Texel Island, Netherlands Travel Guide

Discover Texel Island: A blend of stunning nature, vibrant local culture, and outdoor adventures in the heart of the Dutch Wadden Sea.

Texel Island, the largest of the Dutch Wadden Sea islands, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. With its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and quaint villages, Texel offers a unique blend of relaxation and exploration. The island’s diverse landscapes are perfect for cycling, hiking, and bird-watching, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Texel’s charming villages, such as Den Burg and De Koog, provide a glimpse into local life with their traditional Dutch architecture, cozy cafes, and vibrant markets. The island is also home to several museums, such as the Ecomare, where visitors can learn about the Wadden Sea ecosystem and its marine life. Don’t miss the Texel Lighthouse, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island and the surrounding sea. For those interested in local culture, Texel hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous Texel Culinair, a food festival celebrating the island’s culinary delights. Seafood lovers will particularly enjoy the fresh fish and shellfish dishes that are a staple of Texel’s cuisine. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the beach, explore scenic trails, or immerse yourself in local culture, Texel Island has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Texel Island.

Rent a bicycle to explore the island’s extensive network of cycling paths.
Visit the Sunday market in Den Burg for local crafts and fresh produce.
Check the tidal schedules if you plan to explore the mudflats.
Bring binoculars for bird-watching at the De Slufter nature reserve.
Try the local specialty, Texel lamb, at one of the island’s many restaurants.

Explore Texel Island: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Texel Island

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Ecomare

Discover the wonders of the Wadden Sea at Ecomare, where marine life, conservation, and education come together in a captivating experience.

4.5

Nationaal Park Duinen van Texel

Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Nationaal Park Duinen van Texel, a must-visit national park for nature lovers in the Netherlands.

4.7

Museum Kaap Skil

Discover the maritime heritage of the Wadden Islands at Museum Kaap Skil, a captivating heritage museum in Oudeschild.

4.6

Shipwreck and Beachcombing Museum Flora

Explore the Shipwreck and Beachcombing Museum Flora in De Koog, a unique attraction showcasing maritime history and coastal treasures.

4.5

Best landmarks in Texel Island

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TESO Ferry Port

Experience the beauty and culture of Texel Island by taking the TESO Ferry from Den Helder—your gateway to adventure and natural wonders.

4.6

Ecomare

Explore the wonders of the Wadden Sea at Ecomare, a fascinating aquarium and nature museum dedicated to marine life and wildlife rescue.

4.5

Lighthouse Texel

Explore Lighthouse Texel, a historical gem on Texel Island, offering breathtaking views and rich maritime history in one stunning location.

4.6

Nationaal Park Duinen van Texel

Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Nationaal Park Duinen van Texel, where nature, wildlife, and adventure meet on the stunning Dutch coast.

4.7

Best restaurants in Texel Island

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Strandpaviljoen Paal 17 Aan Zee

Discover Strandpaviljoen Paal 17 Aan Zee - A scenic beach pavilion offering delightful dining experiences with breathtaking ocean views.

4.3

Beach Pavillion Kaap Noord

Experience breathtaking coastal views and exquisite dining at Beach Pavilion Kaap Noord - your ultimate seaside retreat.

4.4

Café-Restaurant De Slufter

Experience delightful dining at Café-Restaurant De Slufter in De Cocksdorp - where local flavors meet stunning views.

4.4

Strandpaviljoen Paal 28

Discover Strandpaviljoen Paal 28 – a family-friendly beach pavilion offering delightful dining experiences with stunning ocean views in De Cocksdorp.

4.1

Best bars in Texel Island

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Café-Restaurant De Slufter

Discover the culinary delights of Café-Restaurant De Slufter, where local flavors meet a cozy atmosphere in the heart of De Cocksdorp.

4.4

De Smulpot

Experience the culinary delights of De Smulpot in Den Burg, where local flavors meet an inviting atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.6

Brasserie Quinty's

Experience the delightful flavors of Brasserie Quinty's in De Koog, where fresh ingredients meet a warm, inviting atmosphere for every occasion.

