Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Leeuwarden, Netherlands

Leeuwarden is a remarkable city situated in the northern region of the Netherlands within Friesland province. As the capital of the province, Leeuwarden boasts a population of approximately 108,000 and has a rich history of habitation dating back to the 10th century. The area has seen archaeological discoveries from the Roman era and has been referenced in historical documents for centuries.

Thanks to its extensive network of waterways and proximity to the North Sea, Leeuwarden served as a significant trade hub until the 15th century, when receding waters resulted in a decline of trade activities. Now, as the economic center of Friesland, Leeuwarden offers a variety of attractions ranging from parks to canals and historic buildings, making it an excellent base for exploring the Frisian Islands.

Let us examine the top attractions in Leeuwarden:

1. Oldehove

This historical structure is an incomplete church tower located in the heart of Leeuwarden.

A notable characteristic of this tower is its distinct tilt—it leans at a greater angle than the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Originally built in the 1500s as a rival to the Martinitoren tower in Groningen, the Oldehove showcases a design of bricks and sandstone.

The primary attraction of this tower is undoubtedly the panoramic vista from its summit. Visitors can ascend the winding staircase to the roof, where breathtaking views of Leeuwarden and the surrounding countryside await.

2. Saint Boniface Church

Constructed in a Gothic Revival architectural style, this church was completed in 1882, making it relatively young compared to other religious edifices in the country.

Named in honor of the English missionary Bonifatius, who was tragically killed by the Dutch in the 8th century, this building features a prominent central bell tower reminiscent of the Oldehove.

As the tallest church tower in the Friesland region, visitors can also ascend this tower for a unique perspective of Leeuwarden, as well as views of the Oldehove from above. Inside the church, one can admire exquisite stained glass windows and an ornate pipe organ.

3. Fries Museum

Regarded as the largest and most significant museum in the region, the Fries Museum focuses on the history and culture of Friesland.

Ideal for those seeking to gain insights into this unique and traditional part of Holland, the museum is centrally located near the De Waag building, making it easily accessible.

Visitors will discover information about the Friesian language, the history of its people, and the essential industries that have facilitated the region’s economic growth. Moreover, the museum houses an extensive collection of artifacts from the area, along with a renowned selection of Dutch art.

4. De Groene Ster

Located roughly 20 minutes east of Leeuwarden, the expansive De Groene Ster nature park serves as a recreational haven.

Established in the 1960s, this park encompasses over 1,000 hectares and is immensely popular for outdoor activities.

Here, visitors can find an abundance of ponds, lakes, hiking and cycling trails, beaches, lawns, and pastures.

Take a hike through the picturesque countryside, unwind on one of the small beaches, or enjoy a swim in the tranquil waters. Additionally, the park features an aqua zoo, several campsites, and the Groene Ster golf course.

5. Ameland Island

North of Leeuwarden, the stunning Frisian Islands are found.

This chain of islands serves as a coastal barrier and constitutes an exceptional holiday destination for both the Dutch populace and tourists alike.

Ameland is home to a modest population of only 3,500 residents spread across four small villages.

Accessing this island is straightforward; a regular ferry service operates from Holwerd, transporting visitors directly to the village of Nes.

Once on the island, explore the charming village and discover the beautiful Oerd scenic area, characterized by rolling sand dunes. Birdwatchers will find Ameland particularly appealing, as over 60 species of birds visit annually.

6. Terschelling Island

Terschelling, the second largest of the Frisian islands, is accessible via a passenger ferry from the coastal town of Harlingen.

Harlingen is situated to the west of Leeuwarden, and the drive there takes approximately 25 minutes.

Characterized as a vast nature reserve, Terschelling features a stunning landscape that is both wild and picturesque.

Golden beaches line both sides of the island, while lush pastures, rocky dunes, and heather-filled fields add to its charm.

Visitors can explore the quaint village of West Terschelling and the harbor at Dellewal, or opt to rent a bicycle to navigate the extensive trails that meander throughout the region.

7. Vlieland Island

Perhaps the most intriguing of the inhabited Frisian Islands, Vlieland is home to merely 1,100 residents and contains just one village—Oost-Vlieland.

Similar to Terschelling, Vlieland is reached by regular ferry services from Harlingen throughout the day.

