Helmond Travel Guide

Discover the charming city of Helmond in Southern Netherlands. This travel guide provides insight into the best places to visit, things to do, and more.


Introduction to Helmond

Located in the southern region of the Netherlands, Helmond is a charming city with a population of over 90,000 people. The city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and beautiful natural scenery. Helmond is a popular tourist destination, offering various attractions, outdoor activities, and rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re traveling solo or with your family, Helmond offers visitors a taste of Dutch culture and hospitality.

List of Places to Visit in Helmond

Helmond offers a diverse range of places to visit, from historical landmarks and museums to natural attractions and outdoor adventures.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Helmond has a rich cultural heritage dating back centuries, offering a glimpse into the city’s past. Here are some of the must-visit museums and historical places in Helmond:

  • Helmond Castle: One of the most prominent landmarks in the city, Helmond Castle was built in the 14th century by Jan III van Berlaer. The castle boasts stunning gothic architecture and offers guided tours that showcase its rich history and art features.

  • Art Center de Weverij: Housed in a former textile factory, this contemporary art center showcases exhibitions from both renowned and emerging international artists. The center also offers art courses and workshops open to the public.

  • Stadswandelpark: This beautiful park spans over 10 hectares, with walking paths, picnic areas, and sculptures. The park is also home to various events throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Helmond: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Helmond boasts of picturesque natural landscapes and scenery, including breathtaking parks and waterways. Some of the top natural attractions in Helmond include:

  • De Groote Peel National Park: This park is a beloved nature reserve in Helmond, with a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can go on birdwatching tours or rent a bike to explore the park’s beautiful landscapes.

  • Helmondse Golf Club: If you’re a golf enthusiast, then a visit to the Helmondse Golf Club is a must. The club features stunning landscapes that make your game even more thrilling.

  • Zuid-Willemsvaart: This canal is located in the heart of Helmond and boasts breathtaking scenery. Travelers can rent boats and take a leisurely ride along the canal, taking in the surrounding beauty.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Helmond

Exploring the city on foot or bike is one of the best ways to discover Helmond’s beauty. The city offers various scenic routes that are ideal for hiking and biking, including:

  • Strabrechtse Heide route: This hiking trail is approximately 12 km and takes visitors through vast heathlands and forested areas. The route is marked with colored posts, making it easy to follow.

  • Sniederspad route: This cycling route spans over 50 km, passing through beautiful landscapes, scenic villages, and historical landmarks. The route offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.

Best Things to Do in Helmond: Activities and Tours

Helmond offers a range of activities and tours, making it an ideal travel destination for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Helmond:

  • Helmond Walking Tour: This guided tour takes visitors through the city’s historical landmarks, art centers, and stunning natural scenery.

  • Helmond Harbour Boat Tour: This boat tour takes visitors along the Zuid-Willemsvaart canal, offering spectacular views of the city and picturesque landscapes.

  • Helmond Brewery Tour: For beer lovers, a visit to the Bavaria Brewery is a must. The brewery offers guided tours that showcase the history and brewing process of Bavaria beer.

Week-Long Itinerary for Helmond

If you are planning a week-long trip to Helmond, below is a suggested itinerary to help you make the most of your stay.

Day Itinerary
1 Arrive in Helmond and take a guided tour of the city center, visiting historical landmarks and art centers.
2 Explore the De Groote Peel National Park on a self-guided hike or guided birdwatching tour.
3 Take a boat tour along the Zuid-Willemsvaart canal and visit the Stadswandelpark for a relaxing picnic.
4 Discover the Sniederspad cycling route, exploring nearby villages and breathtaking landscapes.
5 Visit the Bavaria Brewery for a guided tour and beer tasting experience.
6 Take a day trip to the nearby city of Eindhoven and explore cultural landmarks, museums, and delicious eateries.
7 Relax and unwind in one of the city’s spas or thermal baths, followed by a gourmet dinner at one of Helmond’s finest restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Helmond

Helmond offers a diverse range of culinary delights, with traditional and contemporary cuisine influenced by its rich history and proximity to neighboring countries. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stamppot: A traditional Dutch dish made of mashed potatoes, vegetables, and meat. It’s usually served during winter months and is a comforting meal.

  • Bitterballen: A deep-fried snack made of meat ragout and served with mustard. It’s a popular dish served in bars and cafes throughout the Netherlands.

  • Pannenkoeken: A sweet or savory Dutch pancake, served with delicious toppings such as apple and cinnamon or bacon and cheese.

Local Beverages

  • Bavaria Beer: This is the most popular beer in Helmond, brewed locally by the Bavaria Brewery. The brewery offers tours and tastings for beer enthusiasts.

