Why visit Den Helder?
Den Helder is home to the country’s largest naval base and offers a unique mix of military history, rugged coastlines, and vibrant maritime culture. Visitors can explore historic forts, walk along expansive beaches, and visit the famous Dutch Navy Museum. With ferry connections to Texel, the largest of the Wadden Islands, Den Helder is also an excellent starting point for an island adventure.
Top 10 things to do and see in Den Helder
Den Helder’s naval history and coastal beauty make it a compelling place to visit. Here are the top highlights!
#1 Marinemuseum (Naval Museum)
The Marinemuseum is one of the most important naval museums in the Netherlands. Here, visitors can explore the rich history of the Dutch Navy through interactive exhibits, ship models, and even a real submarine, the Tonijn, which can be entered and explored. The museum tells the story of the Dutch maritime force, from its 17th-century origins to modern naval operations.
#2 Fort Kijkduin
Fort Kijkduin is a 19th-century fortress built by Napoleon Bonaparte to defend the Dutch coast. Today, it houses a fascinating museum and an aquarium with a unique sea tunnel where visitors can walk through while fish swim above them. The fort also offers stunning panoramic views over the North Sea and Texel.
#3 Willemsoord Naval Dockyard
This historic dockyard has been transformed into a lively cultural and entertainment hub. Once a naval shipyard, Willemsoord now features restaurants, museums, and event spaces. It’s also home to the National Lifeboat Museum, showcasing the heroic history of sea rescues in the Netherlands.
#4 De Helderse Vallei & Donkere Duinen
Nature lovers will enjoy De Helderse Vallei, an interactive nature center at the entrance to the Donkere Duinen (Dark Dunes) nature reserve. The area offers scenic hiking and cycling trails through forests, dunes, and wetlands, home to diverse birdlife and Highland cattle.
#5 Lange Jaap Lighthouse
Standing at 63.45 meters, Lange Jaap is the tallest cast-iron lighthouse in Europe. Built in 1877, it remains a striking landmark on the North Sea coast. Though the interior is not open to the public, its presence alone makes for a great photo opportunity and a scenic walk along the dike.
#6 De KlimVallei
For adventure seekers, De KlimVallei is an eco-friendly climbing park where visitors can test their skills on various obstacle courses set among the trees. It’s a great activity for families and those looking for an outdoor challenge.
#7 Grafelijkheidsduinen & Noorderhaaks Island
The Grafelijkheidsduinen (Count’s Dunes) offer breathtaking landscapes and coastal trails leading to pristine beaches. For the truly adventurous, there’s Noorderhaaks, an uninhabited sand island near Den Helder, accessible by boat or kayak. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
#8 Reddingsmuseum Dorus Rijkers
Dedicated to the history of Dutch sea rescues, the Reddingsmuseum Dorus Rijkers museum showcases the bravery of lifeboat crews who risked their lives to save sailors. Named after the legendary rescuer Dorus Rijkers, the museum features historic lifeboats and interactive exhibits.
#9 Texel Ferry & Day Trip
Den Helder is the main departure point for the ferry to Texel, the largest of the Wadden Islands. A short 20-minute ride takes visitors to this island, famous for its sandy beaches, nature reserves, and local Texel sheep. It’s a must-visit for those wanting to explore the beauty of the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage area.
#10 Den Helder Beaches
The beaches around Den Helder, including Julianadorp aan Zee, are among the best in the Netherlands. With soft dunes, wide sandy shores, and clear waters, they provide an excellent escape for sunbathers, surfers, and nature lovers.
Staying for the nigh in Den Helder
Sooo much options to choose from! But the best in the city are Forest Hotel and Hotel De Werf. If you want a bit more countryside you should go to B & B Hotel The Baron Crown and when you are looking for some beachtime go to Grand Hotel Beatrix and you won’t be disappointed.
Food and local specialties
Den Helder’s coastal location makes it a great place to try the Dutch seafood cuisine. Be sure to try freshly caught North Sea fish, “kibbeling” (fried fish bites) and of course Texel lamb (imported from the island). Local beachside restaurants serve delicious seafood dishes with stunning ocean views.
Events and festivals
- Marinedagen (Navy Days) (biennial) – A spectacular event where the Dutch Navy opens its doors to the public, featuring ship tours, demonstrations, and air shows.
- Helders Fees (August) – A city-wide celebration with markets, concerts, and festivities.
- Havenfestival (June) – A maritime festival filled with boat tours, music, and local delicacies.
Living in Den Helder
Den Helder is an affordable coastal city with a relaxed lifestyle. Popular areas for expats include:
- Julianadorp – A peaceful village with modern homes, ideal for families.
- Binnenstad (City Center) – Offers historic homes and proximity to shops and restaurants.
- Huisduinen – A scenic coastal area with a small-town feel, near Fort Kijkduin.
Den Helder has a strong connection to the maritime and defense industries, with employment opportunities linked to the navy, shipbuilding, and offshore energy sectors. In terms of macroeconomic factors, Den Helder has a stable economy and a growing population. The current population of the city is around 23,000 people, and the city is a popular destination for tourists and business travelers alike.
A bit of history
Den Helder has played a strategic role in Dutch history due to its location on the North Sea. Napoleon recognized its importance and ordered the construction of fortifications here. During World War II, it was heavily bombed due to its naval significance. Today, it remains the heart of the Royal Netherlands Navy.
5x Fun facts about Den Helder
- Napoleon’s Influence – Napoleon called Den Helder “the Gibraltar of the North” due to its strategic importance.
- Submarine Legacy – The only publicly accessible submarine in the Netherlands, the Tonijn, is in the Marinemuseum.
- Europe’s Tallest Cast-Iron Lighthouse – Lange Jaap stands as a unique maritime landmark.
- Gateway to Texel – Den Helder is the only way to reach Texel by ferry.
- Home of the Navy – It houses the main naval base of the Netherlands, a key hub for maritime defense.
Things to do in the area
- Texel (20 min ferry) – Explore the beautiful island with its dunes, beaches, and nature reserves.
- Alkmaar (45 min drive) – Visit the famous cheese market and historic canals.
- Schagen (30 min drive) – Experience traditional Dutch culture with its West Frisian market.