernardinu g. 9-4, LT-01124, Vilnius, Lithuania. Tel. (+370-5) 212 29 76.
Cover story
The Wilhelminapark is one of the oldest parks in Tilburg. It was built in 1898 and is located in the former hamlet of Veldhoven. The five hectare park was designed by Leonard Springer, a famous Dutch landscape architect who also designed the Leijpark and Wandelbos as well as the Oosterpark in Amsterdam. It boasts a crescent-shaped water feature and winding lanes.
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Its now 21 years since we published the first In Your Pocket guide - to Vilnius in Lithuania - in which time we have grown to become the largest publisher of locally produced city guides in Europe. We now cover more than 75 cities across the continent (with Batumi, in Georgia, the latest city to be pocketed ) and the number of concise, witty, well-written and downright indispensable In Your Pocket guides published each year is approaching five million. We also publish an iPhone app, including more than 40 guides, which can be downloaded for free from the AppStore. Search for IYP Guides by name. To keep up to date with all thats new at In Your Pocket, like us on Facebook ( faceb ook.com/ inyourpocket) or follow us on Twitter (twitter.com/inyourpocket).
Tilburg In Your Pocket
ARRIVING IN TILBURG
These days any city in the Netherlands is relatively easy to reach and that includes Tilburg. The central station borders the city centre, while the smaller train stations give access to the suburbs. On the motorways Tilburg is also regularly indicated on road signs. From the two airports (Schiphol and Eindhoven) it takes an hour and a half or an hour respectively to reach Tilburg by train. The public transport system is fairly clear and well organised, however, many people prefer to walk to the city centre. Changing money is possible at the airports, but also at the central train station in Tilburg. And whether arriving after being packed into a low-budget plane, piloting your own jet or jumping off a Dutch train, heres some handy info to help smooth your landing.
E5
Message from the Mayor

Tilburg is vibrant, enterprising, full of initiatives. Pleasant to reside and live in. Rural and worldly at the same time, a place where small villages have strung together into a green city. A city that is more than worth visiting. In this Tilburg In Your Pocket guide you will find the most important places and attractions of Tilburg. When you browse through this guide, you will discover that the atmosphere of Tilburg is young, quirky, and slightly diverse, because we are a real student city, with Tilburg University and six art schools right in the centre of the city. Students are trained there as dancers, rock musicians, even as musical stars. The various theatres and venues like 013 offer them the opportunity to showcase their talents to a large audience. So if you are looking for a cultural night out, Tilburg is the place to be. The city of course has much more to offer. An extensive range of shops, with surprising shops in the Wander Area. Internationally renowned museums, such as De Pont museum of contemporary art. Also wander around the Railway Zone, the old train station area full of industrial buildings where trains were once serviced. These buildings now act as a skate park or events hall for example. And, of course, Tilburg has, like any other large city, numerous terraces, restaurants, and nightlife venues. Tilburg is also distinguished by a packed events calendar. During the event season the centre of Tilburg is everybodys living room. You encounter each other at the Gypsy Festival, Tilburg Ten Miles, Incubate, or Roadburn. And of course in the summer also at Festival Mundial or at the Tilburg Fair. This year it also is The Year 013, a year filled with creative initiatives and surprising collaborations, organized by the people of Tilburg themselves. Often on the 13th day of the month. So in short, with the Tilburg In Your Pocket guide in hand, you have made the first step towards an unforgettable time in Tilburg. Peter Noordanus Mayor of Tilburg
By bus
Since travel by train is very efficient in the Netherlands, there are no international bus connections in Tilburg. Veolia is a company that provides bus service in and around the city. When you exit the central train station, the bus station is to your right. Visit www.journeyplanner.9292.nl.
By car
Tilburg can be easily reached via motorway A58 or other provincial roads. In and around the city centre there are seven indoor car parks; along the roads into the centre electronic signs will show you the right direction and free spaces available. You pay when you exit the car park again. For drivers with physical limitations there are disabled parking spaces available at the indoor car parks at Koningsplein, Tivoli and Pieter Vreedeplein. On many streets in the city centre, and at the outdoor car parks, youll find ticket machines. Pay in advance and place the ticket on the dashboard in a visible place. The indoor parking options are cheaper.
By plane
If you arrive at either Schiphol or Eindhoven airport Tilburg is only an hour away by public transport. A single trip from Schiphol by train costs about 15, and from Eindhoven Airport the bus followed by the train will cost you about 10. Both routes will take just over an hour of travelling and youll arrive at the Tilburg Central Station. Check www.9292ov.nl for more information on schedules and prices. The bus and train journey from Eindhoven Airport to Tilburg costs about 9. A single train ticket from Schiphol costs 17 and the journey takes about an hour and a half. Be aware that when you travel from Schiphol to Tilburg, you will have to change onto the train to Venlo in Rotterdam, within 10 minutes of your arrival. From the central station in Eindhoven you take the train that is headed for Den Haag (The Hague).
By train
Tilburg can be easily reached via its three train stations. The central train station borders the city centre and the bus station. One kilometer from the central station is the smaller Tilburg Universiteit station where hundreds of students get off to quench their thirst for knowledge. A two-minute walk is all they need to reach the university from the train station. Finally, at the edge of the city youll find the Tilburg Reeshof station that connects the newest part of the city to the rest of the country. To travel by train, youll need a ticket. There are regular checks on board trains and if youre travelling without a ticket youll be fined 35, even if you smile and speak a foreign language. You can purchase tickets at the yellow machines that adorn all train stations or at the NS Service desk on the right hand side of the central station in Tilburg. When you buy a ticket at the service desk, you pay 50 cents extra in service charges. The machines only accept Dutch bank cards and coins. For more information visit www.ns.nl where you can also plan your journey in English.
Tourist information
VVV Tilburg B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 34, tel. (+31) 90
02 02 08 15, vvv@tilburg.nl, www.vvvtilburg.nl. Buy Tilburg souvenirs here such as the leesplengske (horn book), real Kruikenstad items and Willem II products. Everything youll need to know about the city is also available here and the friendly staff will do everything they can to help you. In the back of the room you can even email your own picture in a postcard of Tilburg to your friends. Bear in mind that the VVV will move to Spoorlaan 434 at the beginning of 2014. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. J
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BASICS
Read on and find out why the Dutch allow people to smoke joints, but not to operate a bicycle while intoxicated. Plenty of other funny facts about the Netherlands are available here.
Alcohol
Tilburg has many cafs and restaurants so youre never far from a glass of wine or a pint of beer. Heineken, Grolsch and the Belgian Jupiler are the three most popular beers on offer at most places in the inner city. Other tasty brews include Brand, Bavaria, Hertog Jan and Amstel. Beer is served everywhere, but you must be able to prove that youre at least 16 years old (to drink beer or wine) or 18 for spirits. If you look too young youll be carded, so always bring identification. This holds true for supermarkets and off-licences, too. If youre a little too tipsy youll probably be asked (firmly, yet kindly) to leave the premises and if you dont cooperate you could end up spending a night sobering up in a police drunk tank, most likely followed by a decent hangover
Snow-covered bicycles in Tilburg
Cycling
Being one of the smaller countries in the world and as flat as a pancake, makes this country attractive for cyclists. Add to that an unbelievable amount of criss-crossed cycle paths, and you know why the Dutch love cycling so much. Although cycling in the bigger cities can be - thanks to lots of trafficequal to a premature death certificate, we recommend that you cycle as much as possible. Yes, even in the rain. It seems like all foreigners stop simultaneously when there is only a few drops falling from the sky. So, if youre up before happy hour and feel like doing something healthy for your body for a change, rent a bike and discover Tilburg.
Money
Since 2002, a large part of the European Union has adopted the euro as its local currency and the Netherlands is no exception. One euro contains 100 eurocents. There are coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 eurocents, and also of 1 and 2 euro. Banknotes are available with the following values: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500. Although a collection of 200 and 500 bills in your wallet might make you feel like Bill Gates or some Russian tycoon bear in mind that theyre almost never accepted in shops or restaurants. You can exchange and withdraw money at most large banks; there are a few in the centre of Tilburg. All Dutch banks accept Visa and MasterCard at their cash dispensers. At the train station you can find a GWK Travelex shop (open 08:00 - 20:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00). Many restaurants, hotels, and shops accept Visa and MasterCard, but to avoid disappointment, be sure to carry some cash with you.
Language
Dutch is an Indo-European Germanic language that is mostly spoken in the Netherlands, Flanders and Suriname (South America). It is closely connected to the Low German dialects which by now have largely been flooded by official German. Most Dutch have a more than fairly healthy command of the English language. Many will also be adept at other European languages with German being the most commonly spoken. Mastering the Dutch language can be a terrifying ordeal, but learning a few key phrases will make things easier and may even win you friends and admirers.
Roads
For a country as small as the Netherlands, there are a ridiculously high number of asphalt roads and motorways. Every town, village or hamlet can be reached from the black ribbon that never seems to be more than a few kilometres away. The majority of Dutch drivers never break the speed limit, and considering the severity of traffic fines, this seems wise enough. Just a few rules: within city limits you must drive 50km/h, outside city limits 80 and on motorways 100 or 120 (check the road signs!). In the Netherlands you must drive on the right side of the road, and you are not allowed to cycle on motorways! You dont want to know how many tourists are plucked off the road by police each year, happily pedalling to their next destination.
National holidays
January 1 New Years Day (Nieuwjaarsdag) April 18, 2014 Good Friday (Goede Vrijdag) April 20, 2014 Easter Sunday (Pasen) April 21, 2014 Easter Monday (Pasen) April 26, 2014 Kings Day (Koningsdag) May 1 Labour Day (Dag van de Arbeid) May 4 Remembrance of the Dead (Nationale Herdenking) May 5 Liberation Day (Dag van de Vrijheid) May 9 Mothers Day (Moederdag) May 13 Ascension Day (Hemelvaartsdag) May 23 - 24 Whitsun (Pinksteren) June 20 Fathers Day (Vaderdag) June 26 Veterans Day (Veteranendag) September 21 Budget Day (Prinsjesdag) December 5 St. Nicolas (Sinterklaas) December 25 - 26 Christmas (Kerstmis) December 31 New Years Eve (Oudejaarsdag)
Smoking
Since the introduction of the ban on smoking in public places on 1 July 2008, smoking has become a lot less common. Nowadays you can have a wild night out and come home without your hair and your clothes reeking of cigarette smoke. For some this is an enormous benefit, and others (read: smokers) find it a pain, and banish themselves to the many smokers rooms in the country. Moreover, thanks to unclear rules you may suddenly find yourself in a pub where there are people smoking. This is usually in pubs with just a single staff member: the boss. Or you may find yourself in a pub that flouts the ban on smoking. This will not have any consequences for you: if you light a cigarette in a pub and the manager tolerates this, then the manager will receive a fine upon inspection.
BASICS
E8
HISTORY
Tilburgs long history stretches back to the 8th century.
709 - First mention of Tilburg

A document from the Liber Aereus Epternacensis includes a mention of Tiliburgis. On 21May, the priest Vigilius writes a document in Tiliburgis, in which the nobleman Aengilbertus donates a farm to the Bishop of Utrecht, Wilibrord. Tiliburgis is most likely a name for a collection of settlements.
1500 - A centre for textiles

At this time Tilburg consists of the villages of Goirke, Heike, Heuvel, Hasselt and Heikant. Many sheep are kept on the vast heaths surrounding these villages. The large quantities of wool generated through this are ideal for the emerging of Tilburgs textile industry. Many people in Tilburg find work as sheep shearers, spinners or weavers. As time passes Tilburg grows to become the Netherlands largest centre for textiles.
1232 - First mention of the church

Duke Hendrik I of Brabant grants patronage rights to the church of West Tilburg at the abbey of Tongerlo. The church had Saint Dionysius, the first bishop of Paris, as its patron. Its unknown when Tilburgs first church was built, but it was erected at the location of the current Heike Church.
1570 - The Tilburg Fair

The first written mention of the Tilburg Fair, which is held in August, is made in a custody account. In 1575, King Philip II grants Tilburg permission to hold three annual fairs. The Fun Fair of Tilburg, which has been held each last week of July since 1939, has now grown into an event which draws over one million visitors.
1387 - Lord of Tilburg

Duchess Johanna van Brabant is in need of money. Knight Paulus van Haestrecht, high sheriff of s-Hertogenbosch, is willing to lend the Duchess a sum of money. Johanna van Brabant gives him the villages of Tilburg, Drunen and Goirle as collateral for the loan. Hereby Paulus van Haestrecht becomes lord of Tilburg.
1746 - Painter Grard van Spaendonck is born

Th e painter G rard van Spaendonck is born. This son of a future mayor of Tilburg receives his training as a painter in Antwerp from Guillaume-Jacques Herreyns. In 1769 he leaves for Paris where he makes a name for himself as a painter of flowers. Claude-Henri Watelet vouches for him and he is appointed as a miniature painter at the court of Louis XVI. In 1808 Napoleon grants him the title of Count. When he dies in 1822, he is buried at the Parisian cemetery Pre Lachaise.
1453 - Philips own aldermen

Philip the Good of Burgundy and the Duke of Brabant grants Paulus van Haestrecht the authority to annually appoint seven aldermen to oversee the administration of justice in his villages of Tilburg and Goirle. From now on justice will be meted out according to the code of justice of sHertogenbosch.
1809 - Tilburg becomes a city

King Louis Napoleon visits Tilburg during a tour of the Netherlands. By royal decree the king grants Tilburg the rights of a city on 18 April 1809. An earlier census showed that Tilburg had 9465 inhabitants.
A frozen morning in Tilburg
HISTORY
1840 - Crowning of King Willem II
On 7 October King Willem II is crowned. This member of the royal family enjoyed his stay in Tilburg commenting Here I can breathe freely. In 1847 he commissioned a palace to be built here, which was to serve as a country residence. It was in this beloved city that King Willem II passed away on 17 March 1849 after a brief illness.
E9
1809 - Petrus Donders is born

O n 27 O c t o b e r P e t r u s Donders is born in Tilburg. Peerke, as he is called by l o c al s, gra d u a te s fro m seminary and leaves for Suriname in 1842. Initially he works as a chaplain in Paramaribo. In 1855 h e b e c om es th e pri est in a leper colony on the Coppename river. Peerke dies in 1887 and is later buried in the Cathedral in Paramaribo. After his death, several miraculous healings are attributed to him and the house where he was born becomes a place of pilgrimage. In 1982 he was beatified in Rome and and in 2009 a museum was opened in his honour in Tilburg: Peerke Donders Paviljoen, Museum voor naastenliefde.
1927 - Tilburg University

The Roman Catholic Trade Academy is founded. The school opens with 28 economics students. From 1963, several departments are added to the academy, among others the faculties of Law, Theology and Literature. In 1986, the name of the academy is changed to the Catholic University of Brabant, but since 2002 its official name is Tilburg University.
1944 - Resistance by Coba Pulskens

On 8 July 1944, Coba Pulskens, who had already provided a hiding place for Jews, is requested to arrange a place to stay for five Allied pilots. While three of the pilots are already ensconced in a house on Diepenstraat, the car containing the two remaining pilots is stopped by German soldiers. During the interrogation, the Germans find out the hiding place of the other pilots. During the subsequent house raid, the three pilots, of Canadian, British and Australian nationality, are killed. Coba is arrested and dies in February 1945 in the Ravensbrck concentration camp.
1827 - The first steam engine arrives in Tilburg

Pieter van Dooren uses Tilburgs first steam engine, built in Vervier, in the wool mill which he opened in 1825. Protests erupt among local textile workers, who fear that the machine will make them obsolete and Pieter van Dorens windows are smashed. In 1975 his wool mill is demolished after heated debates in the Tilburg city council.
1992 - Museum De Pont is opened

The De Pont centre for modern art is opened in a former wool mill, which was remodelled by the architects Bethem and Crouwel. The museum for national and international visual art was named after lawyer and businessman Mr J.H. de Pont (1915 - 1987), whose will stipulates the creation of a foundation fo r t h e s ti m u l a ti o n o f contemporary art.
Koningshoeven Abbey
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CULTURE & EVENTS

When the Dutch think of Tilburg and events, the annual Tilburgse Kermis fair immediately comes to mind and as far as culture is concerned the city has a lot to offer. A great theatre and one of the Netherlands better concert halls are both available in Tilburg. Any true music fan would be happy to pay a visit to 013, which has gained worldwide recognition as the venue for the Roadburn Festival. Check venue websites for more musicals, theatre and concerts. Tilburgs various art academies and associations are also a major driving force behind the cultural life of the city. And its actually the only city in the Netherlands that has six vocational art academies. This diversity produces a wide variety or performances, concerts and events.
Rock, folk, jazz & More

Oct Date Time Event 10 20:00 Psychedelic. Endless Boogie. Labelled by many as the climax of Roadburn. 10 11 20:30 Jazz. Nostalgia Trio. Arno Krijger, Nils Wogram & Dejan Terzic 10 - 13 12 20:30 Psychedelic. The Holydrug Couple (Chile). Free concert 13 20:30 Singer-songwriter. Eefje de Visser with supporting act Elijah. 14 16 20:30 Jazz. Kneebody (USA) - The Line. 12 - 15 18 19:00 Black metal. Midnight (013 Exclusive) with supporting stoner/sludge acts Herder, Acit Deathtrip & Villainy. 17.50 20 19:30 Death metal. Children of Bodom (an 013 Exclusive) with Insomnium & Medeia. Finnish maestros of extreme metal & melodeath. 25 24 20:30 Hard rock. Airbourne (Australia), Black Spiders (UK) & Corroded (Sweden). 23.50 25 20:30 Jazz. Diederik Rijpstra - The Living City (USA). 12 - 15 27 22:00 Dance night. Gin Gin. Boogie, jump, 1960s soul, Latin, Afropunk, soul, jazz & disco. 5 27 20:00 Jazz/tango. Caro Emerald. Her jazz/ballroom/tango album The Shocking Miss Emerald received global recognition. 32.50 30 20:30 Jazz. The Fonda/Stevens Group (USA). 10 - 13 31 20:30 Jazz. Incubated: Lightning Dust, Pharmakon & Sweat Tongue. 9 Venue 013 PA 013 013 PA 013
Cinemas
Foreign films are screened in the original language with Dutch subtitles, except for childrens films which are usually dubbed.
Cinecitta C-2, Willem II Straat 29, tel. (+31) 135 42
13 79, www.cinecitta.nl. This cinema shows films of completely different calibre than the ones featured at the multiplexes, hence the absence of youngsters out to see the latest Hollywood blockbuster. Although the big screen occasionally shows some popular films, most are edgy art-house films. The beautiful building is currently closed for renovations. The films can temporarily be seen at another location. QOpen 18:30 - 01:00. Euroscoop I-6, Olympiaplein 2, tel. (+31) 135 81 28 20, www.euroscoop.nl. This massive Belgian cinema offers 12 screening rooms and a wide variety of popular current films including some in 3D. Tickets are also a euro cheaper here than at places in the city. QOpen 14:00 - 24:30. TG Path C-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 174, tel. (+31) 900 14 58, www.pathe.nl. This cinema boasts seven theatres with a total of 1400 seats. Although virtually every type of film is shown here, its a cinema that seems to attract mainly younger people, a fact thats also reflected in the selection of films. The big theatres are equipped with excellent sound systems and digital projectors and some movies are also shown in 3D. QOpen 13:00 - 24:00. PJUG
013
013 PA NV 013
PA 013
Concert halls
013 D-2, Veemarktstraat 44, tel. (+31) 134 60 95 00,
www.013.nl. From Cypress Hill and Robbie Williams to Editors and Moby, the biggest names in pop and alternative music have all played at 013. Its main room offers a sloped floor like a theatres so every spot in the house is good for keeping an eye on the band. Named after the area code of Tilburg, this famous music club draws crowds from all over the Netherlands. QOpen 07:30 - 02:30, Thu, Fri, Sat 07:30 - 04:30. JEGX Paradox C-2, Telegraafstraat 62, beheer@paradoxtilburg.nl, www.paradoxtilburg.nl. Tilburg has a long tradition of Jazz music, but even though several of its pioneers were born here, these days its still a genre which is only regularly heard at a place like Paradox. Established long ago by Tilburg Jazz musicians as a place where all artists could play, it still serves that function today. Basically, its an old but lively pub with a smoky atmosphere thats dark, hot and sweaty. In other words, the perfect venue for jazz. Q JEGX
Nov 3 15:00 Lounge. Beauty Sunday By John LMB Beerens. Let it hang out at Lives with piano music, cocktails, finger food and great prizes. Free admission
More culture and events at www.tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Air
Grandmothers of Invention will perform at Paradox on November 17
CULTURE & EVENTS

20:00 Punk. The Cult - Electric 13 World Tour with supporting noise/ acidrock band Bo Ningen (Japan). 40 8 20:30 Jazz. Zware gitaren: Dirk Serries Microphones. 8 - 10 10 19:30 Death metal. Dark Tranquility (Sweden) with supporting act Tristania (Norway). 17.50 10 20:30 Jazz. John Scofield (USA) -The Return of the Uberjam Project. 35 - 38 11 20:00 Rock/progressive. Jethro Tulls Ian Anderson plays Thick as a Brick. 48 12 19:30 Metalcore/death metal. Bring Me the Horizon (UK / an 013 exclusive). 17.50 2, 9, 22:00 Lounge. Ladies Night @ Live 16, Music Bar. Cocktails, fingerfood 23, & more 30 15 19:30 Metal. Kamelot (USA) with supporting act Revamp. 26 16 20:30 Jazz. rootZclub: Carl Verheyen Band (US) featuring Stuart Hamm & Jason Harrisson Smith; Mustang Run Tour 2013. 10 - 13 17 20:30 Jazz. Grandmothers of Invention (USA). 15 - 18 25 20:00 Singer-songwriter. The Tallest Man on Earth (Sweden). 25.50 26 20:00 Rock/blues. Beth Hart. A regular at 013, Beth has gone from rock and jazz to blues and soul in her rich and vibrant career. 28 29 22:00 Dance night. Gin Gin. Boogie, jump, 1960s soul, Latin, Afropunk, soul, jazz & disco. 5 29 20:30 Hip hop. The Opposites. Dutch rap. Expect booming beats and fast tongues. 16.50 30 22:00 Fack it - The Rave. Techno music in Berliner Bahnhof style. 5 - 10 Dec 1 20:00 Rock. Kane - Come Together Tour. 25 3 21:00 Reggae. UB40. 46 5 20:30 Jazz. rootZclub: Peter van Stratens Street & Stone featuring Nico Brandsen, Wouter Planteijdt, Ren van Barneveld, Hein Offermans & Leon Klaasse. 8 - 10 11 20:30 Hip hop. De Jeugd Van Tegenwoordig. Vjeze, Faber & Wiwa beated by Bas Bron. Very funky. 17.50 15 15:30 Maaike den Dunnen Quintet album presentation. 8 19 20:00 Rock. The Doors Alive. 20 24 20:00 Jazz. Stranger Than Paranoia 2013: Zapp4, Bruut! & Three Horns and a Bass. 20 4 013
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Jan 3 20:30 Jazz. New Years Concert. New Rotterdam Jazz meets Ernst Reijseger. 12 - 15 10 20:00 Metal. Lamb of God (USA) with supporting act Huntress. 24 12 15:00 Jazz. Case de la Alegra Foundation: Ut Unum Sint. 7.50 17 20:30 Jazz. Tingvall Trio. 12 - 15 24 19:30 Metalcore. A Day To Remember. 25 26 16:00 EMP Persistence Tour 2014. Hardcore/metal festival with Suicidal Tendencies (USA), Terror, Strife & Evergreen Terrace. 30 31 20:30 Jazz. Hubro label night: Splashgirl (Norway) & the Mats Eilertsen Trio ft. Harmen Fraanje (Norway). 12 - 15 29 22:00 Dance night. Gin Gin. Boogie, jump, 1960s soul, Latin, Afropunk, soul, jazz & disco. 5 Feb 7 20:30 Jazz. Hubro label night: Blye de Blyant (Norway/Iceland/USA). 12 - 15 8 20:30 Jazz. VJazz: New Cool Collective. 12 - 15 14 20:30 Singer-songwriter. City and Colour. Former Alexisonfire frontman Dallas Green and his folksy solo project. 27 26 20:30 Jazz. The Aristocrats (USA) ft. Guthrie Govan, Bryan Beller & Marco Minnemann. 15 - 18 28 22:00 Dance night. Gin Gin. Boogie, jump, 1960s soul, Latin, Afropunk, soul, jazz & disco. 5 Mar 6 20:30 Chapelfolk: Bluegrass Boogie Man. 8 - 10 14 20:30 The Simin Tander Quartet ft. Jeroen van Vliet. 10 - 13 21, 20:00 Pop. Singer-songwriter Ilse 22 DeLange. 35 PA 013 PA PA 013 013
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PA 013 PA Legendary rockers Jethro T ull will perform on November 11 at 013
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CULTURE & EVENTS

