Frisian Islands, Netherlands
A chronological approach aids in managing tasks effectively, from long-term planning to immediate pre-departure steps.
Be sure your passport is valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area, and that it was issued within the last 10 years. Renew if needed.
Secure your international flights to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS).
Begin exploring accommodation options on Texel (hotels, B&Bs, holiday homes, campsites) to understand choices and prices. This helps narrow preferences.
Make your reservation for accommodation on Texel. This is important for high season (June-August) or during Dutch school holidays when demand is high.
Secure comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation/interruption, lost luggage, and personal liability. Review policy details carefully.
If you plan to bring a car to Texel, check the TESO ferry website for current car reservation policies, especially if traveling during peak times. Familiarize yourself with schedules and fares.
Double-check all your flight, accommodation, ferry, and tour reservations. Print or save digital copies of all confirmations.
Review the detailed weather forecast for your travel dates. This helps make final adjustments to your packing list, especially concerning wind and rain.
Pack clothing suitable for layering, including a waterproof and windproof outer jacket, regardless of the season. Refer to section 3.1 for detailed packing advice.
International flights to Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS).
Home preparation ensures peace of mind during your travels.
Consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance. This coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation/interruption, lost luggage, and personal liability.
The first few steps upon arrival in the Netherlands and on Texel shape the start of your trip.
Have your passport and any needed visa or documentation ready for the immigration officer.
Proceed to baggage claim to retrieve your checked bags.
Pass through customs.
Once at Schiphol, follow signs for "Trains" (Treinen) to the train station located directly beneath the airport.
For your journey to Texel, your route means taking a train from Schiphol to Den Helder, then catching the TESO ferry to 't Horntje on Texel.
From 't Horntje, use the Texel public bus (Line 28), Texelhopper, or a pre-rented bicycle/taxi to reach your accommodation.
Withdraw Euros from an ATM ("Geldautomaat") at Schiphol or in Den Helder/Texel. ATMs offer favorable exchange rates compared to exchange bureaus.
Consider using your contactless debit or credit card (OVpay) to tap in and out for public transport on the mainland and Texel, or purchase an anonymous OV-chipkaart if preferred (see section 5.1). Make any initial purchases you need, like snacks or a local SIM card (if you haven't activated EU roaming).
Take the train (direct from Schiphol to Amsterdam Centraal, then direct to Den Helder).
Board the TESO ferry to 't Horntje. From 't Horntje, utilize the Texel public bus (Line 28), book a Texelhopper, or pick up your rented bicycle to reach your final destination on the island.
Using contactless debit/credit cards (OVpay) for public transport streamlines your travel on the mainland and Texel.
A smooth departure creates a positive end to your Texel journey.
For VAT refunds, this process typically occurs at your final point of departure from the EU, often Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. Allow extra time.
Aim for arrival at Schiphol 2-3 hours before your scheduled international flight departure.
