Leeuwarden

Leeuwarden is a lovely city in the north of the Netherlands with museums, great nightlife, cute shopping streets and of course the Frisian language. Leeuwarden is also surrounded by beautiful nature that you can explore on a day trip.

Leeuwarden has a long history. Although people settled here as early as the year 1000, the city was not granted town privileges until 1435. To protect the residents, a number of canals were built over the centuries, a few of which still exist today. Leeuwarden is a lovely Frisian city with a unique identity.

If you're interested in finding out more about the local and regional history, visit the Fries Museum on Wilhelminaplein. The square is also home to old buildings such as the Kanselarij and the Waag (weigh house). You can also hire a boat at the VVV office and tour the city's canals.

The Bonifatiustoren is open to the public between June and September and you can climb it for a fee. You will be rewarded with a fantastic view of the city and surrounding area.

If the kids are with you, take them to AquaZoo Friesland. This zoo is home to kangaroos, iguanas and seals. If you'd like to spend a day outdoors, De Alde Feanen is the place to go. Start at the visitor's centre of this national park which has morasses, lakes, forests, peat, meadows and more.

Leeuwarden is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. Stroll through the cute streets and see the sights at your leisure. Longer distances are easily travelled by local or regional bus.

If you're travelling by car, park at your accommodation if possible or in the city centre for a fee. Bear in mind that long-term parking is only possible in the city's parking garages. There are also two park and ride (P+R) parking lots near Leeuwarden.

If you're travelling by public transport, you can reach Leeuwarden by bus or train. There are several direct intercity trains that will get you to Leeuwarden from the major cities, with the exception of Amsterdam. If you are coming from Amsterdam, you’ll have to change trains at least once.

Visit Leeuwarden and enjoy the sights, the lovely atmosphere and beautiful nature.