s-Hertogenbosch is a historic town in the south of the Netherlands, in the province of Noord-Brabant, of which it is the capital.
Located 1 hour from Amsterdam by train or 35 minutes from Utrecht or Eindhoven, it's a perfect destination for a long weekend or an excursion on your next trip to the Netherlands.
The town's name means ‘Duke's Wood’, in reference to the surrounding forests that once belonged to the Duke of Brabant. As the official name of the town is complex, even in Dutch, it is often abbreviated as Den Bosch.
Founded in the early 12th century, the town played a key role in the region as a cultural, economic and military centre. It is particularly famous for its well-preserved medieval fortifications, which bear witness to its strategic importance over the centuries. The town is also known as the birthplace of the famous painter Hieronymus Bosch.
Today, ‘s-Hertogenbosch is a dynamic cultural and economic centre, renowned for its architecture, gastronomy and festivals, attracting visitors from all over the world.
main site to see
Den Bosch has many must-see sites. Start with the Cathedral St Jan, a Gothic masterpiece with its sculpted details and majestic architecture. For a panoramic view, climb to the top of the bell tower.
Explore the town centre and the bustling market square (Markt), where you can admire the historic houses and enjoy a coffee on one of the many terraces.
From spring to autumn, a guided boat trip on the Binnendieze (a network of mostly underground " canals" and waterways) offers a unique perspective on the history and charm of the old town.
Need a break? Don't hesitate to take a walk in the Bossche Broek, a protected natural area five minutes away from the city centre, for a little peace and quiet and to observe the city from outside the walls.
When it comes to specialties, be sure to try a Bossche Bol, a local pastry coated in chocolate and filled with whipped cream, or a worstenbroodje, a bread filled with sausage, typical of the region. There are plenty of local and international restaurants for you to chose from in the town centre.
Also known for its carnaval, Oeteldonk, the town comes alive with festivals throughout the year. The Den Bosch Jazz Festival attracts music lovers with its open-air concerts and performances throughout the town, while the Boulevard Theatre Festival is a must for fans of contemporary theatre, offering a dynamic and creative scene.
the Town Hall on the Market Square
the cathedral St Jan
the Binnendieze - the underground "canals" of Den Bosch
Bossche Broek - protected natural area 2 minutes from the town centre
the dragon fountain by the central station
museums
the Noordbrabants Museum
Jheronimus Bosch Arts Centre
the market seen from the House of Bosch
The town hosts a number of museums reflecting the rich history and cultural tradition of Den Bosch and Brabant.
The Noordbrabants Museum is a must for discovering the history and art of the region, with exhibitions dedicated to iconic figures such as Vincent van Gogh.
The Design Museum explores contemporary trends in design and innovation, offering a fascinating look at the evolution of creativity.
Two museums are dedicated to Bosch: The Jeronimus Bosch Art Centre celebrates the work of the illustrious painter, with a collection of reproductions that immerse visitors in his fantastic and symbolic world. The House of Bosch, meanwhile, offers a glimpse of the artist's life in the house where he was born.
In addition to these sites, ‘s-Hertogenbosch has a number of other museums and galleries to delight history and art lovers.
follow the guide! 🇬🇧
Ithaka in Brabant offers a complete free guide of Den Bosch. We invite you to discover this unique city with us via our website or our Instagram profile.