4.3

Taveerne De Twaalf Balcken

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delightful cuisine at Taveerne De Twaalf Balcken, Den Burg's must-visit bar and bistro.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Texel Island

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Strandpaviljoen Paal 9

Experience the best of Texel at Strandpaviljoen Paal 9, where stunning sea views meet delicious local cuisine in a vibrant beachside atmosphere.

4.3

Beachclub Texel

Experience sun, sea, and gourmet dining at Beachclub Texel, the perfect beach pavilion for every visitor to De Koog.

4.2

Texelse Branding

Discover Texelse Branding in Den Burg for a delightful dining experience featuring local flavors, artisanal coffee, and a cozy atmosphere.

4.6

the Slock

Discover the charm of Den Burg at The Slock, a cozy pub offering a delightful selection of drinks and a vibrant community atmosphere.

4.6

Best shops in Texel Island

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De Oude Vismarkt van Texel

Experience the freshest seafood and vibrant market atmosphere at De Oude Vismarkt van Texel, a must-visit destination for food lovers.

4.4

Pier 53

Explore Pier 53 in De Cocksdorp for unique home goods, fashionable clothing, and delightful souvenirs that embody the charm of Texel.

4.7

Texelse Branding

Explore Texelse Branding in Den Burg for an unforgettable coffee experience with delicious baked goods and a cozy atmosphere.

4.6

Action

Explore Action Gift Shop in Den Burg for a delightful shopping experience filled with gifts, DIY supplies, and unique home goods.

4.2

Explore Texel Island on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Texel Island, mapped for you.

Texel Island Essentials

Texel Island is located in the Wadden Sea, north of the Netherlands. The most common way to reach Texel is by taking a ferry from Den Helder, which is easily accessible by train or car from major Dutch cities like Amsterdam. The ferry ride takes about 20 minutes. You can bring a car on the ferry, or alternatively, there are buses and taxis available on the island.
Once on Texel, you can get around by car, bicycle, or public transport. Bicycles are highly recommended as the island has an extensive network of cycling paths, and bike rentals are widely available. Public buses run regularly and connect various towns and attractions on the island. Taxis are also available but can be more expensive. Walking is another great option, especially within smaller towns and nature reserves.
The official currency on Texel Island is the Euro (EUR). Most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit and debit cards, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or markets. ATMs are available in major towns such as Den Burg and De Koog.
Texel Island is generally very safe for tourists. Crime rates are low, and violent crime is rare. However, as with any travel destination, it is always a good idea to stay vigilant. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas such as markets and popular tourist spots. There are no specific areas or neighborhoods with high crime rates targeting tourists.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the emergency number for police, fire, and medical services in the Netherlands. There are medical facilities and pharmacies in major towns like Den Burg. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, you can visit local pharmacies for over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and practically, especially if you plan on outdoor activities like cycling or hiking. Layers are recommended due to unpredictable weather. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, although the island is relatively secular. Public Transport: Do validate your bus ticket upon boarding. Don’t play loud music or talk loudly on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hallo' or 'Goedemorgen' (Good morning). A handshake is common for formal introductions. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Texel lamb and sheep cheese. Don’t forget to sample the locally brewed beers. It’s polite to finish all the food on your plate.
To experience Texel like a local, visit the weekly markets in Den Burg where you can buy fresh produce and local crafts. Rent a bicycle and explore the island’s extensive network of cycling paths. Visit the less touristy eastern side of the island for a more peaceful and authentic experience. Don’t miss out on visiting the Ecomare, a center for the Wadden Sea and North Sea with a seal sanctuary. For a unique local experience, join a mudflat walking tour during low tide.

