Top 15 Must-See Attractions in Den Bosch, Netherlands

Locally referred to as Den Bosch, ‘s-Hertogenbosch is a city situated in the southern part of the Netherlands, serving as the capital of the North Brabant province. With a population of approximately 143,000 in the broader municipal area, Den Bosch ranks among the largest cities in the region and has held significance within the country for centuries.

The area has been home to some form of settlement since the 1100s, and the city has played roles in historical events such as the Eighty Years War, the Thirty Years War, and World War II. Today, Den Bosch stands out as a captivating tourist destination, offering a blend of cultural and historical attractions along with breathtaking natural scenery.

Let us examine the top attractions in Den Bosch:

1. St. John’s Cathedral

A remarkable example of Gothic architecture, St. John’s Cathedral is an extraordinary edifice located in the heart of Den Bosch. Its groundbreaking took place as early as 1220, yet its construction was not completed until 1530. Given its vast size, it stands as the largest Catholic Church in the Netherlands.

The highly ornate exterior of the cathedral incorporates numerous crenellations, archways, and decorative motifs, alongside various angel sculptures, including a contemporary angel featuring a mobile phone and jeans. Inside, the cathedral showcases an opulent interior typical of significant ecclesiastical structures, with lofty archways gracing the aisles and beautiful frescoes adorning the ceiling.

2. Noordbrabants Museum

Located to the west of St. John’s Cathedral in the center of Den Bosch, the Noordbrabants Museum boasts an extensive collection of art, culture, and historical artifacts from the North Brabant region of the Netherlands. It serves as an excellent resource for exploring the history of this southern area.

Exhibitions include the “Judgment of God” painting, works by Theodoor van Thulden, and 18th-century sculptures by Walter Pompe. Notably, Van Gogh’s creations and several renowned 20th-century artists are also featured.

Among the historical artworks displayed is a piece depicting the original interior of St. John’s Cathedral, along with Neolithic pottery unearthed in Den Bosch.

3. Boat Tour on the Binnendieze River

Many towns in the Netherlands are interconnected by canal networks and rivers that can be navigated by boat. Den Bosch offers several rivers where visitors can partake in boat tours.

One such venue is the Binnendieze, conveniently located near the historic town center and the main train station. This ancient stretch of river presents an excellent opportunity to view the city from a distinctive perspective.

Boat tours along this river take participants through typically inaccessible areas and even beneath the medieval sections of the city. Guests can enjoy a delightful experience while acquiring fascinating historical information and discovering the city in an alternative manner.

4. De Loonse en Drunense National Park

This stunning national park is located just a short distance from Den Bosch, practically at the city’s doorstep. Designated as a national park since 2002, it features remarkably diverse landscapes, including beaches and sand dunes.

The park encompasses excellent biking trails and walking paths – visitors could easily spend entire days discovering the picturesque countryside and its offerings.

Of particular interest are the enjoyable sand dunes, where one can slide down the slopes or construct sandcastles.

5. Nationaal Park De Biesbosch

The Netherlands is home to several remarkable national parks, one of the largest being Nationaal Park De Biesbosch. Located roughly a 40-minute drive west of Den Bosch, this beautiful park encompasses expansive freshwater tidal wetlands.

Within the park, visitors will find numerous rivers, creeks, islands, and streams, all teeming with lush vegetation and aquatic plants. The park is composed of distinctive areas such as the Sliedrechtse, Hollandse, and Brabantse, each showcasing unique biodiversity and landscapes.

Nature enthusiasts and outdoor lovers will find De Biesbosch to be an exceptional venue to explore and appreciate the Dutch countryside.

6. Minderbroeders Square

Den Bosch features multiple historical squares within the town center, with Minderbroedersplein being one of the most appealing and inviting. Situated on Minderbroedersstraat, the square is surrounded by numerous shops, bars, cafés, and restaurants, making it an ideal location for retail pursuits or a tranquil coffee break.

St. John’s Cathedral and the Noordbrabants Museum are within close proximity, rendering this square an excellent place to rest after a busy morning of exploration.