  • Dutch Jenever: A traditional Dutch gin, made of juniper berries, and served in small glasses with a twist of lemon.

  • Coffee: The Netherlands is famous for its coffee, with various coffee shops offering a range of specialty blends and brewing methods.

Where to Stay in Helmond: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Helmond offers various accommodation options that suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay in the city:

  • Golden Tulip Hotel West-Ende: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Helmond, with spacious and elegant rooms, fine dining restaurants, and excellent customer service.

  • NH Geldrop Hotel: A peaceful retreat located in Geldrop, just a few miles from Helmond. The hotel features beautiful gardens, a swimming pool, and comfortable rooms.

  • City Resort Hotel Helmond: This hotel offers a wide range of spa and wellness services, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to unwind and relax.

What to Buy in Helmond: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Helmond offers a range of gifts and souvenirs that highlight its culture and heritage. Some of the popular products to bring back home include:

  • Delftware: A type of pottery that originated in the Netherlands in the 16th century, featuring blue and white designs.

  • Dutch cheese: The Netherlands is famous for its cheese, including Gouda and Edam.

  • Wooden clogs: A traditional Dutch shoe made of wood, usually painted in bright colors.

Local Culture and Customs of Helmond

Helmond has a rich cultural heritage, with festivals, events, and traditions celebrated throughout the year. Some of the notable cultural events include:

  • Kasteeltuinconcerten: A series of music concerts held in Helmond Castle during the summer months.

  • Elf Fantasy Fair: A fantasy event held in the nearby city of Arcen, featuring live performances, cosplay, and market stalls.

  • Sinterklaas: A traditional Dutch festival held in December, celebrating the arrival of Saint Nicholas.

Best Time to Visit Helmond

The best time to visit Helmond is during the spring and summer months, between April and September. The weather is mild, and outdoor activities and events are in full swing. However, the shoulder seasons of March, October, and November offer a more authentic experience, with fewer crowds and lower travel costs.

Do’s and Don’ts of Helmond

Do:

  • Be respectful of the Dutch culture and customs, including their love for cycling and their relaxed demeanour.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages, which offer a unique and authentic taste of the Netherlands.

  • Explore the city’s many natural attractions, including parks, waterways, and hiking trails.

Don’t:

  • Speak loudly or engage in boisterous behavior in public places.

  • Trespass on private property, as the Dutch value their privacy and personal space.

  • Expect to find 24/7 services in smaller cities like Helmond, as they have more limited business hours than larger cities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Helmond

Helmond is generally considered a safe city with a low crime rate. However, travelers are advised to take standard precautions to ensure their safety and security. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unlit areas, and keep your valuables secure at all times.

Health in Helmond

The Netherlands has a high standard of healthcare, with excellent medical facilities and services. Travelers are advised to purchase travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and seek medical attention if they need it.

Getting to Helmond: Transportation Options and Logistics

Helmond is well-connected to other Dutch cities, making it easy for visitors to reach the city via various modes of transportation. Here are some of the options available:

Airports Near Helmond

  • Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: The largest airport in the Netherlands, located about 1.5 hours away from Helmond by train or car.

  • Eindhoven Airport: A regional airport located about 20 km from Helmond, with direct flights to various European cities.

Bus Stations Near Helmond

  • Helmond Bus Station: Located in the city center, offering regional and national bus services.

Other Options

  • Train: Helmond is connected to various Dutch cities via the national railway system. The nearest train station is Helmond Station, located in the city center.

  • Car: Helmond is easily accessible by car, with several major highways connecting it to other Dutch cities. Rental cars are also available at airports and train stations.

How to Get Around in Helmond

Helmond is a small city that is easily explored on foot or by bike. It also has a reliable public transportation system that includes buses and trains.

Where to Go Next from Helmond: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Helmond is located in the heart of the Netherlands, making it an ideal base for exploring nearby cities and attractions. Some of the best destinations to visit from Helmond include:

  • Eindhoven: A vibrant city known for its technology, design, and cultural offerings. Eindhoven is home to several museums, galleries, and theaters.

  • Rotterdam: A city known for its modern architecture, with a bustling port area, grand museums, and vibrant nightlife.

  • Delft: A picturesque city with charming canals, beautiful monuments, and lovely cafes.

Conclusion

Helmond is a vibrant and charming city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural scenery. It’s an ideal destination for travelers looking to discover the authentic Dutch experience, with its rich heritage and charming hospitality. Whether you’re an art lover, a nature enthusiast, or a history buff, Helmond has something for everyone.

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