Oss
Introduction
You will find Oss located in the southern Netherlands within the province of North Brabant. Situated between Nijmegen and 's-Hertogenbosch, this municipality offers a central location for your travels through the region.
Before you go
Before you visit Oss, you can reflect on its deep history dating back to 2000 BC and its formal acquisition of city rights in 1399. While a castle once stood near the site in the late 14th century, no traces of it remain today. You may also encounter local references to the city's past; during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, high crime rates led to its comparison with Chicago, and historical terms for "stabbers" are still occasionally used to refer to its citizens.
The industrial landscape of the area evolved significantly through major infrastructure projects:
- The construction of a railway in 1881 fueled industrial growth.
- A harbor built in 1968 provided a connection to the Meuse via the Burgemeester Delenkanaal.
Getting there
You can reach Oss by car using a network of major motorways. If traveling from the north or south, take the A50; if arriving from the west, use the A59. Travelers coming from the north-west should take the A2/E25 and transition to the A59 at Knooppunt Hintham near 's-Hertogenbosch. When traveling on either the A50 or A59, you can exit at Knooppunt Paalgraven (Oss-Oost) to reach your destination.
Alternatively, you can arrive by train via the line connecting 's-Hertogenbosch and Nijmegen. By taking a train between these two cities, you will pass through both Oss and Oss West stations halfway along the track. Choose the Oss station if you wish to walk through the city centre, or choose Oss West to access various residential neighbourhoods in the western part of the city.
Getting around
You can explore the most interesting parts of the city center on foot as you navigate through the heart of the area.
Where to stay
You can choose between staying in the heart of the city or in the surrounding countryside. For a central stay, you can find spacious rooms with air-conditioning, televisions, and small fridges. If you prefer a quieter experience, request a room at the back to avoid the noise of the busy road on the front side.
Alternatively, you can stay in the nearby village of Berghem. This bed and breakfast offers a private entrance and access to a garden and kitchen, providing a convenient option if you are traveling by car or bicycle.
Food & drink
You can enjoy a variety of Mediterranean flavors in the local dining scene. At De Bodega, you can choose from popular grilled meat dishes or select from an array of fish and vegetarian options alongside a range of tapas. For a different experience, the nearby La Colline offers more affordable Mediterranean cuisine.
For a high-end culinary experience, Cordial provides excellent food in a refined setting.
What to see and do
Explore the historical landmarks of Oss, where you can visit the Water Tower, a structure known as the cigar of Oss that now serves as a mosque. You can also explore the remains of the 14th-century Oss Castle near the Gelderse Poort shopping center or view the neo-Gothic architecture of the Nieuwe Kerk. For a glimpse into the ancient past, visit the Vorstengraf, a reconstruction of a monarch's grave dating back to the 7th century BC.
Experience the local heritage through these notable sites and cultural highlights:
- Stellingmolen Zeldenrust and Stellingmolen Nieuw Leven
- Villa Constance, a neoclassical residential villa housing Museum Jan Cunen
- The Willibrordusput, an ancient well near the intersection of Willibrorduslaan and Munlaan
- Local cultural spots including De Pillenstrip, De werkers van Oss, Saal van zwanenberg, Triomferende Maria, and Vlinderboek
Three days in Oss
Day one, you can explore the historic heart of the city to see the Gothic architecture of the Nieuwe Kerk and the nearby Vorstengraf. You can also visit the Water Tower or walk toward the Gelderse Poort.
Day two, you can experience the local atmosphere at De Bodega or enjoy a cordial drink at La Colline. Alternatively, you can take in the sights of Oss Castle to see its distinct character.
Day three, you can travel toward the outskirts to find the Stellingmolen Zeldenrust. You may also choose to explore the area near the Burgemeester Delenkanaal or wander through the local streets of Oss West.