Eindhoven & North Brabant

Museum

CRADLE OF WORLDWIDE FAME Being the homeland of Vincent van Gogh, probably the world’s most famous painter, Brabant has a wealth of culture. Together with ’s-Hertogenbosch as the home of Hieronymus Bosch and Eindhoven as Capital of Design, Brabant can call itself a world-class cradle of culture.

Festivals & Events Not to be Missed

A WORLD-CLASS EVENT EVERY DAY Brabant is renowned for its festival culture. A town like Tilburg stages no fewer than three events every weekend. The Brabant DJs Tiesto, Hardwell and Fedde le Grand provide a rich culture of dance. But consider also the world’s largest flower parade in Zundert, Dutch Design Week or ‘Pink Monday’ during the Tilburg Fair. Thanks to an overflowing calendar of events, a visit to Brabant can always be combined with the greatest happenings.

Accommodation

You may feel in need of a good night's sleep after all the fun and excitement on offer here. And understandably so. Hotels, hostels, holiday parks or bed & breakfasts, there's always a bed for a tired guest in Brabant. There is plenty of variety in accommodations, from heritage to art, design and themed hotels. From country lodges and youth hostels to B&Bs and holiday parks.

Family & Fun

Every year more than 5 million people visit Efteling, one of the world’s leading theme parks. This makes it one of the biggest crowd pullers in the Netherlands. Safari Park Beekse Bergen is another icon of the family sector where you will be introduced to the African wilderness and spend time among the animals. There are also large playgrounds, leisure pools and treetop adventure parks. And don't forget the great countryside! From sailing through the Biesbosch National Park to running through the Loon and Drunen Dunes. Sportive or relaxing. Something for everyone. And always accessible quickly and easily, with exceptional group accommodation just a stone’s throw away. Plenty of choice for the family sector with Brabant’s wide selection.

Eindhoven

Over 125 years ago, Philips brought light to Eindhoven. The company transformed the city into a vibrant industrial success story. Nowadays, Eindhoven is a bustling city in transition, with a constant flow of new developments in the fields of creativity, innovation, technology, design, and knowledge. Eindhoven - according to Forbes Magazine - is the most inventive city in the world and the capital of 'Dutch Design'. Excellent shopping facilities, imposing architecture and a vibrant nightlife are all to be found in Eindhoven’s bustling centre. The old town centre is where you’ll find the Blob, designed by the Italian architect Massimiliano Fuksas. This uniquely shaped building made of glass and steel is positioned at the end of the Emmasingel shopping street. The Van Abbemuseum is a must-do when visiting the city. Its imposing architecture and varied collection and programming make the Van Abbemuseum a unique place in which to appreciate modern art. Exhibitions in De Kazerne (Barracks) are also worth a visit. Stop for a drink or enjoy lunch or dinner surrounded by creative works from various designers. For another unique culinary experience you should visit the Piet Hein Eek design restaurant, Radio Royaal or other restaurants on Strijp-S in the former Philips factories. Strijp-S is the creative heart of Eindhoven, and you shouldn’t miss it when visiting Eindhoven.

Heusden

The enchanting and historic fortified town of Heusden This charming, medieval fortress town, Heusden, dates back to 1200, when an urban settlement was established beside the River Maas. A golden age dawned with the arrival of the fortifications: from the end of the 16th century the garrison town of Heusden was home to thousands of soldiers. Then, mostly as now, the town resembled the 17th century drawings made by the Amsterdam cartographer Joan Blaeu; a fortification surrounded by sturdy earthwork ramparts, bastions, ditches and ravelins. When the town was fully restored in the 1970’s, Heusden was honoured with the highest European award, the ‘Europa Nostra’ prize for restoration. Experience the fortified city of Heusden! Heusden is a ‘hidden gem’ not widely known to foreign visitors. During your visit, you will see many historical houses, the harbour and fish market square, the museum and gardens, the defensive walls and the three windmills on the riverside (which can also be visited by appointment). In the visitors centre where the Tourist Office of Heusden is located in the old town hall, there is also a scale model of the fortified town and a model of the old castle. Wander through its picturesque streets and alleyways and discover numerous buildings dating back centuries. This historic setting is home to galleries, speciality shops, culinary standard restaurants and pavement cafes. There are two well-equipped harbours for tourists arriving by water, and there are lovely views of the town, the river and the surrounding countryside, from the ramparts. A great destination for lovers of art, culture, history and good cuisine. Discover the Loonse and Drunen Dunes This beautiful National Park is located 8 km to the south of the fortress Heusden. The countryside is very varied, with high dunes formed by shifting sand, heath land, coniferous and deciduous woods, beautiful meadows and pools. This is a good location to discover nature, relax or be active outside, with hiking, cycling, mountain biking or horse riding. The choice is yours! Link: https://www.visitbrabant.com/en/places-to-go/heusden

