's-Hertogenbosch Travel Guide

Planning a trip to 's-Hertogenbosch? Check out this comprehensive travel guide for information on top attractions, local food, transportation options, safety tips, and more!


Introduction to ‘s-Hertogenbosch

’s-Hertogenbosch is a hidden gem in North Brabant, Southern Netherlands. Located just an hour away from Amsterdam, this historic city boasts stunning architecture, cultural significance, and unique natural attractions for all types of travelers. Whether you’re interested in art and history or outdoor adventures and scenic views, ‘s-Hertogenbosch has something to offer. In this travel guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to this charming city.

List of Places to Visit in ‘s-Hertogenbosch

If you’re looking for a city with rich culture and fascinating history, ‘s-Hertogenbosch is the perfect destination. Here is a list of must-visit attractions to add to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

1. St. John’s Cathedral

St. John’s Cathedral is a magnificent Gothic-style cathedral and one of the most iconic landmarks in ‘s-Hertogenbosch. It’s home to breathtaking works of art, including 96 15th-century late-Gothic choir stalls that depict biblical scenes, saints, and angels.

2. Het Noordbrabants Museum

Het Noordbrabants Museum is a must-visit for art and history lovers. It showcases an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts that tell the story of the cultural heritage of North Brabant.

3. Jheronimus Bosch Art Center

Jheronimus Bosch Art Center is a unique museum dedicated to one of the most important Dutch painters, Jheronimus Bosch. The museum houses a collection of his paintings, drawings, and sketches, as well as exhibits showcasing the history and culture of ‘s-Hertogenbosch.

Natural Attractions of ‘s-Hertogenbosch: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

1. The Binnendieze

The Binnendieze is a series of interconnected canals and waterways that wind their way through the city center of ‘s-Hertogenbosch. A guided boat tour allows visitors to explore the canal system and its unique historical and cultural significance.

2. Bossche Broek

Bossche Broek is a 400-hectare nature reserve located just outside the city center of ‘s-Hertogenbosch. The area is perfect for hiking, biking, and bird watching, as well as taking in scenic views of wetlands, meadows, and forests.

3. De Moerputten

De Moerputten is a nature reserve situated just north of ‘s-Hertogenbosch. It’s home to a long boardwalk that spans across a marshland and provides plenty of opportunities for bird watching and hiking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of ‘s-Hertogenbosch

’s-Hertogenbosch boasts plenty of scenic trails and bike paths. Here are some hiking/biking routes you should explore during your visit:

  • The Maasuiterwaarden Route
  • The Bossche Broek Nature Walk
  • The Loonse en Drunense Duinen Route

Best Things to Do in ‘s-Hertogenbosch: Activities and Tours

Explore the best of what ‘s-Hertogenbosch has to offer through these fun activities and tours:

  • Food tours that allow you to indulge in local delicacies such as the famous Bossche Bol and local Gouda cheese.
  • Segway tours of the city center and its various landmarks.
  • Guided bike tours of the surrounding countryside and beautiful national parks such as De Loonse en Drunense Duinen and De Biesbosch.

Week-Long Itinerary for ‘s-Hertogenbosch

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary that covers the best of what ‘s-Hertogenbosch has to offer:

  • Day 1: Visit St John’s Cathedral and Het Noordbrabants Museum
  • Day 2: Take a boat tour through the historic canal system of Binnendieze
  • Day 3: Hike through Bossche Broek and explore its gorgeous natural surroundings.
  • Day 4: Discover the works of Jheronimus Bosch Art Center and indulge in local delicacies on a food tour.
  • Day 5: Explore the nearby national parks such as De Loonse en Drunense Duinen or De Biesbosch on a guided bike tour.
  • Day 6: Visit the City Hall and learn about the unique architecture that makes ‘s-Hertogenbosch so special.
  • Day 7: Shop for unique souvenirs and fresh produce at the weekly farmers market in the city center

Food and Drink Scene of ‘s-Hertogenbosch

One of the best ways to experience the local flavor of ‘s-Hertogenbosch is through its fantastic food and drink scene.

