Located in North Brabant, this Dutch city is known for its textile industry history, modern art museums, and annual funfair. Home to Tilburg University and several music venues.
Tilburg, the seventh-largest city in the Netherlands, is an urban center in North Brabant that has transformed from a textile hub into a cultural destination. You can explore contemporary art at De Pont Museum, wander through the lush Stadsbos013 urban forest, or experience the excitement of the country's largest funfair. The city's university and innovative spirit create an active environment for visitors to discover.
Discovering Tilburg's Art Scene
De Pont Museum, located in a former wool spinning mill, is central to Tilburg's art scene. You'll find works by international artists like Ai Weiwei and Anish Kapoor here. The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 11 AM to 5 PM, with free entry on Thursday evenings. For a different cultural experience, visit the Dutch Textile Museum. It showcases the city's industrial past through interactive exhibits and working machinery.
Tilburg's Festival Calendar
Tilburg's event calendar is full year-round. In April, the Roadburn Festival fills venues with rock and metal music. June brings Festival Mundial, transforming the city with world music and international cuisine. In July, you can experience the Tilburgse Kermis, the largest funfair in the Benelux region. For ten days, a 4.5-kilometer stretch of the city center comes alive with over 250 rides and attractions.
Exploring Tilburg's Green Spaces
Take a break from city life in Tilburg's green areas. Walk the star-shaped pathways of Oude Warande, a baroque forest with sculptures. For a more natural experience, cycle to Stadsbos013 on the city's outskirts. This urban forest covers 7.5 hectares and includes ecosystems from dense woods to open meadows.
Tilburg's Culinary Scene
Tilburg's restaurants showcase its innovative spirit. At RAW in Piushaven, you can enjoy modern Dutch cuisine while looking out over the water. For an unusual dining experience, try De Wagon, a restaurant in a converted train car. Beer fans can visit La Trappe Brewery, where you can tour the facilities and taste Trappist ales in the monastery gardens.
Navigating Tilburg
You can easily get around Tilburg with its efficient public transport. Tilburg Centraal station connects to major Dutch cities, while local buses cover the city. For a typical Dutch experience, rent a bike and use the Sternet-Routes, Tilburg's comprehensive cycle network.
Tilburg's Past
Tilburg's roots date back to the 7th century, but it only received city status in 1809. The wool industry drove its growth in the 19th and 20th centuries, making Tilburg known as the "wool capital of the Netherlands." Today, you can see evidence of this past in the repurposed industrial buildings throughout the city.
Beyond Tilburg: Efteling Theme Park
A short bus ride from Tilburg's center takes you to Efteling, one of the world's oldest theme parks. This fantasy-themed park brings Dutch folklore to life with imaginative rides and shows. It's open year-round, with extended hours during summer and holiday seasons.
