Barts Best of Leeuwarden
If you thought that Friesland only revolves around water, boat, animal, think again! Since Leeuwarden was declared European Capital of Culture in 2018, this city is not to be missed. The city was given a makeover, one event after another was organized, and creative, new businesses that might previously have sought refuge in the Randstad opened their doors. And we are only happy with that! In addition to history and culture, the Frisian pearl Leeuwarden is also bursting with fine shops and cozy cafes. It is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a day trip. Here are our favorites:
During the pre-cultural capital period, the Kleine Kerkstraat was often sung as the street where you had to be as a day guest. And although this gem of a street – voted not once, but twice as the nicest shopping street in the Netherlands – is still bustling in the post-period, Leeuwarden has much more to offer than just the boutiques and food shops of the Kleine Kerkstraat.
Another shopping street that is certainly not to be missed is the Sint Jacobsstraat. One of the nicest streets in the city since day one. Moreover, the street is a nice passage to the beautiful St. Anthony Gasthuis and the Prinsentuin. And here you will find one of our favorites scented candle stores. The name of the Great Church State says it all: this wide avenue is beautiful and impossible to skip.
If we have to name a favorite in Leeuwarden, then it is the Grutterswinkel. This is not just any grocer, but a nostalgic gem housed in a listed 17th century building at Nieuwesteeg 5. Here you step straight into a nostalgic black and white photo, where the nicest ladies in impeccable aprons welcome you. The Grutterswinkel is a unique combination of shop, coffee bar and museum, and is lovingly run by a team of enthusiastic retired volunteers. Wander among shelves full of household treasures and other historic wares that seem to be waiting for a buyer from a bygone era. And don't forget to enjoy a traditional Frisian cookie with your coffee or tea.
If there is one place in Leeuwarden where you can really feel the soul of Friesland, it is the Fries Museum. So whether you have a die hard If you are a history buff, or just want a fun day out with a cultural touch, the Fries Museum should certainly not be missed. Right in the heart of the city, on Wilhelminaplein, you will find this modern museum that delves into the rich Frisian culture, history and art. The museum merges the stories of old Friesland with contemporary art and temporary exhibitions. From swords and jewelry from the time of the Frisian kings to works by world-famous Frisian artists such as Sir Lawrence Alma-Tadema, each piece with its own story.
If you visit the Fries Museum, be sure to take a look Café Thús. The menu is deliciously local and we like that. (Wilhelminaplein 90).
On a nature adventure, we hop on over to the Natuurmuseum Fryslân (Frisian Nature Museum). A gem in the heart of Leeuwarden that lets young and old discover nature in a playful way. Four floors full of animals, plants, and interactive exhibits make for an educational day that's anything but stuffy.
The Underwater Safari is a hit. We won't reveal too much, but you'll embark on a unique journey through the underwater world in a cart. A bit like the dream flight, but different. Who will you encounter? Definitely the big five of the Dutch underwater world. And this one too: just as fun for all ages.
World treasures, a gigantic blue whale, peeks into the Open Atelier, and Wonderland: you'll never get tired of exploring the Natural History Museum of Friesland. Tip: free on Tuesdays!
Start your day in Leeuwarden at Fer Coffee, where owner Fer knows exactly how to serve a perfect cup of coffee after thorough barista training in New Zealand. In addition to delicious coffee and sweet snacks, the interior is also a treat, with the bright yellow that makes this coffee bar a bright spot in the city. And for those who want to take something home with them in addition to the daily caffeine fix, they also offer colorful prints, especially for the wall at home.
For lunch and drinks you can (of course) join us Bar Zelle. There's certainly a nice atmosphere there, on the canal in the heart of Leeuwarden.
A lunch bar with a name that nods to the city's most mysterious historical figure: Mata Hari, born Margaretha Geertruida Zelle, world-famous as an exotic dancer, courtesan, and spy. From sandwiches and salads to shakshuka and cocktails, Bar Zelle has it all. Outside: a full terrace, sun on your face, and a canal view. Inside: cozy tunes, snacks, and cheerful Article.What are you waiting for?
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Discover Leeuwarden like you've never done before A Guide to Leeuwarden. Yes, Friesland, and therefore Leeuwarden, has a rich and powerful history, and who better to tell you about it than the local experts during a tour. Whether you are interested in the medieval stories of the Frisian monarchs or the creative excesses of modern street artists, they know best.
