The Old Markets SOMETHING A LITTLE DIFFERENT

On the eastern side of the city centre lie the Old Markets — a place full of history and colourful tales. This part of the city is said to have played a major role in the notorious Liwadder Bieroproer (the Leeuwarden Beer Riot). It is also home to the famous Blokhuispoort, the former prison featured in numerous books and films. Today, you’ll find a vibrant mix of old and new. Stunning street art contrasts beautifully with stately townhouses, while young entrepreneurs and creative initiatives make the Old Markets buzz with life like never before. Definitely worth a wander!

De Plek Vintage
De Plek Vintage

Vintage
Designed For Maria
Designed For Maria
Vintage clothing, furniture and accessories shop on Tuinen 11 in Leeuwarden

Vintage
Regverdig
Regverdig
Pre-loved fashion & sustainable gifts

Vintage
The House of Vintage
The House of Vintage
The House Of Vintage is a Vintage shop with furniture and small items from before 1980.

Vintage

If you’re planning to explore the Old Markets, you may already have noticed that this area covers a significant part of the historic city centre. There is so much to see, taste, admire and experience. But where does the name ‘Old Markets’ come from? What used to happen in this part of the city? And what can you discover here today? Here’s a brief overview!

Blokhuispoort
We begin at one of the old city entrances, where a fortress has stood since 1499. The Blokhuis originally served as a defensive stronghold during times of conflict and power struggles. Over the centuries, it underwent many transformations; the two best known today are its role as a house of detention (people lived here as prisoners until 2008!) and its current identity as a centre of cultural heritage. These days, you can enjoy lunch or dinner, browse the shops, take workshops and lessons, and visit the many artisan makers who have their studios inside the Blokhuispoort.

Culinary Leeuwarden
Food lovers will feel right at home in Leeuwarden. Along the Tweebaksmarkt, the Kelders and the Voorstreek you'll find a range of excellent restaurants. At Steef and Arragosta you’ll be amazed by what comes out of the kitchen. Pecorino is the place for bottomless drinks and oysters. At ’t Leven, visitors of all ages can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere — and there are plenty more great spots in this part of the city.

Sustainable & Local
In the Vijzelstraat, you’ll find unique shops and a monthly Farmers' Market. Regional produce, microplastic-free cosmetics, handmade clothing, children’s books, craft materials and traditional craftsmanship all come together here. A hotspot you definitely won’t want to miss!

Vintage Heaven
The Old Markets area is home to soooo many vintage shops. De Plek in the Oosterstraat, Regverdig on the Kelders and Vintage Market on Sint Jacobsstraat — just to name a few — are all worth a visit. Are you a true vintage lover? Then follow our free vintage tour! Let’s go!!

Boutique & Design
Sint Jacobsstraat is also a fantastic street for hunting down unique home items or stunning clothing pieces. Designer boutiques sit alongside Mexican kitsch (Ny-Na, anyone?) and affordable design (Nørd!).

Back in Time
Walking through the Old Markets, you can feel the past beneath your feet. The Groentemarkt, Kelders, Tweebaksmarkt (an old word for ‘biscuit’), Wortelhaven and Vijzelstraat were once bustling hubs of trade. The city’s elite also lived here. Visit the Eysingahuis — a historic museum house managed by Hendrick de Keyser — to step back in time. Devoted to remarkable architecture? Then don’t miss De Utrecht, the Kanselarij or the Centraal Apotheek!

The centuries-old history of the Blokhuispoort is filled with legendary stories. Commissioned by Willibrord von Schaumberg and built on the site of the former Uniahuis, the building has taken on many different roles over the years. It served as a prison until 2007, and in 1944 it became the stage for the heroic liberation of 51 resistance fighters — an event still regarded as one of the greatest acts of resistance in the Netherlands during the war.

Today, the Blokhuispoort is a vibrant hub where good food, comfortable accommodation, shopping, creativity, literature, culture and sport all come together. Below you’ll find just a small selection of what’s on offer — but there’s much more! The Blokhuispoort regularly hosts brilliant events such as Ljouwert Culinair, SMOOK, the Zuidergrachten Concert and more. You’ll also find a Pilates studio, social workspaces, book restorers and office spaces. The Blokhuispoort is a highlight you simply shouldn’t miss during your visit to Leeuwarden.

De Blokhuispoort

This remarkable building has something of a Hogwarts feel to it. Turrets, grand gates, courtyards, windows and small chambers all tell their own stories about life as a prisoner, the 1944 prison break “De Overval”, and much more. Walk through the large entrance gate to explore inside. The Blokhuispoort is open seven days a week.
I want to know more!
Tour!