Festivals & Special events
Oct Date Time Event Venue 5 22:00 Wishful. House music festival OP where its all about people, fashion & lifestyle with DJs Naviday, L.O.N., Cintysyazz & Zola. 8 - 75 5 22:00 Flashforward - 25 years of Dutch 013 Dance. A retrospective of the beginning of dance music in Holland. Line-up: Lady Ada, Miss Djax, Secret Cinema, ROD, Marcello, Dimitri & Remy. 15 6 15:30 Heidenfest 2013. All forms of 013 metal music in one big party with Ensiferum & Turisas (Finland), Equilibrium & SuidAkrA (Germany) and Frosttide (Finland). 30 12 23:00 DIEP invites Klub Tilt. Deep 013 House & Tech music. Line-up: Andr Lodemann, Applescal, Bakvorm, Hosman, Sri Sutino, Pieter Jansen, Jonathan Mediola & Archibald Kobayashi. 10 12.50 26 21:00 Toxic. Deep house, club, hard HG dance, hard house, you name 03:00 it. Dress code: leather, lacquer latex, rubber, dress to impress and kinky. 17.50 - 37.50 Nov 22 22:00 04:00 23 21:00 Aus Berlin. Deep house, minimal & techno music, Berliner Style. 1 - 2 Kindergarten Indoor. Techno, electro, house, nu-disco... Youll find all styles at 013s next Kindergarten circus: SHMLSS, Surkin, Olaf Stuut, Darko Esser and more. 25 HF 013
Exhibitions
BKKC C-2, Spoorlaan 21 i-k, tel. (+31) 137 50 84 00,
www.bkkc.nl. BKKCs main objective is to support artists from Brabant in their development as much as possible, but the general public can also benefit from the exhibitions on display here, but entertaining day trippers isnt its highest priority. QOpen 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. JG De Pont I-5, Tjeuke Timmermansstraat 4, tel. (+31) 135 43 83 00, www.depont.nl. De Pont combines the history of Tilburg with contemporary art. It offers both temporary and permanent exhibitions. QOpen 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Natuurmuseum Brabant B-2, Spoorlaan 434, tel. (+31) 135 35 39 35, www.natuurmuseumbrabant.nl. The magnificent building of the Brabant Museum of Nature is home to thousands of beautiful stuffed animals, fossils, plants and insects. In addition, the museum has permanent and temporary exhibitions and a very creative way marketing them. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. TJAGK TextielMuseum I-5, Goirkestraat 96, tel. (+31) 135 36 74 75, www.textielmuseum.nl. The Textile Museum offers insight into the rich textile history of Tilburg. It is housed in a 19th century building and the collection is divided into 4 sections: textile science, design, industrial culture and arts. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00.
Live music
cafebolle.nl. In 2011 this place was named one of the best pubs in the Netherlands. The stage at the back is frequently occupied by live bands. QOpen 10:00 - 04:00, Mon, Tue, Wed 10:00 - 02:00, Sun 11:00 - 02:00. (9 - 14). JEGK Cenakel J-6, Cenakel 1, tel. (+31) 135 81 13 67, www. cenakel.nl. After a thorough renovation in 1998, the former monastery chapel of the Cenakel has become a popular venue for concerts and exhibitions. Q
Bolle D-3, Piusplein 8, tel. (+31) 135 81 02 90, www.
Exhibitions
PH Exhibition Venue IJStijd. Visit the ice age at the Natuurmuseum NB Brabant. See woolly mammoths, rhinos, wolves, cave lions and huge sabre-toothed tigers! Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon Dino-Doe Zaal. Kids can experience dinosaurs NB up close and personal with crafts, painting, dressing up and more. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon De Reis. An exhibition about the extraordinary NB lives of animals. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon Talking Textiles. Trend forecaster and design NB curator Lidewij Edelkoor presents contemporary textile design in the TextielMuseum. A large collection of objects, combined with innovative textile techniques. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon Textile Lab. Take a peek at the modern day TM Textile Museum and its projects and machines. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon Tales on the Table. Table linen from the 17th TM century up until the latest Dutch designs. On display until 03.11.13. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon
Dec 22 14:00 Piushaven Wintercity. Campfires, Dec drinks, storytellers, a snow tube 5 Jan 22:00 and plenty of Dutch cosiness
1980s rock legends The Cult will perform on November 4 at 013
CULTURE & EVENTS

Theatre, dance & Ballet
Oct Date Time Event Venue 5 20:00 Dancemonth: LAvventura. NV 10 - 13 8 20:15 Dancemonth: Nederlands Dans NV Theater 1 - An evening with Jiri Kylan. 16.50 - 27.50 8 20:30 Dancmonth: Lisbeth Gruwez - Its NV going to get worse and worse and worse, my friend. 12 - 15 16 20:15 Dancemonth: ISH NV MonteverdISH. 12 - 22.50 19 20:00 Dancemonth: de Danspunt. NV Choreo by Grace Bellel, Louise van Boxtel, Kim Leeuw, Maaike Ebben & Ninke van Hertp. 10.50 - 13.50 27 14:00 Dancemonth: Plan D - Buurman NV in de winter. 8.50 29 20:30 Dancemonth: ILL Skill Squad & NV DOX - 155. Hollands Got Talent stars get their own rock at the NWE Vorst. 10 - 13 31 20:15 Dancemonth: War & Peace & NV URBANIA - Dont Hit Mama. 10 Nov 5 20:15 Ballet. Scapino Ballet - The Great SB Bean. 14 28 20:30 Dance. Jelena Kostic - A Mood NV for Deep Longing 29 20:15 Dance. Leine Roebana - Ghost SB Track. 12 - 22.50 Dec 1 20:15 Dance. Isabelle Beernaert - Red, SB Yellow, Blue. 25 10 20:15 Dance. Nederlands Dans SB Theater 2. Gods and Dogs. 14 13 20:30 Musical theatre. 013 & De NV Nieuwe Vorst present Lucas Hamming. 8 28 20:15 Dance. Loud! Urban Dance SB Spectacle. 16.50 - 26.50 Jan 8 20:15 Dance. Conny Janssen Danst SB How Long is Now. 13.50 21 20:15 Dance. Akram Khan Company SB (UK) - iTMOi. 16.50 - 32 31 20:30 Dance. Vloeistof - I Am in the NV Middle of Something. 10 - 13 Feb 6 20:30 Dance. Ann van den Broek NV Ward/waRD. 14 - 17 6 20:15 Dance. Nederlands Dans SB Theater 1 - Hearts Labyrinth. 12 - 27.50 27 20:30 Dance. Sanja Mitrovic - Speak. NV 12 - 15 Mar 11 20:15 Dance. Emio Greco | PC - Addio SB alla Fine. 13.50 14 20:30 Dance. Girls - fABULEUS/Ugo NV Dehaes. Where adults fail, children may succeed via their impartiality. 10 - 13 22 20:30 Dance. Ervaar daar hier theater: NV Sofiane & Selma Ouissi. 12 - 15 23 16:00 Ballet. Het Nationale Ballet SB Thee Junior Company. 12 - 20
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American symphonic metal act Kamelot will perform on November 15 at 013. Photo courtesy of Kamelot.com
Sport venues
IJsportcentrum I-6, Stappegoorweg 3, tel. (+31) 135
32 58 00, www.tilburg.nl. For years this has been the home of the Tilburg Trappers, a local ice hockey team. The yellow-blue brigade that are supported by a fanatical crowd of loyal fans even recently won the national cup. In 2008, the arena also hosted the Dutch Open Figure Skating Championships. Individuals and groups can also come here to practice their pirouettes or hockey stops. Take buses Nr.1 or 11 from central station. Only open in autumn and winter. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00. TL Irene Wst ijsbaan I-6, Curlingstraat 15, tel. (+31) 135 83 61 00, www.ijsclubtilburg.nl. Irene Wust, a skater from the nearby village of Gloirle, won two gold medals at the Olympic winter games in both 2006 and 2010. Shes also one of the biggest all-round skating stars in Holland, so it comes as no surprise that the Tilburg Ice Rink was named after her. You can either try this very Dutch sport yourself or just watch the professionals do their thing. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00, Mon 10:00 - 19:30, Sat 12:00 - 17:00, Sun 10:00 17:00. (5.80). T Willem II stadium I-6, Goirleseweg 34, tel. (+31) 135 49 05 90, www.willem-ii.nl. Since the local football club hasnt had much success recently, most people come to this great stadium for concerts by famous Dutch pop stars. Q
Tickets
Tickets for events (music, sports, arts and theatre, family fun and festivals) are best bought at the venue itself or from TicketMaster outlets (www.ticketmaster.nl). You can buy tickets by phone or pick up reserved tickets from selected VVV Outlets and TicketShops and the Free Record Shop at Heuvelstraat 111.
Venues
013 013 BW Best Western de Druiventros CC City Centre HF Hall of Fame HG Heuvel Galerij LMB Live Music Bar NB Natuurmuseum Brabant NV De NWE Vorst OP Olympiaplein PA Paradox PH Piushaven SB Schouwburg TM TextielMuseum W2 Willem II stadion WLP Willemsplein
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CULTURE & EVENTS

Classical music & Opera
Oct Date Time Event Event 4 20:00 Classical. Akademie fr Alte SB Musik Berlin - Prachtig Bach (Beautiful Bach). 18 10 20:00 Classical. Bertrand Chamayou SB (France). Chamber music series: Souvenir. 24 - 32 13 10:00 Classical. Series of Yoga SB Concerts. Practice your yoga while enjoying enlightening music and a seminar by John Kraijenbrink. 52.50 13 15:00 Classical. Sunday matinee. SB Sporck - From Moscow to Montevideo. 16 18 20:00 Classical. Series Philharmonic SB Zuidnederland. A series of philharmonic favourites. 59 - 102 25 20:00 Classical. Magogo Chamber SB Orchestra - Mannen met Baarden. Pprogramme: Brahms, Pourny, Hindemith, Verdi, Dvorak & Rossini. 27 Nov 10 15:00 Classical. Sunday matinee: Ruysdael Quartet & Nino Gvetadze on piano. 12 - 16 12 20:00 Classical. Harmonie Universelle (Germany) - Corellimania. Programme: Corelli, Vivaldi, Locatelli & Mossi. 12 - 32 13 20:00 Opera. The Tatarstan State Opera performs Carmina Burana. 24 - 38 15 20:00 Classical. Amsterdam Sinfonietta. Hellish and Heavenly: Steven Isserlis. 12 - 27 27 20:00 Classical. The Emerson String Quartet (USA). 29 - 39 28 20:15 Opera. Opera Zuid performs Bizets Carmen. 21 - 37 30 20:00 Classical. Nederlands Blazers Ensemble & Hotel Modern perform Wagners The Ring. 19.50 Dec 6 20:00 Classical. Series Philharmonic Zuidnederland. A series of philharmonic favourites. 59 - 102 11 20:00 Opera. A Christmas Concert : Le Mystre des Voix Bulgares. 19 - 32 12 20:00 Classical. Chamber music series Souvenir presents Alisa Weilerstein (USA) & Friends. 24 - 32 14 20:00 Classical. Philharmonic Zuidnederland - Virtuoos Vuurwerk. 17 - 31 18 20:00 Classical. Magogo Chamber Orchestra. 12 - 27 20 20:00 Classical. Nederlandse Bachvereniging - A Christmas Oratorium. 20 - 43 SB SB
Classical music & Opera

Jan 11 20:30 Classical. Amsterdam Sinfonietta - Breder dan Klassiek: De Dijk. A crossover concert with rockers from De Dijk and the famous Amsterdam orchestra. 24.50 18 20:00 Classical. Calefax Rietkwintet & Codarts Arts - Suite Franaise. 10 20 20:00 Classical. Storioni Festival 2014. 24 - 32 28 20:00 Classical. The Juilliard String Quartet (USA). 29 - 39 Feb 2 20:00 Classical. The Nederlands Blazers Ensemble presents Africa: Minyeshu & Ayub Ogada. 12 - 19.50 8 20:00 Classical. The Ehnes Quartet (Canada). 24 16 20:00 Classical. The Kings Consort (UK). 12 - 32 Mar 15 20:00 Classical. Amsterdam Sinfonietta & Alexander Melnikov perform Schulhoff, Mozart & Strauss. 27 17 20:00 Classical. Valentina Lisitsa (USA). 24 20 20:15 Opera. Il Barbiere di Siviglla (Rossini). 21 - 37 21 20:00 Classical. Magogo Chamber Orchestra - Overdose Vivaldi. 27 SB
SB SB SB
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Theatres
straat 49, tel. (+31) 135 32 85 20, www.denwevorst.nl. This building has served various functions since it was built in 1872, but today its a modern, unusual theatre. It offers two stages, one large and one incredibly small where youre practically sitting in the laps of the actors. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 15:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun. TJHGK Theatres Tilburg B-4, Louisbouwmeesterplein 1, tel. (+13) 135 43 22 20, fax (+31) 135 43 95 53, ticketservice@ theaterstilburg.nl, www.theAmerican singeraterstilburg.nl. Theaters Tilburg consists of a monumental songwriter Beth Hart will perform on November theatre, a strikingconcert hall, 26 at 013 a studio and intimate arthouse cinema. A culturalspot with a wide range of performing arts and film. Enjoy more than 300 performances and concerts and 600 movies this year. Also many Dutch musicals have premiered and young talents from the neighbouring Hogeschool voor de Kunsten (Art College) regularly perform here. Quality and service are paramount, even their own restaurant-caf Lucebert. QOpen 12:00 01:00. GBK
De NWE Vorst C-3, Willem II
SB
SB SB
SB SB
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WHERE TO STAY
Finding a place to stay in Tilburg takes some planning. There are few low budget hotels and hostels, so, unfortunately, most options are more expensive accommodations. If youre a business traveller who can abuse the companys expense account, then youre in luck. All prices listed below include VAT and many offer breakfast, but often for a hefty fee.
Symbol key
P Air conditioning C Swimming pool F Fitness centre 6 Pets allowed K Restaurant W Free wireless internet A Credit cards accepted H Conference facilities U Facilities for the disabled L Guarded parking D Sauna
Upmarket
Auberge Du Bonheur H-5, Bredaseweg 441, tel. (+31)
134 68 69 42, www.bonheurhorecagroep.nl. The small Auberge du Bonheur hotel has a beautiful, classic Jaguar parked in the driveway, which is characteristic of the luxury and style you can expect here. Auberge du Bonheurs is, after all, the most chic hotel in Tilburg and each of its 26 rooms is uniquely designed with rural themes. The villa in which the hotel is housed is just outside the city centre, but theres enough to do close by. The hotel has an outstanding restaurant and hikers can take advantage of the nearby woods, de Oude Warande, where you can go on long walks. The hotel is a short distance from Tilburg University and its suitable for bon vivants as well as for hardworking businesspeople. Q 26 rooms (doubles 129). PHALGBKXW hhhh
Mid-range
Bastion Hotel Tilburg J-6, Kempenbaan 2, tel. (+31)
135 44 19 99, www.bastionhotelgroep.nl. Bastion is the Netherlands only national hotel chain of Dutch origin. Its situated on the edge of Tilburg, ideally located between the Beekse Bergen and Efteling amusement parks. The rooms and bathrooms are simple and equipped with modern conveniences like electric kettles and free internet. This unpretentious hotel also serves the best breakfast in town where everything is fresh and you can eat as much as your stomach permits. The only downside is that the management still has a smoking-friendly policy, which could of course be an advantage if you like to light up. On weekdays the hotel is packed with businesspeople. Q 40 rooms (40 doubles 36). THALGKXW hhh
De Postelse Hoeve I-5, Dr. Deelenlaan 10, tel. (+31)
134 63 63 35, www.depostelsehoeve.nl. De Postelse Hoeve is located on the edge of the city near many motorways, so its ideal for business travellers and free parking is another perk. It looks more like an American motel, however, than a Dutch four-star hotel, because of its layered architecture. Despite the fact that the interior is somewhat dated, it still has plenty to offer. The dark rooms and corridors give the complex a 1970s look, but all have been upgraded with modern conveniences like wireless internet. The hotels restaurant, which happens to serve the best lobster in the Tilburg area, is reason enough to spend a cosy night here. Q 35 rooms (97 - 195). PTHALGBKXW hhhh
City Hotel Tilburg D-3, Heuvelring 126, tel. (+31) 135

35 13 55, www.cityhoteltilburg.nl. When one considers that this hotel is located right in the centre of Tilburg, City Hotel is actually remarkably large with nearly 20 rooms. Prices arent the cheapest youll find in Tilburg, but the accommodation does offer a view of the Heuvelplein and the opportunity to crawl straight into bed from the pub. The bed, by the way, is incredibly comfortable, especially if you enjoy a soft and smooth place to rest your weary head. The reception, bedrooms and breakfast room are all clean and tidy and a number of rooms have recently been given a makeover. The bathrooms are equipped with bathtubs and showers and the hotel offers free internet, which makes it quite convenient for business people. Q 18 rooms . JALGW hhh
Mercure Hotel Tilburg Centrum D-3, Heuvelpoort
300, tel. (+31) 135 35 46 75, www.mercure-tilburg. nl. The biggest advantage of this four-star hotel is also its biggest drawback. Because its so centrally located in the heart of the bustling inner city near all of the pubs, clubs and nightlife, early sleepers might be bothered by the commotion outside. If, however, you dont mind sleeping with your window closed, youll be fine. The staff is friendly and the rooms are spacious, but bear in mind that the best rooms are in the new extension of the hotel. The Taste restaurant in the cellar is excellent and well worth a try. Q 91 rooms (2 singles 128, 79 doubles 128, 4 triples 128, 2 suites 134, 4 apartments 140). PTJHAULGB KXW hhhh
De Rooi Pannen I-5, Dr. Ahausstraat 1, tel. (+31) 135
95 56 50, www.derooipannen.nl. The unsuspecting tourist who happens across this former convent will no doubt be surprised by the relatively low prices of its rooms. All of its accommodation from standard to super deluxe rooms are modern, comfortable, incredibly clean and are equipped with excellent beds. The reason for all this quality is that De Rooi Pannen is an educational institution for HoReCa students learning the hospitality trade in a practical setting. So dont be surprised if an instructor openly discusses a mistake made by the receptionist. The rooms on the ground level have been furnished by the large, well-known hotel chains, while the rooms above are designed to look like luxurious five-star rooms. The hotel is closed during school holidays. QOpen 07:00 - 23:00. Closed Sat, Sun. 19 rooms (3-star 49, 4-star 59, 5-star 74). PTHALGKXW
For more hotels visit www.tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Try a Privilege Room at Mercure
WHERE TO STAY
E18
WHERE TO STAY: OUT OF TOWN

Hotel Central B-1, Spoorlaan 422, tel. (+31) 135 43 62
34, www.hotelcentraltilburg.nl. In the beginning of 2012 all of Centrals 22 rooms were completely renovated. The new accommodation in these historic premises is clean and tastefully decorated with wooden walls and blue and white wallpaper and bedding. The rooms arent particularly large, but sufficient for an overnight stay in the Tilburg city centre and the location is ideal if you plan on using public transport as the Central Station is located directly opposite the hotel. If you have difficulty walking you may want to skip the free morning meal as you have to climb incredibly steep stairs to reach the breakfast room, but the buffet is worth the extra effort. Q 25 rooms. JHALGBKXW
Het Wapen van Tilburg C-1, Spoorlaan 362, tel. (+31)
135 42 26 92, www.hetwapenvantilburg.nl. Het Wapen van Tilburg is a backpackers hostel rather than a budget hotel. Its located diagonally opposite the railway station and next door to hash paradise The Grass Company. The very basic furnishings are almost spartan, with beds from IKEA and very little else. Five of the seven rooms are doubles and two can be reserved by groups. The communal showers and toilets are in the corridor. If you dont mind all this, youve found one of the cheapest ways to experience Tilburg. And the bar is very cosy. QOpen 11:30 - 00:30, Thu 11:30 - 01:00, Sat, Sun 11:30 - 02:00. 7 rooms (7 suites, 8 apartments). (22.50/person). TJALGBKW
Ibis Tilburg H-6, Dr. Hub Van Doorneweg 105, tel. (+31)
134 63 64 65, www.ibishotel.com. Wedged between an industrial estate and a stately neighbourhood of villas, at first glance Ibis doesnt seem like an attractive option for spending the night in Tilburg. Yet, things are seldom what they seem. Its 72 rooms may be somewhat small, but they are incredibly clean, comfortable and the beds have great mattresses. The staff is friendly, parking is free and an outdoor terrace where you can fully enjoy the sun in summer is available. Unfortunately wi-fi is only free in the lobby, but double rooms with dividing doors are ideal for families. The bus will take you to the centre in eight minutes and a taxi ride will cost you 15. Q 72 rooms (68 doubles 65 - 75, 4 family rooms 65 - 75). PHALBKXW hhhh
Bed & Breakfast

Appartement Henk Perdijk B-2, Noordstraat 97, tel.
(+31) 135 35 76 20, www.bedandbreakfast.nl. On the top floor of the Viva Vintage second hand shop youll find Henk Perdijks apartment. The studio is very spacious and clean and, naturally, decorated with second hand goods that may strike you as a bit artistic. The owners are incredibly hospitable exceeding all expectations and are at your constant beck and call. As soon as you exit the front door youre in a beautiful old street on the edge of the city centre surrounded by pubs, shops and restaurants. The station and the bus stop are within walking distance and a beautiful garden is also at your disposal. Q 2 rooms (65 - 75). JLGBX
Budget
Gastenverblijf Koningshoeven M-8, Eindhovenseweg
3, Berkel-Enschot, tel. (+31) 135 40 85 08, www.koningshoeven.nl. In these hectic times its great to get some proper rest now and again. One of the most beautiful places in Brabant, the Trappist monastery of Koningshoeven Abbey, is therefore an ideal location to spend the night. Peace reigns supreme in the charming monastery gardens as well as the library. For 40 per day you can catch a glimpse of modern monastic life, although the 18 resident monks live separate from their guests. Two of the three communal meals are eaten in silence, an atmosphere that these clergymen seem perfectly at ease with. Visitors must comply with the house rules, as well as the Golden Rule that nobody may speak after 21:00. The guest quarters include 29 sober one person rooms. If you feel like an even more ecclesiastical experience you can receive the sacrament of penance or have a personal talk with one of the monks. Q 29 singles (40/room). Tours: 09:00 - 10:30 & 15:00 - 16:30. Closed Mon. LG
Een der Koningshoeven M-8, Torentjeshoeve 7,
Berkel-Enschot, tel. (+31) 651 99 19 52, w w w. eenderkoningshoeven.nl. The beautiful Een Der Koningshoeven farm is situated near a forest on a country estate that, as the name suggests, used to be part of one of the five farms that King William II had built in 1832. Many of these buildings have been used by the Cistercian Order, otherwise known as Trappist monks, since 1881. However, two of the holdings were sold to random buyers and one has been converted into lovely accommodation. There is space enough for two people in this little house, which has been designed with natural materials, but if youre with a large group you can make use of the dormitory in the attic. Q (40/person). LGB
Gust van Dijk E-2, Tivolistraat 22, tel. (+31) 135 44 44
95, www.bedandbreakfasttilburg.nl. In the middle of the inner city of Tilburg youll find B&B Gust van Dijk that offers two rooms. These are both designed by artists and therefore look super hip. One is called the Orange Submarine because of the overpowering colour scheme and the City Park Greens offers a beautiful view of the lovely Tivoli Park. The B&B is located above a former shop that was built in 1937 based on drawings by architect Frans Ruts, who helped a lot of Brabant residents create their dream homes. In short, staying the night at Gust van Dijk is an inspiring, artistic and, best of all, restful experience. Q 2 rooms (doubles 90). JGBXW
Lelia en Michel Bakker J-5, Gildebroederstraat 60,
Old and new architecture in Tilburg
tel. (+31) 132 11 48 23, www.bedandbreakfast.nl. In the middle of a residential area that borders the busy centre of Tilburg is a friendly-looking house where three ordinary rooms have been turned into accommodation: two double rooms and a small single room. Due to the residential surroundings, you may feel like youre staying the night with friends. The house is spic and span and you can contribute to this by only wearing the coloured slippers that are placed in front of you. If the owners of this friendly B&B ever go bankrupt, theyll still be able to find work as translators as this hospitable duo speaks seven languages fluently. This, naturally, helps make all their visitors feel very much at home. Q 3 rooms (singles and doubles 35/person). JB
WHERE TO STAY
E19
Pinos B-1, Stationsstraat 8, tel. (+31) 135 42 55 23.