Must-Try Dishes

Some of the famous local dishes to try while in ‘s-Hertogenbosch include:

  • Bossche Bol - a cream-filled pastry coated with chocolate.
  • Stamppot - a classic Dutch dish of mashed potatoes and vegetables served with sausage of bacon.
  • Kaas - local Gouda cheese made in the area

Local Beverages

Local beers are a staple of the Dutch culture, and ‘s-Hertogenbosch produces some of the finest ones. Don’t forget to try the following local brews:

  • Jheronimus Bosch Beer
  • Brouwers 073
  • Speciaalbier de Prael

Where to Stay in ‘s-Hertogenbosch: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some of the best places to stay in ‘s-Hertogenbosch:

  • Hotel Central
  • Golden Tulip Hotel
  • Bossche Suites

For budget travelers, the following hostels and guesthouses are a must-try:

  • Youth Hostel
  • De Kuiltjes

What to Buy in ‘s-Hertogenbosch: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Popular souvenirs and local products to bring home from ‘s-Hertogenbosch include:

  • Jheronimus Bosch merchandise such as postcards, mugs, and keychains.
  • Local Gouda cheese
  • Dutch handmade soap

Local Culture and Customs of ‘s-Hertogenbosch

The people of ‘s-Hertogenbosch are friendly and welcoming towards tourists. It’s customary to greet someone with a handshake and make eye contact while talking to them. The Dutch culture places a strong emphasis on punctuality, so be sure to arrive on time for any appointments or tours you’ve booked.

Best Time to Visit ‘s-Hertogenbosch

The best time to visit ‘s-Hertogenbosch is in the spring and summer when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. Keep in mind that the city can get crowded during the peak tourist season in the summer months.

Do’s and Don’ts of ‘s-Hertogenbosch

Do:

  • Do greet everyone with a handshake and eye contact.
  • Do be respectful of the local customs and traditions.
  • Do learn a few Dutch phrases before your trip.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to carry cash as many places only accept cash.
  • Don’t rush, take your time and enjoy the city at your own pace.
  • Don’t be loud or disruptive in public places or after hours in public areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in ‘s-Hertogenbosch

Overall, ‘s-Hertogenbosch is a safe city to visit. However, it is always important to stay aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

Health in ‘s-Hertogenbosch

The quality of healthcare in the Netherlands is excellent. In case of an emergency, visitors can use the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Getting to ‘s-Hertogenbosch: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near ‘s-Hertogenbosch

The closest airport to ‘s-Hertogenbosch is Amsterdam Schipol Airport, which is well-connected to the city by train, taxi, and bus.

Bus Stations Near ‘s-Hertogenbosch

The city is connected to various destinations in Netherlands and Belgium via bus, with the central station ‘s-Hertogenbosch as the main stop.

Other Options

The city is well-connected by train service to all the major cities in Netherlands and Belgium.

How to Get Around in ‘s-Hertogenbosch

The best way to get around the city is on foot or by bike as most of the attractions and landmarks are within walking distance of each other. If you’re feeling adventurous, try renting a segway or joining a guided bike tour.

Where to Go Next from ‘s-Hertogenbosch: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nearby destinations to explore from ‘s-Hertogenbosch include:

  • Amsterdam - the capital of Netherlands
  • Rotterdam - the vibrant port city
  • Eindhoven - for world-renowned Dutch design and technology

Conclusion

’s-Hertogenbosch is the perfect destination for a memorable vacation. From its rich cultural sites to natural attractions and fascinating history, this hidden gem in the Netherlands is an ideal place to explore. By using this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the perfect trip to ‘s-Hertogenbosch and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Street view in the city Street view in the city Not all of 's Hertogenbosch is made up of medieval buildings - here's a view towards the south of the city Not all of 's Hertogenbosch is made up of medieval buildings - here's a view towards the south of the city ''Provinciehuis'' - centre of government of North Brabant ''Provinciehuis'' - centre of government of North Brabant Brabanthallen, a historic event venue in Den Bosch Brabanthallen, a historic event venue in Den Bosch 's Hertogenbosch station 's Hertogenbosch station Platform with the historic roofing Platform with the historic roofing Almost every street in the historic centre is worth simply strolling along for great views Almost every street in the historic centre is worth simply strolling along for great views When arriving by car, you will need to leave it outside of the historic core of the city When arriving by car, you will need to leave it outside of the historic core of the city The large St John's Cathedral is a central point in the city. The large St John's Cathedral is a central point in the city. De Moriaan De Moriaan Town hall of Den Bosch Town hall of Den Bosch NoordBrabants Museum NoordBrabants Museum Stedelijk Museum Stedelijk Museum The JHenrynimus Bosch Art Center is housed in a former church The JHenrynimus Bosch Art Center is housed in a former church Inside the Citadel of Den Bosch Inside the Citadel of Den Bosch Kruithuis Kruithuis Oude Sint-Jacobskerk Oude Sint-Jacobskerk The Binnendieze, as seen from one of the tour boats The Binnendieze, as seen from one of the tour boats Bossche bolen Bossche bolen Residential buildings in the Paleiskwartier, immediately west of the train station Residential buildings in the Paleiskwartier, immediately west of the train station Headquarters of the energy company Essent Headquarters of the energy company Essent