If you’re looking to escape Amsterdam for a weekend, Leeuwarden is one of those underrated cities that surprises you in all the right ways. Just 1.5 hours by car or 2 hours by train, it’s a charming mix of historic canals, rich culture, green nature, and hidden gems. Here’s how we spent our weekend in Leeuwarden packed with local hotspots, city stories, and amazing food.
Day one
Start with a canal cruise (and lunch by boat!)
What’s better than exploring a city from the water? Leeuwarden, with its beautiful historic center and pretty canals, is made for it. Rent an electric boat via Greenjoy and cruise through the heart of the city.
The best part is that you can pick up your lunch by boat at Stek Leeuwarden. Just make sure to order ahead, and enjoy your lunch while floating past old bridges, charming houseboats and greenery. It’s a unique and relaxed way to experience the city and definitely one of our favorite things to do in Leeuwarden.
Coffee stop at the best spot in town
For your caffeine fix, head to Fer Koffie. This specialty coffee bar is a local favorite for a reason. We also loved the colorful posters, cards, and coffee accessories they sell. It’s hard to leave empty-handed!
Join a City Walk with ‘A Guide to Leeuwarden’
To really understand Leeuwarden, book a walking tour with A Guide to Leeuwarden. These local guides share the city’s stories in a fun, down-to-earth way. Think quirky facts, hidden histories, and unexpected street art. Even if you’re not usually into guided tours, you might be surprised! We loved it and learned a lot from Zenon, our guide.
Beer Tasting & Boutique Shopping
Of course, no visit is complete without a local beer at a great beer café and that’s exactly what you get at De Markies! This famous spot offers over 200 beers, and you can also enjoy a tasting flight to sample several varieties.
Afterwards, wander through Leeuwarden’s boutique-filled side streets. Kleine Kerkstraat, Sint Jacobsstraat, Nieuwe Oosterstraat and Naauw are packed with unique shops.
Stay the Night at Hotel Vie Via
Hotel Vie Via is the perfect place to stay when visiting Leeuwarden. Located right in the city center, we truly enjoyed the comfort and the colorful, playful design. It’s not your typical hotel, it’s what they call ‘Just a Room’. This concept offers an alternative to the traditional hotel experience, with a low-service model that doesn’t compromise on comfort or style, and we definitely experienced it ourselves! Everything is super convenient: you unlock the doors with an app, and a delicious breakfast awaits you each morning.
Dinner in a former prison
One of the coolest dinner experiences we had was at Proefverlof, a restaurant located in a former prison. You might not expect it, but the atmosphere is surprisingly cozy. Outside, you can sit by the waterfront, watching boats and paddleboarders go by. We enjoyed a delicious 3-course dinner. Definitely make sure to book ahead for this one.
Day two
Explore the Frisian Countryside by Bike
Rent an e-bike at Post-Plaza (right next to the hotel) or at Fietsstation058 and head out into the Frisian countryside. We loved exploring the countryside with its peaceful grasslands full of cows and sheep, charming farms and picturesque villages. It’s a great way to start your day!
Lunch at Post-Plaza
Back in town, grab lunch at Post-Plaza, a gorgeous spot located in the old post office. The interior is beautiful, and the food is just as impressive. If the weather is nice, you can also enjoy your meal in their courtyard.
Must-Visit Museums in Leeuwarden
Art lovers, don’t miss the museums: Museumhuis Van Eysinga, Keramiekmuseum Princessehof, and Fries Museum are all within walking distance and worth a visit.
Wine & Charcuterie at Vino en Verder
In the evening, sip wine and enjoy charcuterie at Vino en Verder. It’s a bit of a hidden gem, hidden away behind walls covered in colorful graffiti, giving it an unique vibe. We really enjoyed our time there! They have a great wine list and delicious sharing plates.
End Your Weekend at Unia 12
And to wrap up your weekend, head to Unia 12, a cozy restaurant that feels like stepping into a vintage Dutch living room. You can choose between a 3- or 4-course menu, or o à la carte and they serve delicious, fresh food!
Want more Leeuwarden tips?
Pop by the visitor centre from Visit Leeuwarden. The locals there are super friendly and happy to point you toward even more hidden gems, depending on what you’re into.
