Texel, the largest of the Dutch Wadden Islands, is a natural wonder where sandy beaches meet vast dunes, historic villages, and incredible wildlife. Whether you’re exploring Texel’s iconic lighthouse, enjoying fresh seafood at harbor-side restaurants, or spotting seals on a Wadden Sea cruise, this island offers unforgettable experiences.

Stops on Texel Island

Den Burg

Den Burg is the cultural and administrative heart of Texel, blending history, shopping, and local dining experiences. Its charming streets are lined with independent shops, cafes, and cultural landmarks. Its central location makes it a perfect base for exploring the island.

Recommended Stay: 2-3 days

Sights

• Museum Oudheidkamer: Step into a 16th-century cottage filled with antique furniture and historical displays showing how people lived on Texel in the past.
• Den Burg Monday Market: A bustling weekly market where you can shop for Texel-made cheeses, seafood, fresh produce, and locally crafted products.
• St. Martin’s Church (Martinuskerk): A historic church with a distinctive bell tower offering beautiful views over Den Burg and the surrounding fields.
• Texelse Bierbrouwerij: Tour Texel’s famous craft brewery, where you can sample island favorites like Skuumkoppe, Stormbock, and seasonal brews.
• Den Burg Artisan Shops: Discover local shops such as De Texelse Chocolaterie for handmade chocolates and Wolwinkel Texel for authentic wool products.

De Koog

De Koog is Texel’s main beach resort town, offering direct access to stunning North Sea beaches and a lively town center packed with shops, restaurants, and beachfront cafes.

Recommended Stay: 2-3 days

Sights

• Strandpaviljoen Paal 17: Relax on one of Texel’s most popular beaches while enjoying fresh seafood and drinks at this famous beach pavilion.
• Ecomare Nature Center: See rescued seals, porpoises, and sea turtles while learning about Texel’s unique marine environment. Daily feedings are a hit with families.
• De Muy Observation Deck: Visit this specific nature lookout for birdwatching, where you can spot spoonbills, greylag geese, and marsh harriers in their natural habitat.
• Fish Restaurant Vispaleis Texel: Enjoy traditional Texel seafood like fried cod and herring, served fresh from the North Sea.
• Texel’s Surf School (Paal 19): Book surfing, kiteboarding, or paddleboarding lessons on the island’s famous waves with experienced instructors.

Oudeschild

Oudeschild is Texel’s only active fishing harbor, offering a blend of maritime history and fresh seafood experiences. Its harbor is a bustling spot filled with fishing boats, seafood restaurants, and historical sites.

Recommended Stay: 1-2 days

Sights

• Kaap Skil Maritime Museum: Learn about Texel’s seafaring past, including shipwreck treasures, interactive maritime exhibits, and a reconstructed 17th-century fishing village.
• Fishing Boat Tour TX10 Emmie: Join a real fishing boat tour for seal-watching and shrimp-catching adventures along the Wadden Sea.
• Fort de Schans: Explore the remains of this 16th-century fortress built by the Dutch to defend the island. It’s now a peaceful nature reserve perfect for historical walks.
• Texel Fish Auction Hall (Visafslag Texel): Experience the island’s fish auction where freshly caught seafood is sold daily — an authentic look into Texel’s fishing industry.
• Harbor Lookout Point: Climb the lookout platform for panoramic views of Oudeschild’s working harbor and the Wadden Sea.

De Cocksdorp

De Cocksdorp, located at Texel’s northern tip, is famous for its stunning Texel Lighthouse and wide, sandy beaches. Its remote and peaceful atmosphere makes it perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

Recommended Stay: 1-2 days

Sights

• Texel Lighthouse (Vuurtoren Texel): Climb 153 steps to the top of this iconic red lighthouse for breathtaking views over the North Sea, Wadden Sea, and nearby Vlieland Island.
• Beach Paal 33: A peaceful beach known for its quiet surroundings, ideal for long walks and stunning sunset views.
• Wadlopen Mudflat Hike: Embark on a guided mudflat hiking tour with Wadloopcentrum Texel, walking across the Wadden Sea’s tidal flats during low tide.
• Nature Reserve De Roggesloot: Discover this peaceful birdwatching area, home to egrets, herons, and migratory birds passing through Texel.
• IJsboerderij Labora: A farm-to-cone ice cream parlor serving delicious handmade ice cream made from milk produced right on the farm.

Den Hoorn

Den Hoorn is Texel’s most picturesque village, known for its signature white church and its artistic, rural charm. It’s a haven for photographers and artists, offering stunning countryside views and cultural landmarks.

Recommended Stay: 1 day

Sights

• White Church of Den Hoorn (Witte Kerk): Texel’s most photographed church, standing prominently against rolling fields and dramatic skies.
• Art Gallery De Eiland Galerij: A contemporary art gallery featuring works inspired by Texel's unique landscapes.
• De Smulpot Restaurant: A highly rated dining spot serving seasonal local dishes, including Texel lamb and freshly caught seafood.
• Nature Walk to De Geul Lookout: Take a guided walking tour through this specific protected area near Den Hoorn, offering panoramic views over Texel’s dunes and bird colonies.
• Bloembollenbedrijf Molenaar: Visit this real flower bulb farm near Den Hoorn during spring, where guided tours showcase blooming tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths.

Good to Know

• Language: Dutch is the official language, but English and German are widely spoken.
• Currency: Euro (€); credit cards are accepted, but cash is handy at smaller shops and markets.
• Transportation: Texel’s extensive bike paths make cycling the best way to explore. Bike rentals are available in every major village.

Getting There

• By Ferry: Take the Teso Ferry from Den Helder to Texel. The ferry runs every 20 minutes, making the journey quick and easy.
• By Car: Drive to Den Helder, board the ferry with your car, and explore the island at your own pace.
• By Train & Bus: Take the train to Den Helder and transfer to the ferry. Texel’s local bus service connects major towns and attractions.

Best Time to Travel

• Spring (April-May): Visit real flower farms like Bloembollenbedrijf Molenaar when fields bloom with tulips and daffodils.
• Summer (June-August): Enjoy beach days, outdoor dining, and water sports.
• Autumn (September-November): Experience peaceful beaches and bird migrations.
• Winter (December-February): Enjoy serene coastal walks and cozy cafes.

Texel is a captivating island filled with historical sites, breathtaking nature, and authentic Dutch culture. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or culinary delights, this unique Wadden Island promises unforgettable experiences. 🚲🌊🍺