Leeuwarden is a city full of stories. But where do you start when there is so much to discover? Let an enthusiastic local city guide take you on a tour and discover the city's history, fascinating stories, and hidden gems. Whether you set out on foot, by water, by train, or by bike, there are plenty of ways to experience Leeuwarden. We have collected them for you below!
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Leeuwarden's historic and compact city center boasts more than 800 monuments, so there is an incredible amount to discover in a short time! Thanks to the short distances, the city is perfect to explore on foot. And those who prefer to go out with a guide have plenty of options. Stroll past the most famous highlights, discover Leeuwarden's street art, dive into history during a historical (themed) walking tour, or let yourself be surprised by a theatrical city tour, where remarkable figures from Leeuwarden's history take you through the city.
The most enjoyable city walk in Leeuwarden! Let yourself be carried away by Leeuwarden's top-rated guides!
City Train Leeuwarden takes a beautiful ride through the historic city center of Leeuwarden. Meanwhile, you can listen to the…
Come browse through the many stories of Friesland. In Ferhaal van Fryslân, you will discover through more than a hundred…
Private city walk led by an experienced guide through the oldest part of the former royal city. Duration is…
Barge tours through the canals and waterways of Leeuwarden. The departure jetty is at Nieuwestad zz near the yellow…
Discover the historic city center of Leeuwarden in one of our authentic historic farm barges through the canals of…
Discover the most beautiful Street Art with an enthusiastic guide or with the route map from A Guide to Leeuwarden!
C & A Brenninkmeijer present a walking cabaret show. A unique experience about famous Leeuwarden merchants and their…
A surprising and playful tour through the Royal Palace of Leeuwarden. Stadtholder Willem Lodewijk shows you around and…
Discover Leeuwarden highlights on a retro-cool bike with our guide.
A private tour with former wardens.
Discover Leeuwarden in a different way with this audio tour full of hidden stories, mysteries, and forgotten history. Walk past…
Barge tours through the canals and waterways of Leeuwarden.
Book your own guide for a walking tour through Leeuwarden. This is the most enjoyable way to… the city
Barge cruise through the canals and moats and city walk through the old royal city
The municipal government of Leeuwarden is opening the 1715 city hall for public tours of the monumental rooms and halls.
Step into the shoes of an inmate and let yourself be amazed.
Discover Leeuwarden highlights on a retro-cool bike with our 'local' – that way you'll see everything!
During a pleasant guided tour of Leeuwarden, you will also receive a photography workshop to take even better photos.
Autumn holidays extra regular sailings
The treasury can only be visited with a guide and is not open daily. Fun for young…
On Saturday evening, October 24, 2026, we will be operating the evening cruises during the "Night of the Night"!
Free guided tour of the Tresoar catacombs on the last Thursday of the month.
Saturday evening, October 31, 2026, is the day: Halloween Night 2026!
A walk through the city
By city train
Would you rather be driven around? Then hop aboard the CityTrain! From Wilhelminaplein, the train travels past the most beautiful spots in the historic city center. This way, you discover Leeuwarden comfortably from your seat, without having to stretch your legs or worry about a rain shower.
The CityTrain takes a short break during the winter months. From April through October, you can hop on board again for a relaxing ride through the city!
The city from the water
One of the most beautiful ways to discover Leeuwarden is from the water. Drifting along the charming canals, the historic facades look even more stunning. As the city glides past, you will learn all about life in Leeuwarden in the past. Step aboard an authentic Frisian barge for a pleasant cruise, or go exploring on your own with a silent whisper sloop.
Enjoy a lovely self-drive boat through the Frisian capital!
Rental company of luxury electric sloops for a relaxing cruise through Leeuwarden and the surrounding area.
Rental company of luxury electric sloops for a relaxing cruise through Leeuwarden and the surrounding area.
Between April 1 and November 1, you can rent a luxury sloop or sailboat from Watersportbedrijf ANJA! -…
Head out on your own!
Would you rather head out on your own and discover the city at your own pace? Of course you can! Grab a DIY route and stroll through Leeuwarden at your own leisure. Along the way, you’ll pass all sorts of fun and surprising spots that make your walk extra special. A small warning: before you know it, you’ll be out much longer than planned!
At the Leeuwarden Visitor Center, you will find various walking maps for a small price. From a route past the main highlights to thematic walks and a compact guide to the history of the city. We are, of course, happy to help you find the route that suits you!
Come browse through the many stories of Friesland. In Ferhaal van Fryslân, you will discover through more than a hundred…
Walk through the streets and alleys of Leeuwarden's city center and go look for these tiny Liwwadders.
Discover the most beautiful Street Art with an enthusiastic guide or with the route map from A Guide to Leeuwarden!
Save the Nassaus during an Escape Xperience in Leeuwarden!
Sherlock is an interactive tour and exciting game in one, right through the heart of Leeuwarden.
An interactive city game and tour on your own mobile. Be your own boss, so play whenever you want!
Outdoor Escape Game Leeuwarden is an interactive tour and game in one, crisscrossing the city center of Leeuwarden.
The Mata Hari Walking Route is an A3 map with a walking route and stories about the life of Mata Hari…
Walking guide for Leeuwarden city center, in English, German, French, and Dutch
Leeuwarden City Walk – Poetry Route
A walk past a highlight in the monumental city center
Do-it-yourself walking and cycling route Street Art Map
Come, join the treasure hunt. Seven 'darling towns' await. All seven are the famous Eleven Cities. Discover with…
Do-it-yourself Street Art walking route
Discover the beautiful water-rich landscape of Central Friesland. One moment you are cycling through the varied water-rich landscape…
On the pedals
Cycling through the city and surroundings
As you can see, the city center is great to explore on foot. But do you want to see just a little more of Leeuwarden, including the surrounding countryside and charming villages? Then hop on a bike! Join an Open Bike Tour and discover all the city's highlights. Or combine cycling with delicious food during Happen & Trappen or the Friese Food Tour. Moreover, you will find many more fun cycling routes and tours at the Leeuwarden Visitor Center!
There is still more to discover
The charming city center of Leeuwarden breathes history. Will you pay a visit to the city palace of Maria Louise of…
Looking for inspiration? Visit our Visitor Center at the foot of the Oldehove. We are happy to help you…
Do you want to know more about what Leeuwarden has to offer? Discover Leeuwarden your way and make your…