From historic buildings to modern architecture. Here you marvel at history, wander through romantic courtyards, and stumble upon fantastic street art. Which sights do you absolutely must see during your visit to Leeuwarden? The choice is vast, but we have listed ten for you!
The Little Church Street
The smallest street with the biggest reputation. De Kleine Kerkstraat has been voted the nicest shopping street in the Netherlands multiple times! Here you will find unique clothing and interior shops run by local entrepreneurs and score real Frisian delicacies.
The Oldehove
What was supposed to become the tallest tower in the Netherlands in 1529 ultimately became the most leaning. Our iconic Oldehove leans 1,99 meters off plumb, and yet we are proud (or perhaps: grutsk) of that! From the square, you have a beautiful view of the tower, but true daredevils can also climb the Oldehove. 183 steps lead you to the top, where a fantastic view of the city awaits you!
The Blokhuispoort
On the edge of the city center stands a very special building, the Blokhuispoort. This former 16th-century prison no longer houses hardened criminals, but now houses a hostel, two restaurants, a library, all kinds of small shops, and creative entrepreneurs.
Street Art
The city as a canvas: Leeuwarden is bursting with unique street art. In the smallest streets and at special locations, you stumble upon impressive murals or colorful electrical boxes. Some artworks convey an important message, while others are purely intended to add a bit more color to the city.
The Great Church
The traces of the Orange-Nassau family are still palpable in many places in Leeuwarden, including the Grote- or Jacobijnerkerk. It is the oldest church in the city, built in 1300. On the east side, you will find the Oranjepoortje, which served as the private entrance for the Frisian stadtholders and Nassaus. The tombs of the Orange royals are located in the church's crypt.
The Prince's Garden
To stay in the royal atmosphere a little longer, be sure to visit the Prinsentuin. Formerly the pleasure garden of the Nassaus, it is now the city park that serves as a meeting place and one of the city's most beautiful festival and concert venues. Tip: settle down for a romantic lunch or dinner at the Koperen Tuin , located in the middle of the park.
St. Boniface Church
Tall churches catch a lot of wind, as the saying goes in Leeuwarden. During a hurricane on January 3, 1976, the tower of the St. Boniface Church was blown down. Fortunately, all damage has been repaired, and you can safely admire this remarkable church both inside and out. The Neo-Gothic church is dedicated to Saint Boniface and was built in 1882 to a design by the architect PJHCuypers (who also designed Amsterdam Central Station).
LOVE Fountain
Did you come to the city by public transport? Then you surely didn't miss it: the imposing LOVE fountain right opposite the station. The two seven-meter-high white heads were designed by the renowned Spanish artist Jaume Plensa. A 2-meter-high cloud of mist hangs around them, referencing the morning mist that hangs over the Frisian meadows early in the morning.
Courtyards and almshouses
Want to leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind for a while? Then take a walk to the hidden courtyards and almshouses in the city center: Luilekkerland, Boshuisengasthuis, and the Sint Anthony Gasthuis. Oases of peace and quiet, right in the center. It is as if time has stood still here.
The Museum Harbour
Want to leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind for a while? Then take a walk to the hidden courtyards and almshouses in the city center: Luilekkerland, Boshuisengasthuis, and the Sint Anthony Gasthuis. Oases of peace and quiet, right in the center. It is as if time has stood still here.