Things To Do
in Bolsward
Bolsward is a picturesque town located in the province of Friesland in the Netherlands. It is known for its well-preserved historic buildings, charming canals, and tree-lined streets. The town is famous for its stunning St. Francis Church, a medieval church with intricate stone carvings and stained glass windows.
Bolsward also offers a peaceful and scenic atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists looking to explore traditional Dutch culture.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk in the nearby nature reserves. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings and spot some local wildlife.
Visit the famous Bolsward Windmill and learn about its history. Take some time to enjoy a picnic lunch by the waterside.
Dine at a local restaurant and taste traditional Dutch cuisine. Finish your day with a stroll through the charming streets of Bolsward.
Begin your morning by visiting the St. Francis Church, known for its stunning architecture. Explore the surrounding historical buildings and monuments.
Take a guided tour of the town’s museum to learn about Bolsward's rich history. Enjoy a light lunch at a café nearby.
Relax at a local bar with friends, soaking in the atmosphere. Try some local craft beers and discuss your favorite historical sites.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical architecture.
- Beautiful canals and scenic landscapes.
- Friendly and welcoming community.
- Access to various outdoor activities and nature.
- Strong local market and community events.
- Limited public transportation options.
- Small town with fewer entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Potentially less economic opportunities for job seekers.
- Cold winters may not appeal to everyone.
- Limited access to large shopping centers and amenities.
Best Activities in Bolsward
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A lovely park ideal for walking, picnicking, and enjoying the beautiful greenery.
Explore Bolsward's picturesque canals by taking a guided boat tour or renting a kayak.
Enjoy scenic cycling paths that lead you through the charming countryside and historic sites surrounding Bolsward.
Take a self-guided walking tour to discover the rich history and architecture of Bolsward, including its many canals and monuments.
Visit the local markets held in the town square where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Try your hand at fishing in the serene canals, where you might catch various local fish species.
Explore nearby nature reserves that offer excellent birdwatching opportunities in a tranquil outdoor setting.
Tours
Uncover the best of Bolsward with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Bolsward
Visit one of these nice places.
The historic center of Bolsward features charming canals, traditional Dutch architecture, and quaint streets, making it a perfect spot for scenic photography.
This iconic church offers stunning views from its tower, and the surrounding area provides excellent photo opportunities with beautiful facades and historical elements.
The waterways of Bolsward provide picturesque reflections of the town and are ideal for capturing serene landscapes, especially during sunrise or sunset.
The traditional windmill is a quintessential part of the Dutch landscape and provides a great backdrop for photos, particularly when surrounded by blooming fields.
A historic building that showcases traditional Dutch architecture, offering great angles for unique photos and a glimpse into the town's heritage.
The picturesque bridges over the canals in Bolsward are perfect for capturing the charm of the town, especially with boats passing by.
This green space offers a peaceful environment and beautiful flora, making it an excellent spot for nature photography amidst the town’s urban setting.
Food in Bolsward
Bolsward Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Frisian sweet bread made with sugar, butter, and milk, often enjoyed during breakfast or as a snack. Try it at local bakeries like Bakkerij De Boer.
Must-Try!
Sample the locally brewed Bolswarder Beer, a popular choice among beer enthusiasts, at breweries such as Us Heit Brewery.
A Frisian spiced cake with a layer of pink glaze, almonds, and colored sprinkles. Visit Pijpenla Baksels to savor this iconic dessert.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Bolsward better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the vibrant Bolsward Farmer's Market, offering an array of fresh produce, local cheeses, and traditional snacks like stroopwafels and herring.
Stroll through the streets to discover charming food stands where you can relish authentic treats such as bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs) and freshly made stroopwafels.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bolsward, as in much of the Netherlands, punctuality is highly valued. Arriving on time for meetings and social events is a sign of respect.
Dutch people appreciate directness and honesty. When communicating, be straightforward but polite to maintain a respectful dialogue.
Personal space is important in Dutch culture. When interacting, maintain a comfortable distance and be mindful of others' privacy to show respect for their boundaries.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Bolsward with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Bolsward
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bolsward, as in many parts of the Netherlands, tipping is generally not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It's common to round up the bill at restaurants or to leave small change as a token of appreciation. In more upscale establishments, a 5 to 10% tip may be given if the service exceeds expectations.
The Netherlands is known for its advanced payment systems. In Bolsward, most transactions are carried out through cashless methods, including debit and credit cards, with contactless payment options widely accepted. Local shops and restaurants may still accept cash, but card payments are becoming increasingly dominant. It’s advisable to carry a card, as some smaller venues may not accept cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Bolsward.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring (March to May) is a great time to visit Bolsward as the weather starts to warm up, with average temperatures ranging from 7°C to 15°C. You can expect blooming flowers, vibrant greenery, and various local events such as flower festivals. It's also less crowded compared to summer.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Bolsward. Temperatures range from 15°C to 22°C. You can enjoy outdoor activities, festivals, and events in the parks. Be prepared for more tourists and higher accommodation rates during this time.
Autumn (September to November) brings cooler temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C. The foliage changes color, offering beautiful scenic views. This is a quieter time, with fewer tourists and opportunities to experience harvest festivals and local culinary delights.
Winter (December to February) can be quite cold, with temperatures often dropping below 0°C. Snow is possible, adding a picturesque charm to Bolsward. Winter festivities include Christmas markets and other local celebrations, making it a cozy time to visit despite the chill.
Bolsward at Night
Hiking in Bolsward
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful natural park located about 30 km from Bolsward, offering various hiking trails through wetlands and forests.
Scenic wetlands located around the Friesland area, suitable for hiking and nature observation.
A hilly area located approximately 25 km from Bolsward, featuring diverse landscapes with several hiking routes.
A coastal area where you can hike along the dikes, providing beautiful views of the Wadden Sea.
Close to Bolsward, this area offers picturesque routes along canals and nature reserves, ideal for leisurely hikes.
Aiports
How to reach Bolsward by plane.
The main international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 110 km from Bolsward.
An international airport serving Rotterdam and The Hague, located around 130 km from Bolsward.
A smaller international airport located approximately 120 km from Bolsward, serving the northern region of the Netherlands.
An international airport in Eindhoven, located about 175 km from Bolsward, primarily serving low-cost airlines.
Belgium's largest airport, located around 200 km from Bolsward, offering a wide range of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Bolsward, typically identified as native Dutch citizens.
Includes various ethnic groups who have settled in Bolsward from countries such as Turkey, Morocco, and Eastern European nations.
Senior citizens, typically those aged 65 and above, forming a notable demographic segment in the town.
Families with children, which form a significant part of the community, contributing to local schools and youth activities.
Youth enrolled in local educational institutions, contributing to the vibrant community life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Bolsward, with several local clubs and regular matches for various age groups.
Field hockey has a strong following in Bolsward, with local clubs offering training and competition for youth and adults.
During the winter months, ice skating becomes a favored activity, especially on natural ice rinks and indoor facilities.
Volleyball is a popular sport in Bolsward, with community clubs that engage both recreational and competitive players.
Running is widely practiced in Bolsward, with numerous events and recreational groups promoting fitness and community.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bolsward.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Bolsward offer vegetarian and vegan menu items, with options like hearty salads and plant-based dishes. Places like Hap & Tap serve delicious vegetarian meals.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can enjoy gluten-free dining at cafes such as Us Gebou, which offers a selection of gluten-free pastries and bread.