Netherlands

Den Bosch

With tree-lined cycle paths, medieval architecture, culinary delights, and a fascinating history, there are plenty of things to do in Den Bosch which make it a great place to head for an alternative break in the Netherlands, and you can reach it within an hour by car from the port in Rotterdam.

Named the most hospitable Dutch city an impressive 4 times, you can be sure that you will be greeted with a friendly smile and warm welcome when you visit Den Bosch, and here we share some of our favourite things to do there. 

 

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Den Bosch in the Netherlands

About the city

Architecture in Den Bosch One of the best things to do in Den Bosch is to simply walk around and take in the city’s impressive architecture. Start at De Markt, the main square, where you will find architecture linked to famous painter Hieronymus Bosch who lived and worked in the city. Sights include the house where he lived during his marriage, and the painter’s workshop where he learnt to paint at a young age.

While you are in the square, take a look at the Old City Hall, which has a striking façade decorated with images of knights and horsemen, before you head to Saint John’s Cathedral.

Saint John’s Cathedral is remarkable both inside and out, and its exterior boasts an impressive 96 statues and amazing sculptural detail. Head up its fascinating tower, where you will see its carillon and bell, and take in the city from a height of 43 metres.
 
St Johns Cathedral in Den Bosch

Binnendieze Den Bosch in Netherlands

Take a Binnendieze Boat Tour

For the chance to see Den Bosch from a completely different perspective, take a Binnendieze Boat Tour and explore the rivers and canals that were an integral part of the city’s history.

During the 3.6km tour, you will hear exciting stories about Den Bosch’s past while sailing past monuments and fortifications, plus you will be taken into the Hellegat, a dark subterranean cellar immortalised by Hieronymus Bosch.

 

Museums in Den Bosch

Home to seven museums, Den Bosch is the perfect place to visit if you have an interest in art and culture.

Head to the Noordbrabants Museum, which holds popular exhibitions showcasing local art through the ages, including Walter Pompe sculptures, pieces by Theodoor van Thulden, and pottery from the area. You will also find work by Vincent van Gough and a number of popular 20th century artists.

To discover more about Hieronymus Bosch, visit the Jheronimus Bosch Art Centre which is located in Saint Jacob’s Church. This museum tells the story of the famous artist through a documentary and many examples of his work, plus you can see how he worked as there is a replica of his workplace too.

 
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Dragon statue at Den Bosch in the Netherlands

Bastionder

Immerse yourself in the military history of Den Bosch by visiting Bastionder. Once part of the city’s defence network, Bastionder is now a museum where you can learn all about the fortifications and other interesting facts about the area.

Bastionder is set in lovely parkland and offers a great view of the city. If you visit in spring you will be greeted by lots of pretty crocuses, and the park is a great place to sit with a picnic when the weather warms up during the summer months.

With all of these great things to do in Den Bosch, book your crossing to the Netherlands today and start planning your trip to this historic and fascinating city. For an extra piece of mind upgrade to one of flexi ticket types for some added flexibility. 

For the chance to see Den Bosch from a completely different perspective, take a Binnendieze Boat Tour and explore the rivers and canals that were an integral part of the city’s history.

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