If only walls could talk… Well, they can’t — but former prison guards can. That’s why booking a tour of the Blokhuispoort is something truly special! Wild stories and colourful anecdotes alternate with hidden corners and winding, maze-like passageways.
Book a prison tour
dBieb

In the first courtyard, you’ll find the library: dBieb! And it’s not just a place to borrow books. Alongside comfy reading chairs, you’ll find study spaces, meeting rooms, a children’s play area, a cosy café (De Bak) for a good cup of coffee, and rooms for lessons and workshops. dBieb is also home to the Language Café, a welcoming place where non-Dutch speakers can come together to practise speaking and reading, and meet new people.
Visit dBieb
Edelsmederij CEL

At CEL – Collectief Edelsmeden Leeuwarden – you can buy jewellery but also make it yourself! Under the guidance of skilled silversmiths, you’ll learn the finer points of the craft. In no time, you’ll know how to transform a silver teaspoon into a ring for your loved one. Feel free to drop by their beautiful workshop and discover all the possibilities.

More information
Lies Keramiek

You’ll find Lies Keramiek’s studio in the second courtyard. It’s a beautiful workspace where you can work independently or take part in lessons and workshops. Raku, wheel-throwing, hand-building and glazing – everything is possible. The shop itself is a feast for the eyes, offering beautiful tableware, earthenware and porcelain to buy or order custom-made.
Visit Lies Keramiek
Proefverlof

In the second courtyard, you’ll also find the entrance to the restaurant Proefverlof. The chefs create fantastic dishes using regional produce, locally grown vegetables and Frisian specialities. Visiting on a sunny day? Then settle down on the sun-drenched terrace along the old city canal, where you can easily moor your boat for a leisurely lunch.
Kom eten bij Proefverlof
Café de Bak

At the back of the library — or opposite Proefverlof — you’ll find the entrances to Café de Bak. A cosy café where you can get truly good coffee and enjoy lunch for just €7! In summer, Café de Bak becomes even more of a treat, because the Beach Bajes takes over the courtyard. Children can play happily in the sand while you relax in the sun with a glass of wine. A win-win, if you ask us.
Come and chill at De Bak
Dance until you drop

Hidden away in an old prison theatre hall, you’ll find De Beatriks — an underground music venue where tickets still cost just €10 to €15. Whether you’re into (Dutch) pop or punk, there’s something for everyone. The atmosphere is magnifique, and a fantastic night out is guaranteed.
Visit De Beatriks!
Alibi Hostel

Fortunately, you don’t need to be a criminal to spend the night in the Blokhuispoort. In the third courtyard, inside the H-wing, you’ll find a truly unique hostel. It may sound a bit exciting, but don’t worry — the rooms are comfy, and you’re free to go home again the next day. Promise.

Stay the Night at Blokhuispoort
Shopping in former isolation cells

Every corner of the Blokhuispoort is used to its fullest, even the 2-by-3-metre isolation cells. Glassblowers, illustrators and other creative entrepreneurs have set up their tiny shops here. It’s one of the best places to find original souvenirs and gifts, if you ask us.
Absolutely brilliant!

De Centraal Apotheek

See the map

jugendstil
De Utrecht

Visit the museum

Jugendstil
Visiting the Wealthy Eysinga Family

Visit Museumhuis van Eysinga

Golden Age
De Kanselarij

See it on the map

GOTHIC

You’ll find the Vijzelstraat just a stone’s throw from the Grote Kerk. It may be tucked away ever so slightly, but it’s absolutely worth seeking out. This charming little street is full of cosy, artisan shops. And every first Saturday of the month, it transforms into one of Leeuwarden’s most delightful local markets. The entrepreneurs of the Vijzelstraat roll up their sleeves each month to create a truly magical Saturday. Stalls line the street, the shops open their doors, and you’ll find locally grown fruit and vegetables, honey, jam, and handmade soaps — all straight from the region. Need a break? Take a seat at Kofje or one of the other stalls and treat yourself to a cappuccino, a muffin, or a slice of cake. Curious about what the Vijzelstraat has to offer? Here’s a sneak peek at the assortment!

Meet Mister Fred

A conscious children’s store filled with the most original gifts.
Window chalk, woollen jumpers, second-hand books, beautiful prints, and sweet little cards — you’ll find it all here.

Meet Mister Fred
New Image

Time for a new look? Take a seat behind the yellow window frames and get pampered.

New Image
Kofje

Brand new: kofje! In addition to their mobile coffee bar (a familiar face on the Vijzelstraat for years), they’re soon opening the doors to their brand-new café.

Kofje
Madelief

Looking for a mindful new outfit? Step into Madelief! Here, second-hand gems are carefully selected just for you. You’ll also find beautiful gifts — for a loved one or simply for yourself!

Madelief
Green & Co

Handmade soap, lotion, and essential oils — for natural care, head to the green shop-in-shop Green & Co! Ecological, pure, and locally made.

Green & Co
Baukje Writes

Baukje writes in every way imaginable: text, copy, and even calligraphy — all by hand! The doors of her atelier on the Vijzelstraat are wide open for anyone who’s curious.