Pinos bed and breakfast consists of three double rooms with ensuite bathrooms. The building is located directly opposite the railway station and its about a five-minute walk from the centre of town near the citys best pubs, shops and restaurants. The B&B is housed above the Pinos restaurant, which offers great atmosphere and international cuisine. Q 3 rooms (doubles 60). JGK
Efteling Hotel M-7, Horst 31, Kaatsheuvel, tel. (+31)
Out of town: Bed and Breakfast

De Keer N-7, Bossche weg 60, Den Dungen, tel. (+31)
736 13 40 54, www.bbdekeer.nl. If youve spent any time travelling around the Netherlands youll have noticed that the Dutch keep their yards in immaculate condition and this B&B is no exception. De Keer, which dates back to 1720, has high bushes all around a spacious lawn and a beautiful sitting terrace where you can just make out the sounds of traffic going past. The apartment is equally spacious and just like the yard is in great condition. Its in the middle of the Dutch heartland so bring your running shoes or rent a cycle from the B&B to explore the countryside. Q 1 appartment (80 - 90). TB
900 01 61, www.efteling.com. The Efteling Hotel is a perfect reflection of the amusement park: a bit like a fairy tale and very busy at times. Dont be surprised when during breakfast one of the parks characters pops up to run off with your kids, leaving heaps of plates with half eaten sandwiches in their wake. In this hotel the little ones are the boss and they clearly relish this role. You wont find much peace and quiet here, but the beautifully arranged rooms will make a quick slumber easy. If not, theres always non-stop fairy tales on EftelingTelevision! Q (30 doubles 109, 68 comfort rooms, 4 tower rooms, 20 themed suites). PTHAULBKXW
Hotel Gilze-Rijen L-8, Klein Zwitserland 8, Gilze, tel.
Out of town: Hotels

De Druiventros M-8, Bosscheweg 11, Berkel-Enschot,
tel. (+31) 347 75 04 38, www.hoteldedruiventros.nl. This authentic family hotel offers plenty of the friendliness which is typical of the province of Brabant. Some would say the dated decor has seen better days, others will be impressed with the traditional hospitality, the comfortable bathrooms and unfailingly friendly staff. Whichever way you look at it, De Druiventros got its name in Napoleonic times, when there was a guesthouse at this very spot and a wine depot across the road. These days youre better off with a room at the back of this large hotel, as the horse-drawn carts have been replaced by fairly heavy traffic. Modern conveniences include a restaurant, bar, free parking at the back, wireless internet access and laundry service. Entertainment includes a bowling alley. Q 56 rooms (97.50). PTH6ULGBKXW hhhh
(+31) 161 45 49 51, www.hotelgilzerijen.nl. The fourstar hotel Van der Valk Gilze-Rijen is exactly halfway between Tilburg and Breda, which means that each of these Brabant towns is only a 15-minute drive away. The hotel was built in a country house style, which is typical of Van der Valk hotels, not to mention the enormous toucan on the roof. The majority of the 210 rooms have been furnished according to the latest fashion, although guests who enjoy a bit more luxury can use their credit cards to gain access to an even more luxurious suite. The hotel also boasts a pool, Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish steam bath and in-house casino a major bonus in our estimation. Q 210 rooms (standard, comfort and luxury suites 79 - 149). OTHA6UFLGKDCW hhhh
Waalwijk hotel Burg van de Klokkenlaan 55, Waal-
wijk, tel. (+31) 416 33 60 45, www.hotelwaalwijk.nl. This multifunctional hotel in the centre of Waalwijk caters to businesspeople and the primarily Dutch visitors of the nearby amusement park. The spacious family rooms provide added value to this hotel, which is nevertheless in dire need of a redecoration. The rather shabby and dated exterior isnt exactly encouraging and the sagging mattresses will cause you to roll to the middle of your bed, but the extensive breakfast buffet is excellent. Q 61 rooms (64). HALBKW hhhh
Efteling Bosrijk M-7, Eftelingsestraat 7, Kaatsheuvel,
tel. (+31) 900 - 01 61, www.efteling.com. Efteling Village Bosrijk is a splendid holiday park with apartments and cottages that put one in mind of a medieval village rather than a brand new park. All facilities are exemplary, from the restaurant to the swimming pool and the staff is friendly. Only a stones throw away lies the Efteling, but Mister Sandman prefers to live far away from all the upheaval. With his owl Houdoe he lives in his small, quiet castle in the middle of the lake. At nightfall this is a magical spot that will enchant children and adults alike. Q 2 nights! Prices from 99,-p.p. based on 6 persons, including 3 days unlimited park entrance. THA6ULGBKXCW
The stunning Efteling Hotel at night
E20
RESTAURANTS
With a population of thousands of international students, Tilburg isnt exactly a Mecca for foodies and gourmets, but local restaurants do cater to pretty much every ethnic taste. Its possible to sip margaritas at siesta time and savour souvlaki for supper. And compared to other European cities, typical tourist traps are relatively rare. With so many establishments to choose from, we hope that our guide serves as the solution to what can be an overwhelming question: whats for dinner? By the way, tipping isnt mandatory, but its a nice gesture to leave 10% for good service. Prices that appear in parentheses indicate the average cost of a main course only.
Symbol key
P Air conditioning E Live music T Child friendly X Smoking section A Credit cards accepted S Take away I Fireplace U Facilities for the disabled
W Free wireless internet 6 Pets allowed
Arabic
Sarban I-5, Besterdring 2, tel. (+31) 135 35 35 67,
www.sarban.nl. Even if Afghan cuisine doesnt ring any bells, anyone who has enjoyed a meal at Sarban will leave the restaurant full of praise and admiration. The starters and mains consist of several dishes with a variety of appetisers. The service is very friendly and the staff is keen to explain whats on offer. The Sarban logo depicts camels and theyre also to be found in photographs and statues all over the restaurant. Strangely enough its main table is at the back and is typically Afghan. Think of a raised stage with gorgeous cushions on which guests sit cross-legged. Diners remove their shoes and beach wraps are available for women wearing short skirts. QOpen 16:30 - 22:00. (27). TGK
Belgian
www.oudemarkt.nl. The row of restaurants on this square is often called Antwerp on the Oude Markt. Caf Anvers is the largest bar-restaurant of the bunch and with some imagination it might just put one in mind of Antwerp. The outdoor seating area is almost always full and inside youll discover an exuberant atmosphere. The terrace affords diners a great view of the Jugendstil buildings by architects Jan van der Valk and Jos Donders. QOpen 10:00 - 24:00, Mon, Sun 11:30 - 24:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 01:00. (13 - 18). PTJABKW
Anvers B-3, Oude Markt 8, tel. (+31) 135 83 35 33,
De Sinjoor B-3, Oude Markt 8, tel. (+31) 135 83 35 30,
Asian
Easy Wok & Go D-3, Juliana van Stolbergstraat 23, tel.
(+31) 135 80 03 79, www.easywokengo.nl. This chain of Asian restaurants doesnt owe its success to any attempt at style or unique interior dcor. The small plastic tables and chairs definitely wont attract diners out for a romantic candlelit dinner. This is a fast food wok restaurant where appetising meals are prepared and packed to go within 10 minutes, which is a welcome change from the usual plate of chips or a hot dog. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. (5 - 10). PJBKS
www.oudemarkt.nl. The name of this restaurant refers to the moniker by which the residents of Antwerp are known. De Sinjoor can be reached from the Oude Markt as well as via a short-cut from Caf Anvers. The menu is extensive with many dishes from the grill like the honey-glazed spareribs, which are excellent and you can wash them down with a bolleke from the tap or one of the other 15 Belgian brews on draught. Dont miss Den Ouden Apotheek in the rear of the establishment. This is a well-preserved original pharmacy from the last century. QOpen 12:00 - 21:30, Sun 17:00 - 21:30. (18 - 23). TJAGBKX
Jade B-1, Spoorlaan 406-408, tel. (+31) 135 42 31 81,
Child friendly
Etenstijd J-6, Professor van Buchemlaan 4, tel. (+31)
135 37 26 50, www.etenstijd.nl. From the outside this restaurant looks like an English mansion, yet the interior is reminiscent of an old-fashioned ocean liner. In the middle theres an enormous clock which you can walk through to access the balcony. This may sound romantic like a scene from Titanic, but Etenstijd is hardly a suitable location for an intimate dinner for two. It is, however, ideal for families and groups who can get stuck into an all you can eat offer for a set price within a two-hour time frame. The extensive buffet offers some refined dishes as well as plenty of stuff for the little ones. The cellar also houses a playground. QOpen 17:00 - 22:00, Fri 17:00 - 22:30, Sat 16:00 - 22:30, Sun 16:00 - 22:00. (25) PTAGBKXW
www.restaurantjade.com. This Asian restaurant has a large menu with Chinese, Japanese and Thai dishes. While it isnt cheap, the price-quality ratio is quite good at Jade. The interior is a different matter. Jade has held onto the standard Asian restaurant interior design of the 1980s with a lot of rubbish on the walls and shoddy use of colours. However, the varied cuisine largely makes up for that and it also offers take away. You can watch the tasty lobsters in the tank while you wait. QOpen 16:00 - 22:30, Fri 12:00 - 22:30, Sun 13:00 22:30. (25 - 30). PAGKS
Chinese
I Pin Ke H-5, Bredaseweg 105, tel. (+31) 135 43 41 05,
www.ipinke.nl. This isnt just the best Chinese restaurant in Tilburg, but probably one of the best in the Netherlands. The location isnt the greatest, but its more than worth the detour. Put aside the horrible, typically Chinese kitschy interior and get ready to feast. Although some people swear by the egg rolls, our favourites have to be the Peking duck, Tipan dishes and crab cocktail with, yes, real crab. I Pin Ke actually delivers that which many similar establishments merely promise. QOpen Mon, Tue, Wed 15:00 - 22:00, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. (3 - 15). TLGKS
Tilburgs vibrant dining scene
RESTAURANTS
Dutch
Boerke Mutsaers H-5, Vijverlaan 2, tel. (+31) 135 90
08 08, www.boerkemutsaers.nl. Although this restaurant has been owned by the Mutsaers family since 1644 you shouldnt expect antique furnishings in this modern multifunctional building. The restaurant part is not particularly large, but has a cosy, nostalgic atmosphere and puts one more in mind of the English countryside than a location near the Tilburg West train station. The unusual menu covers many regional dishes, including the popular peppered hare, which has been prepared here according to the same secret family recipe for four centuries. QOpen 09:00 - 21:00, Sun 11:30 - 21:00. Closed Mon. (19). PTHAULGBKXW
E21
De Spoorzone
The Spoorzone (Railway Zone) is an ever-developing area next to Tilburgs railway lines, which measures a whopping 75 hectares spread out over 3km. Its located between the East and West Ring Roads and can be easily spotted by some local landmarks, namely the residential Westpoint tower and the Interpolis headquarters. For Tilburg this is a great opportunity to improve its city centre and to increase the citys economic significance by creating a hub for knowledge and innovation with a combination of educational institutes, entrepreneurs and private citizens. The area includes space for living, working and going out. In the heart of the Spoorzone youll also find the old NS (Dutch Railways) Workroom, where generations of Tilburgers used to maintain locomotives and trains. Events, entrepreneurial spirit and innovation are given space to flourish amidst all this industrial heritage and modern architecture. And this isnt just a plan on some drawing board, its already happening! Entertaining activities, including art exhibitions, parties and concerts, are organised on a regular basis in the historic and magnificent Koepelhal. Another highlight of the renewed Spoorzone is the Hall of Fame. This space was established by young Tilburgers in order to bring together the towns youth subcultures, so they might inspire one another. It moved to its current location in the Spoorzone a few years ago and includes a spectacular skate park called Ladybird as well as rehearsal rooms and a stage. Needless to say, the Hall of Fame is a valuable addition to the Spoorzone. The brand new area has also attracted bigger events. After 25 years at Leypark, Festival Mundial moved to the Spoorzone in 2013. This means Mundial is once again an intimate and accessible festival full of promising talent from all over the world. In short, this vibrant, contemporary area is definitely worth a visit! For more information visit www.spoorzone013.nl
Bommel Beer H-6, OIympiaplein 1, tel. (+31) 135 82
03 44, www.beren.nl. This restaurant, which is part of a national chain, is located in the same building as Euroscoop, Tilburgs largest cinema. Unfortunately, the large scale of the massive hall doesnt contribute anything to the restaurants atmosphere. If anything, it feels like a theme park restaurant. A couple of stuffed bears have been placed here and there and an attempt has been made to imitate some kind of medieval castle interior, but it doesnt really work. It may be a fine place for families to have an affordable bite to eat before or after a film, but couples out for a romantic dinner for two are better off skipping this place. QOpen 12:00 - 23:00. (11 - 16). PTUBK
Eetcafe Langeboom B-2, Nieuwlandstraat 1, tel. (+31)
135 44 14 26, www.langeboom.nl. Caf Langeboom is located at beautiful intersection in Tilburg where you can stretch out and enjoy some people watching as soon as the sun comes out . You can however also take advantage of the garden behind the building, which also serves as a terrace. Family-run Langeboom has a lovely lunch menu and we highly recommend the carpaccio roll. Classic Dutch dishes are on the menu in the evening and even a dish like mashed potatoes and Brussels sprouts, that makes most local children gag unreservedly, tastes heavenly here. QOpen 10:45 - 24:00. Closed Mon. (9 - 13). JGBK
Het Huys van Voskens D-3, Heuvel 5, tel. (+31) 135
43 98 18, www.huysvanvoskens.nl. If you have a bit of cash to spend and enjoy culinary perfection then pay a visit to Het Huys van Voskens. Everything here is slightly different from typical restaurants and the stylish entrance alone is more reminiscent of a five-star hotel than a multi-functional building. Seasonal dishes like venison make this place particularly attractive and the freshness of the food is illustrated by the oysters bathing in the hallway. The sommelier is also eager to help you choose the proper bottle of wine with your meal. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Sat 10:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (20 - 25). JAUGBK
Klein Tilburg I-5, Beukenstraat 40, tel. (+31) 134 68
30 12, www.kleintilburg.nl. Want to get a good idea of what this city looks like in only an hour? Try Klein Tilburg. Wherever you look, youll see the towns distinctive buildings in its dcor. The restaurant is located just outside the centre and is remarkably versatile. In summer you can have a full barbecue or organise a high tea with your friends in the afternoon. The smallest option will only cost you only 15.25 and includes 11 different dishes plus a cup of tea. You can also try high tapas with starters and mains that change with the seasons. Klein Tilburg also offers an extensive menu for lunch and dinner. QOpen Wed, Thu 16:30 - 24:00, Fri 12:00 - 01:00, Sat 16:30 - 01:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon, Tue. (17 - 22). PTUBKS
E22
RESTAURANTS
European
LOrangerie D-3, Heuvel 39, tel. (+31) 135 43 11 32,
www.lorangerietilburg.nl. At LOrangerie theyre somehow able to turn the simplest sounding dishes into something luxurious and exotic. A typical Dutch soup becomes a creamy delicacy with garlic, spring onion and croutons. Something as simple as a fillet steak, which can be found at nearly any local restaurant, becomes a masterpiece as LOrangerie buys its beef from the Henk Broeders stables and then marinates it in Tilburg La Trappe Tripel beer. If you have trouble choosing from all these delicious dishes, you might want to try the three, four or five-course surprise menu. The interior is also surprisingly impressive and you cant miss its bright yellow hue on the Korte Heuvel that attracts the sun even in the winter. QOpen 13:00 - 22:00. Closed Wed. (18 - 23). TJULBK
French
134 63 88 99, www.hofstededeblaak.nl. Some secrets you dont really want to share. Hofstede De Blaak, an authentic English-style manor house, is one such a secret, but well share it anyway at the risk of inspiring hundreds of hungry tourists moving en masse to this hidden treasure located in a rather boring suburb. Free parking at the entrance, a large terrace, pleasant furnishings and a staff that fully understands its profession. A great variety of extraordinary dishes are on offer, a number of which can be sampled in a reasonably priced set menu. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. (23 28). TALGBKX
Hofstede De Blaak H-6, Dussenpad 1 - 3, tel. (+31)
Le Bistro C-3, Juliana van Stolbergstraat 6, tel. (+31)
Puur Mercure D-3, Heuvelpoort 300, tel. (+31) 135 35
46 75, www.puur-mercure.nl. If youre looking for a modern, trendy restaurant with a matching menu, this is the place. The businesslike interior where white, brown and dark grey tones prevail make for a calm, yet refined atmosphere. The menu lists such dishes as corn chicken fillet, jumbo shrimp and salads, all for affordable prices. Because this restaurant is connected to the hotel of the same name, youll find plenty of business travellers and tourists here. If youre into the brown stuff, sample a dram of single malt from the bars extensive collection of whiskeys. QOpen 09:00 - 01:00. (13 - 18). JABK
135 35 13 42, www.lebistro.nl. Le Bistro is a small and cosy restaurant as the name would suggest. Each dish is a feast for the eyes and thanks to the open-plan kitchen you can see exactly how the chef prepares the coquilles, foie gras or sweetbread. If you have the time make sure to check out the restaurants website where the chef gives cooking tips in an amusing short video. Tilburg doesnt have many restaurants with unusual menus, but Le Bistro is a great exception to the rule. Food is not cheap, but very tasty. QOpen 17:30 - 22:30. Closed Mon, Tue. (21 - 26). PJALBK
Noir B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 51, tel. (+31) 135 36 70
Taste! D-3, Heuvelpoort 300, tel. (+31) 135 35 32 96,
www.taste-tilburg.nl. Hier adem ik vrij en voel ik mij gelukkig (or here I can breathe freely and I feel happy), is written on the wall of Taste. Its actually a quote that King William II once made about Tilburg. This restaurant, which can be reached through Hotel Mercure, only serves the crme de la crme of the culinary spectrum. The interior is modern and you can see exactly what the chefs are doing in the open plan kitchen. The wines are perfectly suited to the dishes served and each plate is a feast for the eyes and a surprise for your taste buds. In short, this is one of Tilburgs best restaurants. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. (21 - 26). JABKW
47, www.noir.nl. Although it has a logo of a little man with a distinctly French appearance tasting wine, you wont find much with a French flair here with perhaps the exception of the tastefully decorated terrace. The owners Bert and Ineke have run this place for years. They serve your coffee with an original little milk jug and a Delft blue sugar bowl and the chicken ragout is prepared according to an old recipe. The older generation also clearly enjoys their jenever here, a rarity in Dutch pubs these days. QOpen 11:30 - 22:00. Closed Mon, Tue. (15 - 20). JGKW
Riddershoeve M-7, t Zwaantje 1, tel. (+31) 135 33
Fast food & Quick eats

De Ritz D-2, Heuvelring 43, tel. (+31) 135 43 06 66,
www.ritz-broodjes.nl. This place offers little ambience, but it does sell really tasty hot and cold sandwiches. Specialised in Surinamese delicaties. All the local businesses in the surrounding area come to De Ritz for lunch and in the evening you wont find the kind of people that enjoy a kebab or a hamburger, but rather the kind of person that wants a healthy meal. QOpen 11:00 - 21:00. (3 - 6). JVGBS
12 39, www.riddershoeve.nl. This former inn is now a restaurant where dining is a pleasure. Its situated on the town square of the small village of Berkel-Enschot, which is cycling-distance from the centre of Tilburg. A dinner here isnt complete without a so-called wine-deal, which will ensure that each dish is served with the proper wine. Although the old inn has received a 21st-century upgrade, the red tiled floor still reminds one of the distant past. If you want to truly enjoy traditional Brabant cuisine, then be sure to try the foie gras. QOpen 17:30 - 23:00. (15 - 20). AB
Lucky Hill D-2, Heuvel 21, tel. (+31) 135 36 52 42. For
anyone looking for a quick snack while shopping or having a night out, Lucky Hill is a good choice. For years this has been a favourite for many Tilburgers after a drinking session, although its not quite clear why this snack bar is so popular. Ii certainly has nothing to do with the interior that looks like a glorified bathroom. It must be the frites, which are served with plenty of mayonnaise. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Thu 12:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon. (2 - 6). JS
Snitz I-6, Nieuwstraat 124, tel. (+31) 624 88 26 60. This
place is a must for frites fanatics. Youll find this chip shop par excellence in one of the working class areas just outside the city centre. The cheerful owner fries the best chips for miles around with a sense of humour, pride and craftsmanship. Avoid Sundays or queue up behind the last local around 18:00 as its rush hour at Snitz! Q TLKS
Moped parking is never a problem at local cafs
RESTAURANTS
E23
Sjieque D-3, Sint Josephstraat 138, tel. (+31) 135 43
Grill
Bosporus A-4, Korvelseweg 188, tel. (+31) 135 35 90
20. Bosporus motto is something for everyone and rarely has a slogan been more on the mark than at this place that offers a simple interior. This upmarket snack shack practises European integration by serving Turkish and Greek as well as Italian and Dutch food. Make sure to try the deep fried fire-eater, although were not quite sure yet what the exact ingredients are. Q JALVKS
20 85. The dcor of the Sjieque (Chic) Restaurant is true to its name. Your coat will be taken to the cloakroom while you enjoy a glass of bubbly and are treated to a tasty appetiser. The glasses are so clean, they sparkle, the cutlery is simply immaculate and the napkins are made of pure linen. The purple and silver interior and the high ceilings make guests feel like royalty and although the prices are higher than those at an average caf, a meal at Sjieque wont cost you an arm and a leg. QOpen 17:00 - 24:00. (25 - 30). PJABKW
Greek
Minos Pallas D-3, Heuvelring 224, tel. (+31) 135 35 00
35. Youll find everything you expect from a Greek restaurant here including a bit of kitsch and a lot of Greek dcor like faux columns, wall paintings, ceramic pots and wooden furniture. The menu however, is quite surprising. The Greek dishes are authentic and the seafood, like the swordfish, is excellent. Theres also an outdoor terrace at Minas Palas, which reinforces its Mediterranean atmosphere when knocking back an ouzo or two. QOpen 16:00 - 22:00. (19 - 24). ABK
Ribs Factory D-3, Heuvel 49, tel. (+31) 135 43 98

86, www.ribsfactory.nl. Quick and tasty, seems to be the credo of Ribs Factory. The service is quick, according to the American model. Within 45 minutes, you could be standing outside again while having eaten a complete three course meal. Expect ribs how they should be: cooked in broth and grilled over an open fire and marinated in honey, soy sauce or whiskey. The burgers and steaks also are of very good quality. Dont expect a restaurant in which you can sit all night, eating relaxed and drinking wine, but its an ideal start for a night or as a tasty prelude for a night at the movies. QOpen 16:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (13-18). PJGBKS
Zorba de Griek D-2, Heuvelring 33, tel. (+31) 135
35 86 96, www.zorbadegriektilburg.nl. In contrast to the current turmoil in Greece, Zorba the Greek exudes an atmosphere of peace and calm and although the name doesnt suggest a high level of creativity, the chefs confound this premise. As soon as you enter youll be greeted warmheartedly with a glass of ouzo that theyve been serving to all new customers ever since the restaurant was established in 1985. Try the traditional giouvarlakia meatball soup. QOpen 17:00 - 23:00, Sun 16:30 - 23:00. Closed Tue. (15 - 19). TJALK
Rodeo Grill Restaurant D-3, Heuvelring 120, tel. (+31)

