What Makes Leeuwarden Special?

Leeuwarden is the capital of the province of Friesland in the Netherlands and it is a unique, vibrant city with a lot to offer. From its water-dominated landscape to its diverse cultures and strong cultural identity, Leeuwarden has a character unlike any other Dutch city. If you’re looking for an adventure in the Netherlands, Leeuwarden is the place to go.

Climate and Landscape

Leeuwarden’s landscape is dominated by two large bodies of water, the Wadden Sea and Lauwersmeer. This unique coastal environment ensures that visitors to Leeuwarden experience a one-of-a-kind blend of land and water that’s simply not found anywhere else. Geographically, Leeuwarden is situated in the delta of three rivers—the Moezel, the Lek, and the Waal—which all empty into the North Sea.

When it comes to Leeuwarden’s climate, it’s best described as temperate with cold winters and mild summers. The average high temperature during the summer months is around 22°C (71°F). Winters tend to be relatively mild, with temperatures rarely dropping much lower than freezing.

Culture and Sights

Perhaps the best part about Leeuwarden is its cultural diversity, which is why it has been selected as the European Capital of Culture for 2018. As a result, there are countless activities and events for visitors to enjoy throughout the year. Every June, for example, cultural events such as concerts, films, theatre performances and exhibitions take over the city for three weeks. In addition, several festivals take place through out the year, such as Friesland International Film Festival and Libelle Kasteelfeesten (which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year).

When it comes to sightseeing and landmarks, Leeuwarden doesn’t disappoint. Unquestionably, one of the most impressive monuments in Leeuwarden is the Oldehove, an unfinished turreted church tower that dates back to the 16th century. Other gems include museums such as Museum Willem van Haren, which showcases select works from the Groninger Museum’s collection; Princessehof Ceramics Museum with its fine collection of Dutch ceramics; and Fries FilmArchief, which houses over 35,000 films, slides and audio tapes.

Leisure Activities

Given its unique landscape and culture, it’s no surprise that Leeuwarden offers a range of leisure activities for visitors. Boating tours are available to take visitors out onto the Wadden Sea, where they can explore some of Friesland’s native birds and flora from a unique perspective. Horseback riding is also popular in Leeuwarden; packages are available for both beginner and experienced riders.

Cycling is an especially popular way to explore the city. There are plenty of cycling paths in and around Leeuwarden including paths along both sides of the river running through town as well as off-road routes for anyone looking for something a bit more adventurous. The provincial tourism board has put together a comprehensive map of cycle routes suitable for different types of cyclists.

Conclusion

Overall, Leeuwarden is an incredibly unique destination that simply cannot be replicated anywhere else in the Netherlands. With its unique climate and landscape, rich culture and sights, and plenty of leisure activities on offer, Leeuwarden provides visitors with an unforgettable experience that can be enjoyed alone or shared with friends and family.

An Insider’s Guide to Leeuwarden, the Capital of Friesland

If you’re planning a visit to the Netherlands, be sure to add Leeuwarden to your itinerary. This charming city is the capital of Friesland, a northern province of the country, and is chock-full of cultural experiences, historic sites, and delicious local cuisine. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Leeuwarden.

Local Attractions

When it comes to attractions, Leeuwarden has plenty to offer. Start your adventure at the Oldehove, an unfinished church tower that leans heavily to one side. Climb to the top for magnificent views of the city. Then, head over to the Fries Museum to learn about the region’s history and culture. The museum features interactive exhibits and impressive collections of art and artifacts.

Next up, take a stroll through the Prinsentuin, a stunning botanical garden filled with winding paths, fountains, and statues. During the summer months, the garden hosts concerts and outdoor events. For a closer look at Frisian art, visit the Museum Belvédère, housed in a former water tower and featuring contemporary work by Frisian artists.

Dining Spots

No trip to Leeuwarden is complete without trying some of the local cuisine. Start your day with a breakfast of traditional Dutch pancakes at De Walrus, a cozy café with a lovely terrace. For lunch, head over to Eeterij de Globe, a restaurant serving up hearty Dutch dishes such as stamppot and kroketten.

In the evening, head to Café De Bak for a local brew and a snack of bitterballen, a popular Dutch snack made of meat ragout. For a more upscale dining experience, visit Restaurant Wannee, located in the stunning Prinsentuin garden, for a meal of fresh, seasonal dishes made with local ingredients.

Cultural Experiences

Leeuwarden is a hub of cultural activity, and there are many ways to experience it. Start by exploring the city’s street art scene, which features colorful murals and installations. Take a guided tour with Cultureel Hoofdstad Leeuwarden-Friesland 2018 to learn more about the art and the stories behind it.

For a taste of local theater, visit Stadsschouwburg De Harmonie, a cultural center that hosts a variety of performances, from plays and musicals to concerts and comedy shows. If you’re interested in learning more about Frisian culture, visit Tresoar, a library and archive specializing in Frisian literature and history.

Local History

Leeuwarden has a rich history dating back to the 8th century, and there are many historical sites to explore. Start your journey at the Waag, a gorgeous 16th-century building that once served as a weighing house for goods. Today, it houses a café and cultural center.

Next up, visit the Jacobijnerkerk, a beautiful medieval church that dates back to the 13th century. The church features stunning stained glass windows and an impressive organ. For a more immersive historical experience, visit the Frysk Museum, an open-air museum that recreates life in Friesland throughout various eras.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a unique Leeuwarden experience, visit the Blokhuispoort, a former prison that has been converted into a cultural center. The center hosts events, concerts, and festivals, and also features a variety of shops and restaurants.

If you’re looking for a bit of nature, head to De Groene Ster, a sprawling park just outside of the city. The park features a large lake, a beach, and hiking and biking trails. For a peek into Leeuwarden’s emerging street food scene, visit De Koperen Tuin, a garden café and bookstore that also serves affordable and delicious snacks.

In Conclusion

With its rich history, cultural offerings, and delicious local cuisine, Leeuwarden is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring the Netherlands. From historic sites and cultural experiences to off-the-beaten-path suggestions, there’s something to suit every taste in this charming city.