Things To Do
in Leeuwarden
Leeuwarden is the capital city of the Dutch province of Friesland, known for its rich history and charming canals. The city is home to many cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and historical buildings. Visitors can explore the picturesque Old Town with its narrow streets and traditional Dutch architecture.
Leeuwarden also hosts events and festivals throughout the year, showcasing its vibrant arts and music scene.
- "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: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the canals of Leeuwarden, taking in the charming architecture. Stop by a local café for a traditional Dutch breakfast.
Visit the Fries Museum to learn about the rich history and culture of Friesland. Enjoy lunch at a nearby eatery specializing in local dishes.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the city center, where you can shop or enjoy a drink. Consider dining at a cozy restaurant that offers traditional Dutch cuisine.
Begin your day at the Princessehof Ceramics Museum, marveling at stunning ceramic art. Take a moment to appreciate the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum.
After lunch, visit the historic Oldehove tower and take in panoramic views of Leeuwarden. Explore the nearby nightlife scene with its unique snugs and bars.
Attend a local theater performance or a live music event to immerse yourself in the cultural scene. Have dinner in a restaurant renowned for its local specialties.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historical landmarks and museums
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including parks and waterways
- Vibrant local arts scene with festivals and events
- Friendly and welcoming community
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger Dutch cities
- Good transportation links to other parts of the Netherlands
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Smaller city size may not appeal to those seeking urban hustle and bustle
- Weather can be unpredictable and damp
- Less diverse cuisine and amenities compared to larger cities
- Potential language barrier for non-Dutch speakers
Best Activities in Leeuwarden
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Take a guided city tour to explore the historical landmarks, canals, and cultural attractions of Leeuwarden.
Visit the Prinsentuin (Prince's Garden) for a peaceful walk, picnic, or to admire the beautiful garden and historical structures.
Explore the Frisian Museum and learn about the history, culture, and arts of the Friesland region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Leeuwarden with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Leeuwarden
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city.
Beautiful park with great photo spots.
Tall building with a viewing platform for stunning city views.
Food in Leeuwarden
Leeuwarden Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular Frisian cookie made with anise and often enjoyed with coffee. Visit local bakeries like De Fryske or Oldehove Banket to savor these sweet treats.
Must-Try!
This Frisian cookie, known for its unique blend of spices, can be found at specialty bakeries such as De Broodbakker van Leeuwarden.
A traditional Frisian sugar bread with a delightful sweet taste, available at bakeries like Bakkerij Otten.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Leeuwarden better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the Leeuwarden Market to sample a diverse range of local produce, cheeses, and traditional snacks like Friese suikerbrood (Frisian sugar bread) and droge worst (dried sausage).
During the summer, this food truck festival offers a fantastic opportunity to relish street food from a variety of cuisines, including Dutch specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It's important to respect personal space and not stand too close when interacting with others in Leeuwarden, Netherlands.
Being on time is highly valued in Leeuwarden, so it's best to be punctual for appointments and social gatherings.
Using polite language and manners is expected in Leeuwarden, and showing respect towards others is a cultural norm.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Leeuwarden with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Leeuwarden
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Leeuwarden, Netherlands is not mandatory, but it is appreciated. In restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, so it's best to check before tipping extra. A standard tip is around 5-10% if the service charge is not included.
In Leeuwarden, Netherlands, electronic payments are widely accepted, including credit and debit cards. Cash is also commonly used, especially for small purchases and in markets or smaller establishments. It's always best to check with the specific establishment regarding their preferred payment methods.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Leeuwarden.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Leeuwarden with blooming flowers, pleasant weather, and outdoor festivals and events.
Ideal for outdoor activities with longer days, lively atmosphere, and popular cultural events.
Enjoy the beautiful fall foliage and cultural events, such as the annual cultural festival.
Experience the festive atmosphere with Christmas markets, ice skating, and cozy indoor activities.
Leeuwarden at Night
Hiking in Leeuwarden
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park located near Leeuwarden, offering scenic trails through wetlands and forests, perfect for hiking and nature walks.
A recreation area just outside Leeuwarden with several hiking trails, biking paths, and beautiful natural scenery including lakes and forests.
A regional landscape park with various trails for hiking, featuring diverse flora and fauna in a park-like setting.
A forested area near Leeuwarden that offers peaceful hiking trails among trees and wildlife, ideal for a quiet outdoor experience.
An area with many walking paths that provide insight into the natural landscapes and cultural history of the region, perfect for a day hike.
Aiports
How to reach Leeuwarden by plane.
The main international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 130 km from Leeuwarden.
A major international airport in the Netherlands, located about 180 km from Leeuwarden.
An international airport serving the Rotterdam and The Hague area, approximately 150 km from Leeuwarden.
Belgium's largest airport, located around 200 km from Leeuwarden.
An international airport in Germany, located roughly 350 km from Leeuwarden.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Leeuwarden, representing the ethnic group native to the Netherlands.
A significant ethnic group in Leeuwarden, as Friesland is the region where Leeuwarden is located.
A notable minority group in Leeuwarden, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
Another demographic group present in Leeuwarden, often due to historical connections and proximity.
A demographic group that has a presence in Leeuwarden, part of the broader multicultural community.
Includes residents from various European countries, adding to the multicultural landscape of Leeuwarden.
This group encompasses individuals from various regions outside of Europe, contributing to the city's diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Field hockey is a popular team sport in Leeuwarden, with several clubs and a strong local community. The sport is played on grass and turf and involves two teams competing to score goals using sticks.
Soccer is one of the most popular sports in Leeuwarden, with numerous clubs at various levels. The city has a passionate fan base and regularly hosts matches as part of national leagues.
Volleyball has a significant following in Leeuwarden, with local leagues and clubs providing opportunities for both recreational and competitive play.
Due to the cold winters, ice skating is a popular activity in Leeuwarden. The city often hosts events on natural ice or in indoor rinks, attracting enthusiasts of all ages.
Cycling is a favored pastime in Leeuwarden, with many residents using bicycles for commuting as well as recreation. The city has an extensive network of cycling paths.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Leeuwarden.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Leeuwarden offer diverse vegetarian and vegan choices, including By Ús, where visitors can relish innovative plant-based interpretations of traditional Friesian dishes.
Individuals with gluten-free dietary requirements can find accommodating options at establishments like Bak and Proefverlof, known for their gluten-free bread and dishes.