Leeuwarden - Discovering Netherlands

Travelling to Leeuwarden

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Leeuwarden, a pretty good destination in Netherlands (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Leeuwarden and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Leeuwarden, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Netherlands, here's everything to know about Leeuwarden for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Leeuwarden

Leeuwarden is the capital city of the province of Friesland in the northern Netherlands. It has a population of around 122,000 people and is known for its historic center, which features some well-preserved buildings dating back to the 17th century. Leeuwarden is also a cultural hub, hosting numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the famous annual Frisian Elfstedentocht ice skating race. Additionally, the city is home to several museums and galleries showcasing local history and art.

What to visit in Leeuwarden

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Leeuwarden, Netherlands: 1. Fries Museum: This museum showcases the art, history, and culture of Friesland, the province in which Leeuwarden is located.
2. Oldehove: This leaning tower dates back to the late 16th century and is a symbol of Leeuwarden. It leans more than the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa in Italy.
3. Princessehof National Museum of Ceramics: This museum has an impressive collection of ceramic art, including works from all over the world.
4. Blokhuispoort: This former prison has been transformed into a cultural center with restaurants, shops, and events.
5. AquaZoo Friesland: This aquarium and zoo lets you get up close and personal with marine life, as well as land animals like monkeys and kangaroos.
6. Waagplein: This plaza is the center of the city's nightlife, with a variety of bars and restaurants.
7. Westerpark: This park is great for a relaxing stroll or a picnic and features a lake, playgrounds, and sports facilities.
8. De Kleine Kerkstraat: This street is filled with boutique shops and is perfect for shopping lovers.
9. Pier Pander Museum: This museum is dedicated to the works of Dutch sculptor Pier Pander and features his sculptures and drawings.
10. Het Andere Museum: This unique museum houses a collection of unusual objects, including taxidermied animals, skulls, and rare fossils. I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Leeuwarden!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Netherlands, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Leeuwarden.

When to go on holiday to Leeuwarden

The best time to visit Leeuwarden in the Netherlands is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is pleasant with average temperatures between 17°C to 20°C. During this time, you can explore the city's attractions and enjoy outdoor activities comfortably. However, keep in mind that this is also the peak travel season, so you may experience more crowds and higher prices. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, you can consider visiting Leeuwarden during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). The weather during these seasons may be cooler but still pleasant, and you can also enjoy the beautiful colors of the changing seasons.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Leeuwarden

There are a few ways to get to Leeuwarden, Netherlands: 1. By plane: You can fly to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and then take a train directly to Leeuwarden. The journey takes about 2.5 hours.
2. By train: Leeuwarden has a train station and is easily accessible by train from major cities in the Netherlands. There are also international trains from Germany and Denmark.
3. By bus: There are direct bus connections to Leeuwarden from major cities in the Netherlands, such as Amsterdam and Rotterdam.
4. By car: Leeuwarden can be easily reached by car via the A31 and N31 highways.
Overall, taking the train or flying to Amsterdam and then taking a train to Leeuwarden is the most convenient and popular option for travelers.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Leeuwarden, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Leeuwarden

Leeuwarden is a city located in the northern part of the Netherlands, and it has a rich culinary tradition that reflects its cultural heritage and local produce. Here are some of the typical foods you can try in Leeuwarden: 1. Suikerbrood – Suikerbrood is a sweet bread that is typical of Friesland, the province where Leeuwarden is located. The bread is made with flour, butter, milk, and sugar, which gives it a caramelized crust and a soft, fluffy interior.
2. Beerenburg – Beerenburg is a traditional Dutch liquor that is made with herbs and spices, such as juniper berries, angelica, and licorice. It’s a popular drink in Leeuwarden and surrounding areas and is often served as an aperitif or after-dinner drink.
3. Oranjekoek – Oranjekoek is a cake that is typically served during special occasions, such as birthdays or weddings. The cake is made with a unique blend of spices, almonds, raisins, and a layer of pink or orange icing on top.
4. Stamppot – Stamppot is a traditional Dutch dish that consists of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables, such as kale, sauerkraut, or carrots. It is often served with a smoked sausage or meatballs, and it’s a hearty and comforting meal during the colder months.
5. Oliebollen – Oliebollen are a type of Dutch pastry that is similar to doughnuts. They are usually served during the New Year’s Eve celebrations and are made with flour, yeast, milk, and raisins. The dough is deep-fried and dusted with powdered sugar before serving.
6. Frikandel – Frikandel is a popular Dutch snack that is similar to a hotdog. It’s made with ground meat, such as pork or chicken, and spices, and it’s often served with mayonnaise or ketchup.
These are just a few of the typical foods you can try in Leeuwarden. Make sure to explore the city's culinary scene and try out some local restaurants and cafes to get a taste of the authentic flavors.
You can find general info about typical foods in Netherlands here.

