Medieval Dutch city with Gothic St. John's Cathedral, underground waterways, and Renaissance painter Bosch's legacy. Known for chocolate-covered Bossche Bol pastries and 13th-century architecture.
's-Hertogenbosch, often called Den Bosch, is the capital of North Brabant province in the Netherlands. This medieval city has a historic center with narrow streets, an intricate canal network, and the towering Gothic St. John's Cathedral. As the birthplace of Renaissance painter Hieronymus Bosch, Den Bosch has the Jheronimus Bosch Art Center where you can learn about the artist's life and work. The city is also known for its culinary scene, including the local Bossche Bol pastry. In Den Bosch, you can explore underground waterways, admire centuries-old buildings, and experience Dutch culture in a less-visited urban setting.
Getting to Den Bosch
You can reach 's-Hertogenbosch easily by train from major Dutch cities. The journey from Amsterdam takes about an hour, while Utrecht is just a 30-minute ride away. If you're driving, the city is located along the A2 motorway. However, be aware that traffic jams are common during peak hours, especially on weekday mornings and evenings. Once in the city, walking is the best way to explore the compact center. For longer distances, consider renting a bike or using the local bus network.
Exploring the Historic Center
Den Bosch's city center has medieval streets and squares that have remained largely unchanged since the 16th century. Start your exploration at the Markt, the main square where you'll see the Gothic Town Hall. From here, walk down narrow lanes like Korte Putstraat, lined with cafes and restaurants. On the Markt, you'll find De Moriaan, the oldest brick house in the Netherlands, dating back to the 13th century. It now houses the city's visitor center, where you can get maps and information for your visit.
St. John's Cathedral
The grand St. John's Cathedral (Sint-Janskathedraal) is Den Bosch's most recognizable landmark. Construction began in 1220 and continued for three centuries, resulting in a combination of Romanesque and Gothic styles. The cathedral has detailed exterior sculptures, including a modern angel wearing jeans and holding a mobile phone. Inside, you'll see a decorated interior with colorful stained glass windows and a large organ. You can climb the tower for views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Cruising the Binnendieze
One of Den Bosch's unique features is its underground canal system, the Binnendieze. You can take a boat tour to explore parts of the 6th-century waterway that runs beneath the old city. The tour takes you through narrow tunnels and under ancient bridges, giving you a different view of the city's history and architecture. Guides explain how people used the canals for transportation and defense in medieval times. It's advisable to book your tour in advance, especially during peak tourist season, as they often sell out.
Discovering Hieronymus Bosch
Den Bosch was the birthplace of Hieronymus Bosch, the renowned 15th-century painter known for his fantastical and often unsettling works. Visit the Jheronimus Bosch Art Center to learn about the artist's life and work. The center, housed in a former church, displays high-quality reproductions of Bosch's paintings, as many originals are in museums worldwide. Interactive exhibits and a recreated workshop give insight into Bosch's techniques and the symbolism in his art.
Sampling Local Cuisine
A popular treat in Den Bosch is the Bossche Bol, the city's signature pastry. This large profiterole is filled with whipped cream and covered in dark chocolate. You can try one at Jan de Groot bakery, near the train station, which many consider to have the best version in town. For a sit-down meal, explore the restaurants along Korte Putstraat. This narrow street has many eateries offering everything from traditional Dutch cuisine to international flavors. Many have outdoor seating, which is good for people-watching on warm evenings.
Exploring Nature Around Den Bosch
If you want to experience Dutch nature, visit the nearby De Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park. This landscape, just a short drive from the city, has sand dunes and forests. You can hike and cycle on well-marked trails suitable for all levels. Closer to the city, the Heempark has a small beach and the star-shaped island of Pettelaarse Schans, a remnant of the city's old fortifications.
