Den Helder

Den Helder is the naval city of the Netherlands. This is evident in a number of ways. First of all, through the naval museum. This maritime museum is located on the former naval shipyard Willemsoord. In the various buildings, you can discover the history of the navy. In addition, there are various ships on the shore that you can visit. Another attraction in Den Helder is Fort Kijkduin. This fort, which was built by French Emperor Napoleon, is still completely intact and is accessible for guided tours.

The Navy Museum

The Navy Museum shows 500 years of the Dutch Navy. In addition to the military successes that the Navy has experienced over time, you will also discover the developments that the Navy has undergone in the technical field. The outside of the museum shows something else unique: three naval vessels that you can visit. For example, the submarine ‘Tonijn’ from 1966 is one of them. In this boat you will get a unique picture of life in a submarine.

Fort Kijkduin

Fort Kijkduin was built by the French emperor Napoleon in 1813 and housed 700 soldiers. Nowadays, the fort serves as a museum and houses a (unique) aquarium. This makes a visit to Fort Kijkduin a versatile excursion.

There is also plenty to do in Den Helder outside of the maritime area. For example, the botanical garden ‘Hortus Overzee’. This beautiful garden with greenhouse complex has many beautiful flowers and plants. Tropical plants grow in the greenhouses and there is a large collection of cacti. Outside there is a Japanese garden with running water.