Hello there! Are you looking for an amazing experience in Leeuwarden? Then we have good news for you. Leeuwarden is the perfect place for a fun (spring) vacation or a weekend getaway in the Netherlands. There is so much to see and do!
Leeuwarden (Ljouwert in Frisian) is the capital of the province of Friesland and, of course, one of the eleven cities of the Elfstedentocht. In 2018, Leeuwarden was named the cultural capital of Europe, so it’s about time you paid a visit.
Get ready for a unique experience! From historical buildings to modern architecture, from bustling markets to cozy cafes, restaurants, and numerous museums. Leeuwarden has it all.
- Coming by car? Check out our tips for parking in Leeuwarden.
- Want to explore Leeuwarden by bike? Book a bike tour now to see a lot of the city in a short time!
What to do in… Leeuwarden?
In this video, people on the street in Leeuwarden are asked what there is to do. If you’re curious about Leeuwarden, keep watching!
What are the best attractions in Leeuwarden?
We’ve compiled a list of absolute must-sees and attractions you shouldn’t miss.
For example, visit the beautiful Oldehove tower, a unique building that leans slightly. Or visit the Fries Museum, where you can discover the history of Friesland. And if you love shopping, be sure to visit the lively shopping street Nieuwestad.
The Oldehove tower a must-see in Leeuwarden
Are you looking for a unique experience in Leeuwarden? Then you must visit the Oldehove tower!
This stunning tower is a real eye-catcher and symbolizes the city, so it should not be missed when you visit. The Oldehove is the only leaning tower in the Netherlands and one of the tallest in Europe. It’s even more tilted than the Tower of Pisa!
The tower also has an interesting history. It was built in the 16th century as a church tower, but the construction process was delayed, and the tower was never completed.
In 1529, it was intended to be a church. However, the ground was so poor that the tower began to lean, causing the builders to stop construction four years later. You can climb the 183 steps of the tower for a stunning view of the city.
Fun fact: It is said that if you stand at the foot of the tower and close your eyes, you can feel the tower’s tilt. There is also a legend that the tower’s builders made a pact with the devil to build the tower faster, but that’s, of course, not true.
In the 19th century, the tower was restored and is now a popular tourist destination.
Visit the Oldehove tower for a unique experience and discover the architecture, history, and stories the tower has to offer. Guided tours are available, and you can also go up for a beautiful view over Leeuwarden.
Blokhuispoort
The Blokhuispoort in Leeuwarden is a beautiful historic building that has played an important role in the city’s history. It was built in the 16th century as part of the city wall and served as a prison until the 20th century.
One of the most interesting things about the Blokhuispoort is that it was originally built as a defensive structure for the city but later used as a prison. This gives the building a unique combination of medieval architecture and prison elements, such as small windows and thick walls.
Over time, the Blokhuispoort was also used as a correctional facility, workshop, and storage space. In the 20th century, the building was restored and renovated to preserve it as a historic monument.
Currently, the Blokhuispoort is used for cultural activities and events, such as exhibitions, concerts, and theater performances. Guided tours are also available where you can learn more about the building’s history and its role in Leeuwarden’s history.
The Blokhuispoort is a beautiful example of Leeuwarden’s history, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s past and is a must-see for those interested in history and architecture.
On Saturdays, you can visit the old prison between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM and truly experience what a cell looked like. A real recommendation if you’re exploring the attractions of Leeuwarden.
11 fountains
The 11 fountains are a group of fountains in the Frisian eleven cities. They are named after the eleven cities of the Elfstedentocht. The fountains are designed as a symbolic reference to this famous tour, which is an important part of Frisian culture and history.
The idea for the fountains arose during the preparations for the Elfstedentocht of 1997, the last time the tour took place until now. The city of Leeuwarden wanted to create something to honor and celebrate the tour and decided to build 11 fountains, one for each city on the route.
One of the lesser-known facts about the 11 fountains is that they are designed by different artists. Each of the 11 fountains is unique and designed by a different artist, offering an intriguing and varied collection of artworks. Moreover, most of these fountains are made using contemporary techniques, such as LED lighting, which adds an extra dimension to the experience of viewing the fountains.
Another interesting fact about the fountains is that they are often interactive. Many of the fountains have sensors that respond to movement, changing the water pattern as someone walks by. This makes it even more interesting for the viewer to watch the fountains, making each experience unique.
The fountains are also ecologically designed. The water reservoirs are filled with rainwater, and the water is reused, ensuring no drinking water is wasted.
In Leeuwarden stands ´Love´, designed by Jaume Plensa.
Love consists of two 7-meter-high white heads of a boy and a girl surrounded by mist.
