Things To Do
in Den Helder
Den Helder is a picturesque coastal city located in the northern Netherlands. It is known for its historic naval heritage and maritime influences. Visitors can explore the unique architecture, sandy beaches, and charming harbor area.
Den Helder also serves as an important ferry port connecting the mainland to the island of Texel.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $60 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Fort Kijkduin, where you can learn about the local history and enjoy views of the North Sea. The fort also has an aquarium showcasing marine life from the region.
Stroll along the beach and relax at the seaside cafes while enjoying local seafood. Don't forget to check out the nearby Havendam for some stunning sea views.
End your day with a walk around the city center, where you can find quaint shops and restaurants. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery and take in the atmosphere.
Begin with a visit to the Dutch Naval Museum to discover Den Helder’s maritime heritage. Interactive exhibits and historic ships await to intrigue you.
Take a boat tour around the harbor to see the naval base and spot some ships. The views from the water provide a unique perspective of the city.
Return to shore and enjoy dinner at one of the harbor-side restaurants. Try some freshly caught fish while watching the sunset over the water.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
- Rich maritime history and culture.
- Access to various outdoor activities including hiking, cycling, and water sports.
- Home to the Koninklijke Marine (Royal Netherlands Navy) and related maritime facilities.
- Family-friendly environment with parks and recreational areas.
- Limited job opportunities compared to larger cities.
- Somewhat isolated location requiring travel to reach major urban centers.
- Weather can be unpredictable and windy due to coastal location.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
- Public transport options may be less frequent.
Best Activities in Den Helder
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful sand dunes and beaches while collecting seashells and enjoying the coastal scenery.
Take a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque coastal paths and enjoy the sea breeze and stunning views.
Discover the history of the region by exploring this historical fortress and its underground tunnels.
Tours
Uncover the best of Den Helder with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Den Helder
Visit one of these nice places.
A nature reserve with beautiful views and photo opportunities of the surrounding flora and fauna.
An old fortress with stunning views of the sea and the surrounding landscape, offering great photo opportunities.
A historic lighthouse that provides panoramic views of the coastline and the North Sea, making it a great spot for photography.
Food in Den Helder
Den Helder Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try local dish, Hollandse Nieuwe Haring is raw herring traditionally served with onions and pickles. Visit the Fish Auction at the Den Helder harbor or local fish shops to experience this iconic Dutch delicacy.
Must-Try!
Fresh Zeeland mussels, typically served with fries and mayonnaise, are a popular seafood dish. Enjoy them at seafood restaurants near the harbor like 'Visrestaurant Den Helder' for an authentic taste of the sea.
Indulge in a variety of Dutch cheeses with a 'kaasplankje' (cheese platter) which includes Gouda, Edam, and Leyden varieties. Visit local cheese shops or dine at cheese-focused cafes like 'Kaap Noord' to savor these savory delights.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Den Helder better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Deli XL Markthal for a wide range of fresh produce, local specialties, and food vendors offering delectable street food from around the world. It's a great place to experience the diversity of Den Helder's food culture.
The Vismarkt (Fish Market) is a hub for experiencing the freshest seafood offerings in Den Helder. Enjoy street food like 'kibbeling' (battered and fried fish) or 'visbroodjes' (fish sandwiches) while taking in the bustling atmosphere of the marketplace.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Den Helder, it's important to greet people with a handshake, especially when meeting someone for the first time. Handshakes should be firm and brief.
Punctuality is highly valued in Den Helder. Arriving on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings is considered respectful.
Respecting personal space is important. It's customary to maintain an appropriate physical distance when engaging in conversations or interactions.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Den Helder with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Den Helder
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Den Helder, Netherlands is not obligatory, but it is customary to round up the bill or leave a small tip of 5-10% for good service at restaurants, cafes, and for taxi drivers.
In Den Helder, Netherlands, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. It's advisable to check with the establishment about their preferred payment methods before making a purchase.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Den Helder.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Den Helder, as the temperatures start to warm up and the flowers begin to bloom. This is a popular time for outdoor activities and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Den Helder, with warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine. It's a great time for beach activities, water sports, and exploring the coastal area.
Autumn is a lovely time to visit Den Helder, as the weather begins to cool down and the trees change colors. The fall foliage makes for stunning landscapes and there are often fewer tourists at this time.
Winter in Den Helder can be cold and windy, but it's a great time for experiencing traditional Dutch culture and enjoying cozy indoor activities. The city also hosts festive holiday events during this time.
Den Helder at Night
Hiking in Den Helder
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located on Texel Island, this national park features diverse landscapes including dunes, forests, and beaches, offering numerous hiking trails with beautiful scenery.
A nature reserve near Callantsoog featuring a mix of dunes and wetlands, with various walking paths and opportunities to see unique flora and fauna.
Known for its expansive dune landscapes and rich wildlife, this park has clearly marked hiking trails with varying levels of difficulty.
This coastal area offers scenic hiking trails along the beaches and dunes, perfect for enjoying views of the North Sea.
A local nature reserve in Den Helder providing several walking paths through diverse ecosystems, including woods and meadows.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Den Helder through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Den Helder by plane.
The main international airport in the Netherlands, located about 75 km south of Den Helder. It's one of the busiest airports in Europe, offering a wide range of international flights.
Located approximately 150 km east of Den Helder, this airport serves as a regional airport for international destinations, primarily handling flights within Europe.
Situated around 120 km southwest of Den Helder, it serves as a secondary international airport for the Rotterdam and The Hague regions, offering flights to various European cities.
Located about 130 km southeast of Den Helder, it is one of the fastest-growing airports in the Netherlands, serving various low-cost airlines and direct flights to international destinations.
Although primarily a small airport, it's approximately 140 km southeast of Den Helder and occasionally handles charter and private international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, predominantly of Dutch ethnicity.
A notable community due to historical ties between the Netherlands and Indonesia.
A significant number of residents with German heritage.
A community stemming from migration from Suriname.
A demographic group with a history of immigration to the Netherlands.
Another important community contributing to the cultural diversity.
Includes communities from countries like Poland and Romania, increasingly visible in recent years.
Various smaller groups and individuals from different origins.
The Soul of Den Helder
Discover the essence of Den Helder through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football, or soccer, is one of the most popular sports in Den Helder, with many local clubs and a strong community following.
Ice hockey has a dedicated following in Den Helder, with local teams participating in regional leagues.
Given its coastal location, sailing is a popular activity in and around Den Helder, with several clubs and events.
Field hockey is widely played in Den Helder, with local clubs providing opportunities for both youth and adults.
Tennis is commonly enjoyed in Den Helder, with multiple courts available and a variety of clubs for players of all levels.
Running has gained popularity in Den Helder, with many residents participating in local races and marathons.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Den Helder.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in Den Helder offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, with many menus clearly indicating these options. Notable venues such as 'Effe Anders' and 'La Première' provide diverse plant-based choices to cater to these dietary preferences.
Visitors requiring gluten-free options can find accommodating menus at several establishments in Den Helder. 'Restaurant Stoom' and 'De Lunchbox' are known for providing gluten-free alternatives, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for individuals with this dietary need.