The province is perfect for road trips, cycling and discovering Dutch history and traditions. Cities like Eindhoven and ’s-Hertogenbosch blend modern design with historic architecture. Eindhoven is known for innovation, technology and vibrant cultural events.
A few kilometers away ’s-Hertogenbosch features medieval streets, canals and the impressive St. John’s Cathedral. Smaller towns such as Breda, Bergen op Zoom and Oisterwijk have charming squares and great local markets.
North Brabant also has rich natural areas including the Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park. It's where forests and sand dunes meet for hiking and cycling adventures. North Brabant is about culture, nature and Dutch charm.
North Brabant highlights
- Eindhoven The modern city known for innovation, technology, and design. Explore the Van Abbemuseum, Strijp-S creative district, vibrant cafés and nightlife.
- ’s-Hertogenbosch A historic city with medieval streets, canals and the impressive St. John’s Cathedral. Don’t miss trying the local specialty, the Bossche Bol pastry.
- Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park Known as the “Brabant Sahara,” this park features forests, sand dunes, and heathlands. Great for cycling, walking and wildlife spotting. It's the most majestic at sunrise with mist over the sand.
- Den Bosch Binnendieze Explore the historic waterways under the city streets by boat. A unique way to see ’s-Hertogenbosch’s hidden corners.
The local Four
History of North Brabant
During the Middle Ages, it was part of the Duchy of Brabant. A powerful region that extended across modern day Belgium and the Netherlands. The province’s history was deeply influenced by religious and political struggles, including conflicts between Catholics and Protestants and battles during the Eighty Years’ War in the 16th and 17th centuries.
Fortified towns and castles like Helmond and Breda bear witness to these turbulent times. Over the centuries, North Brabant gradually recovered and transformed into a region known for its vibrant culture, crafts and innovation.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, industrialization and modern infrastructure reshaped the province. Cities like Eindhoven grew into hubs of technology and design, while rural areas maintained traditional farming and local crafts. North Brabant combines centuries of history with lively urban culture and a scenic countryside.