At Pizza Beppe you eat real Neapolitan pizzas: handmade dough, San Marzano tomatoes straight from the Vesuvius region and Fior di Latte that is truly exceptional – and they recently opened a location in Leeuwarden as well.
The atmosphere? 'Cool & fine dining'. Culture, music, lifestyle, and pizza from top-notch brick ovens. Add a generous dose of craftsmanship and passion, and you're good to go. It's no wonder they were the first in the Netherlands to officially receive the designation. Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) quality mark – no concessions, only authentic.
At Pizza Beppe, you eat pizza the way it's meant to be. With 25 locations nationwide, there's always a place to sit down. Buon appetito!
A city looks quite different from the water. You'll discover just how during a trip with the Praamvaren. Step aboard, relax, enjoy a drink (you'll need to bring your own), and let yourself be carried along the canals of Leeuwarden. The "8 van Leeuwarden" cruise winds its way for an hour and a half past narrow canals, old warehouses, and bridges. Don't forget the Blokhuispoort (once a prison, now a bustling hotspot) and the green Prinsentuin (Prince's Garden) with its beloved marina. In the corner of your eye, you'll catch a glimpse of the leaning Oldehove—the Tower of Pisa is practically nothing compared to it—and you'll even catch a glimpse of the city skyline. There are certainly plenty of stories to tell.
Plenty of options for floating. Also from the electric whisper boats of Greenjoy See the city from a different perspective. Need a break from the urban splendor? There are also nature trails to explore. Good to know: you don't need a boating license for these boats, and reserving your own electric boat is a breeze through their website, where you can choose your departure time and how long you want to sail. There are two pick-up locations: Blokhuispoort (highly recommended anyway!) and the Willemskade.
Is it really nice and warm? Then exchange your boat for a paddle board. You can do the same routes through the canals or nature of Leeuwarden, but with just that extra bit of exercise. We have heard from trusted sources that the water in Leeuwarden is very clean, so falling in is no problem. Starting point and rental is at it City beach Leeuwarden.
You will find it on the cozy Kleine Kerkstraat (36). House of Taste, a specialty store intended as a wholesaler for the catering industry, but nowadays also a black for consumers who can taste, among other things, the delicious Frisian dry sausages from the Spijkerman butcher. This store allows any foodies heart beat faster. For a quick bite you can grab a sandwich with this, but there is more! Have a well-stocked drinks board put together for a picnic in the park or to take on board your electric boat for a unique floating 5-hour moment on the canals of Leeuwarden. Tip: call them in advance so the board will be ready when you arrive.
Do you spot people in Leeuwarden who are very actively staring at a wall? Then they are probably one of them Michel Tilma's Miniature People on the track. The local artist created and photographed tiny scenes and hid them throughout the city center. The minuscule Liwwadders invite you on a treasure hunt through the hidden alleys and streets of the city: an ideal activity for the kids. With Google Maps you can view all locations and decide where you start and end. For lovers of the old-fashioned way, a paper route map with tips is available for €2,00 at various locations in the city.
At Coffee and Chalk Children's clothing, toys, and shoes get a second chance. This way, you'll not only buy fun items for the little ones, but you'll also contribute to a more sustainable Leeuwarden.
Best part? The shop also doubles as a cozy café where parents and kids can enjoy a good cup of coffee, lemonade, fresh cake, and some quality time together. Refuel for the parentsCrayons and fun for the little ones. Win-win.
More Frisian party? Then look here.
Feeling the urge to buy? In a monumental building at Sint Jacobsstraat 13 you will find Vintage Market A shop full of vintage clothing and furniture, art, and design. They sell vintage clothing from the 70s, 80s, and 90s. The furniture and accessories are mostly mid-century and design. Vintage Market consists of two businesses, Nozem and de Non, and Vintage2yourstore. So, for a day of browsing and treasure hunting, this is the place to be.
Whatever you do, be sure to visit Blokhuispoort. This former prison was renovated at the beginning of 2018 and has since housed catering establishments and a variety of creative studios. Dbieb was voted the most beautiful (and best) library in the Netherlands in 2019. And we understand that. Because the library is not normally beautiful. Through the glass walls you can see the outer walls of the prison that the Blokhuispoort once was.
If you are going to take a look in Dbieb, pay a visit to the library café: Café de Bak. A grand café, as a large all-day café should be, moved into the Blokhuispoort: Probationary leave also has a beautiful large terrace on the water. Local food on the menu, pure ingredients and a surprising number of vegetarian options. We like. Lies Ceramics sells her beautiful handmade ceramics from her workshop which is located in the Blokhuispoort. Of course there are workshops, which you want to follow, if only because of the sweet Lies.