Is Leeuwarden an expensive destination for tourists?

Leeuwarden can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists. The cost of accommodations, food and activities can be higher than other cities in the Netherlands. However, you can find affordable options for all of them if you do your research and plan ahead. For example, there are budget hotels and hostels available, and you can also save money by eating at local marketplaces or purchasing snacks and drinks from grocery stores instead of eating out at restaurants for every meal. Overall, with a little bit of planning, you can enjoy a wonderful trip to Leeuwarden without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Leeuwarden

The best areas to find accommodation in Leeuwarden, Netherlands are the city center and the nearby WTC area. These areas are within walking distance of the major tourist attractions, shopping areas, and restaurants. Additionally, staying in these areas will give visitors easy access to public transportation, making it easy to explore the rest of the city. Other areas that may be worth considering include the Westeinde and Schieringen neighborhoods, which are slightly outside the city center but still within a short distance from the main attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Leeuwarden here:
Booking.com

Is Leeuwarden a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Leeuwarden is generally a safe place for tourists. The crime rate is relatively low, and the city is considered to be one of the safest in the Netherlands. As in any city, however, visitors should still exercise common sense precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings at night. It's always a good idea to stay in well-lit areas and to avoid any empty streets or alleys. Overall, tourists should feel comfortable and safe while visiting Leeuwarden.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Netherlands here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Leeuwarden.

What type of travelers will enjoy Leeuwarden the most?

Leeuwarden, Netherlands has something for everyone to enjoy. It is an excellent destination for couples, families, and young people looking for fun.
Couples can enjoy exploring the town's charming streets, visit the historical museums, and indulge in romantic dinners at local cafes and restaurants.
Families can enjoy exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. The Fries Museum and Aqua Zoo Friesland are popular family-friendly attractions to visit.
Young people can enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, with its many bars, nightclubs, and music festivals. Leeuwarden is also known for its hipster culture, street art, and trendy cafes.
Overall, Leeuwarden is an exciting destination that offers something for everyone.

How to get around Leeuwarden

Leeuwarden, the capital of the province of Friesland in the Netherlands, has a well-connected public transportation system that mainly includes buses. There are several bus lines that operate throughout the city, and they are the most convenient and cost-effective way to get around. You can buy tickets on board using cash or a contactless debit card, or you can purchase a reusable OV-chip card from a ticket vending machine. If you prefer cycling, Leeuwarden is also a bike-friendly city, with plenty of cycle paths and bike rental services available. Walking is also a great way to explore the city, especially around the historical city center. Taxis are also available but tend to be more expensive than other transportation options.

What to see around Leeuwarden

Sure, here are some places you can visit in a day trip from Leeuwarden: 1. Giethoorn: A picturesque village known as the "Venice of the Netherlands" due to its canals and waterways.
2. Harlingen: A charming port town with historical buildings and a bustling harbor.
3. Groningen: A university town with a lively atmosphere, great cultural offerings and beautiful architecture.
4. Sneek: A lovely city famous for its water sports and sailing competitions.
5. Ameland: An island with beautiful beaches, sand dunes, and nature reserves that can be explored by bike.
6. Franeker: A small historic town known for its planetarium and museum.
7. Terschelling: Another beautiful island with breathtaking beaches, forests and dunes. 8. Dokkum: A quaint town with charming streets and a rich history.
These are some great options for a day trip from Leeuwarden. Hope this helps!
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