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Exploring Texel Getting Around

Exploring Texel Getting Around

Frisian Islands, Netherlands

Public Transportation on Texel

Texel's public transport system provides a reliable way to navigate, useful for longer distances or when cycling is less appealing. Arriva operates the bus system.

Bus System Details

  • Fixed Line (Line 28): Connects ferry port to main villages (Den Burg, De Koog, Oudeschild, De Cocksdorp). Fixed schedule.
  • Texelhopper (Flex Service): Demand-responsive vans for areas not on Line 28. Book via app/website, 130+ stops.
  • Route Maps: Available at ferry terminal, VVV offices, Arriva website. Texelhopper map via app/website.
  • Accessibility: Modern buses generally accessible (low floors, ramps). Check Texelhopper specifics if needed.

OV-chipkaart

National smart card system. Purchase anonymous card (non-refundable), load credit, tap in/out.

Debit/Credit Card OVpay

Tap contactless card on reader for pay-as-you-go travel.

Single-Use Tickets

Purchase from bus driver (Line 28), generally more expensive.

Operational Hours & Fares

Service Hours
  • Line 28: Regularly during day, hourly or more frequent. Reduced evenings/weekends/holidays.
  • Texelhopper: Early morning to late evening, book 30 min in advance.
  • Fares calculated by distance (OV-chipkaart, OVpay).
Fares & Tickets
  • Texelhopper: Per person per ride, booking required.
  • Day tickets: Check Arriva website or VVV for availability.
  • For main villages, use Google Maps/Arriva app.

Practical Transport Advice

Cycle for Shorter Distances

Often faster and more enjoyable than buses for shorter journeys.

Buses for Longer Journeys

Use buses for extended trips or when weather conditions are not ideal for cycling.

Texelhopper for Flexibility

Utilize the Texelhopper app for flexible travel to specific points.

VVV for Information

Visit the Texel tourist information office for maps and current options.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis provide a convenient, direct, though more expensive, transport option on Texel, useful for specific transfers or late-night travel.

Taxi Operations

  • Hailing: Marked with "Taxi" sign. Call local company for pick-up.
  • Fares: Metered (distance and time). Can be expensive.
  • Payment: Usually cash or Dutch debit card (PIN). Confirm credit card acceptance.
  • Safety: Generally safe and regulated. Use licensed taxis.

Ride-Sharing

  • Major Apps: Uber not widely available or operational on Texel.
  • Texelhopper: Functions as the closest alternative for shared, on-demand transport.
  • Booking: Texelhopper via their app or website.
  • Plan Ahead: Book Texelhopper in advance for reliability.

Rental Options

  • Car Rental: Limited major international companies directly on Texel. Many rent on mainland.
  • Motorcycle/Scooter: Some providers might offer scooter rentals; motorcycle rentals rare.
  • Bicycle: Texel is a premier cycling destination, plentiful rentals.
  • Bike Shops: Large rental offices at ferry terminal, smaller in villages (Den Burg, De Koog).
  • Rates: Regular bike €10-€15/day, e-bikes €25-€35/day.
  • Helmets: Not legally required but available for rent.

Specialty Vehicle Options

Horse-drawn Carriages

For guided tours in specific areas, offering a charming, traditional experience.

Texelhopper Vans

The island's most unique local transport, offering on-demand shared rides.

Mudflat Hiking Wadlopen

Guided tours for walking on Wadden Sea mudflats at low tide (from mainland or sandbank).

Walking & Cycling

Texel's appeal lies greatly in its suitability for active exploration, with extensive networks for both walking and cycling.

Walking Routes

  • Pedestrian-Friendly: Extensive network of paths through dunes, polders, dikes.
  • Self-Guided Tours: Well-marked routes with maps at VVV, bookstores, bike shops.
  • Guided Tours: Natuurmonumenten or Staatsbosbeheer for birdwatching, ecosystems.
  • Texel is exceptionally pedestrian-friendly.

Cycling Infrastructure

  • Network: Over 140 km of dedicated cycling paths.
  • Scenic: Paths wind through dunes, polders, and coast.
  • Safety: Paths often separated from car roads, safe for all experience levels.
  • Cyclists generally have priority on dedicated paths.

Accessibility Services

Public Transport

Texel's public buses are generally accessible, equipped with ramps.

Suitable for mobility challenges.

Taxi Services

For more specialized needs, local taxi services might offer adapted vehicles.

Arrange in advance.

Paths & Beaches

Many paths in villages and some nature areas are paved or hardened. Some beach access points offer hardened paths or special beach wheelchairs.

Inquire at VVV Texel.

Restricted Areas

Nature Reserves
  • Very few areas are entirely off-limits.
  • Some protected nature reserves have restricted access to sensitive areas, especially during breeding seasons.
  • Always respect signage indicating restricted zones or specific rules.
General Access
  • Main paths and recreational areas are almost always open.
  • These restrictions are in place to protect fragile ecosystems.
  • Enjoy the beauty while respecting nature's boundaries.

Explore on Foot or Wheel

Embrace Texel’s extensive networks for walking and cycling. These methods offer intimate encounters with the island’s natural beauty.