137 505 841, www.rodeo-tilburg.nl. Carnivores can get their daily intake of iron at the Latin American-style Rodeo, which specialises in meat dishes of all stripes including small 180g fillets and monster 800g steaks that could give a lion a run for its money. There are a few seafood options for the vegetarians among us, but the delicious aroma of sizzling flesh would probably be too much for them to stand. A bit more privacy might attract even more gluttons to this affordable restaurant. QOpen 17:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (15 - 20). PJABKW
E24
RESTAURANTS
Health food
Tuinhuis Culinair H-5, Westermarkt 5, tel. (+31) 134
63 48 68, www.tuinhuisculinair.nl. Youll find t Tuinhuis (the Garden House) at the fringe of a not particularly appealing shopping centre. As the name suggests, the owners enjoy outdoor living and the menu theyve created from candied steak and teriyaki dishes to steamed duck breast and tempura fried Dutch herring reflect their travels around the globe. All of these eclectic dishes are prepared with dedication and love in an open-plan kitchen. Unfortunately, the junior staff could benefit from a kick to their respective backsides. QOpen Mon 12:00 - 18:00, Tue, Wed 11:00 - 20:30, Thu 10:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 23:00. Closed Sun. (18 - 23). TULBKSW
Indonesian
De Kleine Indo I-5, Professor Romeinstraat 19, tel.
(+31) 135 81 29 90, www.dekleine-indo.nl. This small Indonesian restaurant is hidden behind Ringbaan Oost, but is well worth the hike. The dcor borrows heavily from traditional Indonesian furnishings, but with a modern twist. The window sills are covered in Wajang dolls, the tables are set with bamboo placemats and, true to tradition, the staff wear sarongs. The foods authentically Indonesian, prepared the way old Javan women might, but in a professional manner. Several types of satay form the core of this traditional menu and typically Indonesian drinks like klappa muda (rose syrup) and tjendol (coconut milk) are also served here. QOpen 16:00 - 21:30, Sat, Sun 16:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (11 - 16). TUKS
Yammie C-2, Piusplein 74, tel. (+31) 135 80 29 23,
www.yammietilburg.nl. Ever since this establishment moved to the Piusplein, it isnt hard to find anymore and especially if you like a trendy atmosphere and healthy meals that you can take away in a card board box with chop sticks this will be your thing. Yammies menu is very large, but the food tastes really good. This little take-away restaurant also has a lounge corner where you can wait while your meal is being prepared. Yammie also delivers. QOpen 16:00 - 21:30. (6 - 9). JVGS
Gember & Sereh D-3, Heuvel 3, tel. (+31) 135 36 05
85, www.gember-sereh.nl. You can order your food as spicy as you like it at the Gember & Sereh Indonesian speciality restaurant, but youre personally responsible for any pain and discomfort should your burning tongue and watering eyes cause you any problems. The tables arent pushed together due to lack of space like at many restaurants. Instead, a large room full of tables and chairs with high backs help keep your conversations private. Recommended. QOpen 16:00 22:00. Closed Tue. (17 - 22). JGBKS
Historic taverns
St. Petrus M-8, Gelderstraat 1, Hilvarenbeek, tel. (+31)
135 05 21 66, www.petrus-paulus.nl. Next to the Church of Saint Peter youll find the comfortable terrace of Saint Peters Inn. The fitting name as well as the furnishings seem to have borrowed much from the church next door, but in a modern fashion. A priest delivers a sermon from his pulpit in the middle of the room and on the left hand side of the restaurant you could confess to the greed which is bound to overwhelm you when looking at the excellent menu. The same owner runs Taverne Paulus next door, which is more popular with the younger generation. QOpen 08:00 - 22:00. (25 - 30). AUBW
International
Aan Tafel! J-5, J.P. Coenstraat 71, tel. (+31) 135 77
11 37, www.allemaalaantafel.nl. Every Dutch child has heard their mother call out aan tafel! which literally means to the table and thats the concept of this restaurant: an eating establishment for families. Theres a special childrens corner, a changing room and an elaborate childrens menu. Even the seating area looks like an original Tilburg living room, which is perhaps fitting as Aan Tafel! is located in the middle of a residential neighbourhood. The food is prepared as lovingly as it is at home, but with the professional skills of a top-notch chef. QOpen 17:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (13 - 17). TLGBK
Ice cream
Limon ijs D-2, Heuvelring 226, www.limonijs.nl. For
years there was really only one place in Tilburg to get your ice cream, but thankfully Limon IJs has opened its doors on the Heuvelring and is the first serious competitor to Intermezzo. The dcor is rather Limon, with lime green walls, green napkins under each sundae, lime green cushions on the chairs, lime green benches on the left hand side and so on and so forth. Fortunately, the ice cream comes in more colours, flavours and options and is the result of genuine Italian craftsmanship. Q JS
Blend New Day C-2, Spoorlaan 346, tel. (+31) 135 81
25 16, www.blendnewday.nl. Blend New Day is located on a hideous property on the Spoorlaan, yet it appeals to pretty much anyone. You cant miss it, if only for the multi-cultural graffiti scribbled on the wall next to the enormous building. Immediately upon entering youll smell incense and, surprisingly enough by Dutch cultural standards, youll run into a wash basin. The interior is a melting pot of innumerable cultures, which express themselves in various styles. Both the kitchen and the restaurant are run by employees from all over the world, which greatly contributes to the atmosphere. Come here for a traditional FaFa soup, a kangaroo fillet or maybe some red snapper. QOpen 17:00 - 21:30. Closed Mon, Sun. (15 - 20). JGK
De Kievitshoeve F-4, Nijkerkstraat 1, tel. (+31) 135
A cosy table for two
70 51 05, www.dekievitshoeve.nl. More than a century ago farmer Peerke van de Staak established a pub miles from the city centre of Tilburg. A hundred year later this establishment is now called Reeshofs Livingroom after the surrounding estate. Some of the main courses sound a bit pretentious like the caramelized duck breast and Iberico pork roulaux (rolls) and the chef hasnt put much effort into the kids menu. Unfortunately, the staff arent very capable either and our food was served lukewarm. All told, in spite of its excellent location, the beautiful building and terrace, this place could use some improvement. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. (18 - 22). TBK
RESTAURANTS
Monumental streets
This charming part of Tilburgs city centre has special appeal. The old houses and wide pavements offer plenty of space for pedestrians to explore the area and cars are mere guests. This unique part of Tilburg will no doubt seduce you with its many different shops, galleries and museums that are all located on these narrow, monumental streets. On your way youll pass a number of small restaurants and cafs and you can stop and enjoy one of the areas many courtyards and gardens. Dont forget to look up now and again to admire the remarkable facades, many of which have been completely restored. Prise dEau F-6, Gilzerbaan 400, tel. (+31) 134 62 82
E25
Nobody mentioned the rhinoceros in the room
De Rooi Pannen I-5, Dr. Ahausstraat 1, tel. (+31) 135
95 56 50, www.derooipannen.nl. There are nearly 8,000 students at De Rooij Pannen, one of the largest education centres for the hospitality industry in Holland. No less than five different restaurants as well as a hotel have been established in a distinctive old convent, where the students learn the skills of their professions in a practical setting. Dont worry therefore, if a teacher turns up to correct your waiter if he makes a mistake. Fortunately the food that reaches your table has already been deemed fit for human consumption in the kitchen and everything that ends up on your plate tastes superb. All of this is available for only a fraction of the price youd pay in a comparable restaurant. It is, however, closed during school holidays. QOpen 12:00 - 13:30 & 17:30-19:00. Closed Sat, Sun. Open 12:00 - 13:30, 17:30 - 19:00. Closed Sat, Sun. (15 - 20). THAULGKW
De Spaarbank B-2, Noordstraat 125, tel. (+31) 135 43
83 31, www.stadscafedespaarbank.nl. This historic art nouveau national monument from 1910 is an ode to architecturally better times. Today people can enjoy it with lunch or dinner at De Spaarbank which is decorated by historic details like a bank vault, a period chandelier, a fire place, a nostalgic train seat and, best of all, many wonderful stained-glass windows. The bar/restaurant has a good menu for those with a healthy appetite and we recommend the duck or rack of lamb. Theres also a large selection of expensive wines and the menu makes suggestions on how to pair your meal with a good vintage. QOpen Mon, Tue, Wed 10:30 - 24:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:30 - 01:00, Sun 12:00 - 23:00. (16 - 21). TJ6UEGBKW
00, www.prisedeau-golf.nl. As far as the surroundings are concerned, there are few more attractive places in Tilburg for lunch or dinner than Prise dEau. This restaurant is full of ambience and its staff know how to pamper their patrons. The only disadvantage is that you are supposed to be a member of the golf club to enjoy a meal here. But considering that nobody checks for an ID badge or a secret handshake, you can put on your glad rags and enjoy the Veluwe duck breast with citrus oil and moscato sauce even if youre not sure what that means.. QOpen 10:00 - 21:30. (13 - 20). TALGBKXW
The Talk D-2, Heuvel 20, tel. (+31) 135 81 02 23, www.
Jacks Cuisine D-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 176, tel. (+31)
thetalk.nl. Do not be discouraged by the semi-philosophical aphorisms on the wall, such as: Two monologues dont make a dialogue. The Talk will keep you guessing with its multifunctionality. This is a colourful place not only for a lovely lunch or dinner, but also the right address for an affordable drink. You can even ask the staff for a (simple) cocktail. The open kitchen, the mixture of architectural styles and the variety on the menu will put even the greatest pessimist at ease. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat, Sun 11:00 - 24:00. (11 - 16). PTJVGBKX
135 42 57 80 , www.jackscuisine.nl. Fancy a stroll down the Las Vegas strip? Thats what it feels like when you enter Jacks Cuisine. Expect separate seats along the wall, many dark tones and the sound of slot machines in the background. The restaurant is situated in the same building as a casino, so the atmosphere is almost American, but with less kitsch and more style. The menu is actually quite impressive and offers such dishes as bass, duck and pork tenderloin. QOpen 12:00 - 21:00. Closed Mon. (18 - 23). ABK
Pinos B-2, Stationsstraat 8, tel. (+31) 135 42 55 23,

www.pinos-eetcafe.nl. Pinos is located near the Spoorlaan, one of the citys busiest roads. Escape your hurried daily existence and reward yourself with a journey through a veritable United Nations of culinary treats. The whole restaurant is decorated with various props from one of the 10 countries that grace Pinos menu. This is a surprising restaurant with a good price-quality ratio and on warm days the garden is a great place to kill some time. QOpen 17:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (13 - 18). JBK
Youre never far from a restaurant or pub in Tilburg
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RESTAURANTS
Italian
Happy Italy D-3, Heuvelstraat 126, tel. (+31) 137 37
03 00, www.happyitaly.nl. Happy Italy participated in the Hap Stap Festival in Tilburg for the first time in the summer of 2013, and with great success. There was a huge queue of people waiting to buy a pizza for only two shiny coins, which is a reasonable price for a full belly. Hap Stap only lasted one weekend, but Happy Italy is still a favourite among locals in the know. It serves tasty pizzas, antipasti and salads for affordable prices and its a great place for large groups of people including kids. Although the place is quite large, the dcor is trendy and the luxurious couches on the radio square look inviting. You can also order takeaway if youre not in the mood to linger. QOpen 11:00 - 22:00. (5 - 10). JGBKSW
Suki D-3, Piusplein 55, tel. (+31) 135 44 91 28, www.
sushisuki.nl. Sushi Suki is a kind of square cafeteria that desperately tries to imitate Japanese style with four rice paper columns. The menu offers more than 100 types of sushi and the food is quite tasty. In contrast to the country of the Rising Sun, tea here is served in enormous pitchers and during the week you can order all-you-can-eat for a fixed price. The friendly staff will also welcome you if you simply want a few small appetisers, for which you wont have to pay the full price. The chefs also give you as much wasabi as you can handle with your sushi. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Mon, Sun 16:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 22:30. (23.50). PTJALGKSW
Sushi Boulevard I-6, Curlingstraat 1-11, tel. (+31) 135
LOlivo D-2, Heuvel 41, tel. (+31) 135 42 67 31, www.
lolivo.nl. Romantic and authentic are two words that suit Trattorio LOlivio. The restaurant serves Swiss-Italian cuisine and this combination is also evident in the dcor as well as on the exterior of this cosy place on the Heuvel. The faade has a Swiss look with small windows and wooden planters on the window sills, while the interior looks like an Italian wine cellar. Theres no written menu to speak of, but the staff has no trouble explaining what dishes are available that day as the chef only cooks with seasonal ingredients. Youll no doubt enjoy your meal, but be careful not to exaggerate as theres a replica of La Bocca della Verita (The Mouth of Truth) on the wall. If you start telling tall tales, you might walk out with a stump where your hand used to be. QOpen 17:00 - 22:00. Closed Tue. (24 - 29). JABK
90 61 47, info@asianboulevard.nl, www.asianboulevard. nl. A lot for a little is the maxim here in every respect. An all-you-can-eat meal can be had for a set price of 21.50 provided you finish within 2.5 hours. Its obvious there are several seatings a night, because the wait staff work so fast that your order slip has disappeared before you realise it. Although the uninviting arrangement of tables can be annoying, the cheerful and cosy area near the large windows at the front is excellent and the sushi specialities are finger-licking good and as fresh as can be! QOpen 17:00 - 22:30. (21.50). TJAK
Sushi Koi D-3, Heuvelring 126, tel. (+31) 135 45 10 00,
Japanese & Sushi

Enjoii D-1, NS-Plein 38, tel. (+31) 135 42 11 75, www.
tasteofjoii.nl. Youll find Enjoii at the NS Plein (Railway Square) not far from the centre of town. Its the latest in a long line of sushi restaurants that have recently sprung up all over Tilburg. The restaurant consists of a sushi section, a buffet area and a place where you can sit together around the grill while your food is being juggled right before your eyes. The buffet menu is very straightforward, but the sushi offers more than a few surprises. For example, you can order frushi (sushi with bits of fruit), which has just blown over from the United States. The restaurant also offers an interesting view of the old rail yard. QOpen Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri 13:00 - 22:30, Sat 13:00 - 23:00, Sun 13:00 - 22:00. (21). JGK
www.sushi-koi.nl. Although Tilburg is teeming with sushi restaurants, Sushi Koi still stands out. The menu consists of 29 vegetarian dishes as well as several types of sushi and a number of tender meat dishes, including pork and beef tenderloin. If you make an early reservation youll be able to sit outside on the large terrace, which is an excellent place to people watch - everyones guilty pleasure. You can also do the same from the restaurants conservatory, which looks out over the Heuvel. Sushi Koi employs an all-you-can-eat principle with one strict house rule: if youve ordered too much you have to pay a fine of between 1 - 3 depending on the dish to discourage waste. QOpen 17:00 - 22:30. (20 - 22). PTJALGBK
Miniwok C-3, Stadhuisplein 320, tel. (+31) 135 36 56
43, www.mini-wok.nl. Miniwok is a good option for a quick healthy snack or a fairly cheap evening meal, but keep your hands and feet at the ready as communicating with the staff is often a bit of a problem. Hardly cosy, due to the frequent orders shouted by the waiters to the kitchen staff, it doesnt really offer much in the way of decoration either, so you might want to consider takeaway. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 16:00 - 22:00. (4 - 7). JKS
Shinzo E-4, Piushaven 17, tel. (+31) 135 81 28 17,

www.shinzolounge.nl. At Shinzo sushi, lounge and grill, you can eat all you like for a fixed sum of money, just like at many of the other sushi restaurants in Tilburg. Free ice cream, good choices of sashimi and a special price for children are small differences that set it apart from the rest. Downstairs youll find a lounge area with sofas, wonderful broad chairs and ambient lights. The dining area upstairs is like a refurbished farm attic, but in Japanese style. The decorations of enormous vases, gigantic lion statues and geishas will keep you occupied between bites. QOpen 16:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat, Sun 16:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (23.50). TJLGKX
As soon as the sun shines Tilburgs diners move outside
RESTAURANTS
Mediterranean
Maana D-3, Zwaanstraat 18, tel. (+31) 135 45 34
37, www.tapasbarmanana.nl. Given the often dreary weather in the Netherlands, the Dutch enjoy escaping to warmer climates. The Maana tapas bar fills this niche perfectly with tasty Spanish mini dishes. Although the restaurant is located in a rather gloomy alley, locals know where to find it because its always busy here. With a wall to wall canopy and flamenco dancers on the canvasses on the walls, the atmosphere is definitely Iberian. In summer the barbecue is lit every day and everyone sits outside. QOpen 16:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 16:00 - 01:00. Closed Tue. (3 - 8). JUGBK
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MeesterS C-3, Monumentstraat 6, tel. (+31) 135
Drop by this place for the best spare ribs in town
36 29 87, www.stadscafemeesters.nl. This place is Mediterranean and a tad exclusive, but despite the expensive exterior and typical hors doeuvre before dinner, MeesterS is absolutely affordable for the middle class. The restaurant is divided into multiple rooms with different ceiling heights, so the bustle is never overwhelming. A lot of the buildings original details have survived renovations such as leaded glass, the high wooden doors between the rooms and the elegantly decorated ceiling. A lot more can be seen on the terrace including the highlight - an abstract fountain from 1972. QOpen 10:30 - 22:00, Sun 14:00 - 22:00. (18 - 23). TJHA6GBK
Lieve Lente M-8, De Lind 59, tel. (+31) 135 28 44 10, www.lievelente.nl. The small, idyllic village of Oisterwijk is located about 10km outside of Tilburg. The highlight of this street is Lieve Lente, a pub which looks like an old-fashioned English hunting lodge. In the morning coffee and cake are available, in the afternoon theres lunch and for dinner it serves plenty of other tasty dishes. You can also sit outside and listen to music and enjoy the gorgeous view of the beautiful town hall and the park with its old willow trees. QOpen 10:00 - 02:00. (15 - 20). GBK
Pancakes
De Pannekoekenbakker C-3, Heuvelstraat 40, tel.
(+31) 135 36 14 26, www.pannekoekenbakker-tilburg.nl. Tilburgs city centre is full of ultra modern buildings, but halfway down the busiest shopping street is a narrow alley which leads to a coach house from 1897. Its nothing short of a miracle that these premises survived the forces of modernisation that altered neighbouring buildings forever. This amazing place serves 250 different kinds of pancakes including our favourite: chicken satay pancakes! QOpen 12:00 - 19:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 20:00. Closed Mon. (8 - 13). TJGBK
Mexican
Tortillas D-3, Heuvel 47, tel. (+31) 135 45 41 55,
www.tortillas.nl. Close the front door and youll think youre in a tropical paradise surrounded by decorations with strong and vibrant colours like parrots, traditional dishes, Mexican rugs and all kinds of bits and pieces which contribute to the restaurants atmosphere. The menu is good and affordable and all the dishes are mouthwatering including the Cocoloco dessert. The restaurant boasts a big, beautiful courtyard garden which provides lots of privacy from the city in summer. If you prefer people watching take a seat on the terrace. Mind you, it gets busy so dont be late. Make sure to try the fruity sangria, guaranteed to put you in a good mood. QOpen 17:00 - 23:00. (13 - 18). JABK
Seafood
Kok Verhoeven D-1, NS Plein 32, tel. (+31) 135 45
10 88, fax (+31) 135 45 10 89, www.kokverhoeven. nl. Although you can enjoy meat courses like duck at Kok Verhoeven, the restaurant specialises in fish dishes and this is evident as the aroma of delicious seafood greets you when you walk in. The restaurant is rather small, but has a lovely terrace with an awning and a long white sofa and lovely little braziers that provide it with extra class. Judging from the mountain of champagne corks in the silver wine cooler visitors must order bubbly in large quantities. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. (24 - 29). JAUGBKW
Out of town
Boslust M-7, Schoorstraat 37, Udenhout, tel. (+31)
135 11 18 72, www.brasserieboslust.nl. In the wooded area surrounding Udenhout youll find Boslust, a caf that was founded in1897, which is now a real tourist attraction. Play mini-golf, visit the playground with your children or take a bike ride through the Loonse and Drunense Duinen (natural dunes). The menu has something for everyone including food for kids and vegetarians. Boslust is also an ideal point of departure for anyone who wants to explore the citys rural surroundings. QOpen 10:00 - 01:00. Closed Mon. (14 - 18). TUGBKX tel. (+31) 347 75 04 38, www.hoteldedruiventros.nl. In contrast to the hotels rather dated accommodation, its restaurant, De Druiventros (Bunch of Grapes), is surprisingly contemporary. Although not exactly haute cuisine, youll get good value for money at this French/Dutch inspired restaurant. The corny furnishings may make the place look a bit chaotic, but families with kids will feel very much at home here. The genuinely friendly staff are also a definite plus. QOpen 11:30 - 21:00. (16 - 21). PTA6ULG BKXW
Spanish
Doncurado E-4, Piushaven 5, tel. (+31) 13 737 01 00,
www.doncurado.nl. You can experience authentic Spanish atmosphere near the lively Piushaven in Tilburg. Although the cosy restaurant isnt obvious from the outside, its definitely worth going in. The interior has been divided into a bar area and a shop which is surrounded by low, beautiful ornamental fences that take up about a quarter of the space. Doncurados chief objective is to be a social meeting place for Tilburgers who appreciate good food and drink. You can enjoy a glass of wine and taste some typical Spanish snacks, but bear in mind that its not really a place for a traditional three-course meal. However, if you choose enough delicious cheeses and meats, youll have no trouble satisfying your hunger. QOpen 10:00 21:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 22:30. Closed Mon. (3 - 6). JAL
De Druiventros M-8, Bosscheweg 11, Berkel-Enschot,
E28
RESTAURANTS
El Caso B-3, Heuvelstraat 122, tel. (+31) 135 44 21
03, www.elcasotilburg.nl. Were not usually keen on restaurants based on two different concepts, but El Caso, which opened in late 2012, is a pleasant exception to this unwritten rule. Although the owner was apparently unable to choose between Italian and Spanish cuisine, we were pleased with both the tapas and the pizza. This attractive corner restaurant is also a good place for lunch and we wholeheartedly recommend the El Caso sandwich stuffed with a kind of taco filling. The walls are adorned with all kinds of Spanish vistas and this theme has even been extended to the toilets. Men can get rid of their superfluous ballast behind the door decorated with a matador, while ladies can use the entrance with a female flamenco dancer. QOpen Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun 15:00 - 22:00, Sat 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Tue. (9 - 18). TJAGBKXW
Tilburg snacks
Broodje Jantje D-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 2, tel. (+31) 135 49 96 00, www.broodjejantje.nl. If youre looking for an authentic snack from Tilburg, you have to taste Broodje Jantje. Its a kind of hamburger with sauce thats made according to a local recipe and it has been eaten in the city for generations by people of all ages. In addition to the roll, you can also buy fries, croquettes and frikandellen to truly experience Dutch fast food culture. QOpen 12:00 - 20:00, Thu, Fri 12:00 - 04:00, Sat 15:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Sun. (2 - 5). JS
Tapas
La Cabaa H-5, Academielaan 73, tel. (+31) 134 67 33
84, www.lacabanatilburg.nl. Just outside the city centre youll find the oldest tapas bar in town. This Spanish piece of Tilburg serves delicious Mediterranean appetisers and theyve paid so much attention to the dcor that you can really imagine that youre somewhere on the Iberian peninsula surrounded by stone shelters, wooden wine racks on the walls, a large bull on top of the bar and cosy lamps. The walls of the large garden out back have also been decorated with mosaics, smartly tiled roofs and lit planters. La Cabana is also excellent for parties, corporate get-togethers and weddings. For the latter the Spanish restaurant has a beautiful hall with a built-in bar and high tables. QOpen 17:00 - 23:45. (3 - 6). PTUGBKS
La Guitarra C-3, Willem II straat 5, tel. (+31) 138 22
66 97, www.laguitarra.nl. Dinner at La Guitarra is a night out thats guaranteed to be full of old-fashioned fun. The two friendly owners make sure of that. They deserve to be complimented not just for the tasteful dcor of this hot spot that opened in the beginning of 2013, but also for the layout of the restaurant. They could easily have added another four tables, but this would have been detrimental to the relaxed atmosphere. You can enjoy a number of Spanish regional specialities here served as either small tapas or full sized meals. Whatever you order, make sure you leave some room for the extraordinary desserts like the strawberries drowned in wine or melon dipped in champagne. QOpen Tue, Wed, Thu 17:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat, Sun 15:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (13 - 18). TJGK
Ms Tapas Y Vinos B-3, Oude Markt 14, tel. (+31) 135
Surinamese
Faja Lobi B-3, Oude Markt 9, tel. (+31) 135 44 96 66,
www.fajalobi-tilburg.nl. These small, narrow premises with only a couple of tables have the look and feel of a Surinamese bar, but it actually has much more to offer. Faja Lobi is the only Surinamese restaurant in Tilburg, so if youre craving roti or catjang this is the place to go. The menu is excellent for both lunch and dinner and if you just need to cool down after an exhausting afternoon try the Surinamese Djogo beer. QOpen 12:00 - 21:00, Sun 16:00 - 20:30. Closed Mon. (5 - 10). JUBKS
36 07 00, www.mas-tapas.nl. Tapas bar Mas Tapas Y Vinos offers an extensive list of Spanish wines, which is surprisingly exceptional for a tapas bar in Tilburg. Unfortunately, diners are seated on low white stools, which may cause a lack of legroom for many men. Part of the restaurant is a raised area, separated by a typically Spanish partition. Fortunately the stools in this area are a bit higher. The menu is impressive, with no less than three types of jambon and four kinds of Spanish cheese and its an especially pleasant place to visit late in the afternoon in summer, because by the time the sun reaches Mas, most other places need outdoor heaters. QOpen 16:30 - 22:00, Sat 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (5 - 10). JABK
Thai
Jasmine I-5, Molenstraat 136, tel. (+31) 135 81 07
66. The restaurant is decorated haphazardly with an excess of Thai frills, but the menu is attractive and organised very clearly by the type of meat on offer: chicken, beef, pork or fish. When you see three red peppers theres a danger of combustion and tears, whereas a dish with no peppers is even safe enough for children. Daredevils who order spicy courses can douse the fire with real Thai beer: Singha. The music provided is no doubt popular in Thailand, but definitely an acquired taste. QOpen 15:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (8 - 13). GK
Turkish
Melisa F-4, Dalempromenade 70, tel. (+31) 135 70 47
70. For several years Turkey has been holiday destination number 1 for the Dutch and this is partly due to the all-inclusive all-you-can-eat packages that are often offered. However, if you expect to be served the same processed Western trash in Melisa that these holiday factories spew out three times a day, youre mistaken. Meilsas brilliant food matches the view of the Donge Valley, one of Tilburgs most attractive and relatively unknown areas of outstanding natural beauty. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (16 - 20). TABS
Tilburg is never short of places to eat
CAFS
The Dutch share a love of espresso and cappuccino with the Italians. Cafs in Tilburg quite often offer much more than just a cup of coffee with pastry or a cup of tea. Most of them have soups, salads and sandwiches on their menus, so the border between restaurants, pubs and cafs is very thin. But have a look over our carefully selected cafs and pick the one that is just right for your mood or occasion, Eet smakelijk!
E29
Museumcaf Bij Mommers I-5, Goirkestraat 96, tel.
Cafs
Beans & Bites B-1, Stationstraat 14, tel. (+31) 132
11 02 15, www.beansandbites.com. This lunchroom is the only one in Tilburg that can be described as New York-style. On your way to the railway station, or leaving the station towards the shops, you can drop in for a good cup of fresh coffee. Order something typically Dutch and simple or well-sweetened the American way with syrups flavoured with pistachio, caramel, tiramisu or chocolate and mint. Dont forget to try a sandwich, which arent exactly a culinary delight, but tasty and filling. If you fancy something a bit more gourmet then youre better off having a chocolate croissant, brownie or a muffin. Beans & Bites is the perfect lunchroom for a quick takeaway, but the cosy dcor is also inviting enough to make you stay for a leisurely cup of java. QOpen 07:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
(+31) 135 36 74 75, www.textielmuseum.nl. When you walk into Bij Mommers (At Mommers) its obvious that youre actually in a museum. The floors are covered with Norwegian flagstones and the industrial-style tables and chairs fit the buildings dcor perfectly. The striking steel-framed couches are a good place to enjoy a fresh mint tea, espresso or tasty sandwich and you dont need a ticket for the museum to have lunch here. Even if youre not hungry or thirsty, its still worth a visit just to check out the interior. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. (2 - 9). TALBKW
Museumcafe Eten & Drinken B-1, Spoorlaan 434,
Kras2 C-3, Willem II straat 27, tel. (+31) 135 44 40
tel. (+31) 135 35 39 35, www.natuurmuseumbrabant. nl. If all of the exhibits in the three-storey Museum of Nature have exhausted you or if you just want to take a moment to compose yourself after seeing the imposing elephant genitalia conserved in formaldehyde you can take a break at the museums spacious and modern caf. If you prefer simplicity you can prepare your own slices of bread or have a plate of poffertjes (tiny pancakes), but we opted for the large salmon sandwich. The luxurious red couches and the large number of magazines and books will convince you to linger a little longer than planned and when the weather cooperates you also can sit outside. You dont have to be a museum visitor to take advantage of the caf. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. (3 - 6). TJULBKW
42, www.kras2.nl. You cant walk past this sandwich shop without noticing it. The enormous ILLY coffee cup and the memorable delivery bicycles that stand outside the door will definitely grab your attention. The room smells of super simple, yet delicious sandwiches, whose fillings are often of Italian origin. Your order will be prepared right in front of you in the open kitchen, but you could always try a fresh piece of pie or buy something to prepare at home. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. (2 - 7). JGS
Nieuwland B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 66, tel. (+31) 137 85
Mugs & Muffins C-3, Willem II straat 57, tel. (+31)
135 90 45 85, www.mugsandmuffins.nl. A balanced diet is a cookie in each hand is its motto and Mugs & Muffins lives by it. Shoppers come here by the bucket load to enjoy hot drinks and home made pastries. Starbucks pales by comparison with this Tilburg favourite. Take a seat near the front window for people watching or in the back for a view of a well-maintained city garden. If youre in luck, you might find a seat in one of the two wonderful arm-chairs. Every season three new drinks appear on the menu, which are perfectly in tune with the winter chill or a summer breeze. Q Open 08:00 - 19:00, Mon 13:00 - 19:00, Thu 08:00 - 22:00, Sat 09:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. (2 - 7). JG
15 43, www.lunchcafenieuwland.nl. Nieuwland Lunch Cafe first opened its doors at the beginning of 2013 and every aspect of its impressive interior is the brainchild of the two vivacious, perfectionist sisters-in-law who run it. Historic pictures of these authentic premises and their immediate surroundings illustrate that this used to be one of Tilburgs poshest neighbourhoods. If you order a sandwich filled with local ingredients like artisanal cheeses or steak tartar, youll also discover that this region of Holland has a lot of delicacies to offer. If youd like to use the wireless internet simply type in the password welcome with us, which perfectly describes the warm atmosphere of this nostalgic place. Q Open 09:30 - 17:30. Closed Mon, Sun. TJAUGBKXW
Soups & Shakes B-2, Tuinstraat 114, tel. (+31) 135
45 16 97, www.soupsandshakes.nl. Soups & Shakes is essentially a sandwich shop where you can create your own lunch with a variety of toppings for a fair price. The small, flowery room exudes a friendly atmosphere, you can make your own coffee if you like and the owner is always up for a chat. The place is popular with local shoppers in need of an energy boost, but students also seem to congregate here after classes. QOpen 11:30 - 19:00, Thu 11:30 - 20:00. Closed Sun. (3 - 8). JGBS
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NIGHTLIFE
Tilburgs brilliant nightlife scene includes dimly lit jazz and blues bars, groovy strip clubs, cosy pubs and a vibrant underground music scene. Although closing times are strictly regulated, some bars and pubs stay open until the last group of customers have stumbled out. Most night spots are concentrated around the area by Old Town square, with the Korte Heuvel and the nearby Piusplein being alltime favourites of locals and students. The town is small enough to cover on foot, though as the night gets longer, so does the distance between places. Some places refuse entrance to anyone in scruffy jeans and trainers, so make a bit of an effort before going out to the glitzier venues.
Symbol key
P Air conditioning E Live music T Child friendly X Smoking section G No smoking A Credit cards accepted S Take away I Fireplace U Facilities for the disabled J City centre location
W Free wireless internet 6 Pets allowed
Bars
Clancys D-3, Heuvel 44-45, tel. (+31) 135 45 18 37,
www.clancystilburg.com. Every self-respecting city has an Irish pub and Tilburg is no exception. Among this randomly put together collection of stools, chairs, tables and benches, you can order your Guinness in English, or even better, in Irish as Clancys staff and owner all come from the Emerald Isle. Tilburgs huge student population descend on this place every week for a good glass of whiskey or a pint of Snake Bite (beer with cider) a good old meal of fish and chips. Sports fans can enjoy live broadcasts of the English Premier League, French rugby or even American football on the big screen. QOpen 16:00 - 02:00, Mon 18:00 - 02:00, Thu 16:00 - 03:00, Fri 16:00 - 04:00, Sat 12:00 - 04:00, Sun 14:00 - 02:00. JGBX
De Slijterij D-3, Heuvel 42, tel. (+31) 135 36 22 46,
www.cafedeslijterij.nl. On the way to the toilet youll pass images of Dolly, Aretha and Miss Ross at least four times so you can probably guess what the DJs play here. De Slijterij is a pub of contradictions. While you can still smell the freshly papered walls, the clientele look like theyve been dancing here since the beginning of time. The imposing display of spirits and expensive champagnes is in stark contrast to the minimalist style of the pub. De Slijterij is a favourite among the older generations who dance their weekly waltz on the spotless floor. QOpen 17:00 - 01:00, Thu, Sun 17:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 17:00 - 03:00. Closed Tue. JGBX
De Korenbloem H-5, Bredaseweg 261, tel. (+31) 134
Extase D-2, Heuvelring 112, tel. (+31) 135 42 25
63 39 80, www.stapperijdekorenbloem.nl. De Korenbloem is located at Tilburgs busiest intersection and yet you hear little of the traffic rushing by on its spacious terrace. Due to the many offices and businesses located in the vicinity, the crowds mostly come in for lunch or after work. Suits, ties and scarfs of both genders come to this old-fashioned cocktail bar to unwind, especially at the end of their exhausting week. The evening menu will definitely fill you up, especially the tasty Argentinian steak, but theres limited seating inside. Fortunately, in summer the sliding doors are opened up and the terrace tempts hungry or thirsty passers-by. QOpen 12:00 - 01:00, Sat, Sun 15:00 - 01:00. (11 - 16). LGBKX
67, www.cafe-extase.nl. Extase is known throughout Tilburg for its casual attitude toward opening hours on Wednesday nights. When all other bars have closed their doors, you can continue the party here for a while. Both young and old go wild to popular beats from the 1980s and 90s in a large shed of sorts behind the bar. Everyone drinks Jupiler beer and the bar staff can therefore easily return a full crate of 26 empties each time they make the rounds. But theres also plenty to keep you occupied on other nights. Tuesdays are popular with people who play Settlers of Catan and Thursdays host I Love Electronics nights. QOpen 19:00 - 04:00, Tue 19:00 - 02:00, Wed 19:00 - 03:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JGX www.havana-tilburg.nl. The cosy, colourful benches on the Heuvel look inviting and the cocktails Havana serves are delicious and reasonably priced. Best of all, this winning combination puts one in mind of lazy summer days during the dark and wintry months. On Fridays and Saturdays you can even dance away the chill with warm and sultry sounds. The menu is also impressive, especially the fajitas, tiritas and tasty Cubanos, but we still prefer the Steenburger. The food is well presented and unlike many restaurants in Tilburg, Havana uses locally grown ingredients. QOpen 10:00 - 24:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 04:00, Sun 10:00 02:00. (15 - 22). JGBKX cafehoppie.nl. At Carnival each year this place is positively bursting with patrons, but this nostalgic pub can get busy on other nights too with a clientele of mainly older regulars who put away quite a few drinks. The bar isnt big, but theres enough space for a dance floor and local artists perform here often, although you probably wont miss much if you stay home on those nights. In a nutshell, its the atmosphere where everyone knows one another that sets Hoppie apart from many other Tilburg pubs. QOpen 18:00 - 04:00, Wed 18:00 - 02:00, Sat 14:00 - 04:00, Sun 14:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon, Tue. J
De Lamme Goedzak D-2, Heuvelring 104, tel. (+31)
628 23 65 48. Both drunk and sober pub lovers often literally fall into this pub, thanks to the steep steps leading down from the street level entrance. Although the facade of the building on the Heuvelring is pleasing to the eye, once inside the interior seems to be on the decline and in dire need of a fresh layer of paint. De Lamme Goedzak is frequently the last stop for the regiment of inebriated locals looking for another drink after most other pubs have closed their doors. QOpen 21:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 21:00 - 04:00. JGX
Havana D-2, Heuvel 22, tel. (+31) 135 36 53 24,
Hoppie D-3, Piusplein 3, tel. (+31) 622 51 75 82, www.
Dont leave without trying Schrobbeler. Proost!
NIGHTLIFE NIGHTLIFE
Jacks C-2, Tuinstraat 81, tel. (+31) 135 42 63 22,
www.cafejacks.nl. Although this place wont win any awards for interior design, theres no other place in Tilburgs inner city where you can eat as cheaply as here. For only 6 youll get a delicious seasonal daily special. If its snowing youll get real Dutch boerenkool (kale and sausage), but if its sunny out you can probably expect a large salad. Even big eaters will have trouble finishing the enormous servings here and you also get a huge basket of bread and herb butter for free that could feed a whole refugee camp. Drinks are also incredibly cheap, but the real fun starts when the plates are cleared from the tables and the bar is transformed into a board game room. QOpen 17:00 - 02:00, Mon 20:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri 17:00 - 03:00, Sat 20:00 - 03:00. (6 - 10). JGKX
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Tilburg: a genuine events city

