What Are the Top Attractions in Leeuwarden, The Netherlands?

Leeuwarden is one of the most vibrant, historic cities in The Netherlands. From its narrow, cobblestoned streets and canals to its beautiful monuments and museums, there’s no shortage of attractions for locals and tourists alike. Here are some of the top attractions in Leeuwarden, The Netherlands.

The Oldehove

The Oldehove is 8 meters tall, making it the highest church tower in the country. Built in 1529, the brick tower is famously crooked and has become an iconic symbol of Leeuwarden. It’s the perfect spot for visitors to take in views of the city.

The Fries Museum

The Fries Museum is a beautiful building full of history and culture. The museum houses many collections, including some 12,000 objects, including objects from prehistoric times to present day. It’s a great place to learn about the history of Friesland, a province in The Netherlands.

The Dockinga Windmill

The Dockinga windmill is one of the oldest windmills in The Netherlands, dating back to 1600. It’s an 8-storey brick structure, which still stands today. Visitors can learn more about the region’s traditional windmills at this historic site.

Prince Willem Alexanderpark

This gorgeous park was named after The Netherlands’ King Willem Alexander in 2013. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the park’s winding paths, or take in the stunning views of the pond and colourful flowerbeds. The park is also home to an annual flower festival, which attracts visitors from all over the world.

Verzetsmuseum (Resistance Museum)

The Verzetsmuseum is one of the most popular attractions in Leeuwarden. It covers the history of The Netherlands during WWII and explains how the population reacted to the occupation. Objects and stories are exhibited, as well as a newspaper (printed on potato starch) which circulated throughout The Netherlands during that time. The museum has become an important part of the city’s history and culture.

Mondriaanhuis

The Mondriaanhuis is a must-visit for fans of the Dutch abstract painter Piet Mondrian. Located in Begijnhof square, this historic museum houses an impressive collection of items related to Mondrian, such as sketches, prints, documents and other items from his personal archive. It also features interactive displays and an audio-visual film about his life and work.

Gevangenenpoort

The Gevangenenpoort (Prisoners’ Gate) dates back to 1580 and is one of Leeuwarden’s most important monuments. For those familiar with Dutch history, it was here that prisoners were sent off to serve their sentences or await their trials during the Dutch Golden Age. Visitors can get a good sense of this stunning building’s importance through its scale and architecture.

Conclusion

Leeuwarden is one of the most dynamic cities in The Netherlands, with a plethora of attractions for visitors. From its churches and museums, to its parks and monuments, this city is full of fascinating sites that are sure to delight visitors from all around the world. To learn more about these attractions and the city itself, visit Leeuwarden Info’s website, where you’ll find a wealth of information about this destination and all it has to offer.

An Insider’s Guide to Leeuwarden, The Netherlands

Located in the northern part of the Netherlands, Leeuwarden is the capital city of Friesland province. The city has a rich history spanning over 1000 years, with a beautiful historic city center and numerous cultural hotspots. Here is an insider’s guide to the top attractions, local dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions for tourists visiting Leeuwarden.

Top Attractions

1. Oldehove Tower: The Oldehove Tower is a leaning tower inspired by the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. The tower has a gradual incline starting from the bottom that gets more pronounced as it goes up. Tourists can climb up the tower and take in a breathtaking view of Leeuwarden from the top.
2. Fries Museum: This museum features a range of exhibits relating to Friesland’s culture and history. From local art to famous locals and sports in the area, the Fries Museum is a must-visit attraction in Leeuwarden.
3. Princessehof National Museum of Ceramics: This museum showcases a wide range of ceramic works from all over the world, including early Chinese pottery, European porcelain, and contemporary ceramic works.

Dining Spots

1. Eetcafe Spinoza: Eetcafe Spinoza serves an extensive menu of Dutch and international cuisine. In the summer months, the terrace is open, and it is an ideal place to take in the beauty of Leeuwarden.
2. Gartine: Gartine is a charming café and restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, and high tea. The menu features homemade, organic, and locally-sourced ingredients for a unique culinary experience.
3. Café de Bak: Café de Bak is a cozy café in the heart of Leeuwarden that offers a range of drinks and snacks. It is an ideal spot to relax and take a break from exploring the city.

Cultural Experiences

1. Leeuwarden-Friesland European Capital of Culture 2018: In 2018, Leeuwarden and Friesland were designated the European Capital of Culture, featuring a range of cultural activities, events, and exhibitions throughout the year.
2. Historic City Walk: The historic city walk is an excellent way to learn about the history of Leeuwarden. It takes visitors through the narrow streets and alleys of the city center, passing by significant landmarks and attractions.
3. Aqua Zoo Friesland: Aqua Zoo Friesland is a unique amusement park that allows visitors to explore a range of aquatic life, from penguins to seals and giant otters, in their natural habitat.

Local History

1. Blokhuispoort: The Blokhuispoort is a former prison, which is now a cultural center. Visitors can explore the prison cells and learn about the history of the prison and the stories of its inmates.
2. Brouwershuizen: The Brouwershuizen is a row of historic buildings that were once part of the city’s brewing industry. The buildings now serve as a cultural center and event space.
3. Zuiderpark: The Zuiderpark is a beautiful park located south of the city center with a rich history. The park was once a country estate and has a beautiful pond, walking paths, and volleyball and basketball courts.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

1. Stadsstrand Leeuwarden: Stadsstrand Leeuwarden is a man-made beach located in the heart of the city. It is an ideal spot to relax and soak up the sun.
2. De Tuinen van Stichting De Schierstins: De Tuinen van Stichting De Schierstins is a unique botanical garden that features over 500 different plant species and a range of colorful floral displays.
3. Bear Forest: The Bear Forest is a bear sanctuary located north of Leeuwarden. It is home to around a dozen brown bears and is an ideal spot for nature lovers.

Leeuwarden is a fantastic city with a range of attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and opportunities to explore local history. By following this insider’s guide, tourists can experience the best that Leeuwarden has to offer.