15x museums in North Brabant you really must visit
North Brabant, the province where not only the landscape is picturesque, but also the museums invite you to art, culture and history. From ancient masters to modern art, and from industrial heritage to personal stories - in Brabant, you'll discover it all. Did you know that Van Gogh was born and raised in North Brabant? The Noordbrabants Museum gives home to his beautiful paintings! Step into the world of Brabant culture while visiting one of the museums. You'll find the best 15 museums in this blog.
1. Van Gogh Village & Museum Vicentre
Step into the world of Vincent van Gogh at Van Gogh Village in Nuenen, where the master himself once drew inspiration. In Museum Vincentre, Van Gogh comes to life through interactive exhibits and stories from villagers who knew him. Experience how the Brabant countryside influenced his most famous works. Then follow the Van Gogh route through the village and surrounding countryside, just as Vincent did. Ready to see the world through his eyes?
2. The North Brabant Museum
In bustling Den Bosch, the Noordbrabants Museum welcomes you with a rich collection of art and history. A collection dedicated to modern and historical art. Here you will meet the world-famous works of Vincent van Gogh, who left his mark on the Brabant landscape. But this museum offers more than just art; it also tells the story of Brabant, from Roman times to the present. Its magnificent collections will keep you busy for more than 2-3 hours. A must-visit for those who love art with a touch of Brabant pride!
Photos: Van Gogh Brabant
3. TextielMuseum
n Tilburg you will find the TextielMuseum, located in Tilburg's former textile factory. It is a unique place where fashion and craft meet. From design and art to fashion and innovation. Discover how textiles have influenced fashion over the years and admire beautiful pieces by contemporary designers. For the creative among us, there are even workshops where you can create your own textile art. Who would have thought a ball of wool could provide so much inspiration?
Photo: VisitBrabant
4. Philips Museum
How a small light bulb factory grew into a global brand that breathes innovation? The very first Philips light bulb factory is now home to the Philips Museum. Here, Gerard Philips made the first light bulb in 1891. Travel through more than a century of inventions during a visit to the museum, from the first light bulb to the most modern technologies. A museum full of innovation, inspiration and creative energy!
5. Van Abbemuseum
In the heart of light city Eindhoven stands the Van Abbemuseum. A museum for modern and contemporary art. The art in the museum makes you think, inspires and challenges. From abstract paintings to experimental installations, the Van Abbemuseum offers a stimulating look at today's art. Perfect for those who love art that is just a little bit different.
6. DAF Museum
Fan of cars? Then the DAF Museum is a true paradise! The museum is all about Van Doorne's Automabiel Fabriek, its success and history. Step inside and dive into the world of iconic DAF vehicles, from the charming old classics to the tough trucks that dominated the roads. For little ones, there are even opportunities to get behind the wheel and play with mini versions. It is not only an educational museum, but above all a fun-filled ride for the whole family.
7. The Beguinage
When you step through the gate of the Beguinage, you step centuries back in time to the world of the Breda beguines. The Beguinage is a hidden gem in the heart of the city. In the hofje, the hustle and bustle of the city seems far away and you are surrounded by tranquility and history. With charming little houses and flowering gardens, it was once home to pious women who lived a simple life. Stroll the cobblestone streets and admire the centuries-old chapel. You can walk into the Court for free. Just keep in mind that people live there. The adjacent Beguinage Museum is open on Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays.
8. Stedelijk Museum Breda
Getting to know Breda better? The Stedelijk Museum Breda is a creative place where art meets history! Discover the stories of Breda, told through modern works of art and historical treasures. From old masters to contemporary artists, each exhibition stimulates you to look at the world differently. You can ideally combine a visit to the Stedelijk Museum with a visit to the Begijnhof, a 5-minute walk away.
10. De Pont Museum
Modern art with an edge? Then Museum De Pont is the place to be! This museum located in Tilburg, near the TextielMuseum, is a former wool spinning mill that has been transformed into a temple of modern art. Founded by Jan de Pont with the idea of using his fortune to continue to stimulate contemporary art. While visiting, enter a world full of challenging and sometimes playful works of art that will change your view of the world. The gigantic industrial spaces provide the perfect backdrop for installations, sculptures and paintings by contemporary masters.
9. Nature Museum Brabant
At the Natuurmuseum Brabant in Tilburg, nature comes alive! Upon entering, you are immediately greeted by curious animals, impressive skeletons and interactive exhibits. Children can playfully learn all about the animal kingdom and nature around us. Every corner of the museum is full of surprises, from prehistoric giants to the smallest insects you can scrutinize.
11. Biesbosch Museum
Discover the adventurous water landscape of the Biesbosch at the Biesbosch Museum. Dive into the world of rivers, reeds and beavers. Learn how man and nature have worked together for centuries in this watery area. After your visit you can enjoy the water in a whisper boat or canoe. Who knows, you might even spot a beaver...
Photo: Global Network of Water Museums
12. Design Museum
Do you love design? The Design Museum in Den Bosch is a veritable playground of creativity and innovation. The museum is full of smart, crazy and beautiful designs that show how design colors our lives. From futuristic furniture to surprising fashion creations. With interactive exhibitions and surprising workshops, you can get to work yourself and discover how design shapes the world. Tip: combine your visit to the Design Museum with a visit to the North Brabant Museum. They are located at the same location.
Photo: Museum.nl & Design Museum Den Bosch
13. Tongerlohuys
Are you in Roosendaal, then a visit to the Tongerlohuys can not miss. The Tongerlohuys tells the story of Roosendaal and takes you on a journey through the city's rich past. This historic building, once a monastery, tells the stories of Roosendaal through special objects, art and exhibitions. Each room reveals new secrets, from ancient crafts to modern urban developments.
14. Nationaal Monument Kamp Vught
Nationaal Monument Kamp Vught is a place where history comes alive and where you are taken on a journey through the past. Here you step into the footsteps of thousands of people who stayed in this concentration camp during World War II. With impressive exhibitions and more than 32,000 personal stories, you walk through the history of Camp Vught. Feel the power of remembrance and the importance of freedom during a visit.
Photo: Museum.nl
15. Museum Helmond
Experience the 700-year-old castle story in the largest moated castle in the Netherlands, Kasteel Helmond! This apparition, right in the center, has an impressive story to tell. For a moment, imagine yourself in the world of knights, princesses and exciting stories that come to life among the ancient stones. Museum Helmond is a perfect blend of history and contemporary creativity, a place where you will always discover something new!
Photo: Museum.nl & Visit Brabant