Whether it shines with sunshine or typically Dutch drizzling, bee STICK to the Harlingersingel you are always baked. Start the day with a hearty breakfast of American pancakes, toast with scrambled eggs, or an avocado smash sandwich. Around lunch, this charming spot on the water transforms into an idyllic scene where you can watch the boats sail by – the perfect backdrop for a lazy, summer afternoon. And if the weather is bad, it is just as cozy inside with a good dose of tasty delicacies on display and tasteful interior accessories. Ideal after a day sightseeing to stay.
Dimmed lights, a disco ball on the wall, and delicious snacks on the table. A new Italian player has been set up at Zaailand since this summer. Leeuwarden: Garage Modern. The restaurant concept is the brainchild of Florian Missaglia (known for Café de Nachtwacht in Doelesteeg in the same city) and 3WO Horeca Groep (yes, the one from Amsterdam) and has been a hit from day one. How? Simple: truly good Italian food without any frills, truly cozy, and in a truly great location.
Garage Modern—what's in a name?—is housed in a former garage, and it's evident everywhere: steel staircases, concrete bar, open kitchen with a wood-fired oven… And one glance at the menu also tells you what you're in for: classic Italian with a Garage Modern twist: bresaola carpaccio, tuna crudo with pistachio, and a striking vodka-'nduja lasagna. Pizzas start at €15, which we consider a very reasonable price. It's a great place to mix snacks, appetizers, and main courses, and don't miss the arancini. Bon appetite!
Just opened and already a hit: wine bar Vino & Verder. Catering leader Gosse Hoekstra, previously employed at various other businesses in the city (including Proef Leave and STEEF.), has now found his own place in an attractive courtyard, complete with an impressive graffiti wall in front of the urban touch. But the real showpiece of Vino & Verder? These are without a doubt the wines. Carefully selected and knowledgeable. We like!
You will find it on one of the lively canals of Leeuwarden Café De Markies, an authentic brown pub with a beer list that you can admire. Plus sun until the last hours. The interior of De Markies is an ode to beer culture: think of walls full of old-fashioned beer advertising plates and creatively recycled beer bottles that serve as mood lighting. Whether you are a seasoned beer connoisseur or just want to enjoy a fresh pint in the sun, Café De Markies is the place for you. Tip: try the cheese beer tasting including the Grutter, their own beer.
You will find it in the middle of the largest square in the city The Coat of Arms of Leeuwarden, a simple brown eatery that has been an oldie among the crowd for years Liwwadders. This is the place where locals coming together for a nice snack and being together: there is always a coming and going of familiar faces (for them that is). So whether you are looking for a dining experience among the locals or just want to enjoy the casual atmosphere, Het Wapen van Leeuwarden feels like coming home.
Want to stay the night? Absolutely do it! But where? It Alibi Hostel is located in the old prison of the Blokhuispoort, where you can sleep in a former prison cell, which gives your stay an adventurous touch. Also discover the small isolation cells in cell block H – directly below the hostel. These have been transformed into mini shops and studios of local artists and entrepreneurs. Also the Post Plaza Hotel is a true pearl in the center of Leeuwarden. This beautiful hotel is located in an old post office and offers a perfect mix of history and luxury. The hotel's cozy café and restaurant are a favorite with locals and visitors alike. Start your day with a delicious breakfast and end it with a drink in the attractive lounge.
At Hotel Vie Via they do things a little differently than traditional hotels. Here it is all about minimalism and comfort in its purest form. With the Just a Room philosophy the hotel focuses on everything that makes your stay pleasant, without unnecessary luxury. No frills, just quality and comfort.
Brightly colored and exuberant art hangs on the walls in every room, all with a bit of a pop art theme. If you really like something, you can simply buy it at the hotel. Vie Via feels young without conveying a backpacker vibe. Exactly not. Vie Via is for people who want to get the most out of their day(s) in Leeuwarden, but also want to come back to a nice place.
Can't you see the forest for the trees? Have your day planned by the experts at Visit Leeuwarden. They know what to do like no other hip, hot & happening is in town. Park easily under the visitors center, get a personal plan for you or your entire group, and be surprised by their tips. You will find maps with the best hotspots at the station and of course in the visitors center.
