72 hours in Leeuwarden

fave!

72h

in Leeuwarden

you never want to leave

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!

A 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.

More outstanding overnight-spots
Obe

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.

Check out all the museums
Time for borrel!

Now after experiencing an interesting exposition, it's time to relax! 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!

More borrel places
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!

Food and drinks

Fun

in Leeuwarden

you'll have the tme of your life

check the agenda

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.

Prefer something else for breakfast?
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!

Shopping in Leeuwarden
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.

To the museum
Irish 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!

Maybe you’d prefer a coffee?
‘Burgundian’ dining

Roast is located on the cosy Nieuwestad, along a canal. Book a spot in this modern restaurant or enjoy by getting a table in the atmospheric courtyard. Let the original menu surprise you.

Take me to Roast
the 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.

But I want to stay out a bit longer!

waking up

in Friesland

has never been so nice

Stay the night

Did you know that Friesland was on the Lonely Planet's ‘Best in Europe’ list in 2018? Never before has a place in the Netherlands earned a spot so high on this list. All the more reason to move to the province. We have listed a few suggestions for you.

Enjoying the fresh air

Leeuwarden is the perfect homebase for a trip to the Wadden Sea. Within a few hours, you can get a breath of fresh air on the vast beaches of Ameland, Vlieland, Terschelling or Schiermonnikoog. The perfect alternative for a last-minute day trip to an island.

Off to the islands
On your feet

It might not be apparent, but from the historic city centre you can be bicycling through the breathtaking Frisian landscape within fifteen minutes. You’ll pass by special mills, vast green plains and through an oasis of peace and nature.

Start in Leeuwarden
For adventure-seekers

It's not for everyone, but do you like camping? Then you are at the right place in Friesland, of course. In and Leeuwarden and the vicinity, you will find fantastic campsites, motorhome pitches and rental tents. Back-to-basics or rather ‘glamping….it’s your choice.

Camping in Leeuwarden