Find and book ferry tickets to and from Texel
An iconic view of Texel
Sorry, there is currently no available ferries on this route.
Reaching Texel's Shores
The journey to Texel begins at Den Helder, where regular ferry services operate throughout the day, with crossings taking approximately 20 minutes. From Amsterdam, Den Helder is accessible by direct train in about 80 minutes, while driving takes roughly 90 minutes via the A7 and N9 roads. Public buses connect Den Helder train station with the ferry terminal, with services timed to match ferry departures. Ample parking is available at the Den Helder ferry terminal for those arriving by car, though booking in advance is recommended during peak summer months. Cyclists can easily bring their bikes aboard the ferry, making it a popular option for eco-friendly exploration.
Texel: The Crown Jewel of the Dutch Wadden Islands
Texel stands as the largest and most diverse of the Dutch Wadden Islands, offering a perfect blend of pristine nature and charming villages. With its stunning dune landscapes, expansive beaches, and rich maritime heritage, this North Holland treasure creates an immediate sense of escape. As a key ferry destination in the Netherlands, Texel welcomes visitors to experience its unique island culture, abundant wildlife, and refreshing coastal atmosphere.
When to Experience Texel at Its Finest
Texel enjoys a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and relatively mild winters compared to the mainland. The peak season runs from June through August, when temperatures average 18-22°C, ideal for beach activities and outdoor exploration. May and September offer excellent alternatives with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and slightly lower accommodation rates. Nature enthusiasts should consider visiting in spring (April-May) when the island bursts with wildflowers and migratory birds arrive, or in autumn for spectacular bird migrations and seal watching opportunities. Ferry services run more frequently during summer months, with additional evening crossings, while winter sees a reduced but regular schedule.
Island Adventures Beyond Texel
Texel serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the magnificent Wadden Sea region, a UNESCO World Heritage site. From Texel, adventurous travelers can continue their island-hopping journey to Vlieland, the car-free haven with vast natural landscapes, accessible via a connecting ferry service. The neighboring island of Terschelling, known for its cranberry fields and lively atmosphere, makes for an enchanting next stop about 90 minutes away by ferry. For those seeking to explore further, connections to the German Wadden Islands are possible during summer months, offering a truly international island experience. The ferry routes themselves provide breathtaking views of the Wadden Sea, with opportunities to spot seals and various seabirds along the way.
Unforgettable Experiences on Texel
Texel captivates visitors with natural wonders like the Dunes of Texel National Park, where hiking trails wind through diverse landscapes housing rare flora and fauna. The island's seven distinct villages each offer their own charm, with Den Burg's historic center featuring local shops and weekly markets perfect for sampling Texel's famous lamb, sheep cheese, and locally brewed beer. Maritime enthusiasts shouldn't miss the fascinating Maritime and Beachcombers Museum in Oudeschild, showcasing the island's rich seafaring history. For wildlife viewing, Ecomare nature center provides close encounters with rehabilitating seals and educational exhibits on the Wadden Sea ecosystem. The island's 30km of pristine beaches invite relaxation, water sports, or horseback riding along the shore, with the southern beaches offering spectacular sunset views over the mainland.
Texel's Intriguing Island Secrets
Texel boasts its own unique sheep breed, the Texel sheep, renowned worldwide for its high-quality meat and wool production. During World War II, the island was the site of Europe's last battlefield, with the 'Georgian Uprising' of April 1945 being the final conflict on European soil. Texel's microclimate results in more sunshine hours than most parts of the Netherlands, contributing to its reputation as a premier domestic holiday destination. The island's lighthouse, built in 1864, remains one of the few continuously operating lighthouses in the Netherlands, guiding ships through the challenging Wadden Sea waters for over 150 years.
FAQs