Tilburg o f fers a wide variety of high-quality activities peppered with a strong cultural flavour that are always created with a wide audience in mind. Thats why Tilburg is a genuine events city. Nearly every weekend thousands of people enjoy special events in the city. These events not only attract people from Tilburg, but also draw spectators from around the country as many concerts and shows have both national and international allure. Good examples include the Tilburg Fair, Festival Mundial, Road Burn and the Incubate Festival. Large sports events, such as Tilburg Ten Miles and the Waranda Run also have a wide range of participants and a large audience. Add to this a broad range of bars, restaurants and hotels and its obvious why Tilburg is such an attractive events city with a great atmosphere. Polly Maggoo D-3, Heuvel 10, tel. (+31) 135 45 67 30, www.pollymaggoo.nl. Since the 1960s renowned model Polly Magoo has been a true phenomenon in art cinema and Caf Polly Magoo, located in the centre of Tilburg, is also an institution in its own right. In fact, whole generations of students have grown up in this place. Even now, the sultryeyed Polly watches over all of her patrons from her life-size film poster on the wall. Her staff are friendly, theres room to dance to good music in the back of the pub and the lunches are quite tatsy. The T rappistenburger made with quadrupel Trappist beer is simply fantastic, but the all American classic is also nothing to sneeze at. QOpen 10:00 - 02:00, Mon 12:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 04:00. (11 - 17). PJEGBKX Stadscaf Van Gogh D-3, Paleisring 17, tel. (+31) 135
43 11 15, www.stadscafevangogh.nl. This top-notch pub opened at the end of 2011 and its large wooden beams and imposing beer kegs will have you craning your neck to take in the furnishings of the place. In fact, the interior screams that its all a bit too new and definitely not the kind of place the famous artist and one-time resident of Tilburg Van Gogh is likely to have frequented, but its definitely a decent choice for a cosy drink. QOpen 15:00 - 04:00, Tue, Wed, Sun 15:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon. J
Karel D-2, Heuvel 24, tel. (+31) 135 36 92 24, www.
cafekarel.nl. Drop by Karel to read a newspaper with a cup of coffee or to strike up a conversation with people on shopping breaks and business types in suits. The menu offers typical international food like steaks, spareribs and pasta, but its one of the few pubs in Tilburg that has a smoking room at the front. The sun room affords you great views of the Heuvel and in spring and summer theres a large outdoor seating area thats perfect for people watching. QOpen 10:30 - 24:00. (15 - 25). TJGBKX
Le Clochard C-3, Heuvel 16, tel. (+31) 135 35 76

60, www.leclochard.nl. You dont need to wander around Tilburg long to find a party pub but if you want to find one of the best then head over to Le Clochard. Its always busy here, and if it isnt, that means its closed. Theres nothing in between. On Friday afternoon youll find a queue of about 50 teenagers outside and all the local students come here for shelter. The walls of Le Clochard curve inward with an occasional porthole so it feels like youre dancing in a submarine, which can of course lead to seasickness. Or was it just too many drinks? QOpen 20:00 - 02:00, Thu 16:00 - 04:00, Fri 14:00 - 04:00, Sat 15:00 - 04:00, Sun 15:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon. JGX
Little Devil B-2, Stationsstraat 27, tel. (+31) 135 45
21 40, www.littledevil.nl. Little Devil is Tilburgs best rock caf. If you love rock, metal, trash metal, heavy metal, garage, punk and similar music than this is the place to go. Prepare to enter a dark cave with a lot of head-banging regulars who attempt to destroy the place brick by brick with often insanely loud guitar music. Definitely an acquired taste for Europeans accustomed to techno and Top 40. QOpen 17:00 - 02:00, Fri 17:00 - 03:00, Sat 15:00 - 03:00, Sun 13:30 - 02:00. Closed Mon. (2 - 5). EGX
Studio Tilburg D-3, Heuvel 7 - 9, tel. (+31) 135 43 60
You wont find only clubbers in Tilburg after midnight
16, www.studio-tilburg.com. What came first: modern man in Tilburg or a pub in Tilburg for modern people? Nobody knew that Tilburg could be so trendy until Studio opened its doors. It has been a catwalk for fashion-conscious people in their twenties and thirties, every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night ever since. Of course this is supported by the trendy - and really good - music played by the DJ. Nowhere else in the city do people dance so well as here, but this is no surprise considering the many dance academy students in attendance. QOpen 10:00 - 02:00, Mon, Sun 12:00 01:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 04:00. (14 - 19). JGBKX
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NIGHTLIFE
Tribunaal D-3, Heuvel 14, tel. (+31) 135 42 52 90,
www.tribunaal.nl. The famous Tribunaal in Tilburg is a pub on Korte Heuvel and is probably the largest one in the inner city. Its a place where young professionals have been coming for 28 years to unwind after a busy day at work. Theres always something going on: people playing darts, cards or shooting pool and they regularly organise poker tournaments. QOpen 13:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri 13:00 - 03:00, Sat 13:00 04:00. JGBX
Beer bars
Caf Hoegaarden D-3, Piusplein 2, tel. (+31) 137
20 06 22, www.hoegaardentilburg.nl. This caf named after the delicious milky beer calls itself the Best Beer Pub in Tilburg and in capital letters no less. The latest owners took over at the end of 2011 and still have to prove themselves given such local competition as Kadinsky and Buitenbeentje (Maverick). That said, the big bar looks fantastic with its many stained-glass windows, wood panelling and original tile work and the toasted sandwiches made with Turkish flat bread are excellent, but it still has to work on that characteristic Belgian ambience to win over the locals. Dont leave without trying the heavenly taste of an Urthel Samaranth brew. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00, Mon 12:00 - 24:00, Thu, Fri 11:00 - 02:00, Sat 10:00 - 02:00, Sun 14:00 - 24:00. (15 - 20). PTJGBK
t Vaticaan D-3, Heuvel 2, tel. (+31) 135 35 79 47,
www.cafevaticaan.nl. In the middle of Rome youll find the enclave of Vatican City, but since 1994, this vibrant pub with a similar name has been an enclave of fun in the centre of Tilburg. On Friday nights, young and old rock the place to great beats and twice a week (on Mondays and Wednesdays) you can sit down to dinner. Theres no menu so you just choose whatevers on offer that day. In summer, the wonderful, spacious terrace beneath an ancient tree is the place to be. QOpen 15:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 04:00. PJGBX
t BuitenBeentje D-3, Heuvel 15a, tel. (+31) 135 36
Traditional bars
Bet Kolen I-6, Broekhovenseweg 111, tel. (+31) 135
42 28 60, www.betkolen.nl. Everyone in Tilburg knows this 100-year-old bar whose founder, Bet Kolen, was born in 1896. Although it was unusual for a woman to start a pub at that time, everybody used to visit Bets and she offered many drinkers a home away from home. In 2011 the pub still has the same name and the same values: pay attention to the guests and make sure everybody has a good time. The building consists of three parts. Up front theres a bar, next a large room which functions as a party centre followed by a busy hall in which men play darts and billiards on one of 18 dartboards and 16 pool tables. QOpen 12:30 - 02:00, Tue 17:00 - 02:00, Fri 12:30 - 03:00, Sat 12:00 - 02:00, Sun 11:00 - 02:00. GX
04 66, www.kafeebuitenbeentje.nl. t Buitenbeentje is truly deserving of its name if only due to the beer thats sold here for only 1.30 almost a euro cheaper than anywhere else on the Heuvel. The interior is, to put it mildly, also rather remarkable and unconventional. You wont find expensive paintings or something remotely trendy, but rather empty beer crates and whisky boxes lining the walls. Moreover, sitting at the bar is a completely different experience than in standard pubs. At t Buitenbeentje drinkers sit on low stools and the barman stands in a pit beneath you. Your tab is kept on a beer mat and any money that changes hands is literally put in a drawer. QOpen 15:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 03:00. JGBX
Casinos & Gaming halls

Jacks Casino C-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 172, tel. (+31)
135 42 58 80, www.jackscasino.nl. As a consequence of strict Dutch gambling laws, theres only one official chain of casinos in The Netherlands, the government-run Holland Casino. Unfortunately there is no Holland Casino in Tilburg, but we think that the Jacks Casino gambling hall is an excellent alternative. The gambling laws prohibit the sale of alcohol and there are no croupiers at the tables. Therefore you cant play proper roulette, poker or blackjack, but the computerised versions are available and there are plenty of slot machines to offer an evenings entertainment. The service is quick and the impressive restaurant isnt just for fortune seekers. QOpen 09:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 09:00 - 03:00, Sun 10:00 - 02:00. O
De Triangel E-3, Lanciersstraat 70, tel. (+31) 135 35
47 58. The Triangle is to Tilburg what Cheers is to Boston. Literally everyone seems to know each others name here. Landlord Frank doesnt just pour the cheapest beers in Tilburg, but he also acts as a special kind of social worker. If necessary the friendly barkeep even takes on the role of bouncer, although any form of aggression is hard to find in this old-fashioned pub. Sleek marketing concepts have never infected this local haunt where the oak tables are still covered with Persian rugs and kitschy white lace curtains decorate its windows. For some this is the height of archaic Holland, but we love it and so do many of the regulars who have treated this pub as their living room and home away from home for over 50 years. Q LX
Clubs
Epic D-2, Heuvelring 116, tel. (+31) 13822 67 84,
www.epictilburg.nl. What used to be a popular venue called The Talk of the Town is now Epic. Inside these beautifully illuminated premises at the Heuvelring you can lose yourself completely in its very loud music. The place is actually much larger than one might expect and the lighting consists of an enormous LED-wall and a complete light show. The tremendous amount of smoke which is blown into the club and which, combined with the light, muddles your vision somewhat is a bit of a turn off, but this is more than made up for by the games attached to the urinals in the gents. Dont worry. No touchscreens are involved. Just try and hit as many penguins as possible with the snowboard controlled by your pee stream: guaranteed fun. And youll have plenty of opportunity to practice as theres lots to drink at a number of different bars in the club. Q Open Sat 22:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun. J
Enjoy the outdoors while you can
NIGHTLIFE
Gay & Lesbian
During the annual fun fair in July, Hollands entire gay scene descends on Tilburg for Pink Monday. To an outsider it looks like a contest of who can wear the most extravagant outfit. Take a seat on a terrace and watch the parade walk by. Fun guaranteed, even if your not wearing pink.
E33 33
Lounges & Cocktail bars

