Leeuwarden is the place for a cultural outing. It is not for nothing that the city was named European Capital of Culture in 2018! At the city's museums, you can find history, modern art, and everything in between. With rotating top exhibitions, the offerings always remain up to date. But art and culture are everywhere on the streets too: the entire city is adorned with street art, and in the historic city center, you can feast your eyes on all the beautiful old buildings. Are you coming to sample some culture in Leeuwarden? We have compiled the best tips for you.
Sniff culture
Exhibitions and displays
Once, in the distant past, a legendary king reigned over the great Frisia. Redbad was his name,…
From August 8, a small exhibition about the life and work of bridge keeper and amateur filmmaker can be seen…
This summer, the Pier Pander Museum presents the exhibition How fragile we are with work by Eveline van…
During Museum Night FRL, you will discover the Fries Museum like you have never seen it before. On Saturday evening, the 26th…
Soft Power Playground: soft materials, tall tales at SPOONK
Street artist Leon Keer paid tribute to the artist and painted a… in the basement of his birthplace.
Tanja Smeets grows vines and corals in De Utrecht. The exhibition The Great In-Between is in De…
Mummy Mysteries is a fascinating exhibition about animal mummies. There are animal mummies on display from Ancient Egypt, but…
Discover the Oldehove in the dark
Exhibition about the Frisian Foundations 1940-1945.
Ceramic is one of the most durable materials in existence: as long as it does not break, it can last thousands…
Come browse through the many stories of Friesland. In Ferhaal van Fryslân, you will discover through more than a hundred…
Are you coming under with me?
Historically beautiful
Exploring the historic city center, you will pass by the most beautiful places and buildings, with the most extraordinary stories. Stroll past the two palaces, beautiful churches, hidden courtyards and almshouses, and much more. The city breathes history! And did you know that Leeuwarden used to be the Royal Capital of Friesland? From 1584 to 1747, the Frisian Nassaus were based here, and the city still possesses a touch of royal allure. Naturally, you cannot miss the Oldehove, the city's leaning pride. This tower has stood here since 1529 and leans nearly two meters off plumb. For the best view of the city, climb the 183 steps to the top.
Cultural Capital
In 2018, Leeuwarden was named European Capital of Culture. Countless performances, exhibitions, and projects had the chance to shine in and around the city. Since 2018, work has continued apace on wonderful projects where culture, art, and craft come together, and to which you, as a visitor or resident of Leeuwarden, can contribute. Curious? Then read on!
Tours
Leeuwarden is bursting with culture. Do you want to discover even more about architecture, Frisian customs or regional dishes, the history of the city, or the Frisian language? Then join us on the city train, a barge cruise, or a city walk! The experienced guides know everything there is to tell you, so you won't miss a thing.
Discover the historic city center of Leeuwarden in one of our authentic historic farm barges through the canals of…
Join the enthusiastic guide from A Guide to Leeuwarden and get to know Leeuwarden by the hand…
Book for a group on board our historic barge 'Grutte Pier'.
Barge tours through the canals and waterways of Leeuwarden.
From SUP to sloop; from canoe to barge. Discover our boat trips…
The Nijkleasterkuier is a weekly walk on Wednesday mornings at Nijkleaster. Visitors are warmly welcome for a simple…
A surprising walk for visitors and residents of Leeuwarden, who are often amazed by the rich history of…
Step into the shoes of an inmate and let yourself be amazed.
During a pleasant guided tour of Leeuwarden, you will also receive a photography workshop to take even better photos.
A guide from Leeuwarden Tour takes you past monumental greenery and historic parks in Leeuwarden.
Walking along alleys, narrow passages, and courtyards in the oldest part of the city.
