This guide covers 17 unique and fun things to do in Texel for a perfect island adventure.
Located in the UNESCO-listed Wadden Sea, the island of Texel offers you a great mix of natural beauty, history, and local culture. It’s just a short trip from Amsterdam, making it perfect for a day trip or a weekend escape on your Amsterdam itinerary.
On Texel, you’ll find everything from natural beaches and charming villages to scenic viewpoints and animal encounters. So keep on reading to discover how to visit Wadden Island Texel, what to see and do, and where to eat and drink.
Map of Things To Do on Texel
Texel is the largest of the 5 Wadden Islands. And while the other 4 are Frisian, this one belongs to the province of North-Holland, of which Haarlem is the capital. That being said, Texel is easier reached from Amsterdam.
To give you an idea of where Texel is located and where to find all the things to do in Texel, check out the map below.
How to Plan a Visit to Texel
Texel is quite easy to reach, but most conveniently with a car. Also once there the car is your best friend, especially if you’re only visiting the island for a day.
Getting There
Car | If you’re travelling around the Netherlands by (rental) car, then it’s super easy to get to Texel. Just drive to Den Helder and get on the TESO ferry that takes 20 minutes to reach the Wadden Island.
Public Transport | No car? Then take the train to Den Helder and walk for 30 minutes or take a taxi to the TESO ferry terminal. There’s a direct train from Amsterdam Central Station every 30 minutes that takes 1 hour 17 minutes to reach Den Helder.
Ferry Tickets | Get tickets for the TESO ferry in advance, so you can directly walk or drive onto the ferry (with automatic license plate recognition). You always buy a return trip ticket and don’t have to decide on a date or time slot.
Waddenveer | During the summer months you can take the waddenveer, a small boat that takes you to the island Vlieland in about 30 minutes. You can go on a day trip to Vlieland, or stay longer and even continue from Vlieland to Terschelling.
Getting Around
Car | The roads are pretty good all over the island. In the towns and next to some of the things to do on Texel it’s paid parking though.
Put an end to annoying parking tickets and pay once and park anywhere on the island with the Texelvignet. One day parking costs €10, and a whole week €20. Get the Texelvignet right here.
Rent-a-bike | There are buses on the island, but don’t waste your time taking them. Instead rent a bicycle in the ferry port and cycle around the island.
I recommend an e-bike because it will get you around Texel faster and easier. The battery might run out though, so check out these charging points. Some museums, restaurants and other tourist attractions also provide charging points.
Join a small-group tour from Amsterdam
If you only have a day to visit Texel and want to forget about the hassle of organising it yourself, then join this small group tour. You’ll get to see the lighthouse, visit the national park and go out on the Wadden Sea to spot seals.
Where To Stay on Texel
Texel is a pretty fun day trip, but an even better two-day visit or weekend escape. So why not book one or two nights accommodation on the largest Dutch Wadden Island?
Texel is a great day trip especially if you have a car. You will be able to see most of the attractions in a day. If you don’t drive a car or want to see everything Texel has to offer, then consider staying two days on the island.
These are some of my favourite hotels on the island:
- Boutique Hotel Texel | The most luxurious option on the island with a pool, Finnish sauna, tasty breakfast and optional massages. A true countryside get-away-from-it-all location
- Just Texel Suites & Apartments | Lovely home away from home in the centre of Den Burg. No breakfast available, but you can find enough options in town
17 Fun Things To Do on Texel Island
So finally, with all of the practicalities out of the way, let’s get to the best part of this article. What are the best things to see and do on Texel?
1. Venture Back in Time at Fort de Schans
Just a short drive from the TESO ferry port you’ll find Fort de Schans, which is the perfect place to start your Texel adventure. The fort was initially built in the 16th-century by William of Orange to protect the Dutch coast.
Later on in 1811 Napoleon Bonaparte came to Texel and decided the fort needed to be enlarged and reinforced. During the early days of the 20th-century though bricks were taken away from the fort to build houses in Oudeschild.
I really enjoyed my experience here as I walked up to the viewpoint for panoramic views of the island. I was met with total silence and I couldn’t even hear the wind as I sat on the cannon looking at the sheep in the distance.
2. Discover Texel’s Maritime Heritage at Museum Kaap Skil
Next, head to the village of Oudeschild, where you’ll find Museum Kaap Skil. Dedicated to Texel’s maritime heritage, the museum features interactive exhibits on Texel’s maritime trade, shipwreck artifacts and even a replica of a 17th-century shipyard.