T Kwadraat I-6, Marathonpromenade 383, tel. (+31)
135 81 28 84. Tilburg has recently become a real sports town and the opening of the T Kwadraat sports centre is a perfect example of this trend. No less than three different pubs and restaurants are housed in this industrial-style facility including the Eatery (Het eetcaf), the Aprs-ski bar and the Lounge. All three are decent enough places to eat a burger or schnitzel or to drink a glass of wine, but theyre not exactly the height of fashion (especially the Lounge) and are better suited as places to enjoy a Wieckse Witte draught beer with friends after a hard workout. Q THAUFLGKXW
De Lollipop D-3, Paleisring 25, tel. (+31) 135 35 52 38,
www.delollipop.nl. De Lollipop is the gay bar in Tilburg. Its been there for over a decade now, which by local standards is an eternity. Men, women, young, old, gay, straight and everything in between go wild on the dance floor at the back of the establishment, making it a fabulous party. Countless disco lights and glitter balls surround you and shine on you highlighting all of your moves. The pub seems enormous, which is an optical illusion created by its mirrored walls. It also lets you check out your neighbours and vice versa. QOpen Mon 17:00 - 01:00, Thu 19:00 - 04:00, Fri 18:00 - 04:00, Sat 14:00 - 04:00, Sun 14:00 - 02:00. Closed Tue, Wed. JGBX
Midnight munchies
Karnak Heuvel 6, tel. (+31) 135 44 13 96. Once you arrive
on Tilburgs main pub street, Korte Heuvel, Karnak will lure you in. The strip light over the electrical sliding doors, the camp neon lights in the windows and the loud slogans on the faade are like a sirens song. Its not the best kebab weve had, but no one, especially after a dozen beers, complains about the quality of the greasy Turkish pizza. Everyones just happy that its open so late and is located so centrally. Ideal for getting a head start on doing something about tomorrows hangover. QOpen 16:00 - 02:15, Thu, Fri, Sat 16:00 - 04:15. JVGBS
De Popcorn D-3, Paleisring 19, tel. (+31) 135 43 32
18, www.depopcorn.nl. No matter what type of music the DJ plays, its always time to dance at De Popcorn. Although technically a pub, it feels more like a mini disco with its large lamps and fluorescent disco balls. The rear bar even has two seductive poles going up to the ceiling, but most regulars seem to be a little old to work it properly without hurting themselves or traumatising younger spectators. QOpen 14:00 - 04:00, Mon, Tue 19:00 - 02:00, Wed, Sun 14:00 02:00. JGBX
Out of town
Caf Zomerlust J-5, Oisterwijksebaan 15, tel. (+31)
135 42 52 92. This traditional pub is an important staple of Tilburg nightlife, particularly since its latest renovation. You have to put in some effort to find this hidden gem but dont get discouraged if it takes you a while to find it. Four special beers are available for a fixed price of 12.50, but if youd like to to avoid filling up on liquid calories, you can go for the simple meal of the day. Caf Zomerlust is also a good place for breakfast, lunch and intimate jazz concerts. QOpen 12:00 - 24:00, Fri 12:00 - 01:00, Sat 11:00 - 01:00, Sun 10:00 - 24:00. Closed Tue. TH6EBKW
De Wijn C-3, Stadhuisstraat 17, tel. (+31) 135 44 51
18, www.dewijn.nl. As the owners of De Wijn are lesbians, this pub has been labelled a lesbian bar. However, while there are many lesbian customers, everyone is welcome here. To describe its interior just think of Moulin Rouge with lots of glitter and glamour, frills, and the well-known red and black colour scheme. Unlike many other pubs, beer isnt the beverage of choice here. Youll notice this instantly by the strong liquor hanging behind the bar and the subtle sweet scent in the air. QOpen Thu, Fri 20:00 - 04:00, Sat 16:00 - 04:00, Sun 16:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed.
Het Dorstige Hert H-5, Bredaseweg 397, tel. (+31)
Live music
Cul de Sac D-3, Heuvel 48, tel. (+31) 135 81 01 10,
www.culdesac.nl. Cul de Sac has established itself as a lounge for an alternative crowd with a more evolved taste in music. Its the place to be for new hippies and young artists, musicians and other creative minds who like to have a beer or a Jack Daniels in the pub area. Students from the Rock Academy show off their newly learned skills in the dance pit at the back of the room, while the crowds go wild on a wide selection of music, as this is what separates Cul de Sac from other pubs in Tilburg. Look Out! Dancing in Progress! is written above the pit. QOpen 15:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 04:00. JGBX
134 67 10 85, www.dorstigehert-tilburg.nl. After a walk or a cycle through the wooded area of Waranda, you can have an intimate drink at Het Dorstige Hert (The Thirsty Deer), which is popular with day trippers, locals and university students. The staff are a little older than the average employee of an inner city pub, but this does nothing to lessen the atmosphere here. The interior, on the other hand, is definitely of an antique variety and is decorated like our grandmas living room with a sturdy wooden cabinet and a wooden chandelier. However, grandma, it seems, throws excellent parties. QOpen 15:00 - 24:00. Closed Sat. LGBX
L!ve Piano Bar D-3, Heuvel 43, tel. (+31) 135 42 65
92, www.livemusicbar.nl. The whole weekend is one big party at Tilburgs second piano bar. As soon as you cross the threshold, theres no other option but to swing along with the rest of the crowd. Only a few meters from the front door youll find a stage with a white piano, a drum kit and with a bit of luck a saxophone played by professionals. If youre looking for refined piano music or soft jazz, this is not your place, since its mainly top-40 music thats being played here. QOpen 16:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon. JEGX
Can we buy you a beer?
E34
NIGHTLIFE
Pool & Billiards
Saints D-3, Heuvelring 222, tel. (+31) 135 36 77 11,
www.saints.nl. The entrance is hard to find, but once upstairs pool enthusiasts wont be disappointed. Although there are plenty of tables for everyone, theres not much in the way of atmosphere, which could be due to the fact that the drinks here are just as expensive as in the city centre. At least there you might have a chance of being served by an attractive waitress. QOpen 19:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat 14:00 02:00, Sun 14:00 - 24:00. JGX
De Heeren Van Tilburg C-3, Stadhuisstraat 21, tel.
Pubs
Babbus D-3, Heuvel 46, tel. (+31) 135 45 35 39, cafebabbus.wordpress.com. On weekdays you usually find students in this pub on de Korte Heuvel, but at the weekend the high bar stools are occupied by a somewhat older crowd. In both cases the atmosphere remains free and relaxed with experienced staff that know what a properly poured beer is supposed to look like. The regulars welcome newcomers with sincere smiles and expensive marketing concepts arent employed at Babbus. You can make your own night here by requesting a song and shaking your stuff on the tiny dance floor. QOpen 15:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 04:00. PJGBX
(+31) 135 82 03 16, www.deheerenvantilburg.nl. Insiders know that you can eat truly delicious food for relatively low prices at this lovely pub thats a mixture of old-fashioned elegance and modern nonchalance. The menu offers plenty of variety and we highly recommend the pot of mussels or the suckling pig. Big steaks and enormous schnitzels also get a thumbs up. In summer you can sit outside with a view of the old Heiken Church that dates back to 1829. For those whod like to learn some Dutch, an afternoon at De Heeren Van Tilburg might be a good start. QOpen 12:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon. JAUBKW
De Plaats D-3, Piusplein 61, tel. (+31) 135 36 91 54,
www.deplaats.nl. On Sundays crowds of people dance to jazzy tunes played by live bands at De Plaats, but on most other days the pub usually caters to a local group of regulars despite its central location in the heart of the city. You wont find dirty, grubby Persian rugs on the tables or a smoky pool table in the centre of the room here. Instead you can expect a bright and fresh dcor. QOpen 11:00 - 03:00, Mon 20:00 - 02:00, Tue, Wed 11:00 - 02:00, Sun 15:00 - 02:00. J6GBKX
Het Elfde Gebod D-3, Paleisring 23, tel. (+31) 135
Brandpunt D-3, Piusplein 7, tel. (+31) 135 35 96 49,
www.cafebrandpunt.nl. Brandpunt has been making students happy for decades. Its one of the few real student pubs in town where you can spend an evening drinking special beers on draught. Other draws include the large outdoor terrace and its affordable food, not to mention cheap specials and good offers like steak Tuesday and spare-rib Wednesday. But five nights a week the place is cleared and the stage is littered with boasting, slurring students and the air-conditioning seems to be out of order, which means that the clammy air quickly reeks of beer and sweat. On Friday night the average age drops so drastically that if youre 21 youre already a walking fossil. On Sunday nights hockey players and their beautiful fans take control of the dance floor. QOpen 10:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 04:00. JGBK
36 68 69, www.hetelfdegebod.eu. Jews and Christians have the Ten Commandments, but Tilburgers have added their own. The eleventh commandment (Het Elfde Gebod or thou shalt enjoy) is the focal point of this pub where you can eat very well. The comprehensive menu is a cut above the rest and offers such local delicacies as venison. Guests also come here for the large variety of beer that flows from the tap. The entire pub is decorated with Catholic paraphernalia such as scenes from the Crusades and statues of Christ on the cross. The large terrace is also popular and it provides comfortable chairs and blankets in case it gets chilly, not to mention a place to have a smoke. QOpen 11:00 - 02:00, Sun 12:00 - 02:00. (16 - 21). TJ6GBK
Heuvel 15 D-3, Heuvel 15, tel. (+31) 135 35 08 06,
Burgemeester Jansen E-4, Piushaven 22, tel. (+31)
135 45 10 08, www.burgemeesterjansen.nl. Johannes Franciscus Jansen was the longest serving mayor of Tilburg (1869 - 1901) and thereby practically solely responsible for the construction of the Wilhelmina canal which flows into the Pius harbour. This is also the exact place where the Burgemeester Jansen pub was established in 2005. You have to stray off the beaten path to get a beer here, but its definitely worth the trek. The large interior is decorated sparingly with austere tables, yellowing maps and wooden beer crates as the only embellishments. Roughly a dozen different beers are available on draught and the service is friendly. Its also the only pub in Tilburg with a terrace by the water. QOpen 15:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 02:00. Closed Mon. GB
www.heuvel15.nl. Heuvel 15 has been around for 30 years making it the oldest pub on Korte Heuvel. The owner has such a good time at his pub that he never skips a day and happily keeps the Hertog Jan beer flowing from the large Delft blue tap. Although the spirits are lined up gracefully behind the bar, Heuvel 15 calls itself a wine bar as well as a pub. This isnt surprising in view of the large variety of wines on offer, which is unusual for such a small place. Interior design isnt Heuvel 15s strong suit, but who says that a bar has to be stylish when youre just out for an evening of fun? QOpen 14:00 - 02:00, Thu 14:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 14:00 - 04:00, Sun 14:00 - 01:00. Closed Mon. JGBX
Caf Bolle D-3, Piusplein 8, tel. (+31) 135 81 02 90,
www.cafebolle.nl. Completely decorated in 1930s style, Caf Bolle offers a great, nostalgic atmosphere with fresh appeal. Although Tuesday nights when crowds arrive for Dobbel Dinsdag (Dice Tuesday) are predominantly attended by students (or anyone who doesnt need to be at their best on Wednesday morning), the rest of the week is great for everyone, including children wholl enjoy the enormous games room. Caf Bolle offers good cuisine that isnt over-priced and its business lunches are also good value for money. If youre still undecided, Bolle was nominated as one of the best pubs in Holland in 2011. QOpen 10:00 - 04:00, Mon, Tue, Wed 10:00 - 02:00, Sun 11:00 - 02:00. (15 - 20). TJAUGBKW
Not all streets are full of pubs and clubs
NIGHTLIFE
Student clubs
Boekanier C-3, Stadhuisstraat 11, tel. (+31) 135 43
19 03, www.cafedeboekanier.nl. The ambiguous slogan Pijpen? Een Euro! has put De Boekanier on the map among students. Pijpen for which one euro is charged could refer to anything from pipes, narrow glasses or bottles of beer to a blow job. In this case, its not the latter, so dont expect any oral sex on the menu. The slogan in fact refers to a narrow glass of Jupiler beer which can be purchased for only 1.10 on Thursdays. Other slogans include geen kakje zonder zakje near the toilets (which refers to scooping up dog crap) and No Feeding, Please above the DJ booth. QOpen 19:00 02:00, Thu, Fri 15:00 - 04:00, Sat 14:00 - 04:00. Closed Sun. JGBX Plenty of tables are available in the winter
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Wine bars
Square D-3, Heuvelpoort 324, tel. (+31) 135 36 53
71, www.squaretilburg.nl. Heartbroken? Square is the place for you. The saccharine voices of Celine Dion and Whitney Houston commiserate with your heartache from the loudspeakers, the precarious tiles on the ceiling look like they might release you from your pain at any moment and the view of the side of the McDonalds and bus station is guaranteed to depress. On the other hand, the affordable prices, friendly service and delicious snacks make up for many of these shortcomings. All this modern looking place needs are a couple of lounge chairs and youll be able to take your next date here! Hopefully your ex will be somewhere else. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 11:00 - 18:00, Thu, Fri 09:00 - 23:00, Sat 09:00 - 24:00, Sun 16:00 - 23:00. (5 - 10). PJBKW
Joris D-3, Piusplein 5, tel. (+31) 135 44 60 16, www.

cafejoris.nl. Caf Joris offers some kind of activity almost every day. Watching football is popular among locals while the many live performances, karaoke evenings and open mic nights with singer-songwriters are a magnet for many young patrons. Stand-up comedians and even magicians regularly make appearances here and thanks to unusual snacks like steak strips and jumbo shrimps, this is a wonderful place to come for a bite, too! QOpen 11:00 - 02:00. JGB
Kandinsky C-2, Telegraafstraat 58, tel. (+31) 135 44
49 24, www.biercafe-kandinsky.nl. Every pub in Tilburg offers beer, but only one can call itself Tilburgs best beer lovers bar. The menu boasts no less than 200 different brews, many of which flow freshly from the taps. Unfortunately its a bit too much to try them all in one go, although we certainly tried our best. The relaxed staff, the greatly varied clientele, every beer served in its own branded glass and music thats not turned up too loud make this the ideal place to sit and chat with friends. Hundreds of enamel beer platters also adorn its walls. QOpen 15:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 03:00, Sun 15:00 - 24:00. GBX
In Your Pocket Mobile
Stoffel D-3, Heuvel 13, tel. (+31) 135 45 72 17, www.

stoffel.nl. If there were an election for the cleanest establishment in the restaurant business in Tilburg, Caf Stoffel would win by a landslide. Over the years the management has placed an emphasis on its food and a child-friendly atmosphere. You can have a great lunch or dinner here for a reasonable price, but its definitely not the place to go dancing. The caf is better suited to a lazy afternoon playing games. In fact, there are shelves loaded with board games and you can play scrabble, chess and even Risk on specially painted tables. When the weather is nice the sliding doors are opened bringing the outdoor terrace and the pub together. If, however, we were to choose one thing that wed like to change here it would have to be the ghastly wall paper! QOpen 10:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 04:00. (15 - 20). PTJ6EGBKW
Van Horen Zeggen C-3, Stadhuisstraat 15, tel. (+31)
135 23 43 14, www.cafevanhorenzeggen.nl. Many events and celebrities from Tilburgs long and storied past have been immortalised on the wallpaper at Van Horen Zeggen, which means hearsay. This includes local folk hero, and Hollands most famous singer, Guus Meeuwis, who still regularly comes in for a beer. You can expect a big party here every weekend and as far as were concerned thats the best reason to come. In fact, the name hearsay doesnt seem at all appropriate. Much talked about would be more suitable. QOpen 14:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 14:00 - 04:00. JGBX
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WHAT TO SEE
Tilburg has more history and more old buildings than most Dutch people are aware of. Indeed, there may not be any canals with accompanying canalside houses like they have them in Utrecht and Amsterdam, and no prehistoric megaliths like in Drenthe. But Tilburg still has many old things which grace the town. Tilburg especially owes King William II and Pater Donders much for the tourist attractions they left behind. And there are also plenty of amusement parks in the area with Efteling being number one, followed by Beekse Bergen, Oliemeulen and Dierenpark Nuenen.
Essential Tilburg
Koningshoeven Abbey J-5, Eindhovenseweg 3, tel.
(+31) 135 40 85 08, www.koningshoeven.nl. If you think that only monks live in silence and spend the whole day praying, take a look at the Trappist farm Onze Lieve Vrouw van Koningshoeven. Here theyve been working hard every day brewing one of Europes best beers since 1884. This is still the most important source of income for the monastery, partially thanks to exports to the United States where the beer is sold under the name of Koningshoeven Trappist Ale. Nine special beers are brewed here under the close supervision of the clergymen themselves. Visitors will get a great impression of the whole brewing process in an audiovisual tour or a proper guided tour of the abbey where 16 monks between the ages of 24 to 81 live and work. Even if you dont like beer, youll still enjoy a visit, as the peaceful surroundings and the impressive complex with its characteristic towers are certainly worth a look. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00. K
Fountain next to the Palace-Town Hall
Lya Cattel
King Willem II Stadium I-6, Goirleseweg 34, tel. (+31)
Buildings & Squares

013 D-2, Veemarktstraat 44, tel. (+31) 134 60 95 00,
www.013.nl. Pop Stage 013 is a combination of three concert halls and is the largest music temple in southern Holland. The large Dommelsch Hall alone can offer space for at least 2,200 visitors. The building itself stands out because of the round shapes on its exterior that make it look like its covered with hundreds of CDs. 013 is conveniently located right on Korte Heuvel, which means that many of the bands that play here have a beer or whisky in one of the nearby cafs after a gig. The Fun Lovin Criminals, Moby and members of Faithless have all been spotted at pubs and clubs not far from here. Q PJUEGX
135 49 05 90, www.willem-ii.nl. The stadium where Tilburgs William II professional football club plays has only existed in its current form since 1995. At the time it was a state of the art building, as most Dutch stadia were standing room only prior to its completion. The club itself was founded 100 years earlier and was once quite prestigious. In fact, William II was the first Dutch professional club and it won the league in the first year, a feat they only managed on two other occasions. 10 years ago Willem IIs players even faced the best of European football in the Champions League, but, unfortunately, since then things have gone from bad to worse. The team has been relegated to the first division and the stadium is now considered to be rather outdated, but its still worth a visit if youre in town and into the beautiful game. A number of exhibitions detail the glory days of old and if you ask the right person, youll be able to have a look inside the stadium. QOpen 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. HL
Palace-Town Hall C-4, Stadhuisplein 130. Many Tilburg
Fontys Rock Academy C-4, Zwijsenplein 1, tel. (+31)
877 87 41 66, www.rockacademie.nl. Fontys Rock Academy is but one of the six academies that comprise the Fontys School of Fine and Performing Arts. Students receive higher vocational education in pop music here. The academy has brought forth a number of well-known Dutch pop musicians including the rock band Krezip, Leaf and Intwine. The distinctive building itself is worth a visit. Q PJHREW
King Willem II Barracks / Tilburg Prison I-6,
Ringbaan Zuid 500, www.jeoudekazernenu.nl. The King William II barracks were built just before WWII to house an infantry battalion. Before this the Netherlands had always lagged behind its neighbours with the expansion of its army, but due to the danger of war with Germany, the year 1939 saw the building of no less than 24 groups of barracks throughout the country. After the liberation of Tilburg in 1944 the barracks were used for various purposes until in 1993 it was finally handed over to the Ministry of Justice to remedy a shortage of prisons in the Netherlands. The barracks became a penal institution, but when it was no longer needed the Ministry of Justice decided to rent out the prison to Belgium that had a prison shortage of its own.
wedding photos have been taken on the stairs of the PalaceTown Hall. King William II had the place built in 1847 as a country retreat in his favourite town, but he died in 1849 only 22 days before its completion. In 1864 the Rijks Hogere Burger school was established in the palace and its most famous student was none other than Vincent van Gogh, who studied there for two years. In the south wing of the palace youll find a reconstruction of Vincents art room. Between the years 1934 and 1936 it was converted into the Town Hall. As the building had several purposes throughout the years, theres not much left of the original design. Windows were replaced and the entrance has been decorated in Art Deco style. Today its part of the Town Hall and its connected by a footbridge to the black box. A marble statue of King William II is located in the main entrance hall and an Art Deco staircase with stained windows can also be seen. A large book market is held on the square in front of the palace each year on the last Sunday of August. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. J
Theatres Tilburg (Schouwburg) B-4, Louisbouw-
meesterplein 1, tel. (+31) 135 43 22 20, www.theaterstilburg.nl. Voted one of the most beautiful buildings in the Netherlands by a group of four leading Dutch architects in 2009, this theatre is literally a brick ode to the sixties. The edifice perfectly fits its surroundings and still has a modern look despite its age. Naturally a lot of rebuilding and renovating has taken place throughout the years, but much of the decor is still from the 1960s, such as the benches that were designed by the architect Bijvoet. Even the chairs inside the theatre are originals. Q J
WHATTO TO SEE SEE WHAT

The Water Tower I-6, Bredaseweg 207. Since 1897, Tilburg has proudly possessed a water tower that still supplies the cleanest spring water in the Netherlands. The construction of the water tower was a positive development for the textile industry as well as public health, as the quality of city water improved by leaps and bounds. The tower is 50m high and built of brick. The entrance is characterised by a frame decorated in a neo-Renaissance style. The tower initially remained intact during WWII because the Germans used it to gain healthy drinking water and also as a watchtower over Tilburg. Unfortunately, it was damaged when the Nazis were driven out of Tilburg. Q Y
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Talking Textiles
Trend forecaster and design curator Lidewij Edelkoort has put together an exciting exhibition at the TextielMuseum entitled Talking Textiles . A wide selection of objects is on display with an emphasis on innovative textile technology, which may well herald the return of textiles in interior design. Designers are increasingly exploring the boundaries of textiles and eagerly apply new technologies to this age-old industry. Lidewij Edelkoort commented: In a strongly digitalized world the need for tactility and dimension grows; many established designers respond to this need with a renewed interest in textiles. The near future will bring a tremendous revival of textiles in interior design: on floors, walls and furniture widely applied in a personal manner.
Tilburg University H-5, Warandelaan 2, tel. (+31) 134
66 91 11, www.tilburguniversity.edu. The University of Tilburg was established in 1927 as a Catholic business school. Now, many years later, its the leading university in the Netherlands in business studies and its Faculty of Economics is the third most renowned in Europe. Its many high-rise university buildings are surrounded by woodland so the higher floors offer superb views of the greenery outside and the Tilburg skyline. Roughly 12,000 students study here at six different faculties every day, or at least the ones that arent hungover from the often exhausting student lifestyle. Student housing surrounds the hundreds of square meters of university buildings and theres even a supermarket and a student pub on the premises. An amusing piece of trivia: In the 1980s all higher vocational education institutes received permission to call themselves universities. This caused a problem for the Katholieke Hogeschool Tilburg, as it was called then. Because Catholic University Tilburg would stand for a rather inappropriate abbreviation (kut, a very rude Dutch word for the female genitalia) for a while the University opted to call itself Catholic University Brabant. In 2001 the university received the name it now carries, but in international circles its often known as Tilburg University. QOpen 07:30 - 18:30. Closed Sat, Sun. GKW
Churches & Religious buildings

Hasselt Chapel H-5, Hasseltplein, tel. (+31) 134 68
10 89, www.hasseltsekapel.nl. This chapel is located on a small square and dates back to 1536. The statue of Mary was added to the chapel in 1796 and now the church organises an open day during celebrations honouring Mary. This small house of prayer has had several functions over the years from a weavers house and a guest house to an emergency hospital. These days the charming chapel is mainly used as a place to get married, although a prayer service is held once a month. Q Open 09:00 - 19:00.
Westpoint I-5, Hart van Brabantlaan. The sixth tallest

building in Holland was built in Tilburg in 2004. Westpoint measures an impressive 143m in height, which is less than 22 meters shorter than the Maastoren in Rotterdam, the Netherlands tallest edifice. Hundreds of people live and work in this colourful concrete colossus, which can be seen from several kilometres away due to its frequent use of distinctive light sources. The 47m-tower contains 154 apartments. Q
St. Dionysos Church C-3, Stadhuisstraat 370. The
present Church of St. Dionysius, popularly known as Heikese Church, was completed in 1826. Its style is neoclassical and inside youll find pillars with Ionian capitals. The tower is the only remaining authentic part of the original 15th-century Gothic church, which makes it the oldest church in Tilburg. Due to the new bricks that were added in 1895, the tower actually seems to be newer than the rest of the building. The Heikese Church also has two 15th-century candleholders and a 17th-century painting in its possession. QOpen Sat 18:30 - 20:00, Sun 10:30 - 12:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri. J
St. Josephs Church D-2, Heuvelring 122. St. Josephs
See a concert at Tilburgs legendary 013
Church, which people in Tilburg often refer to as Heuvelse Church, is a neo-Gothic cross-shaped basilica with three transepts. The church, which was designed by Hendrik van Tulder, was built between 1872 and 1889. The two octagonal 72m-high towers at the front stand out and make this church the fourth highest building in Tilburg. The church displays many influences from the French Gothic period as well as St. Johns Cathedral in Den Bosch. In the 1950s the transept was extended. The main organ as well as the choir organ and the church itself are national monuments. Q Open 08:00 - 18:30. J
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WHAT TO SEE
St. Pauls Church B-3, Heuvelstraat 141, www.
pkn-tilburg.nl. This neoclassical style octagonal St. Pauls Church was originally built in 1822 as a protestant house of worship. A much older pipe organ from 1765 was later placed in the church and is still there to be admired. King William I of Holland visited the church only once, but King Willem ll of Holland visited the church whenever he stayed in Tilburg. In 2004 it was thoroughly renovated and both the church and the organ are now considered to be national monuments. These days St. Pauls belongs to an Indonesian-Dutch Christian congregation. Q J 135 35 03 92, www.suleymaniye.nl. The architecture of Tilburgs biggest mosque is a combination of modern and Islamic styles. The roof of the building resembles a half moon, with a star on top, but this isnt really visible from the ground. The star protrudes slightly to indicate the direction of Mecca. If youd like to see the interior you have to make an appointment. Tours are on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Q G
Monuments
Stadhuisplein. This monument was erected in honour of the 15th Scottish Division. This division of the Scottish army liberated Tilburg from German occupation on October 27, 1944. The sculpture represents a bagpipe player. Q J
Monument to the 15th Scottish Division C-4,
The Clothespin C-1, Spoorlaan. This monument in
Sleymanye Mosque I-5, Wandelboslaan 2, tel. (+31)
remembrance of the victims of World War II can be found to the right of the Central Station. Its a bell tower with 12 small clocks, but due to its shape its popularly known as the clothes-pin. Q
Museums
Brabant Museum of Nature B-2, Spoorlaan 434, tel.
(+31) 135 35 39 35, www.natuurmuseumbrabant.nl. The magnificent building of Natuurmuseum Brabant houses thousands of beautiful stuffed animals, fossils, plants and insects. Although the entire museum is so child-friendly that it almost seems like it was built solely for kids, this isnt the case. Adults will find plenty of interesting exhibits to keep them occupied. In the new OO-zone, the Ontdek en Onderzoek (Discover and Research) part of the museum, you can explore nature yourself. Compare bones or browse through one of the hundreds of books about flora and fauna. Youll be amazed by the beautiful animals behind the glass of the high display cabinets. In addition to all this, the museum also has temporary exhibitions like Moeders Mooiste (Beauty is in the eye of the beholder), where you can learn about exotic animals. Discover how a humming bird uses its beak as a pipette and how a giraffe can have a neck of up to 160cm in length. One of the permanent exhibitions is Brabant in de Ban van Buiten (Brabant under the spell of the outdoors). Here you explore the diverse flora and fauna that make the Brabant region so special. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Adults: 7, children 4 - 17: 5. TJAGK
Modern architecture
Appartementenvilla I-5, Bisschop Zwijsenstraat. The
apartments and villas on the corner of the Primus van Gils Park and the Bisschop Zwijssenstraat prove that contemporary architecture and its stern lines can be very attractive indeed. This inhabited work of art was developed as a pavilion and offers a 360 degree panoramic view of Tilburgs city centre. Q
Avans Hogeschool Cobbenhagenlaan 13, www.avans.
nl. The thousands of students who climb the stairs to their unique school building every day probably take its unusual architecture for granted. Anyone else who takes the trouble to have a closer look at Avans Hogeschool will most likely be impressed when first faced with this gigantic concrete colossus. The bright green faade and the entrance with its wide stairs are uncommon to Dutch architecture. If you ignore the colours you could even imagine this building gracing an enormous freedom square in some obscure city in North Korea or China. Once inside, space prevails and you can see through the entire building from front to back. What seem to be empty spaces and wide passages are actually effective meeting points for students. Q
De Pont I-5, Wilhelminapark 1, tel. (+31) 135 43
83 00, www.depont.nl. De Pont combines the history of Tilburg with art. Since 1992 this former wool mill has served as an exhibition space for numerous works by contemporary artists. The natural light in the large hall illuminates the pieces in all their glor y. The so-called wool cages house small rooms where you can see even more works of art. There are temporary exhibitions and the permanent exhibition contains works by Charlotte Dumas, Anton Henning, Wolfgang Laib, Steve McQueen and Giuseppe Penone. Q
The Peerke Donders Pavilion: Museum for Compassion J-4, Pater Dondersstraat 20, tel. (+31) 134
Drop by the TextielMuseum
Lya Cattel
55 72 45, www.peerkedonders.nl. A modern museum was erected next to a tiny house in Tilburg where the beatified friar and missionary Peerke Donders used to live with his parents. The Peerke Donders Pavilion and Museum for Compassion is divided into three rooms. The first one offers information about the life and work of Peerke, the second displays a permanent exhibition about charity and mercy and the third room is for temporary exhibitions. Next to the museum, you can enter Peerkes old home where youll discover how he lived in a building about the size of a postage stamp. On the other side of the house you can take a look at the little church that was built in Surinamese style after Peerkes death to honour the priest and his charitable work in that nation. Q Open 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. K
WHAT TO SEE
The TextielMuseum L-6, Goirkestraat 96, tel. (+31)
135 36 74 75, www.textielmuseum.nl. The modern TextielMuseum located at the Goirkestraat offers a fabulous look into the rich history of textiles in the city of Tilburg. It offers inspiring exhibitions in the area of design, art and heritage and the adjacent TextielLab is a unique centre of knowledge and expertise where knitted and woven fabrics are manufactured. Its workshop emphasizes innovation, so you can learn the latest trends. Both domestic and internationally renowned designers, including well-established names like Jan Taminiau, have had the TextielMuseum manufacture their fabrics or at least used the museums expertise in the area of yarn, techniques and crafts. The permanent museum collection as well as the temporary exhibitions offer not just a great afternoon out, but also a great boost to ones creative processes. QOpen 10:00 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Admission: adults 8, children 13 - 18 years 3.50, children 7 - 12 years 2.50, children 6 and under free. TULGBKW
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Vincents Art Room C-4, Stadhuisplein 128, tel.