Den Bosch

's-Hertogenbosch, commonly known as Den Bosch, is a charming and historic city located in the southern part of the Netherlands. It serves as the capital of the North Brabant province and is renowned for its medieval architecture, cultural heritage, and vibrant atmosphere. Historical Significance: Den Bosch has a rich history dating back to the 12th century when it was founded by Duke Henry I of Brabant. The city walls, narrow lanes, and the remnants of its fortifications tell stories of its past, particularly its strategic military importance during various periods in history. Cultural Heart: The city is a hub for art and culture. It is famously associated with the medieval painter Hieronymus Bosch, whose fantastical and highly detailed works were inspired by the city's unique character. The Jheronimus Bosch Art Center is dedicated to his life and art, displaying reproductions of his works. Architectural Marvels: One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the impressive St. John's Cathedral (Sint-Janskathedraal), a stunning example of Brabantine Gothic architecture. It's known for its richly decorated exterior, a sublime interior, and a set of whimsical sculptures, including the famous 'angel with a mobile phone'. Canal Tours: A notable feature of Den Bosch is its canal system, particularly the Binnendieze, a network of ancient waterways that runs beneath the city. Guided boat tours offer a unique perspective of the city from the water, revealing parts of the old fortifications and providing insights into the city's history. Culinary Delights: Den Bosch is also known for its culinary scene, including the famous 'Bossche Bol'—a large cream-filled chocolate pastry. The city's market square and side streets are dotted with various eateries, from cozy cafés to high-end restaurants, celebrating both traditional Dutch cuisine and international flavors. Events and Festivals: The city comes alive with various events throughout the year, including the Carnival celebration, which transforms the city into a vibrant festival of costumes and music. There's also the Jazz in Duketown festival, which showcases a range of jazz performances. Shopping and Lifestyle: For shoppers, the city offers a blend of boutique stores, artisanal shops, and international brands. The charming streets and squares provide a lovely atmosphere for a leisurely shopping experience. Green Spaces: Beyond the bustling city center, Den Bosch also offers beautiful green spaces like the Zuiderpark and Prins Hendrikpark, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities. In summary, Den Bosch is a city that captivates visitors with its historical depth, cultural vibrancy, architectural beauty, and warm Brabant hospitality. It's a city where the past and present merge to create a delightful experience for tourists and locals alike.

Tilburg

Tilburg, excitingly challenging With its lively cultural climate and numerous students, Tilburg really feels like a hospitable city, fully future-proof. The water and the pier in the Piushaven make a great setting for the many events to be found in Tilburg. You can enjoy live concerts, dance and club evenings and festivals where you can celebrate late into the night every week at Poppodium 013, the largest pop music venue in the Netherlands. Tilburg played a leading role in the textile industry in the Netherlands. You can learn all about it in the Textielmuseum. But there’s more, in the adjacent TextielLab work by national and international designers, architects, artists and students is on display. They research the potential of fabrics, innovative techniques and traditional skills. Be sure to also visit Museum De Pont. This museum, housed in a former windmill, has been a treasure chest full of modern art since 1988. The collection comprises over 600 works by more than 60 renowned national and international artists.

Breda

Breda, a vibrant city in the southern part of the Netherlands, is known for its rich history and lively culture. Situated in the province of North Brabant, Breda has played a significant role in Dutch history, particularly during the Eighty Years' War against Spanish rule. The city was a key strategic military location and has several historical landmarks dating back to this period. One of the most iconic landmarks in Breda is the Grote Kerk or the Great Church. This impressive Gothic church, known for its stunning architecture, dominates the city's skyline and is a testament to Breda’s medieval past. The church is not just a religious site but also a place that tells the stories of the city's ancestors, including members of the House of Orange-Nassau, the royal family of the Netherlands. Breda is also famous for its beautiful parks and green spaces. The Valkenberg Park, located near the city center, is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. It's a great place for leisurely walks, picnics, and enjoying nature right in the heart of the city. The city's connection to the Nassau family is evident in various places, including the Breda Castle, which now houses the Royal Military Academy. This historical building adds to the city's charm and reflects its importance throughout Dutch history. Culturally, Breda is known for its vibrant art scene and numerous festivals. The Breda Jazz Festival, one of the oldest and largest jazz festivals in Europe, attracts thousands of music enthusiasts every year. There's also a strong presence of contemporary art, with several galleries and exhibition spaces showcasing local and international artists. Breda's culinary scene is another highlight, offering a mix of traditional Dutch cuisine and international flavors. The city is dotted with cozy cafes, fine dining restaurants, and lively bars, providing ample options for dining and entertainment. In summary, Breda is a city that beautifully blends historical charm with modern vibrancy. Its rich heritage, cultural festivals, green spaces, and lively culinary scene make it a must-visit destination in the Netherlands.