One of the highlights here though is the fascinating exhibition ‘De Jurk’ (The Dress). This exhibition showcases a 17th-century dress discovered in near-perfect condition.
So what a dress you may think, but the dress sat in a shipwreck chest at the bottom of the sea for centuries! Found by divers off the coast of Texel, the dress, alongside other artifacts, gives you a rare glimpse into the lives and fashion of the 1600s.
3. Cuddle With Lambs at Schapenboerderij Texel
If you’re travelling with family or simply love animals, a visit to Schapenboerderij Texel (Sheep Farm Texel) offers a chance to meet Texel’s famous sheep. Lamb-cuddling is a highlight here, especially in spring when new lambs are born.
For those concerned about the ethics of animal interactions, the farm practices responsible handling. That means that animals are never forced into interactions and are allowed to move freely within comfortable enclosures.
Lamb-cuddling is designed to be gentle and safe for both animals and visitors, and the staff prioritises the lambs’ well-being above all. This experience offers a chance to learn about local farming while supporting an ethical and educational activity.
4. Explore Den Burg: Texel’s Largest Town
Texel’s largest village, Den Burg, is this Wadden Island’s hub with a charming, laid-back island vibe. As the commercial and cultural heart of Texel, Den Burg boasts a variety of local shops, cafes, and restaurants. Check out shop LOOF Texel for some pretty cool Wadden Islands and Texel-souvenirs.
Be sure to visit Texelse Branding Coffee Roasters for a cozy coffee break with locally roasted beans. After your coffee stroll around the quaint streets lined with historic architecture, including Texel’s Town Hall.
Every Monday, the village hosts a local market in the main square (Groeneplaats). It’s the perfect place where you can sample local products, from cheeses to Texel honey.
5. Visit Texel’s Oldest Church Maartenskerk in Oosterend
For a quick dose of history and architecture, make a stop at Maartenskerk. This church was built in the 11th-century, making it the oldest church on the island of Texel.
Located in the charming village of Oosterend, this church is a beautiful reminder of Texel’s medieval past. Take some time to walk around the church and the cobbled streets of this pretty town.
6. Go Bird Watching at Molen Het Noorden (Windmill)
For one of the best bird watching viewponts on the island, head to the windmill Molen Het Noorden.
The windmill itself is a Texel icon, and from the Lancasterdijk you’ll have a panoramic view of the windmill and the island on one side and of the Wadden Sea on the other side.
If you brought your binoculars get down to the nature reserve and see what birds you can spot. Texel’s diverse ecosystems, from salt marshes and mudflats to dunes and grasslands, make it one of the best places in the Netherlands for birdwatching.
Birds that frequent the island include the Eurasian Spoonbill, Avocet, Common Tern and sometimes even the Northern Gannet.
7. Visit Haventje van Sil in De Cocksdorp
If you’re up for another scenic break, stop by Haventje van Sil, a small and picturesque harbour in De Cocksdorp. I don’t know if it’s just me, but the name always cracks me up. Surely it’s just me haha
Either way, this spot is a popular photo op, showcasing Texel’s fishing heritage in a quaint setting. Of course you can also take a picture of the De Cocksdorp village’s sign if you’re as immature as I am.
8. Climb Up the Texel Lighthouse
Texel’s famous red lighthouse, located at the island’s northernmost tip, is a must-see landmark. If you haven’t been to the lighthouse, you haven’t been to Texel.
You can climb to the top for breathtaking 360-degree views of the North Sea and other Wadden Sea Islands – Vlieland and Terschelling.
The dunes here are ideal for a stroll or taking in the dramatic coastal scenery. If you walk towards the northernmost tip of the island you can see the water of the North Sea and the Wadden Sea come together.
9. Lunch with a View of Vlieland at Kaap Noord
For lunch, head to the Kaap Noord beach pavilion. Kaap Noord is located near the lighthouse and known for its fresh seafood and use of local ingredients.
But perhaps the best reason for planning your lunch stop here are the views, because on clear days you can see neighbour Wadden Island Vlieland.
10. Explore De Slufter Nature Reserve
Nature lovers will appreciate De Slufter, Texel’s most famous nature reserve. This tidal marsh is home to unique plants and birdlife. And its network of walking trails makes it ideal for exploring at a leisurely pace.