When is the best time to visit Texel Island?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Texel Island

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Texel Island. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
- GoodbyeTot ziens
  [tot zeens]
- YesJa
  [ya]
- NoNee
  [nee]
- Please/You're welcomeAlstublieft
  [al-stu-bleeft]
- Thank youDank je
  [dank ye]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [so-ree]
- How are you?Hoe gaat het met jou?
  [hu gat hut met yow]
- Fine. And you?Goed. En met jou?
  [good. en met yow]
- Do you speak English?Spreek je Engels?
  [sprake ye engels]
- I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [ik buh-grayp hut neet]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk wil graag de menukaart zien, alstublieft
  [ik vil hraag duh menu-kart zeen, al-stu-bleeft]
- I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [ik eet kheyn vlays]
- Cheers!Proost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIk wil graag betalen, alstublieft
  [ik vil hraag buh-tah-luhn, al-stu-bleeft]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Ga weg!
  [ha vekh]
- Call the Police!Bel de Politie!
  [bel duh poh-lee-see]
- Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
  [bel ayn dok-tuhr]
- I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [ik ben vuhr-dwahld]
- I'm illIk voel me ziek
  [ik fuhl muh ziek]
- I'd like to buy...Ik wil graag kopen...
  [ik vil hraag koh-puhn]
- I'm just lookingIk kijk alleen maar
  [ik kayk al-leyn mahr]
- How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [hoo-vel kost hut]
- That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [dat is tuh duhr]
- Can you lower the price?Kunt u de prijs verlagen?
  [kunt u duh prays vur-lah-ghun]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [hu laht is hut]
- It's one o'clockHet is een uur
  [hut is ayn oor]
- Half past (10)Half elf
  [half elf]
- MorningOchtend
  [okht-uhnt]
- AfternoonMiddag
  [mi-dahkh]
- EveningAvond
  [ah-vohnt]
- YesterdayGisteren
  [khis-tuh-run]
- TodayVandaag
  [vahn-dahkh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-khun]
- 1Een
  [ayn]
- 2Twee
  [tvay]
- 3Drie
  [dree]
- 4Vier
  [veer]
- 5Vijf
  [vayf]
- 6Zes
  [zehs]
- 7Zeven
  [zay-vun]
- 8Acht
  [ahkh-t]
- 9Negen
  [nay-khun]
- 10Tien
  [teen]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is een/de...?
  [var is ayn/de...]
- What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [vat is hut ah-dres]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kunt u mij laten zien (op de kaart)?
  [kunt u may lah-tun zeen (op duh kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?
  [ven-nur is duh vol-hen-duh (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Een kaartje (naar ....)
  [ayn kart-yuh (nar)]

History of Texel Island

Texel Island, part of the West Frisian Islands, has a history dating back to prehistoric times. Archaeological discoveries suggest that the island was inhabited as early as the Mesolithic period, around 8000 BCE. The fertile land and rich marine resources made it an attractive settlement area for early humans.
During the Middle Ages, Texel became a significant maritime hub due to its strategic location along the North Sea. The island served as a staging post for ships traveling to and from the Baltic Sea and the North Atlantic. The town of Oudeschild emerged as a prominent port, facilitating trade and commerce.
In 1672, Texel played a notable role in the Franco-Dutch War when the Dutch fleet, under Admiral Michiel de Ruyter, engaged the French and English fleets in the Battle of Texel. The island's strategic position once again proved crucial in the defense of the Dutch Republic, highlighting its maritime significance.
During the Napoleonic Wars, Texel was fortified by the French to defend against British incursions. Fort De Schans, originally built in the 16th century, was reinforced and expanded. These fortifications served as a military stronghold and a reminder of the island's strategic importance.
Texel's history took a dramatic turn during World War II with the Georgian Uprising of 1945. Georgian soldiers, who were forced to fight for the Germans, revolted against their Nazi commanders in one of the last battles of the European theatre. The uprising led to heavy fighting and significant casualties, leaving a lasting impact on the island's history.
In the post-war period, Texel transitioned from a primarily agricultural and fishing community to a popular tourist destination. The island's natural beauty, including its expansive beaches, dunes, and wildlife reserves, attracts visitors from around the world. Historic sites, such as the lighthouse at Eierland and the Maritime and Beachcombers Museum, offer glimpses into Texel's rich heritage.