Leeuwarden's historic city center is a true open-air museum full of character, charm, and centuries-old stories. Stroll through atmospheric streets such as Sint Jacobsstraat, where unique concept stores and artisan shops form a surprising mix with monumental buildings. Discover the hidden almshouses, idyllic courtyards, and stately canals that together bring the city's rich past to life. Here you will find a perfect balance between history and innovation: from impressive architecture and cultural attractions to creative galleries and contemporary boutiques. Whether you are looking for a relaxed city walk, a cultural day out, or special activities in Leeuwarden's historic city center, this place will continue to surprise you time and again.
Historic Downtown
An interactive museum for the whole family!
Podium Explore offers a café, a large hall, a studio, and various smaller spaces where you can create…
In the heart of the historic city center of Leeuwarden stands the 18th-century city palace of Maria Louise of Hesse-Kassel, Princess of…
A ceramics studio in the historic center of Leeuwarden, located in a beautiful old townhouse. Here you will find unique…
Welcome to FOLK Specialty Coffee, a coffee bar in Leeuwarden where attention, quality, and hospitality take center stage.
Where Forum Ljouwert once was (a marketplace for vegetables, cheeses, butter, and grains, and a corn market), you will find at…
Taste & Experience is the motto of House of Taste, and that is exactly what we love to do. With our…
Brownies&downieS stands for purity. Purity in all its facets. Our employees are sincere, enthusiastic, and pure. But also…
In Museum de Grutterswinkel, life around a real old-fashioned grocery store is depicted, with everything that goes with it.
Café De Pastorie stands in the most atmospheric little street in the center of Leeuwarden.
At restaurant Bar Bistro DuCo Leeuwarden, delicious food and convivial dining come together perfectly. Enjoying a culinary experience together…
BOEL is the pétanque bar in Leeuwarden.
For ninety years, La Venezia has been a household name in Leeuwarden. Here you don't just taste an ice cream, but…
Frank Postma warmly welcomes everyone to share his passion for coffee and tea. You…
Café de Strohoed is a traditional pub in Leeuwarden where everyone is welcome.
At Sita Art, you can view and buy affordable contemporary art; both figurative and abstract. You can also…
De Walrus is located in the historic center of Leeuwarden and close to many attractions.
Barge tours through the canals and waterways of Leeuwarden. The departure pier is on the Nieuwestad near Intersport…
Madelief is the go-to shop for quality second-hand women's clothing in Leeuwarden and the surrounding area.
The Grote or Jacobijnerkerk is the oldest and architecturally most important church in Leeuwarden.
Breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks, and events with a view of De Oldehove.
The Oldehove
Once a thorn in Leeuwarden's side, now the city's calling card: The Oldehove. For years, the leaning tower was viewed with horror and was a symbol of shame and failure. According to the stories, even the architect, who saw the tower begin to sink after only 10 meters, died of 'grief'. Today, it towers over the city, is the pride of our beautiful city, and is ready to be climbed!
The Great or Jacobin Church
The Grote or Jacobijnerkerk is the oldest landmark in the city. Construction of this city monastery began in the 13th century and took approximately 200 years to complete. For centuries, the church served as one of the three burial grounds for the Royal House and the Stadholder's family. Throughout the centuries, the church has undergone many changes. Some of these were for the better, and others to the detriment of the church. Fortunately, the church has survived its turbulent history and remains open to the public. Be sure to step inside and learn all about this special church!
Activities Historic City Centre
The historic city center of Leeuwarden is bursting with culture, history, and fascinating stories. Every alley and street has its own story. You might unknowingly walk into a 600-year-old almshouse, discover a unique museum in an old orphanage, and find refreshing theater awaiting you in the old Westerkerk. You might find yourself lost, but we are happy to help you on your way.
Restaurants, cafes and more!
Along the courtyards, streets, alleys, ridges, and nooks and crannies, you’ll find them everywhere! Small (or sometimes slightly larger) spots to settle down and enjoy a well-deserved cup of coffee, a cold beer, or a delicious meal. And even if the sun is shining, we highly recommend heading inside; many of these places have a stunning inner garden to enjoy in peace and quiet.
In Museum de Grutterswinkel, life around a real old-fashioned grocery store is depicted, with everything that goes with it.
Café De Pastorie stands in the most atmospheric little street in the center of Leeuwarden.
At restaurant Bar Bistro DuCo Leeuwarden, delicious food and convivial dining come together perfectly. Enjoying a culinary experience together…
BOEL is the pétanque bar in Leeuwarden.
Welcome to FOLK Specialty Coffee, a coffee bar in Leeuwarden where attention, quality, and hospitality take center stage.
For ninety years, La Venezia has been a household name in Leeuwarden. Here you don't just taste an ice cream, but…
Frank Postma warmly welcomes everyone to share his passion for coffee and tea. You…
More Leeuwarden….?
The city center of Leeuwarden
Discover Leeuwarden
Leeuwarden's city center is difficult to divide into fixed areas. Here, old and new are interwoven, you find history in every street, and a friendly face on every corner. Discover the city center; we'll show you the way.
The Prince's Garden
The Prinsentuin was laid out in 1648 as a pleasure garden for the Nassaus. 150 years later, the park became open to the public. Today, the Prinsentuin is an indispensable meeting place for the city.
More about De Prinsentuin
Historic city center
Leeuwarden breathes history. From a rich trading past and the Middelsee to a favorite of the Nassaus and the court city of Friesland. Although you see and feel the history throughout the city center, it is here where it all began.
More about Historic city center
Nieuwestad, Wilhelminaplein and Ruiterskwartier
Looking for major fashion chains, cute boutiques, and the coziest terraces? Then you need to head to Nieuwestad, Wilhelminaplein, and Ruiterskwartier. Here you will come across icons such as the Waag, the Fries Museum, and the Palace of Justice.
More about Nieuwestad, Wilhelminaplein and Ruiterskwartier
The Old Markets
Nowhere in the city do old and new blend together as much as on the Oude Markten. Where the gallows once stood, today you find streets full of vintage shops, cozy restaurants, and passionate entrepreneurs. Oh, and an old prison…
station area
When you arrive by train or bus, you are warmly welcomed by the impressive LOVE fountain. These two giant heads mark the station area. But there is much, much more to see and do here.
More about the Station AreaActivities Historic City Centre
A visit to Leeuwarden's iconic leaning tower is, of course, a must during your visit to Leeuwarden.
A Dutch history in ceramics.
Mummy Mysteries is a fascinating exhibition about animal mummies. There are animal mummies on display from Ancient Egypt, but…
Explore the North is a three-day journey of discovery full of stories in many forms!
The arts festival by and for young local makers!
A Guide to Leeuwarden has created a Street Art Scavenger Hunt especially for primary school children. With this, ...
Ceramic is one of the most durable materials in existence: as long as it does not break, it can last thousands…
Ready to get your Runner's High? Could your running rhythm use a fresh boost? Join our 5k…
During the Night of the Night, the lights go out in Leeuwarden and you can view the city from…
Discover the history of Leeuwarden during October Children's Month