Baukje Writes

The Old Markets are an open-air museum in their own right, filled with stunning buildings and historic landmarks. Of course, the iconic Blokhuispoort steals the show, but there’s so much more to discover. Admire the stately façade of the Central Pharmacy, the impressive former Post Office, and the old headquarters of the Leeuwarder Courant newspaper. Stroll past the birthplace of Mata Hari, take in the striking Boniface Church, and step inside the historic Chancellery. And don’t forget to enjoy a sweet break at La Venezia — Leeuwarden’s legendary ice-cream parlour — located in the very first and oldest high-rise building on the Nieuweburen. Here, you’re not only tasting the best ice cream in town, but also a delicious slice of local history.

Book a city tour

The Old Markets in Leeuwarden will spark all your senses: lively sounds, colourful stalls and the smell of freshly prepared treats fill the air. After taking in so many impressions, there’s nothing better than settling down on a cosy terrace on the Tweebaksmarkt or in the iconic Blokhuispoort. Here you can enjoy everything from a light bite or surprising street food to a full meal or refined fine dining. The options are endless, but to make things easier, we’ve listed the very best culinary hotspots in the historic city centre for you. Be inspired and taste the very best that Leeuwarden has to offer.

Restaurant STEEF
Restaurant STEEF

Restaurant
Bajes Streetfood Club
Bajes Streetfood Club
THE LARGEST COVERED TERRACE IN LEEUWARDEN

Restaurant
Pizzeria Pompeï
Pizzeria Pompeï
We have been in business for more than 35 years, and our pizzeria is one of the most busiest restaurants in Leeuwarden. Our pizzeria in Harlingen i...

Restaurant
Smakelijk
Smakelijk
Ready-made meal shop Smakelijk offers delicious freshly prepared and healthy meals and lunches every weekday. Every week there is a new menu with f...

Lunch
Krist Vis & Dis
Krist Vis & Dis
Eating high-quality, affordable and sustainable fish. Where is that still possible? We would like to introduce ourselves:

Restaurant
Burrito Brothers
Burrito Brothers

Restaurant
Post-Plaza Grand Café
Post-Plaza Grand Café
The beating heart of the hotel is the Grand Café, established in the former Post Office with several details from the past. The barista roasts the...

Restaurant
Ice Cream Salon La Venezia
Ice Cream Salon La Venezia
In 2009, our ice cream parlor had been around for 75 years, or rather our ice cream. The company is still a real family business. Tea's daughter, S...

Ice-cream shop
Unia 12
Unia 12
Welcome to Unia 12, the living room restaurant par excellence. Here you can enjoy tasty, fresh and local food. The restaurant is warm and cosy deco...

Restaurant
Banhs & Boba
Banhs & Boba
Getting a quick sandwich. It happens all over the world, including in Asia. Taste? Banhs & Boba brings Asian street food to Leeuwarden. Tasty, fres...

Brasserie/Lunchroom
Anne & Max
Anne & Max
Come and join us — You're welcome every day for breakfast, coffee and tea, cake, lunch, brunch, high tea, and drinks. Anne&Max is your living room...

Restaurant
Cafe de Spoek
Cafe de Spoek
Musical, whisky and specialty beer cafe

Café or Bar
Eetcafé Het Leven
Eetcafé Het Leven
Welcome to eatery Het Leven When it comes to food and conviviality, eatery Het Leven has been a household name in Leeuwarden for almost 30 years.

Restaurant
Bistro Aragosta
Bistro Aragosta
Within the city canals of Leeuwarden, the capital of the beautiful province of Fryslân, you will find Bistro Aragosta.

Restaurant
Las Tapas
Las Tapas
The Spanish Mediterranean specialty restaurant Las Tapas is all about enjoying delicious freshly prepared dishes.

Restaurant
Bowls 'n Rolls
Bowls 'n Rolls
Bowls 'n rolls is the first poké bowl restaurant in Leeuwarden and stands for convenience and quality! A quick, healthy and nutritious meal for an...

Restaurant
Pecorino
Pecorino
In the middle of the cosy and old city centre of Leeuwarden, a stone's throw from the station, you will find wine & food bar Pecorino.

Restaurant
Drink & Eetlokaal Proefverlof
Drink & Eetlokaal Proefverlof
Thankfully, most people have never been in prison, let alone eaten there. Drink & Eetlokaal Proefverlof has changed that.

Restaurant
Saray Turks Restaurant
Saray Turks Restaurant
Let yourself be taken to a place where East meets West for an evening. The delicious dishes and the hospitable ambiance provide a culinary delight....

Restaurant
Irish Pub Paddy O'Ryan
Irish Pub Paddy O'Ryan
Paddy O'Ryan: The Irish Pub where we bring the convenience of Ireland to Leeuwarden.

Restaurant

The city center of Leeuwarden

Discover Leeuwarden

Leeuwarden’s city center doesn’t fit neatly into set areas. Old and new are intertwined here: you’ll find history on every street and a friendly face on every corner. Explore the city centre—we’ll show you the way.