(+31) 135 42 91 97, www.vincentstekenlokaal.nl. King William II had this beautiful residence built for himself in the centre of Tilburg, but he passed away just before the it was completed. The Royal Family donated the palace to the city and it was turned into the so-called Higher Citizens School. Hidden beneath the palace youll find Vincents Tekenlokaal (Vincents Drawing Room). This space is named after the most famous person to have lived in the city. One of the first students to study here was the now world-famous Vincent van Gogh. In 1886 he took classes here at the age of 13. The renowned painter received four or five hours of drawing lessons a week in the classroom of C.C. Huijsmans. Vincents Tekenlokaal can be viewed again via an exact reconstruction thats decorated with a modern touch. Computers teach you about the illustrious painter and his experiences in school. Along the staircase to the drawing room, Van Goghs wandering existence is clarified with a time line of his turbulent life. Other than that, pieces of text from letters that he wrote to his brother Theo are on display. Historical images also illustrate how beautiful Tilburg must have looked in Van Goghs time. This was long before mayor Cees Becht (aka Demolition Man) rid Tilburg of its beautiful architecture. You can also see a class photo of Van Gogh, although even experts still argue over which child is actually Vincent. The photo is very valiable, as only four other photographs are known to exist of the eccentric genius. Still, Vincents Tekenlokaal is more of an actual drawing room than a museum. In a separate room you can learn to draw digitally on an interactive screen. QOpen 13:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Sun. TJ
Dont miss Vincents Art Room laan 600, Vught, tel. (+31) 736 56 67 64, www. nmkampvught.nl. A small part of this former SS concentration camp houses the Herzogenbusch Concentration Camp Museum. There is a memorial centre, a preserved part of the old camp that has remained unchanged and the execution grounds where prisoners were shot. The crematorium, the rebuilt barrack and the monument to to the camps child victims are especially moving. In total, at least 31,000 people were imprisoned in the camp between January 1943 and September 1944 for shorter or longer durations. Alongside Jews were other unlucky souls, mostly Roma (Gypsies), resistance activists and Jehovahs witnesses. Of these people, 421 children, women and men died in the camp from hunger, disease, and maltreatment; 329 prisoners were shot just outside the camp. But for the majority of the prisoners, Herzogenbusch Concentration Camp was an intermediate stop. From here they were transported to other camps, which usually meant death. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission: donations. THULG
Herzogenbusch Concentration Camp Lunetten-
Out of town
31, Hilvarenbeek, tel. (+31) 135 49 12 00, www. safaripark.nl. De Beekse Bergen is the biggest and most popular zoo/safari park in the Netherlands. More than 1500 animals live here in a relatively large area. One of its main attractions is the many ways in which you can view the creatures. Most visitors drive around the park in large safari vans, but visitors with their own cars can also drive past the lions, giraffes and rhinos very slowly. A rest area with plenty of goodies is available halfway through the park near the tigers, penguins and flamingos. Here you can also switch to a safari boat. Its also possible to explore the park on foot as a path a few miles long leads you past monkeys, elephants, bears and many other animals. Children can also burn off some adrenaline at the Kilimanjaro playground. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. Admission: adults 19.95, children 3 - 11 years 17.95. TULBK
Liqueur & Soda Museum M-8, Varkensmarkt 22,
Beekse Bergen Safari Park M-8, Beekse Bergen
Hilvarenbeek, tel. (+31) 135 05 31 19, www.likeurfrismuseum.nl. People dying after drinking illegally distilled alcohol seems to be in the news in Holland from time to time, but in Hilvarenbeek, southeast of Tilburg, they know everything about making spirits... and soft drinks. After all, some drinks are better with a good mixer or at least a chaser. This museum, which is interesting for both young and old, will teach you that both drinks happen to have the same ingredients including water, sugar and flavourings and the only real difference between them is the alcohol. This fascinating museum also has the most extensive collection of liqueurs in Europe. The old distillery and an avocat (egg liqueur) factory from 1833 are the main attractions and although the museum may seem a bit corny and old-fashioned to seasoned sightseers, it offers an interesting historical picture of both drinks. QOpen 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Open April - October 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission: adults 6, children 4 - 16 years 5 including a soft drink or liqueur for adults. TJU
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WHAT TO SEE
Parks, gardens & Cemeteries
Bredaseweg Cemetery A-3, Bredaseweg 45. The
best-known cemetery in Tilburg is Roman Catholic and dates from 1828. A number of distinct, white cast-iron statues seem to guard the graveyard on the side facing the street. Youll also find a remarkable work of illumination art, which is directed at one of the statues. Many special tombstones can be found in the cemetery itself, like Marietje Kessels. She was murdered in 1900, aged 11. Her body was found in the archway of the Sacred Heart Church which was demolished in 1975. The murderer was never found, but many people suspect it must have been somebody associated with the church. QOpen 09:00 - 21:30.
Helga Deen Garden & Tilburg Synagogue C-2,

Take a stroll through the Oude Warande
Museum of Religious Art Vorstenburg 1, Uden, tel.
(+31) 413 26 34 31, www.museumvoorreligieuzekunst. nl/. The province of Brabant used to be full of monasteries. However, the majority of these remarkable buildings have been given a new destination by now. One of the few still active (womens) convents is located in Uden, southeast of Tilburg. Six sisters of the Bridgettine Order devoted to the Passion of Jesus Christ united in the Abbey Maria Refugie, maintain age-old traditions here. Isolated from the outside world and still behind thick bars. Living an austere life serving God and wearing rather odd caps. For Holland this is a first class cultural document in which medieval thinking, Bridgettine spirituality and the twenty-first century harmoniously come together. Particularly now the old wings of the abbey have been renovated for use as a museum. This Museum of Religious Art, which was founded in 1973, serves enthusiasts of religious art and church artifacts. The small but excellent museum houses a large number of medieval sculptures, a group of very rare monstrance dated around 1500, a large collection of popular devotional objects (including tens of thousands of In Memoriam cards) and numerous papers and documents illustrating the history of the abbey and the region. The collections of icons and modern religious art are exceptional. The herb garden, with more than 150 different kinds of plants, is also worth a visit. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. (5). TULG The Village Doctor M-8, Doelenstraat 53, Hilvarenbeek, tel. (+31) 135 05 40 93, www.museumdedorpsdokter.nl. The past has been coming to life at the Village Doctor (De Dorpsdokter) museum in Hilvarenbeek for over 25 years. The historic building under a picturesque mill has been split into two exhibits. Woolly mammoth bones give a hint at prehistoric times and the rich Roman Catholic culture of the area is illustrated through a variety of antique items, but its really the country doctors medical odds and ends that deserve the most attention here. Apart from a collection of fascinating medical pictures and books, there are a number of horrific instruments guaranteed to give any visitor the creeps. These days a skilled carpenter could use these saws and pliers to build a beautiful house, but only a century and a half ago these were the standard tools of the trade used by a country doctor who often had to serve as a surgeon, gynaecologist, dentist, midwife, ophthalmologist and pharmacist all in one. Unfortunately, the explanations of the implements are only available in Dutch. QOpen Mon 13:00 - 16:00. Closed Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun. In July and August opened from Tuesday to Sunday from 13:00-17:00. Op Sundays in May, June and September opened from 13:00-17:00 uur. Admission: adults 2, children 5 - 12 years 1. TJL
Willem II straat 20. Helga Deen is essentially the Tilburg version of Anne Frank. Theres a little park in the centre of town named after this Jewish girl who kept a diary during her incarceration in an SS-concentration camp (National Monument Camp Vught). There are only a few bushes, some shrubbery, nine small chairs and several Stars of David in the paving stones, but this 16m2 park wasnt created at random. The little park was named after the 18-year-old Helga who later died in the Sobibr concentration camp in Nazi-occupied Poland. Whoever comes here can have a moment of silence to contemplate a dark chapter in Dutch history. Q J Muse Garden C-4, Zwijsenplein 1. Since theres little greenery to be found in Tilburg, sitting in this city park is like a breath of fresh air. Although there are only eight trees in the garden, it seems like more. The garden is located beside a little old church, which has been integrated among the new buildings of the dance academy. Traffic noise is dampened by the walls of the school and other city sounds can barely be heard here. On a sunny day you can enjoy the grassy surroundings, which include statues as well as the architectural tangle of the new school buildings that surround the little church. If youre in luck, you might even see a live performance by students practising their newly acquired dance moves or hear a violin or an opera singer trying to hit the right note at a rehearsal. Q TJ
Oude Warande H-5, Warandelaan. This is the only
remaining star forest and one of the oldest baroque forests in The Netherlands. The German prince Wilhelm Von Hessen-Kassel had it designed in 1712. The lanes crossing the forest come together in the centre forming a star pattern. The four different parts each have their own pattern: square, circular, diamond shape and octagonal. The forest covers 60 hectares and it boasts several works of art, including one by Rien Claessen called Inanitas, which means open space. The latest addition is Pavilion Grotto, designed by Australian artist Callum Morton. The Old Waranda is a relaxing place thats ideal for running and youll see many people doing just that. Q
Wilhelminapark I-5, Wilhelminapark. The Wilhelmina

Park is one of the oldest parks in Tilburg. It was designed in 1898 in romantic fashion by Leonard Springer who also designed the Wandelbos and Leijpark in the city. Theres a duck pond, open pastures and winding paths between the trees. Many students from the surrounding dorms move their books and other vital learning materials (like bottles of beer) to the park on sunny days. Q TJ6
Places of interest
Old Town Square D-2/3, Heuvelplein. De Heuvel
is the central square in Tilburg and the most important shopping street, de Heuvelstraat, leads up to it. In 1419
WHAT TO SEE
den Hoevel was named for the first time. Until the water tower on Bredaseweg was built in 1898, Tilburgers could only get water from de Heuvel as it was the only place with a water pump. A replica of this pump can still be found on the Oude Markt. Until 1994 the square boasted an old lime tree, but despite major protests, the dead tree was finally uprooted. Wood from the tree has since been used to create the mayors gavel and in a tableau in the city hall. The square was completely rebuilt in 2008 and three descendants of the old lime tree were planted in prominent places in the middle of the square. De Heuvel also boasts a statue of King William II, who proudly looks over the city he loved so much. Q concrete pedestal youll find the coat of arms of Tilburg to indicate his place of birth and the other side is decorated with a ship at sea which pays homage to Suriname, the country where Peerke Donders eventually died and in whose capital he was buried. Q J
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The Jug Pisser B-3, Nieuwlandstraat. This small
Tilburg Regional Archives E-3, Kazernehof 75, tel.
statue was designed by Henk Smulders and erected in 1986. The sculptor is also known for the many statues he created for The Efteling theme park. The sculpture honours Tilburgs past textile industr y. The residents of Tilburg used to save their urine in jugs, which was then used to wash wool in the factories, hence the Jug Pisser. Q J
(+31) 135 49 45 70, www.regionaalarchieftilburg.nl. Do you really want to know everything about Tilburg? As early as AD 709, the year that Tilburg was first mentioned, documents and files were kept about its residents, districts, streets and important events. At the Tilburg Regional Archives you can see how Tilburg evolved over the centuries. Its not a museum, but of course its fun to have a look at the old books yourself. With a bit of effort youll find the most extraordinary facts about the town and its past. Besides, the building itself is worth a visit because its housed in King Willem IIs old stables. QOpen 09:30 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun. J
Willem II Statue D-2, Heuvel. The municipality of Tilburg
Sightseeing tours
Stadsgidserij www.stadsgidserij.nl. If you want to
discover Tilburg with a professional guide, you can sign up for a tour from the Stadsgidserij. You can book various walks, such as the centre walk, the centre west walk (which includes a visit to the cemetery on the Bredaseweg), the hasselt walk (where the Tilburg Castle once stood), the art walk, the architecture walk and the culinary walk. Walks in various other neighbourhoods of Tilburg that have rich histories are also possible. Whichever route you choose youre guaranteed a fun, informative walk and youll discover places that you would have never found by yourself. The walks dont take place every day so visit its website for exact times and dates. Q
bought this statue in 1924 from The Hague and gave it a prominent place on De Heuvel. The statue represents King William II as commander-in-chief of the army. On the pedestal beneath the royal there are four figures. The woman with a crown and sceptre represents the monarchy. To her right sits Law. On the backside there is Prosperity, complete with the Horn of Plenty and coins. The last figure originally held a palladium, a figurine of the deity of ancient Troy. This refers to the role of William II as patron of the Netherlands. On the right side of the pedestal is a lion with a sword between his front paws, which represents the battles in which William II took part. Q
Theme parks
Efteling M-7, Europalaan 1, Kaatsheuvel, tel. 09000161, www.efteling.com. Although the majority of its visitors are Dutch, anyone can enjoy one of the best theme parks in Europe. The park is divided into four sections: the Adventure Realm, the Fairy Realm, the Alternative Realm and the Travel Realm. Start with a map that can be bought at the main entrance souvenir shop for 1.50 as the park is large and can be a little confusing. So give your map a quick look and head right through the middle of the park to the the flying Thai temple where you can get a clear view of what the park has to offer. Another great way to get the lay of the land is to take the train that traverses the park. In the Alternative Realm youll find rides with a specific theme. The Veolia bus No.168 from Den Bosch and bus No.169 from Tilburg take you here in less than half an hour. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. One-day ticket: 32, children under 4 free. THAULGBKXS
Statues
King Willem II Needle C-4, Stadhuisplein. King William
II died in his home in Tilburg at the very place where this obelisk, which was erected in 1874, now stands. In 1968 the monument was moved to make room for the construction of a motorway. After years of storage, it appeared to be too heavily damaged to restore so a new one was made. The medallion with the portrait of William II is the only remaining piece of the original obelisk. Q
Peerke Donders Statue I-5, Wilhelminapark. Pe-
trus Norbertus Donders, affectionately known as Peerke Donders, is one of Tilburgs most famous personalities. He was born in 1809 as the son of a domestic weaver in this town known for its textile industry and after a few detours he ended up studying to be a priest. After becoming a member of the clergy he left for Paramaribo in Suriname to work with lepers. A bronze statue was erected at the edge of the attractive Wilhelmina Park in 1926 in remembrance and honour of Donders, the priest from Tilburg who was later beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1982. Peerke Donders position on his pedestal symbolises his work. The raised cross in his right hand refers to his conversion work and his left hand on the head of the second person represents his caring for the sick. On the right side of the
Tilburgs famous Jug Pisser
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GETTING AROUND
Getting around Tilburg is pretty simple, but here are a few tips and suggestions. The old town is in fact so small, that you can easily get everywhere you need to go on foot. If you have to go a bit further, we recommend renting a bike. Travelling to farther destinations by bus or train requires an OV-chipkaart.
Public transport
The OV-chipkaart is the new means of payment for the entire public transport system in The Netherlands. The smart card is the size of a bank card and contains an invisible chip. The OV-chipkaart can be loaded with credit in euros with which you can travel anywhere within the country, or with another travel product such as a single or season ticket. You can also choose a personal, anonymous or disposable card. The personal OV-chipkaart can be purchased online or from the city public transport company. The anonymous OV-chipkaart can be bought at the ticket office and vending machines at the station. The disposable card can be purchased at the station vending machine. This card allows the holder to travel immediately, but it cant be re-charged with another than the original travel product. You have to load travel credits onto the OV-chipkaart or it wont be valid for travel. You can add travel products to your card at the station vending machine or at your public transport companys ticket office. You can load travel credit onto your card using your bank card and PIN code at a vending machine or at a ticket office. If you have a personal OV-chipkaart, you can also select the auto-reload option, to ensure you always have enough OV-chipkaart credit with which to travel. Orders from the webshop have to be loaded on the OV-chipkaart at a pick-up device. You have to check in at the gate of the tram or bus by holding your OV-chipkaart up to the screen. The sound and light signal indicates your card has been read. If you do not have a specific product on your card and, therefore, pay for your journey using the OV-chipkaart e-purse, a boarding rate will be deducted when you check in. The credit on your OVchipkaart should be enough to cover the boarding rate or you wont be allowed to go through the gate. The boarding rate is 4. At that end of your journey, you check out by holding your card up to the gate screen. The sound and light signal once again indicate that your card has been read. If you are traveling using the OV-chipkaart e-purse, the actual travel costs, based on the distance travelled, minus the boarding rate is deducted from or added to the e-purse. Checking in and out is required when you transfer from any one form of transport to another, except when you transfer from one train to another.
The Dutch use their bikes even during a severe winter
Bikes
The Netherlands is a bicycle country for a reason. By way of this steel horse is the easiest way to get anywhere. No hassle or waiting, you just get on and get your feet moving. The city has a substantial network of cycle paths, known as the star net-route or the red cycle paths, which criss-cross their way through the city. The network enables students (and their professors!) to cycle to the university quickly and safely. You can rent a bicycle at the central station at Fietspoint Derks for 7.50 per day. The bicycles have handbrakes and gears which allows you to decide how hard you want to pedal. Taking a bike on the train cost you for the whole day 6. In Tilburg you can reach almost anywhere by bicycle. This is why the local town council has built many large bicycle parks where you can park your bike safely. The city has five free guarded indoor bicycle parks: Heuvel, Concertzaal, Katterug, Pieter Vreedeplein and Stappegoor. Heuvel, sharing its name with the square that it is located under, has the longest opening hours, i.e., Sunday through Wednesday until 02:30 and Thursday through Saturday until 04:30. We do not recommend the bicycle parking at the central train station. Not only is it always filled to bursting, it is not guarded, and the city workers are not the only people confiscating bicycles...
Buses
Tilburg has eight city buses, two district buses, and various regional buses that will transport you to various places. The city centre is more easily manageable on foot, however. With line 169 you have a direct connection to entertainment park De Efteling. And at night there are two nightliners going through Tilburg from the Spoorlaan, which deposit people, more or less drunk, as the case may be, safely at various set places.The bus transportation is managed by Veolia Transport Brabant which starts to the right of the central train station. A large sign with place names and departure times can be found at the edge of the bus station, and the service office is located on the other side of the bus station in the apartment complex Tilburion.From this year onward you can pay using the ov chipkaart (public transport chip system); this is a small card that you swipe along a scanner when you get on and off the bus. For those who only make a brief visit to the textile city, the bus driver sells day tickets on the bus, that allow you to travel by bus in all of the province of Brabant for 3,- per person, all day long. They do appreciate it if you can provide exact change. For all information about routes and exact departure times, you can go to www.9292ov.nl. When you enter your place of departure and destination, it will show you the fastest way to get there.
Tilburgs parks are perfect for walking or cycling
GETTING AROUND GETTING AROUND

Road assistance
If your stranded in the Netherlands with whatever carproblems you can imagine, have no fear. There are two reliable companies who can help. The ANWB (www.anwb.nl or 088-26 92 888) is the oldest company and has years of experience in helping stranded and damaged vehicles. Route Mobiel (www.routemobiel.nl or 020-651 51 15) is a fairly new company with the same task: helping you where ever you are stranded. Note that any accident or incident that requires an insurance claim must be reported to the police or your insurer will not pay the bills. If you stay a longer period in the Netherlands, you might consider buying a Voordeelurenabonnement Off-peak Discount Pass). Travel cheaply outside the morning peak period is their motto. On weekdays, you receive a 40% discount on train fare for journeys made after 9.00 in the morning. The card costs 55 a year. And the price of a passport photo... And its not only you who can benefit from this discount, because holders of this card can travel with up to three people and get the same 40% discount on the full fare. For more information: www.ns.nl. Taking a bike on the train cost you for the whole day 6.
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Taxis
Ordering a taxi by phone will get you better service and lower rates for longer distances. The great majority of Dutch taxidrivers are honest and hard working people like everybody else in this country. But essentially you are at the mercy of the driver as once youve shut the door. Just make sure that the meter is running before you set off. The following companies are among the most reliable of the bunch. And please note that all licensed cabs in all of the Netherlands have special licenseplates. In contrary with normal license plates (who are yellow with black), all taxis must wear blue numberplates with black letters on it. Also a pricelist and the starting rate should be clearly visible behind the window. And in case if you have a terrible or rude driver, its easy to pinpoint him, cause his personal license should be near the radio as well.
Central Station B-1. Although smaller than some of its
larger sister stations Tilburg central station seems better equipped and easier to navigate. The station has a comfortable atmosphere that stems from the many amenities it offers.
Train tickets
s-Hertogenbosch has two train stations: Central Station and Station East. Station East isnt very interesting and most visitors arrive at the Central Station, which offers an opportunity to travel to almost any major city in the Netherlands, with direct lines to Amsterdam, Utrecht and Maastricht, to name a few, or one simple transfer to Groningen, the Hague and Rotterdam. Tickets can be bought at a ticket machine or at the NS service desk. Tickets are checked often and steep fines are charged for anyone not in possession of a ticket. The yellow-blue s-Hertogenbosch ticket machines are located at the top of the escalators on the centre (and bus) side of the station. The machines have a touch screen with a language option. On the left side you can choose whether you would like a single ticket, a day ticket, a 5-day ticket or a weekend ticket. Children below the age of 11 will receive a discount if you select this option. After having chosen your type of ticket, select your destination. You are allowed to get out at any station along the way, for as long as you want, providing that the station is between your station of departure and your destination. Next select how many tickets you would like and then you can pay. Unfortunately, ticket machines only accept Dutch bankcards, so as a tourist youll probably have to pay in cash. Be sure to have plenty of coins with you, because inserting banknotes is (as of yet) impossible, but the relatively intelligent machine will give back change. Dont forget to take the ticket from the slot at the bottom left of the machine. If this sounds too complicated, you can always buy a ticket at the NS service desk, which you can find at the top of the escalators to your right. This alcove also houses the NS Helpdesk. Bear in mind that you will have to pay 0.50 surcharge for this service. This is thankfully not too expensive, but it is typically Dutch to charge for such services, and the formerly government-owned business appears to have patented this form of customer service. You can plan your journey in English at the excellent www.ns.nl.nb
Algemene Taxi Service (General Taxi Service) Tel.

