For travelers with a layover in Maastricht, the proximity of MST to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 50 minutes via Bus line 30 to Maastricht Central Station, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of MST:
- Can you legally enter Netherlands? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 50-minute journey each way by Bus line 30 to Maastricht Central Station, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the EUR. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some EUR in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting from MST to Maastricht
The most straightforward way into Maastricht is the Bus line 30 to Maastricht Central Station, which takes about 50 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 70 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Bus line 30 to Maastricht Central Station is usually the smarter call.
Exploring Maastricht on a Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Maastricht:
Start with Vrijthof Square. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to Boekhandel Dominicanen. It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Maastricht.
If you’d rather stay inside MST — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Business Lounge (MST)
- Travel Value Shop
Food & Dining Options
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Maastricht: Cafe Sjiek and Pieke Potloed. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Restaurant De Horizon or Airport Bar & Snacks. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Maastricht might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$11 USD
- A meal: ~$22 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$43 USD
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Bag Storage Near MST
Specific locker facilities at MST aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Maastricht itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at MST, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Maastricht itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Netherlands that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Need a Nap? Options at MST
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, MST has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Maastricht with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Maastricht may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.