Don’t miss the chance to take some stunning photos here. And again this is a brilliant spot to bring your binoculars, because you can spot many birds here.
11. Go Seal Spotting on a Boat Tour
A boat tour is one of the best ways to see Texel’s seal population in their natural habitat. Book your boat and speedboat tours before you come to Texel, because tickets sell out days in advance.
The boats depart from the harbour in Oudeschild and then take you out to the sandbanks where seals can often be spotted resting and sunbathing.
During your trip tour guides share insights about the seals’ behaviour and the surrounding Wadden Sea ecosystem.
These tours are designed to be safe and respectful of the seals’ space, so you can enjoy a close-up encounter without disturbing their natural routine.
12. Learn About Texel’s Marine Life at Ecomare
If you want to see seals, but don’t want to go out to sea on a boat, then visit Ecomare, Texel’s marine and nature centre. This family-friendly spot is dedicated to educating visitors about the Wadden Sea and its diverse ecosystem.
The centre operates as a rescue and rehabilitation facility for injured and orphaned seals. Their ultimate goal is to release these seals back into their natural habitat as soon as they’re ready.
Only animals that cannot survive in the wild remain in the centre’s care permanently. But don’t expect the seals to perform tricks for people’s enjoyment. The seals are fed fish twice a day, at 11am and 3:30pm, with the afternoon session less busy.
Ecomare’s ethical approach makes it a rewarding place to learn about Texel’s marine life while supporting responsible animal care and environmental protection.
13. Uitkijktoren Fonteinsnol
For another perspective on Texel’s landscape, climb Uitkijktoren Fonteinsnol. This lookout tower provides some cool views of the island’s forests and dunes.
This spot is particularly beautiful in autumn when the colors are vivid and warm. It’s a fun thing to do on Texel if you have some time left on your tour of the island.
14. Visit Bunker Den Hoorn
History buffs should visit Bunker Den Hoorn, a World War II bunker hidden among Texel’s sand dunes. This historical site offers a glimpse into Texel’s role during wartime and is a unique addition to the island’s cultural attractions.
Apart from its role in the war you also have some pretty stunning views from the top of the hill where the bunker is situated.
15. Check Out Texel’s Locally Brewed Beers
No visit to Texel would be complete without sampling the local brews. So up next on this list of things to do on Texel is to drink a locally brewed beer or two.
One of the most popular island exports is Texel’s Skuumkoppe (‘foam head’ in local dialect). You can easily get that beer in the rest of the Netherlands too, but why not experience how and where it’s actually brewed?
Both Texelse Bierbrouwerij and Tesselaar Brewery offer tours and tasting sessions. On the tours you’ll discover which local ingredients and island flavours end up in the beer. Tours are in Dutch only, unless requested in another language beforehand.
16. Tandem Skydive at Paracentrum Texel
For thrill-seekers, a tandem skydive at Paracentrum Texel offers an unforgettable view of the island, the Wadden Sea and the other islands from above.
After a brief training session, you’ll take to the skies with an experienced instructor, reaching heights of up to 13,000 feet. The freefall gives an adrenaline rush like no other and is followed by a scenic parachute descent.
Paracentrum Texel is known for its commitment to safety and has experienced instructors to make this high-flying adventure both safe and memorable. It’s the perfect activity to cap off an unforgettable day on the island!
17. De Hors
Finish your visit to Texel at De Hors, a vast sandy beach with a quiet, almost otherworldly atmosphere.
This undeveloped area is perfect for a peaceful walk, surrounded by dunes and sea views. And because De Hors is located close to the ferry port it’s a perfect last stop to end a day on Texel.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Texel
Texel is a wonderful island to visit for a day, or even longer. Many Dutch people stay here for a week to enjoy the beaches, nature and ‘gezelligheid’. There’s plenty of things to do in Texel, so you won’t be disappointed when you add it to you Amsterdam or Netherlands travel itinerary.
Have you been to Texel, or have any questions? Then let me know in the comments, or reach out to me on Instagram. I’d love to hear from you. Also sign up to my newsletter to receive updates on new travel guides.
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And that’s it for Texel. I hope this article helps you to plan a trip to Texel. But if anything is unclear, you have any questions, or simply want to comment, then leave a reply below.
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