Hey Leeuwarden what's new?!
Heard the news yet? We adore our little city. From the old cobblestones of the Grote Kerkstraat to the historic houses along the canal — but every now and then, we crave something new. A fresh start, a little breeze of inspiration. If you love discovering new places, flavours and experiences, you’re going to like this series. We’ve gathered everything that’s new, buzzing and worth exploring in our historic city centre. All you have to do is decide where you’re heading first. Fair deal, right?
Winter pop-ups - temporary and totally worth a visit
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The Greenest Tree of the Season!
More info about the Christmas treeThis year, Leeuwarden is getting a ten-metre Christmas tree with a story of its own. While many cities put up a freshly cut tree every year, Leeuwarden is taking a different approach. The tree on Wilhelminaplein is a Nordmann fir of about ten metres tall, grown specifically to be replanted and to last for years in a sturdy, reusable container. After three to five years – depending on its health – it will be moved to a permanent spot in the municipality. Then a new tree can take its place in the same container. Pretty great, right?
Moshen of kunst kieke? - art and culture
De Beatriks
Have you heard of pop venue De Beatriks yet? Tucked inside an old theatre hall of the former prison, the Blokhuispoort, you’ll find this underground music spot where you can still enjoy a full night of live music for around fifteen euros. Discover the coolest bands, dive into the mosh pit or drift away with singer-songwriters. You won’t find them on social media, so if you want more info or tickets, you’ll have to head straight to their website!
Visit De Beatriks
VHDG
VHDG – short for Voorheen de Gemeente – is an independent art initiative in the heart of Leeuwarden, focused on experimentation and talent development within contemporary art. After 25 years of wandering through the city, they’ve finally settled into a permanent home on the Naauw. Behind the large windows of this historic building, you’ll find a vibrant programme of exhibitions, performances and workshops for all ages – always free and open to everyone.
More about VHDG
Out onto the terraces, into the restaurants - horeca
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Kofje
Kofje
Located on the cutest little street in Leeuwarden! Kofje has found its new home on the Vijzelstraat. From Wednesday to Sunday, you can stop by for delicious bakes, tea and — of course — coffee!
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De Tweeling
De Tweeling
A true hidden gem! You’ll have to look for it, but once you’ve found De Tweeling, you won’t want to leave. On ’t Herenwaltje, twin sisters Marijke and Wietske have opened a cosy lunch spot where you can enjoy delicious sandwiches, a high tea or a freshly brewed coffee.
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Garage Modern
Garage Modern
Recently opened — and already impossible to imagine Leeuwarden without it. Right next to Wilhelminaplein you’ll find a little slice of Amsterdam-Zuid. Shared dining, boozy brunches and dancing until the early hours: at Garage Modern, it’s all on the menu.
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Folk Specialty Coffee
Folk Specialty Coffee
Mix minimalism, quality and cinnamon and you get Folk Specialty Coffee. This little oasis of calm serves fantastic coffee alongside homemade cinnamon rolls, cannoli and nut bars. A must-visit for every coffee lover.
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Pizza Beppe
Pizza Beppe
Pizza Beppe is the first restaurant in the Netherlands recognised by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana. For truly delicious pizzas made in the authentic Neapolitan way, this is the place to be.
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De Gouveneur
De Gouveneur
In the historic heart of Leeuwarden, you’ll find De Gouverneur — a place built on connection, with a menu centred around shared dining. A unique spot you’ll want to experience at least once.