7. Jheronimus Art Center

The Netherlands boasts many renowned artists from the Dutch Golden Age, one of whom is Jeroen Bosch. Bosch is celebrated for his fantastical paintings laden with symbolism, and the Jheronimus Center is dedicated to both his life and artistic contributions.

Housed within St. Jacobs Church, the museum features a documentary detailing Bosch’s life and a collection of many of his masterpieces. Visitors can appreciate his most significant works, learn about the renowned artist’s life, and observe a replica of his workspace.

This venue is a genuine treasure for art enthusiasts, destined to provide an engaging experience.

8. Bastion of St. John

Constructed in the 16th century, this bastion formed part of the city’s historical defense system, established as a bulwark at the comparatively vulnerable Koepoort gate. Today, visitors can observe the remains of this impressive fortification, which highlight its past significance as a defensive structure.

Offering splendid views of the Dommel River and the surrounding streets of central Den Bosch, this site commands an important location.

9. Heempark

Den Bosch is replete with beautiful parks and natural landscapes. Heempark, situated in the southern section of the city, features a beach along with the splendid Pettelaarse Schans star island. It is ideal for a morning or afternoon outing, as the park is filled with an array of wild plants, trees, and various butterfly species.

Visitors can enjoy relaxing on the beach, walking along the paths, and discovering the diverse wildlife and biodiversity.

10. Zwanenbroedershuis

Commonly known as the House of the Illustrious Brotherhood of Our Blessed Lady, this building was constructed in the 1300s and served as the base for the order. Its distinctive yellow exterior, adorned with sculptures and decorative elements, makes this structure easily identifiable.

Inside, visitors will find a truly remarkable experience; the house has been meticulously restored to its original condition, housing artifacts and rooms that reflect the order’s historical significance. Additionally, the collection includes several manuscripts from the 15th and 16th centuries.

11. Moerputten Park

This exceptional nature reserve is located on the southwestern edge of Den Bosch, providing ample opportunity for exploration of natural environments and countryside. It is accessible on foot, with several small parking areas positioned near the reserve’s boundaries on Deutersestraat and Vlijmenseweg.

Covering diverse landscapes, including forests, wetlands, and rivers, this park features an enchanting wooden walkway that traverses the main swamp area. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the countryside and the diverse wetland environment.

Stroll along the paths, admire the lily pads and reeds, and immerse yourself in this delightful natural setting.

12. Bastionder

Bastion Oranje, like the Bastion of St. John, was also a part of Den Bosch’s defense system, constructed in the 17th century. This captivating museum provides insight into the history of the city’s fortifications and the broader narrative of Den Bosch itself.

Set amid beautiful parkland, the distinctive triangular structure of the Bastionder, highlighted by large glass windows, is visually striking. This venue serves as an ideal destination to learn more about the city’s historical military background.

13. Stadhuis Den Bosch

Proudly situated in the Bossche Market Square, the City Hall is a significant landmark. The flags of both the Netherlands and Den Bosch flutter prominently outside this impressive edifice.

The central bell tower towers over the square while the façade is richly adorned with intricate decorations. Inside this remarkable Baroque structure, visitors will encounter a wealth of historical artifacts, including 17th-century tapestries and various military memorabilia.

Guided tours are available, leading guests through the various opulently decorated rooms within this fascinating building.

14. Sportiom

For those seeking an active attraction, Sportiom serves as an excellent venue for enjoyable recreation. This impressive facility features a subtropical swimming paradise, a turtle-themed paddling pool, and a competition swimming pool.

The different swimming areas include slides, whirlpools, steam rooms, and even a volcano! Additionally, the competition pool offers opportunities for those aiming to train or swim for fitness goals.

Beyond swimming, an ice skating rink and a comprehensive fitness center equipped with gym and cardio facilities are also available.

15. The Moriaan Building

This building is remarkable for its captivating design, as well as being the oldest brick house in the Netherlands. Constructed in 1220 by Duke Hendrik, very few structures in the country reflect this architectural style and historical era.

Visitors can admire the building’s superb architecture while discovering its rich history at the fascinating VVV museum located on the ground floor.

The museum not only outlines the history of the Moriaan building but also provides various guides regarding the city of Den Bosch and highlights exceptional places to visit.