Het Noordbrabants Museum

The Noordbrabants Museum is the best place to discover the richness of Brabant art, culture and history. A wealth of knowledge and Brabant’s cultural heritage are preserved and are on display here, making education, artistic quality and emotion the main components of the presentations and activities. The Story of Brabant Discover all the important moments of Brabant’s history. This guided tour will start in the medieval duchy of Brabant. You will learn more about the 15th century with Jhernonimus Bosch. And later on the 16th and 17th century during the fight between the Catholics and Protestants, but also Spain between and Oranje Brabant. There is some progress in the 19th century with of course Vincent van Gogh: the artist who paints the peasant life of Brabant. In the 20th century you will get to know the industry of Brabant and his famous products and brands. Finally we will challenge you to predict the future of Brabant at the ‘Future Arena’. Hieronymus Bosch Bosch’s works are so famous that they are displayed in the most prestigious museums all over the world. In The Story of Brabant you can see where Bosch’s works can now be found. In a bird’s eye view you sail past various cities in the world where one or more of his works can be seen, interspersed with views of his studio on the Markt. Largest museum in the south A modern extension to the Design Museum Den Bosch onto the building of the Noordbrabants Museum has created the Museum District: the largest museum in the south of the country.

Beekse Bergen

The Beekse Bergen in the Netherlands is an extraordinary wildlife park and resort near Tilburg, offering a safari experience that's quite unique in Europe. Visitors have the chance to see a diverse range of animals, over 1,500 across approximately 150 species, including lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, and cheetahs, in environments that closely mimic their natural habitats. One of the main attractions is the Safari Park, where visitors can explore via different modes - by car, bus, boat, or on foot. This variety allows for a comprehensive and exciting view of the animals in the park. For those looking for an immersive experience, the Beekse Bergen Safari Resort provides accommodation options such as lodges, tents, or treehouses located near the animal habitats. Staying here offers a unique opportunity to wake up to the sounds of the wild, making it an unforgettable experience. The Beekse Bergen is not just about adventure but also education and conservation. The park is dedicated to educating its visitors about the animals, their ecosystems, and the importance of preserving wildlife. They host various events and activities throughout the year, including educational workshops and special safari tours, which add to the learning experience. Moreover, the park is known for its commitment to sustainability and environmentally friendly practices. This focus on environmental consciousness highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and habitat preservation, aligning with the park's educational goals. Overall, Beekse Bergen provides a unique combination of adventure, education, and relaxation, appealing to families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone interested in a distinctive experience in the heart of Europe.

Themepark Efteling

National and internationally awarded theme park the Efteling Efteling is the favourite day trip attraction in the Netherlands, with no fewer than six roller coasters and 29 unique fairy tales. Not surprising therefore that Efteling is one of the top attractions in Brabant, the Netherlands and even in Europe for families with young children, as well as for teenagers and grandparents. Adults marvel at the beauty of the Fata Morgana and enjoy the Piraña just as much as the children, and clench their knuckles just as hard before Baron 1898 plunges them into the mine shaft. Come and be enchanted by this must-visit in Brabant. Zoover Award for the most popular holiday park and runner-up in the Diamond Themepark Award Europe. The award-winning amusement park also offers several types of overnight accommodation, and with a total of 3000 beds it is perfect for a stay of several days. One of these – Efteling Bosrijk – won the Zoover Award in the Netherlands for the most popular holiday park in 2016. Accessibility for the disabled was also praised. The park also has special accommodation for disabled guests and there are special entrances for the disabled at several of the attractions. Open365 days a year. De Efteling welcomes guests from all over the world. All information about the park, both printed and in the Efteling app is offered in English, French, German and Dutch. This means everyone can enjoy this inspiring park to the full, throughout the year. During the year the park also organises a New Year’s celebration and, not to be missed, the Winter Efteling.