City Leeuwarden walking route - DIY walking route

This DIY walking route takes you through Leeuwarden's historic city centre. An ancient city where the first inhabitants settled as early as between 100-300 AD. In 1435, Leeuwarden received it's city rights and in 1504 it was elected the capital of Friesland. Between 1584 and 1747, Leeuwarden was also the court city of the Frisian Nassaus. These are the ancestors of the Dutch royal family.  The city had its heyday in the 16th and 17th centuries. You will see traces of this history throughout the city centre on this walk. It is also a very lively city with more than 25,000 students.

This DIY walking tour takes you past the most important sights, hidden alleys and beautiful street art in Leeuwarden's historic city centre. On many sights there are panels with information in Dutch and English. For some sights without signs, we have added more information on the map. In the city centre, you will also find lots of nice shops, cafés and restaurants. This walking route is about 6 km long and starts at the Leeuwarden Visitor Centre.