72 hours in Leeuwarden
fave!
A weekend in Leeuwarden is something that you won’t forget in a hurry. You could spend the entire weekend in the city, but if you have a little extra time, it might be wonderful to experience Friesland more widely. Leeuwarden is known as one of the ‘hidden gems’ of the Netherlands, but the province of Friesland as a whole has many more facets to unveil. Naturally, a weekend is far too little time to experience everything, but you have to start somewhere!

Hotel Weidumerhout Leeuwarden
© Hotel WeidumerhoutA room with a view
Since you’re staying a little longer in Leeuwarden, you’ll need somewhere gorgeous to base yourself. At the Weidumerhout in Weidum (just outside the city centre) you’re assured of a luxurious room with a wonderful view of Friesland’s unspoilt countryside.

OBE
© Ossip vsn DuivenbodeObe
Checked in, bike rented, and before you know it you’ve sped into the city centre. Time to sniff out some culture: on the historic Oldehoofsterkerkhof you’re in the right place. Aside from the centuries old leaning church-tower, there’s also the hub for literature, art, and language in Friesland: Obe. Thanks to a wide range of interactive programming you’ll really be able to dive into Friesland.

Time for borrel!
With the autumn nights drawing in, you’ll need to warm up somewhere welcoming. At the Grand Café Fire you’re assured a warm welcome- whether you fancy a cup of coffee and fresh cake, or a glass of wine and some bitterballen!

Some culinary delights
There are too many restaurants, bars, and street-food outlets in the city for us to make a decision for you, so check out some of our favourites here!
Day 2 - Let's go!

Breakfast
There’s a famous saying in the Netherlands: “a good breakfast is half the work”! You’ll see this spirit at Lazy Lemon, which aside from a wide breakfast menu also has some of the comfiest sofas in town.

Shopping
Leeuwarden’s got several great shopping areas, with crafty boutiques and unique ateliers across the historic city centre. The winding alleyways and unexpected little shops make it one of the best shopping experiences in the country!

Back in time
On the regally-named Koningstraat you’ll find the beautiful Huis van Eysinga. Now a museum, it’s got some jaw-dropping interior features, and a whole host of stories to tell from its 300-years of history.

Paddy O'Ryan Leeuwarden
© Paddy O'Ryan LeeuwardenIrish Pub
For a truly cross-cultural experience, head to our own authentic Irish pub for a true Frisian borrel! On the Tweebaksmarkt you’ll find Paddy O’Ryan. Remember to save some room for dinner!

Sjoddy Leeuwarden
© Sjoddy‘Burgundian’ dining
On the Druistreek you’ll find the adorable bistro and winebar, Sjoddy, where a welcoming atmosphere and gastronomic delights go hand-in-hand. With inspirations from both Italy and Spain, you’re in for a true ‘Burgundian’ experience.

Hotel Weidumerhout
© Hotel Weidumerhoutthe land of nod
You’ll need the cycle back to Weidum after that meal! After a busy day, arriving back in the peace of the countryside will be a lovely way to end your Leeuwarden trip.