A cozy city center full of hidden gems and beautiful surroundings: that’s Leeuwarden. Versatile Leeuwarden is ideal for an extensive voyage of discovery.
The Frisian capital has everything for a (long) weekend away. Century-old monuments and modern art take centre stage in the bustling city center. In 2018 Leeuwarden was the European Capital of Culture, a beautiful title that still provides an impulse to the local art scene. For example, scattered throughout the city, several large-scale works of art can be seen in surprising places. Some immediately catch the eye, others are a bit more hidden. Marvel at large murals in the squares or bend over small electrical boxes in narrow alleys – street art is everywhere. An entire parking garage has even been transformed into a colorful graffiti paradise. Parking your car has never been so much fun.
Tip: take a city walk
Of course it is great to wander through the cozy streets of the city centre by yourself. But with a city guide you will really get to know the stories of the city. The locals of A Guide to Leeuwarden will tell you everything there is to know about the city and its illustrious past, but also give you tailor-made tips for your stay in Leeuwarden.
Eating at special locations
After a good walk it is time to enjoy yourself. Fortunately, Leeuwarden is bursting with culinary highlights, often in very special locations. A literal highlight, dinner with a view, can be found in Élevé, recently awarded a Bib Gourmand. Restaurant Proefverlof is located in a century-old prison, Grand Café Post Plaza is located in a former mail sorting center, and in the middle of the monumental city park De Prinsentuin you will find restaurant De Koperen Tuin (named after the novel of the same name by Simon Vestdijk).
Prefer a bite-to-go? Then satisfy your healthy hunger at Stek. At this lovely eatery, located on the water, you can recharge with coffee, a smoothie, salad or a delicious poke bowl. Or try the delicious sandwiches from House of Taste. This delicatessen in the Kleine Kerkstraat prepares its sandwiches fresher-than-fresh for you, topped with the tastiest cheese and cold cuts from its own store. Bonus tip: the neighbors of the Zuivelhoeve were voted Best Deli last year!
Out of town
A trip outside the boundaries of the (inner) city is more than worth it. Get a healthy breath of fresh air in De Groene Ster, a beautiful recreational area just outside Leeuwarden. Or stroll around Froskepôlle, a real walking oasis in the middle of the city. Just a fifteen-minute drive from Leeuwarden you will find National Park De Alde Feanen, perfect for discoveries by (silent) boat. Pour a thermos full of coffee, put on you walking boots and go for a hike!
Tip: trip to the islands
Leeuwarden is the perfect base for a (day) trip to the Frisian Wadden Islands. Within half an hour’s drive you are in the harbours of Harlingen or Holwerd, where after a short ferry crossing the idyllic Wadden Islands are waiting for you. Relax and recharge in the fresh sea air.
More inspiration for your trip to Leeuwarden?
Go to visitleeuwarden.nl for all information about the city, the best hotspots and an up-to-date calendar of all events and activities.