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Texel, Nederland - Things to Do in Texel

Texel

Texel, Nederland - Complete Travel Guide

Texel, the largest of the Dutch Wadden Sea Islands, is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of pristine nature, rich maritime heritage, and authentic Dutch island culture. Located just off the coast of North Holland, this charming island stretches 25 kilometers long and features diverse landscapes including sandy beaches, rolling dunes, forests, and unique wetlands that serve as crucial habitats for countless bird species and marine life. The island's seven picturesque villages each have their own distinct character, from the bustling ferry port of 't Horntje to the historic capital of Den Burg, and the scenic lighthouse village of De Cocksdorp. Texel is renowned for its sustainable tourism approach, excellent cycling infrastructure, local lamb delicacies, and the famous Texel beer brewery. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, wildlife observation, cultural experiences, or simply a peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty, Texel offers an authentic taste of Dutch island life away from the mainland crowds.

Top Texel

Cycling the Island's Extensive Bike Network

Explore Texel's 140 kilometers of well-maintained cycling paths that wind through diverse landscapes including beaches, forests, polders, and charming villages. The flat terrain and excellent signage make it perfect for cyclists of all levels, with routes ranging from short village loops to full island circuits. Bike rental shops are abundant and offer various options from standard bikes to e-bikes and family cargo bikes.

Booking Tip: Bike rentals cost €8-15 per day with discounts for longer periods. Book in advance during summer months and consider e-bikes if you plan longer distances. Many accommodations offer bike rental services or partnerships with local shops for better rates.

Beach Activities and Water Sports

Texel has 30 kilometers of pristine coastline with wide sandy beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports. The western beaches like Paal 17 and Paal 9 are popular for their beach clubs and facilities, while the northern beaches offer more secluded experiences. Activities include kitesurfing, windsurfing, beach volleyball, and horseback riding along the shore.

Booking Tip: Beach access is free, but parking costs €2-8 per day depending on the season. Water sports equipment rental ranges from €25-60 per day. Book lessons in advance during peak season, and check wind conditions for optimal kitesurfing and windsurfing experiences.

EcoMare Marine Center and Seal Sanctuary

Visit this exceptional nature museum and seal sanctuary that serves as both a rescue center for marine mammals and an educational facility about the Wadden Sea ecosystem. Observe rescued seals and porpoises during feeding times, explore interactive exhibits about marine life, and learn about the unique UNESCO World Heritage Wadden Sea. The center also features an aquarium with local fish species and regular educational programs.

Booking Tip: Admission costs €12 for adults, €8 for children with family tickets available. Visit during feeding times (11 AM, 2 PM, 4 PM) for the best experience. Purchase tickets online for slight discounts and to guarantee entry during busy periods.

Lighthouse and Dune Exploration

Climb the iconic red lighthouse in De Cocksdorp for panoramic views across the island and Wadden Sea, then explore the surrounding Slufter nature reserve with its unique salt marshes and bird watching opportunities. The Hoge Berg area offers the island's highest dunes and excellent hiking trails through diverse ecosystems including rare orchid meadows and ancient forests.

Booking Tip: Lighthouse admission is €4 for adults. The lighthouse is open April-October, weather permitting. Combine with nature reserve visits which are free but may require parking fees of €3-5. Wear sturdy shoes for dune walking and bring binoculars for bird watching.

Texel Brewery Tour and Local Food Experiences

Discover the award-winning Texel Brewery, known for its organic beers and sustainable brewing practices, with guided tours including tastings of their unique varieties. Combine this with visits to local farms producing famous Texel lamb, artisanal cheeses, and other island specialties. Many restaurants offer farm-to-table dining experiences featuring local ingredients and traditional Dutch island cuisine.

Booking Tip: Brewery tours cost €12-15 including tastings and run multiple times daily except Sundays. Book online in advance, especially during summer. Food tours and farm visits range from €25-45 per person and often include transportation between locations.

Getting There

Texel is accessible only by ferry from Den Helder on the Dutch mainland, with TESO operating regular ferry services year-round. The ferry journey takes 20 minutes and runs every hour during peak times, with reduced frequency in winter. Den Helder is easily reached by train from Amsterdam (1.5 hours) or by car via the A7 and N99 highways. Ferry tickets cost around €2.50 for foot passengers and €28 for cars with driver, with advance booking recommended during summer months and holidays.

Getting Around

Cycling is the preferred and most practical way to explore Texel, with excellent bike rental facilities at the ferry terminal and throughout the island. The complete network of cycle paths connects all villages and attractions safely. Public bus service (Line 28 and 29) operates between major villages and attractions, with day passes available for €7. Car rental is available but less necessary due to the island's compact size and excellent cycling infrastructure. Many accommodations provide free bikes or have partnerships with local rental shops.

Where to Stay

Den Burg
De Koog
De Cocksdorp
Oudeschild
Den Hoorn
Oosterend

Food & Dining

Texel's culinary scene celebrates local ingredients, particularly the famous Texel lamb, fresh seafood from the Wadden Sea, and organic produce from island farms. Den Burg offers the widest variety of restaurants, from casual cafes to upscale dining, while De Koog features beachside eateries and seasonal beach clubs. Traditional Dutch pancake houses (pannenkoekenhuis) are popular island-wide, and many establishments focus on farm-to-table concepts. Don't miss trying local specialties like Texel beer, aged cheeses from local dairies, and fresh mussels. Beach pavilions offer casual dining with sea views, while village restaurants provide cozy atmospheres perfect for trying regional dishes.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Netherlands

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Gusto Italian

4.8 /5
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Assaggi

4.7 /5
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La Zoccola del Pacioccone

4.5 /5
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Verona Ristorante Italiano

4.7 /5
(4720 reviews) 2

Il Vicolo

4.8 /5
(2343 reviews)

Santi & Santini - Puglia restaurant

4.8 /5
(1295 reviews)

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When to Visit

The best time to visit Texel is from May to September when temperatures are warmest, days are longest, and all attractions and facilities are fully operational. July and August are peak months with the warmest weather and most activities, but also the largest crowds and highest prices. Late spring (May-June) and early autumn (September) offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and better accommodation rates while still maintaining good cycling and outdoor conditions. Winter visits can be magical for those seeking solitude and dramatic coastal scenery, though some attractions have limited hours and weather can be unpredictable.

Insider Tips

Purchase a Texel Pass for discounts on attractions, restaurants, and activities - it pays for itself with just a few visits and includes useful maps and cycling routes
Book accommodations well in advance for summer visits, especially for weekends, as the island's capacity is limited and popular places fill up quickly
Pack layers and waterproof clothing regardless of season, as island weather can change quickly and coastal winds make temperatures feel cooler than on the mainland

Activities in Texel