The western side of the island boasts a vast expanse of sand, while the eastern part features the village and several campsites.

Visitors can deeply engage with nature and admire the stunning rural landscapes that Vlieland has to offer.

Bicycles are available for hire in the village, providing an excellent means to explore the island at your own pace.

8. Prinsentuin Park

Among the numerous beautiful public parks in Leeuwarden, Prinsentuin Park is situated on the northern edge of the city center, adjacent to the star-shaped canal network.

Originally part of the city defense system, this area was transformed into a tranquil park once the defenses were no longer necessary.

With its quintessential English landscape design, the park features various trees, walking paths, and seating spaces.

A central lake, complete with a fountain, and a lovely restaurant overlooking the Stadsgracht canal enhance the park’s charm.

On pleasant summer days, this park is an ideal location for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.

9. Flat boat tour of the canals

Leeuwarden features a wonderful network of canals that weave through the city center.

Tracing the remnants of the old city defense line surrounding the historic town center, these canals offer visitors a glimpse into the past.

A boat tour presents an ideal opportunity to explore these waterways, gaining valuable historical insights while viewing Leeuwarden from a different perspective.

Stichting Praamvaren Leeuwarden provides various short tours at reasonable rates, while electric boats can also be rented from the Greenjoy company, allowing for a self-guided exploration.

10. Try a craft beer at De Markies bar

For enthusiasts of craft beer, De Markies Bar offers an exceptional venue with numerous options to sample.

Conveniently located just a short walk from the Fries Museum, this establishment sits at the corner of a public square near the western canal.

Specializing in craft brews, patrons can choose from an impressive selection of 101 varieties, accompanied by a rotating list of tap beers.

Be sure to try the locally brewed Grutte Pier beer and revel in the vibrant atmosphere of this delightful establishment.

11. Frisian Resistance Museum

This informative and engaging museum is located within the same building as the Fries Museum, making a visit to both highly recommended.

Dedicated to the resistance movement in Friesland during World War II, this museum offers extensive information about their operations and achievements.

Visitors will find numerous photographs, artifacts, and exhibits that showcase the experiences of the Frisian people during this challenging period.

Additionally, a captivating display titled “De Overval” recounts the audacious tale of the liberation of a Leeuwarden prison by the resistance movement.

12. Princessehof Museum

Named after the princess who once possessed this building, the Princessehof Museum is primarily dedicated to ceramics, tiles, and pottery.

Constructed in 1731, this elegant structure was acquired by the Princess of Orange, who began collecting and displaying pottery within its halls.

Following her tenure, the building came into the possession of Nanne Ottema, who transformed it into a museum.

Within its walls, visitors can marvel at an astonishing array of pottery and ceramics, including a wall adorned with Chinese Zhangzhou plates, cabinets filled with Delft pottery, and a multitude of vividly colored vases and tile paintings.

13. Froskepolle Park

Nestled away from the bustling city on its own island, Froskepolle Park offers a serene escape from modernity.

Situated on the southeastern side of Leeuwarden and distanced from urban areas, this tranquil park is less frequented than those in the city center.

Visitors can immerse themselves in nature, strolling around the island’s expanse and along the waterways, taking in the stunning landscapes and views of the city, or simply relaxing on the lawns or beneath the trees’ shade.

14. Enjoy a meal at Eindeloos restaurant

Despite its modest exterior, Eindeloos boasts a reputation as one of the finest dining establishments in Leeuwarden, providing an exceptional culinary experience.

This restaurant, located on Korfmakersstraat, is approximately a five-minute walk from Waagplein.

Without a fixed menu, diners can simply express their dislikes to the waiter and enjoy a selection of impromptu dishes based on current offerings. The food quality is remarkable, with ingredients sourced locally whenever possible.

15. De Waag and Waagplein

Known as the weigh house, De Waag is an old and intricate structure located at Waagplein, adjacent to one of the smaller canals traversing the heart of Leeuwarden.

Constructed in a Renaissance style, this building exudes a certain grace and elegance that differentiates it from nearby shops.

Take a moment to admire De Waag, stroll along the canal, relax with some people watching, or enjoy a bit of shopping.

As one of the central areas in the city, Waagplein is sure to be bustling, providing a fantastic environment to engage with locals.