Den Helder is raw and honest, adventurous and unique. You won't find crowded squares or throngs of tourists here. What you will find instead? Stories about naval heroes, forts in the dunes, art in the sand, surprising museums, and sea views.
This city, surrounded by water and nature, is bursting with energy. You can feel it as you cycle along the dike, walk through the dunes, or visit one of the museums. Ready to truly get to know Den Helder? These are the highlights you shouldn't miss.
The Lange Jaap is the iconic landmark of Den Helder. At 63 meters tall, it towers above everything else. Once built to guide ships safely in, it's now an impressive landmark for exploring the coast. Literally, the beacon of Den Helder. A photogenic spot full of maritime symbolism and a perfect starting point for your visit.
Wherever you are in Den Helder, the sea is always close by. Stroll through the vast dune area, follow the dike along the Wadden Sea, or relax on a quiet beach along the North Sea.
Here, all you hear is the rustling of the beachgrass and the waves of the sea. Perfect for unwinding or simply recharging. The salty air, expansive horizon, and changing light make this place magical, every season.
Willemsoord is a place with character. What was once a closed-off area for the navy is now a vibrant area brimming with culture, restaurants, and history. Wander among historic buildings, old shipyards, and modern exhibitions. Dive into the Navy Museum, attend an event, dine by the water, or see a performance at Theater de Kampanje. Here, you'll feel: Den Helder is alive.
In spring, the fields around Julianadorp transform into a living painting. From April to May, millions of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths bloom in all their glory. You can experience them along beautiful hiking and cycling trails, but you can also enjoy spectacular views from a canoe or the dunes. Less crowded than the traditional bulb region, but just as impressive.
De aanwezigheid van de Koninklijke Marine is in Den Helder overal voelbaar. Niet alleen op de marinebasis, maar juist ook midden in de stad. Van imposante forten en actieve vliegkampen tot historische opleidingscentra en musea waar je letterlijk aan boord stapt, hier zie je de marine niet alleen, je beleeft haar.
Voor inwoners, bezoekers én toekomstige marinemensen is Den Helder een unieke plek waar verleden en toekomst samenkomen. Ontdek waar je de marine van dichtbij ervaart.
The canoe route is one of Den Helder's best-kept secrets. You'll paddle right through parks, past residential areas, bulb fields, and forts. See the city from a completely different perspective. You can start at various points along the route, where you can also easily rent canoes or SUPs. Ideal for a sporty outing in peace, at your own pace, surrounded by greenery.
In the 19th century, Den Helder built a clever defense line to protect the city from naval enemies. Now, these forts are sturdy remnants where history comes to life. Walk, cycle, or sail past these impressive structures and discover their stories. From Napoleon to the modern era. You'll be amazed.
In an impressive former shipyard, you'll discover one of the Netherlands' most unique theaters. Theater De Kampanje presents theater, music, dance, and cabaret in a setting that's worth a visit in itself. The combination of maritime history and modern culture makes every evening here special. Fancy a drink by the water before or after? Definitely do.
Den Helder is buzzing. There's something going on all year round. Major events like the Jutterhavendagen, Julianapop, Helder Licht, and Sail attract thousands of visitors, but smaller festivals, markets, and performances also brighten up the city. Whether you're here for music, art, food, sports, or history, there's always a reason to return.
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