What is there to do in Leeuwarden?

Leeuwarden is a wonderful city located in the northwest of the Netherlands, and is the capital of the province of Friesland. With a population of just over 100,000, Leeuwarden is one of the smaller cities in the country. But don’t let its size fool you; it packs a punch when it comes to things to see and do. Regardless of what your interests are or how long your stay may be, there is something for everyone in Leeuwarden.

Museums

Leeuwarden is home to numerous museums, galleries and cultural centers that will fill your time spent in the city with experiences to remember. For those interested in history, the Fries Museum offers an extensive collection of artifacts, maps and documents that illustrate the long history of Friesland. The city also has a large collection of contemporary art at the Groningen Museum, with paintings, sculptures and photography on display. In addition, Gouden Eenhoorn (‘Golden Unicorn’) galleries offers historic Dutch Masters on display in an art market setting.Along with seeing traditional artifacts and artwork, there are also options for experiencing more hands-on history. The Martinikerkhof open-air museum allows you to experience Friesland’s bygone timber-framed houses, farms, churches and windmills. There is even an authentic blacksmith’s shop with live demonstrations available.

Cafés & Restaurants

Leeuwarden’s vibrant dining scene will leave your taste buds wanting for more. From classic Friesland dishes such as “Stampot’ stew to exotic Lebanese-style wraps, Leeuwarden has something to tickle everyone’s taste buds! For fine dining, there are an abundance of upscale restaurants located along the canals of Leeuwarden’s old town such as La Trattoria and Eetcafé De Nieuwe Maze. For casual brunching or night-time drinks there are a diverse selection of cafés and bars such as Café De Wacht and Café de Bruine Pij—so don’t forget to plan some extra time in Leeuwarden’s bars!

Shopping & Markets

Do you enjoy shopping? If so, then you’re in luck! Leeuwarden boasts one of the largest shopping areas in Friesland with over 350 different stores offering everything from designer fashion to specialty groceries. For those of you who prefer the outdoor markets, The Bazaar held every Saturday is a must-see. This buzzing outdoor marketplace offers a great selection of food fresh from local farms as well as handmade crafts from local artisans.

Events & Festivals

No visit to a Dutch town would be complete without attending at least a few of its many festivals! In Leeuwarden, several festivals pop up throughout the year such as the ‘Taste & Music Festival’, ‘Curling Cup’, and ‘ILoveFriesland’ festival. Every summer since 2005 there is also the ‘Welcome to the Village’ festival; spanning five out of five neighborhoods in the main city center, this unique festival brings together international music, art and theatre. And who could forget about Winterland Leeuwarden? Every winter, this beautiful winter wonderland will have you feeling like you’re in a magical wonderland with their walk-in igloos and light shows.

Other Activities

The list goes on! There are plenty of other activities for all ages in and around Leeuwarden. For adrenaline seekers why not try skydiving over Holland? And for those who prefer something a little slower paced why not take advantage of one of Friesland’s amazing waterways with either boat rentals or canoe hire. If none of those activities tickle your fancy, there are also several options for fitness enthusiasts with climbing gyms and cross-fit boxes popping up across the city. Alternatively, why not take advantage of some of the stunning nature that Leeuwarden has to offer! With stunning lakes, forests and beaches all just outside your doorstep it’s easy to spend an entire day exploring everything that Friesland has to offer. So whatever takes your fancy–history, food, nature or culture–Leeuwarden is sure to have something for everyone. And don’t forget to check out VisitLeeuwarden for up-to-date news and events about this vibrant city!

An Insider’s Guide to Leeuwarden: Exploring the Hidden Gems

If you’re looking for a unique and offbeat destination to explore in Friesland, Leeuwarden should definitely be on your list. This charming city is full of surprises, from its rich cultural experiences to its well-kept local secrets. As a local, here are a few insider tips to help you make the most of your trip to Leeuwarden:

Local Attractions: Discover the Hidden Gems

While Leeuwarden has its fair share of popular tourist spots, such as the Fries Museum and the Oldehove tower, there are plenty of hidden gems to explore as well. For a taste of the city’s creative side, check out Blokhuispoort, a former prison turned cultural hotspot. Here, you can find everything from art exhibitions and flea markets to music festivals and theatre performances. Another hidden gem is Prinsentuin, a gorgeous city park that’s perfect for a picnic or a leisurely walk.

Dining Spots: Savor Local Cuisine

Leeuwarden is known for its hearty, delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. For a taste of local favorites, head to one of the city’s “eetcafés” or “grand cafés”. Here, you can sample dishes like “stamppot”, a traditional Dutch potato dish served with sausage, or “Friese droge worst”, a famous local sausage. Don’t miss out on trying “Oranjekoek”, a sweet pastry that’s a favorite among locals. For a unique dining experience, check out Proefverlof, a restaurant located in the old prison building that specializes in creative, locally-sourced dishes.

Cultural Experiences: Embrace the City’s Traditions

Leeuwarden is steeped in history and tradition, and there are plenty of ways to immerse yourself in local culture. One must-see attraction is the Fries Museum, which showcases the history and culture of Friesland. For a taste of Leeuwarden’s musical side, check out the city’s famous brass bands, which can often be found performing in the streets during festivals and events. Speaking of events, don’t miss out on Leeuwarden’s “Fries StraatFestival”, a yearly street festival that showcases local artists, musicians, and performers.

Local History: Discover Captivating Stories from the Past

Leeuwarden has a rich and fascinating history, and there are plenty of stories waiting to be discovered. One must-see attraction is the Waagplein, a historic marketplace where goods have been traded for centuries. Another fascinating spot is the “Grote Kerk”, a beautiful church that dates back to the 16th century. For a glimpse into Leeuwarden’s darker past, check out the “Achter de Hoven” neighborhood, a former red-light district that’s now a trendy area full of cafes and local boutiques.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Go Beyond the Conventional

For a truly unique experience, consider exploring some of Leeuwarden’s lesser-known attractions. For example, why not take a stroll through the city’s charming “hofjes”, or almshouses? These tiny courtyards were originally built to provide housing for the poor, but have since been restored and turned into peaceful oases. Another hidden gem is the “Pier Pander Museum”, a small museum dedicated to the works of local sculptor Pier Pander. For a dose of natural beauty, take a day trip to the nearby Wadden Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning beaches and diverse wildlife.

With this insider’s guide, you’re all set for an unforgettable trip to Leeuwarden. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or cuisine, this charming city has something to offer everyone. So pack your bags, get ready to explore, and discover the hidden gems that make Leeuwarden such a special destination.