(+31) 135 42 08 00. Stationtaxi B-1, tel. (+31) 135 43 21 00. Taxi Baron Tel. (+31) 135 32 18 38, www.taxibaron.nl.
Taxicentrale Midden Brabant (Taxi Company Midden Brabant) Tel. (+31) 135 83 83 83. Taxi Reeshof Tel. (+31) 138 50 11 11.
Trains
Train travel in the Netherlands is easy. In the city you wont need a train to travel anywhere, everything in the city centre is walkable on foot. If you wanna go to a different city, look at www.nl.nl for the timetables. From the 4th of April and onwards you can travel even in the night (only on Fridays and Saturdays) between Tilburg and Den Bosch, Eindhoven, Breda and Dordrecht. Tilburg has three train stations: Central station, Tilburg Universiteit, and Tilburg Reeshof. The central station, with its three tracks, is a dwarf compared to the train stations in Utrecht, s-Hertogenbosch and Amsterdam. The front of the train station faces right onto the city centre, and to get to where you want to be, all you need to do is cross the street and turn left or walk straight on. For waiting travellers there are two kiosks, a shop with coffee and cakes, a bookshop and a Sushi restaurant within the station. Outside you will also find a kebab place and a tiny supermarket. You can purchase train tickets at the service desk in the hall or at one of the ticket dispensers. Do note that the ticket dispensers do not always accept foreigner bank cards, so make sure you have plenty of coins with you to operate them. Close to the entrance you can change foreigner currencies into Euros and vice versa.Tilburg Universiteit and Tilburg Reeshof can only be reached by stoptrein (a train which stops at all small stations). Tilburg Universiteit is a small way station with three tracks and is located close to Tilburg University. Which also explains the presence of large groups of young people with a thirst for knowledge. Tilburg Reeshof has two tracks and connects to the most westerly part of Tilburg, the new estate called Reeshof.
Trains are the easiest way to get around Holland
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SHOPPING
While Tilburg isnt exactly a shoppers paradise in the traditional sense, its arty reputation makes it a great place to pick up antiques, artwork and jewellery. Tilburgs most popular shopping area is the pedestrian street of De Heuvel. The citys main department stores are also located here. Enough patisseries and delicatessens are available along the way to recharge from any shopping spree.
Fashion
- 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. Crown I-5, Heuvelstraat 139A, www.crownstore.nl. At Crown the customer is king and a real king deserves a crown. In a manner of speaking that is, because the headgear were talking about are cool hats by popular brands like Vic Apparel, Hater, Ripndip and 47 other big names. QOpen 13:30 18:00, Fri 11:00 - 18:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. A Gimbrre D-3, Heuvelstraat 41, tel. (+31) 135 43 52 50, www.gimbreremode.nl. This is one of the oldest fashion houses in Tilburg. The founder opened the place in 1836 as an umbrella factory, but it has since expanded to become a chain of 12 clothing shops. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J Jan De Cock Mode D-1, NS Plein 45, tel. (+31) 135 42 16 62, www.jandecockmode.nl. Jan De Cock Mode is an exclusive fashion shop with well-known brands and very friendly staff. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:00 - 21:00, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 17:00. Jimmys C-3, Stadhuisstraat 9, tel. (+31) 135 43 44 86, www.jimmysmode.nl. This enormous clothing shop may be for people in a higher tax bracket, but its still worth a peek if only to pretend that you can afford something here. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J Superfly B-2, Nieuwlandstraat 2, tel. (+31) 135 35 19 66, www.superfly.nl. Big brands like Levis fill the vintage shelves and cool unknown brands adorn the clothes hangers. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 12:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J
By Plume Stadhuisplein 164-165, www.byplume.nl. The dresses at By Plume are all handmade. QOpen 11:00
Antiques
De Refter B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 23 - 25, tel. (+31) 135
43 12 29, www.refter.nl. If youre in the market for religious art, furniture, religious books or antique monastic objects, than this is the place for you. QOpen Fri 12:00 - 18:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun.
Bookshops & Media

Livius B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 56, tel. (+31) 135 43 59
44, www.boekhandellivius.nl. Livius doesnt just offer the current Top Ten, but also interesting stories about the city and region and, of course, Tilburg In Your Pocket. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J Polare C-3, Emmapassage 17, tel. (+31) 134 65 11 11, www.polare.nl. This bookshop, which is one of the largest in Tilburg, has a great selection of books of all genres. It also hosts a big collection of travel guides and books about Tilburg. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:30. Closed Sun. J
Ethnic food & Delicatessens

Slagerij Jean Le Jeune C-3, Willem II straat 84, tel. (+31)
135 42 38 94. The best butcher in town can be found in historic premises on one of the most attractive streets in Tilburg.QOpen 08:30 - 18:00, Sat 08:30 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JA Slagerij Kees van Hest B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 47-A, tel. (+31) 135 42 22 16. This is a butchers shop with an old-fashioned look, but the meat of course is fresh. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. Visspeciaalzaak Van Oursouw A-2, Prunusstraat 9, tel. (+31) 134 67 63 84, www.vanoursouw.nl. This speciality fish shop is located just outside Tilburgs city centre, but is definitely worth a detour. The friendly owners will give you a sample of whats fresh and will even make you a sandwich. QOpen 09:00 - 18.00, Tue 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. PVS
Flowers
Bloom! B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 5, tel. (+31) 135 81 21
23, www.bloomflowers.nl. The most beautiful flower shop in Tilburg is situated in a stunning building. In short, this is a florist with good taste. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J t Boeketje C-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 178, tel. (+31) 134 56 22 26, www.tboeketje.nl. Even on grey rainy days this place has a colorful and fragrant feeling. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 12:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 20:00, Sat 09.30 - 17.00. Closed Sun. J
Games & Toys

De Dobbelsteen B-3, Schouwburgring 155, tel. (+31)
135 44 37 00, www.dedobbelsteen.com. The owner of this shop takes the time and effort needed to personally teach you any game, should this be necessary. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Thu 11:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J Het Zingende Nijlpaard C-3, Willem II straat 88, tel. (+31) 135 35 38 29, www.hetzingendenijlpaard.com. This place only sells nostalgic wooden and tin toys. Neglected old toys are also patched up by the owner of the shop, such as spinning tops that have been fabricated in the same way since 1880. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J Intertoys C-2, Pieter Vreedeplein 155, www.intertoys. nl. One of the largest toy shops in Tilburg is situated in the cellar of the Pieter Vreedeplein. This shop doesnt place a big emphasis on modern video games and DVDs, but rather on real toys. The large collection of Legos is especially impressive. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 11:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J
Try one of Tilburgs local liquors, beers or even whisky
SHOPPING SHOPPING
Shopping centres
Emmapassage C/D-3, Emmapassage, www.emmapassage.nl. This is a rather chic, indoor mall with a wide range of shops and theres always plenty of natural light provided by the glass ceiling. Among the 22 shops are a very large bookstore, fashion and shoe shops, travel agencies, a jewelry boutique and a restaurant. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. PTJ6ULGK Heuvelpoort D-3, Heuvelpoort, www.heuvelpoort.nl. This shopping centre houses two floors of stores. The ground floor has 12 shops selling a variety of items, not to mention a hotel and a restaurant, while the basement offers a gym with a sauna. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. TJUFLBKD Schouwburg Promenade B-4, Schouwburgpromenade, www.schouwburgpromenade.nl. This partially covered shopping centre houses over 35 shops. Some are privately owned and independent, but some of the larger international franchises are also available. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. TJ6UB
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Shoppers can cover more ground on a bicycle
Gifts & Souvenirs

Tijd voor 3 B-3, Langestraat 65, tel. (+31) 137 50 58
89, www.tijdvoor3.nl. Buy functional art and vintage jewellery, CDs, biscuit tins and even antique comics and magazines in good condition. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 11:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. J
Speciality shops
De Feestspecialist B-3, Schouwburgring 157, tel.
(+31) 135 43 08 81, www.defeestspecialist.nl. You can count on this place for any theme party you might want to throw. Buy festive costumes and strange outfits for any occasion. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J Russian Market Kalinka Koningsplein 253, tel. (+31) 642 78 74 97. The first and only Russian store in Tilburg sells the usual items you might expect like caviar and vodka, but also Russian tea, preserved vegetables, candy and cookies. Some of the products have English explanations but others are written in Cyrillic, so when in doubt ask the staff and make sure that a can of dog food doesnt end up in your stew. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 11:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun.
Health
Erica Kruiderijen B-3, Oude Markt 5, tel. (+31) 135 43
21 48, www.ericakruiderijen.nl. Ericas shop smells of dandelions and ointments. The ladies who run this organic store can offer you a remedy for every ailment. QOpen 09:30 18:00, Mon 11:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J
Jewellery & Watches

Ocho B-3, Schouwburgring 5, tel. (+31) 135 45 50 62,
www.ocho8.nl. Beautiful, affordable jewellery and watches, but also bags, belts and buckles. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J
Music shops
Vinyl Destination Sint Annaplein 6B, tel. (+31) 628
96 62 82, www.selectedsounds.nl. This shop, which isnt much bigger than an old 33 record, sells soul, jazz and 1960s pop on vinyl. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00.
Tilburg for kids

Speelboerderij de Vossenberg F-6, Tilburgsebaan 42, tel. (+31) 161 45 32 18, spelendevos@ devossenberg.net, www.devossenberg.net. This indoor childrens paradise located on the edge of Tilburg has a gigantic climbing attraction thats four storeys high and the outside playground is completely self-contained so kids can safely run around to their hearts content. Parents can enjoy a drink while blissfully watching their offspring or they can just have a chat with other moms and dads. QOpen Wed, Fri 09:30 - 19:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 19:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Thu. Strand & Speelland Beekse Bergen M-8, Beekse Bergen 1, tel. (+31) 135 43 58 94, info@ beeksebergen.nl, www.speelland.nl. Come here for trampolines and water slides, bumper boats, water bikes and pony rides. Most of attractions are included in the admission fee, but youll have to pay extra for a few of the rides, such as the bumper cars, mini cars and the carousel. This childrens theme park shares its name with the adjacent safari park, which is also worth a visit. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. HALBKC
Secondhand shops
Used Before B-3, Nieuwlandstraat 55, tel. (+31) 634
00 29 87, www.usedbefore.nl. Humbled by the economic crisis or a lover of secondhand stuff? Whatever your reason, this is a good place to buy a used washing machine, TV or other household appliance for a decent price. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. Vincentshop D-2, Veemarktstraat 37, tel. (+31) 135 42 04 21, www.vincentiustilburg.nl. Come here for used clothing and furniture for really affordable prices. With a little luck youll even find an excellent book for around 2. All proceeds help alleviate poverty in Tilburg. QOpen 10:00 17:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00. Closed Mon, Sun. J Viva Vintage B-2, Noordstraat 97, tel. (+31) 619 62 88 54, www.vivavintage.nl. This is the most orderly second-hand shop in Tilburg. It sells ladies clothing and bags, but also quintessentially Dutch china such as vermicelli and sugar jars. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. J
E46
LIFESTYLE & SPORTS

New in town? Suffering a spontaneous allergy attack, a broken tooth or a bad hair day? For doctors, dentists, hairdressers and many more handy addresses read on.
Football: Willem II
Date Time Match Venue Oct 12 16:30 Willem II vs. De Graafschap W2 25 20:00 Willem II vs. MVV W2 Nov 8 20:00 Willem II vs. Almere City FC W2 22 20:00 Willem II vs. Jong FC Twente W2 Dec 6 20:00 Willem II vs. Fortuna Sittard W2 21 16:30 Willem II vs. Excelsior W2 Jan 24 20:00 Willem II vs. VVV Venlo W2 Feb 8 16:30 Willem II vs. Achilles 29 W2 22 18:45 Willem II vs. Helmond Sport W2 Mar 7 20:45 Willem II vs. FC Oss W2 W2 - Willem II Stadion, I-6, Goirleseweg 34, www.willem-ii.nl. Tickets: 15 - 22.50
Dance schools
Factorium C-4, Koningsplein 11A, tel. (+31) 135 35 40
55, www.factorium.nl. The Factorium is a beautiful building with modern facilities where classes are given in the field of performing arts. Tickle the ivories of a pipe organ, train your baritone voice, move your hips to capoeira or try your dance skills Bollywood-style. You can watch all of the action from the comfort of a beanbag before you decide which course to take. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. J
Dentists
G.H.M. van der Zand B-2, Spoorlaan 378, tel. (+31) 135 80 18 88. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00, Fri 13:00 - 17:00.
Closed Sat, Sun. J
Diving
D-Diving L-7, Raadhuisplein 47, Rijen, tel. (+31) 682
04 71 20, www.d-diving.nl. This experienced dive team will teach you how to appreciate life under water. Q
Hairdressers & Barbers

Hardys E-4, Piushaven 1-D, tel. (+31) 135 36 52 00,
www.hardys.nl. Having your hair cut here might be more expensive than in similar places, but the stunning views of the Tilburg Piushaven from this hip hairdresser boat are worth the extra cash. QOpen 08:30 - 19:00, Mon 11:00 - 18:00, Thu 08:30 - 20:00, Sat 08:30 - 16:00. Closed Sun. J John Beerens Haarstudio H-5, Professor Gimbrrelaan 45, tel. (+31) 134 670 360, www.johnbeerens.nl. Youve come to the right place if you want to have your hair cut by a local Dutch celebrity. John, the bald barber, is one of the most well-known people in Tilburg. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:00 - 21:00, Fri 08:30 - 21:00, Sat 08:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. PA
Doctors
Brands en Taminiau D-3, Heuvelring 138, tel. (+31) 135 42 37 34. Q J
DVD rental
Cinematheek C-2, Willem II straat 6-A, tel. (+31)
135 43 26 79, www.cinematheek.nl. For those who have trouble choosing, the Top-100 wall is a great source of inspiration and the staff are like walking film-encyclopaedias. QOpen 14:00 - 22:30. J
Fitness & Gyms

Health City D-3, Heuvelpoort 380, tel. (+31) 135 32 51
00, www.healthcity.nl. This gym is located in the basement of the Heuvelpoort shopping centre. At first glance it doesnt seem that big, but once inside youll quickly come the the conclusion that its actually a veritable work-out paradise. Exercising here isnt cheap, but it does have some fringe benefits like a pool and a sauna. QOpen 07:00 - 24:00, Thu, Fri 07:00 - 23:00, Sat 09:00 - 20:00, Sun 09:00 - 18:00. JFD PUUR fitness H-5, Artemisstraat 6, tel. (+31) 135 90 01 40, info@puur-fitness.nl, www.puur-fitness.nl. This is by far the cheapest option for fitness aficionados in Tilburg. QOpen 08:30 - 22:30, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 16:00. PTFL
Hospitals
St. Elisabeth Ziekenhuis J-6, Hilvarenbeekseweg 60,
tel. (+31) 135 39 13 13, www.elisabeth.nl. This hospital is the place to go in an emergency. Q PTULGK
Karting
De Voltage I-6, Groenstraat 139-391, tel. (+31) 135
80 00 07, www.devoltage.nl. De Voltage was originally a part of the Volt factory, nowadays it serves as an indoor entertainment centre where you can have fun go-karting, playing laser tag or paintball, try a rodeo or sumo wrestling or even play bungee football. QOpen 15:00 - 23:00, Wed 14:00 - 23:00, Fri 15:00 - 24:00, Sat 12:00 - 24:00, Sun 12:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. THEKW
Libraries
Openbare Bibliotheek Tilburg C-4, Koningsplein 10,
tel. (+31) 134 64 85 00, www.bibliotheekmb.nl. The Tilburg Public Library has two floors of books, DVDs, CDs, videos and computer games that you can borrow for up to six weeks. You do however have to become a subscriber, which costs 30 per year. The large selection of English books and magazines can be very alluring, especially on rainy days. QOpen 11:00 - 21:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00, Sun 13:00 - 17:00. J
Ice skating for the whole family
LIFESTYLE & SPORTS

Massage
Pure L C-2, IJzerstraat 15, tel. (+31) 135 42 14 61,
info@pure-l.nl, www.pure-l.nl. This ayurvedic massagesalon has the perfect city centre location when the daily workload becomes pure stress. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00. Closed Wed, Sun. J
E47
Medical & Wellness

GGD H-6, Ringbaan West 227, tel. (+31) 900 463 64
43, www.ggdhvb.nl. The address for vaccinations for long trips (and STDs), but come also here for a world of information about all kinds of (scary) diseases. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Mediq Apotheek Julianastaete (Mediq Pharmacy Julianastaete) D-3, Heuvelring 212, tel. (+31) 135
42 63 52, fax (+31) 135 44 73 01, julianastaete. mediq-apotheek.nl. A centrally located pharmacy with all the medicine and vitamins you might need. QOpen 08:00 17:30. Closed Sat, Sun. PJA
Spas & Beauty

SummerTan C-2, Telegraafstraat 13 - 15, tel. (+31)
135 42 47 09, www.summertan.nl. You dont need an appointment to take advantage of this state-of-the-art tanning salon. QOpen 08:00 - 22:00, Sat 10:00 - 21:00, Sun 11:00 - 21:00. (4 - 9). PJG Thermen Tilburg L-8, Moerse Dreef 10, tel. (+31) 135 71 54 10, info@thermentilburg.nl, www.thermentilburg. nl. You can let yourself be completely pampered at the largest and, in our opinion, best wellness centre in town. With facilities like a Himalayan crystal salt stone cabin, a rose salon and a light therapy room, you can be sure that relaxing has never been easier. Your whole body will be rejuvenated in the spa and the restaurant, which, of course, serves healthy salads. QOpen 10:00 - 23:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 24:00. PUGKD
Useful addresses
Wasknijper I-6, Korvelseweg 132, info@wasknijper.
com, www.wasknijper.com. Six washing machines, four dryers and a selection of magazines is all you need to get the laundry done. And 45 minutes of your precious time. QOpen 08:00 - 21:00. J
Sports centres
Dolfijn I-5, Ringbaan Oost 2a, tel. (+31) 135 42 43 80,
www.tilburg-dolfijnbowling.nl. The Dolphin has 10 bowling alleys, but air hockey and billiard enthusiasts can also have a great time here. Its shop offers all the professional equipment you could possibly need to bowl a strike and kids will have the time of their lives at its disco parties where you can bowl under flashing lights. QOpen 14:00 - 24:00, Sat 12:00 - 01:00, Sun 13:00 - 23:00. GK Skish Indoor Ski + Squash M-7, Gen. Eisenhowerweg 7, Berkel-Enschot, tel. (+31) 135 33 90 88, info@skish.nl, www.skish.nl. If youve never skiiied before, this is an ideal way to learn. You can pick up the basics on two small tracks, each 6m-wide and 10m-long. Due to the large mirrored wall youll be able to copy the movements of the instructors quickly and be ready for the real slopes in no time. QOpen 17:00 - 23:00, Wed 10:00 - 23:00, Fri 14:00 - 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 14:00, Sun 10:00 - 14:00. Introductory lessons: 18. TJL Squashcentrum De T A-2, Boomstraat 85, tel. (+31) 135 36 39 39. Youll find this sports centre with four squash courts along the picturesque Boomstraat. QOpen 09:45 24:00, Fri, Sat 09:45 - 18:00, Sun 09:45 - 13:00. J
Water parks
Recreatiebad Stappegoor I-6, Stappegoorweg 1,
tel. (+31) 135 32 59 00, www.sportintilburg.nl. The Stappegoor swimming pool is small for a city like Tilburg, but children want for nothing here with whirlpools, steam cabins and and the wild rapids slide, which is fun for adults, too. It offers a pool for competitions, one for recreation and a small outdoor pool. QOpen 07:00 - 21:30. TGBKC
Tattoos
Totem Tattoo I-5, Veldhovenring 1, tel. (+31) 135 45 84
42, rene_totemtattoo@hotmail.com, www.totemtattoo. nl. Bart, Ren and Giovanni are tattoo artists that are passionate about piecing and tattoos. QOpen 12:00 - 20:00, Mon 12:00 - 17:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
Relax at the Stappegoor swimming pool
E48
STREET REGISTER
Dutch words and phrases
Useful phrases How are you? Hoe gaat het met je? Pleased to meet you Leuk kennis met je te maken. Do you speak English? Spreek je Engels? Where is the nearest shop, hotel, restaurant, caf, bar or toilet? Waar is de dichtstbijzijnde winkel, hotel, restaurant, caf, bar of toilet? Whats your name? Hoe heet je? My name is Ik heet ... What time is it? Hoe laat is het? How much? Hoe veel kost dit? This costs too much! Dit is veel te duur! Greetings Hello Hallo Hi Hoi Good morning Goedemorgen Good evening Goedenavond Goodnight (greeting) Goedenacht Goodnight (sleeping) Welterusten Goodbye (Dutch) Tot ziens Bye (Dutch) Dag Bye (in Tilburg) Halleee! Yes Ja No Nee Maybe Misschien Cheers! (as a toast) Proost! All the best! Het beste! Thank you Dank je wel Days of the week Monday Maandag Tuesday Dinsdag Wednesday Woensdag Thursday Donderdag Friday Vrijdag Saturday Zaterdag Sunday Zondag Numbers 1 een 2 twee 3 drie 4 vier 5 vijf 6 zes 7 zeven 8 acht 9 negen 10 tien 11 elf 20 twintig 21 eenentwintig 50 vijftig 100 honderd 1000 duizend Street smarts Street straat Road weg Lane laan Highway snelweg Boulevard boulevard Square plein Market markt Airport vliegveld Bus station busstation Train station treinstation Taxi taxi
Old town street register

Aartestraat, Jan D3 Acaciastraat A1 Akkerstraat A3 Alexanderstraat C3 Annahof, Sint A4 Annaplein, Sint A4 Annastraat, Sint A4 Antoniusstraat B2 Atelierstraat C1 Barkstraat D4 Besterdring D1 Bleshof B3 Bodehof C2 Boomstraat A2 Bouwmeesterplein, Louis B4 Brabantlaan, Hart van A1 Bredaseweg A3 Brokxlaan, Burgemeester A1 Burgerijpad A2 Buxusplaats A1 Capucijnenstraat A4 Catamaranstraat E4 Cavaleriestraat D3 Clercxstraat D4 Damsstraat D3 Dionysiusstraat A2 Dondersstraat, Professor=3 E2 Dunantstraat E2 Elzenhof A2 Elzenstraat A2 Emmapassage C3 Emmastraat D3 Enschotsestraat E1 Esdoornstraat=4 A2 Fabriekstraat A2 Fleminghof E3 Flemingstraat E3 Fraterstraat A1 Galeipad D4 Galjoenhof E4 Galjoenstraat E4 Gardiaanhof A4 Gasthuisring A1 Girostraat C3 Goudenregenstraat E1 Harmoniepark B2 Helga Deentuin C2 Hendrikhof C3 Heuvel D2 Heuvel, Achter de E2 Heuvelpoort=1 D3 Heuvelring D2 Heuvelstraat B3 Hoogvensestraat E3 Huzarenstraat E3 IJzerstraat C2 Jasmijnstraat E1 Jolstraat E4 Josephstraat, Sint E3 Kapelhof B3 Karrestraat C2 Kazernehof E3 Kerkpad C3 Klipperplein D4 Kloosterstraat B4 Koestraat D1 Koggeplein E4 Koningsplein C4 Koopvaardijstraat D4 Korte Schijfstraat A2 Korte Tuinstraat B3 Korvelseweg A4 Kotterstraat E4 Kurassiersstraat E3 Laagstraat A2 Lanciersstraat E3 Landsteinerstraat E2 Lange Schijfstraat A4 Langestraat B2 Leliestraat E1 Lochtstraat A1 Madeliefstraat E1 Magazijnstraat C2 Mariastraat B3 Mattheushof, Frater A4 Mauritshof D4 Monumentstraat C3 Nazarethstraat A4 Nieuwlandstraat B3 Noordhoekring A3 Noordstraat A2 Ns-Plein D1 Oranjestraat D3 Ordonnansenstraat E3 Oudedijk B4 Oude Markt B3 Paleisring D3 Pasteurhof E2 Pasteurstraat E2 Paulownahof, Anna C4 Paulussehof, Frater B3 Piushaven E4 Piusplein D3 Piusstraat D4 Poststraat B2 Rankenstraat B3 Roemerhof B3 Romboutshof, Frater A3 Rozenplein E1 Rozenstraat E1 Salkplantsoen E2 Schoenerstraat E4 Schoolstraat A3 Schouwburgpromenade B4 Schouwburgring B3 Sebastiaanstraat, Sint D4 Seringenhof E1 Sonstraat, Van A4 Sophiastraat C3 Spoorlaan B1 Stadhuisplein C3 Stadhuisstraat C3 Stadstraat C4 Stationsstraat B2 Stolbergstraat, Juliana van D3 Telefoonstraat C3 Telegraafstraat C2 Telexstraat C2 Tivolistraat E2 Tjalkstraat D4 Trouwlaan A4 Tuinstraat B2 Tulpstraat=5 E1 Utrechtsestraat A2 Veemarktstraat D2 Vincentiuspad B3 Vincentiusstraat A3 Vorstenhof D4 Vreedepad, Pieter C2 Vreedeplein, Pieter C2 Vreedestraat, Pieter C3 Vrouweplein, Lieve A4 Wagenstraat D1 Wilgenstraat A3 Willem II Straat C3 Willemsplein C4 Wingerdhoek B3 Zomerstraat B4 Zuid-Oosterstraat E1 Zwaanstraat D3 Zwijsenplein C4 Zwijsenstraat, Bisschop C4
OLD TOWN MAP
E49
NETHERLANDS MAP
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Hotels Restaurants Cafs Nightlife Sightseeing Events Maps

Enjoy your COMPLIMENTARY COPY of Tilburg In Your Pocket

The Spoorzone Monumental Streets

Discover Tilburgs trendy Railway Zone

Discover the beauty of Tilburg

Culture & Events E10

Where to stay Restaurants

List of small features

Maps & Index

Autumn 2013/Winter 2014

Europe In Your Pocket

Tilburg In Your Pocket

Message from the Mayor

Autumn 2013/Winter 2014

Snow-covered bicycles in Tilburg

Tilburg In Your Pocket

709 - First mention of Tilburg

1500 - A centre for textiles

1232 - First mention of the church

1570 - The Tilburg Fair

1387 - Lord of Tilburg

1746 - Painter Grard van Spaendonck is born

1453 - Philips own aldermen

1809 - Tilburg becomes a city

A frozen morning in Tilburg

Tilburg In Your Pocket

1809 - Petrus Donders is born

1927 - Tilburg University

1944 - Resistance by Coba Pulskens

1827 - The first steam engine arrives in Tilburg

1992 - Museum De Pont is opened

Autumn 2013/Winter 2014

CULTURE & EVENTS

Rock, folk, jazz & More

Cinecitta C-2, Willem II Straat 29, tel. (+31) 135 42

More culture and events at www.tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Grandmothers of Invention will perform at Paradox on November 17

Tilburg In Your Pocket

CULTURE & EVENTS

Rock, folk, jazz & More

PA 013 PA 013 013 LMB

PA 013 PA Legendary rockers Jethro T ull will perform on November 11 at 013

Autumn 2013/Winter 2014

CULTURE & EVENTS

Bolle D-3, Piusplein 8, tel. (+31) 135 81 02 90, www.

1980s rock legends The Cult will perform on November 4 at 013

Tilburg In Your Pocket

CULTURE & EVENTS

Autumn 2013/Winter 2014

CULTURE & EVENTS

Classical music & Opera

De NWE Vorst C-3, Willem II

Tilburg In Your Pocket

De Postelse Hoeve I-5, Dr. Deelenlaan 10, tel. (+31)

City Hotel Tilburg D-3, Heuvelring 126, tel. (+31) 135

Mercure Hotel Tilburg Centrum D-3, Heuvelpoort

De Rooi Pannen I-5, Dr. Ahausstraat 1, tel. (+31) 135

For more hotels visit www.tilburg.inyourpocket.com

Tilburg In Your Pocket

WHERE TO STAY: OUT OF TOWN

Het Wapen van Tilburg C-1, Spoorlaan 362, tel. (+31)

Bed & Breakfast

Een der Koningshoeven M-8, Torentjeshoeve 7,