The artist got the inspiration for the mist because he saw the mist floating above the fields in the morning. This fountain is located at the exit of the city’s central station.
St. Boniface Church
If you enjoy visiting churches, then you must take a look at St. Boniface Church. Built in 1882, this church isn’t very old, but it is quite beautiful with its tall towers.
One of the towers was even blown off during a hurricane in 1976. Fortunately, it has been repaired, and from here you can enjoy a beautiful view of the city. An interesting fact is that this church was designed by the same architect as Amsterdam Central Station.
Fun fact: Have you heard of the legend of the blinking organ? It is said that if you sit in the church and play the organ, it blinks if you hit the right note. Of course, this is nonsense, but it makes for a fun story to tell your friends. And did you know there’s also a hidden passage in the church? It’s no secret that it exists, but you’ll have to look for it as it’s well hidden!
The Weigh House
Previously, the Weigh House was the trading center of the city. Traders would have their products weighed here before they could be sold at the market.
No one knows exactly when the Weigh House was built, but it was around the 14th century. It was also known as the ‘Butter Weigh House’ because butter was primarily weighed here. Nowadays, there’s a terrace where you can enjoy a delightful meal or drink while studying the building.
The Prinsentuin
The Prinsentuin is a city park with a marina. It was named so because the garden was laid out in 1648 by Willem Frederik van Nassau at the end of the Eighty Years’ War. Later, King Willem I opened it to the public as a gift to the people.
The garden has a rich history and is a popular spot. You can relax here and enjoy concerts on Sunday afternoons during the summer months, making it an ideal place for leisurely walks and picnics.
You’ll also find many water features here. For example, there’s a beautiful pond, an old coach house now serving as a theater, and a monument for Princess Beatrix. The many trees, flowers, and plants give the garden a beautiful and tranquil atmosphere.
Opening hours: The Prinsentuin is open to the public year-round, but may close under special circumstances such as bad weather.
Little Manhattan in Leeuwarden
“Little Manhattan” is a nickname for an area in Leeuwarden where the city has embraced modernization. This area, also known as the Nieuwestad, is one of the trendiest and hippest areas of Leeuwarden. It’s characterized by modern architecture, trendy shops, cozy cafes and restaurants, and a lively atmosphere.
The “Harmony Complex” and the “De Oldehove” building are both designed by renowned architects.
The Nieuwestad emerged in the 1920s as one of the first modern districts of Leeuwarden. It was designed in the style of the Nieuwe Bouw and is a unique example of this architectural style in the Netherlands.
The area is a popular destination for tourists, but also a beloved spot for the residents of Leeuwarden. Here you can enjoy a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars. There’s also a market where you can taste local Leeuwarden products. In short, a unique place in Leeuwarden to visit.
Fries Museum: largest museum in Friesland
Are you curious about the history and culture of Friesland? Then a visit to the Fries Museum in Leeuwarden is an absolute must! This museum is a wonderful place to discover what Friesland has to offer and is a unique experience you don’t want to miss.
The Fries Museum is one of the largest museums in Friesland, offering a unique insight into the history, culture, and art of the province. Here, you can discover how the Frisians lived and worked in the past, and how their culture and customs have developed up to the present day.
Christoffel Bisschop, Winter in Friesland, ca. 1876. Fries Museum – purchased with support from the Friends of the Fries Museum. (copyright: https://www.friesmuseum.nl/)
There are many interesting exhibitions to see at the Fries Museum. For example, the exhibition on the Frisian liberation, where you can learn more about the role Friesland played in World War II. Or the exhibition of Frisian artists, where you can admire the beautiful paintings and sculptures by Frisian artists.
But the Fries Museum offers more than just exhibitions. There are also many educational activities for children, such as workshops and treasure hunts. Guided tours are also available, where you can learn more about the history and culture of Friesland.
If you’re interested in the history and culture of Friesland, then a visit to the Fries Museum in Leeuwarden is an absolute must. Book your visit to the Fries Museum now and discover the unique history, culture, and art of Friesland. Experience the beautiful exhibitions, educational activities, and guided tours the museum has to offer.
See Leeuwarden attractions by bike: Bike tour + guide
Are you excited to visit all these attractions in Leeuwarden? We are sure you won’t regret a visit to this beautiful Frisian city.
So what are you waiting for? Book a bike tour in Leeuwarden now and enjoy an unforgettable experience! During our Highlights Bike Tour, you’ll pass by the city’s most exciting attractions.
Together with our local guide, you’ll cycle past old monuments, hidden gems, trendy spots, and of course, hear fascinating stories.
No boring history lesson, just a super fun tour crisscrossing through Leeuwarden! After this two-hour bike ride through Leeuwarden, you’ll have a great impression of this beautiful city.