Welcome To Fryslân

Fryslân or Friesland is a province where history and modernity blend seamlessly, with a rich mix of culture, adventure, and natural beauty. As someone who is new to Fryslân, you’re about to discover a province undiscovered by many. This unique water-rich region, known for its charming canals, picturesque landscapes, and rich linguistic and cultural heritage, offers many hidden gems waiting to be explored.

To help you get started, we’ve curated a list of eight must-visit spots that showcase the best of what Fryslân has to offer. From national parks to nightlife, these favorite spots will make your stay in Fryslân memorable! Welcome to Fryslân!

Schiermonnikoog

As a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Wadden Sea is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. With long-stretching beaches, unique tidal flats, cute little villages and a unique Frisian feel, it’s truly one of Europe’s most extraordinary natural habitats.

A personal favorite at the IWCN office is Schiermonnikoog (Frisian: Skiermûntseach). It has one of, if not the, widest beaches in Europe. Its picturesque dunes and beaches are perfect for several different land and sea sports; and the North Sea is also a great swimming spot! For the more Burgundian lifestyle fans, it’s the perfect island to relax on a terrace with a drink or to relax on the beach in the late-summer sun.

The Alde Feanen National Park

De Alde Feanen is one of Fryslân’s best-kept secrets. It is a sprawling 4,000-hectare wetland paradise teeming with life. As you wander through this park, you’ll discover quiet lakes and impressive waterways to meadows and dense forests. The serene landscape is a haven for relaxation and several outdoor activities. The park offers numerous trails that are perfect for either hiking or a beautiful bike ride. The trails snake through the stunning landscapes, breathtaking views and opportunities to spot unique wildlife such as the over 100 species of birds, including rare and endangered ones.

SUP Skool

Leeuwarden is the water capital of Fryslân and is your gateway to aquatic adventures. At the SUP Skool in Leeuwarden, you can experience Stand Up Paddling—a fun and relaxing full-body workout. They offer packages for groups up to 120 people. In addition, they offer exciting lessons and a variety of SUP activities. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, paddle across the canals and discover the joy of water sports in Leeuwarden!

Scooter’S Karaoke Night

Skooter’S in Leeuwarden combines their music café with the feel and vibes of a pub to create the perfect atmosphere for their legendary karaoke night every single Thursday. It’s a night where song, dance, and theater claim a spotlight on the stage. Whether you want to sing your heart out to your favorite pop anthem or cheer on your friends while tackling a classic rock ballad, karaoke is the ultimate icebreaker. Unleash your inner superstar, share laughs, and make lasting memories. The night starts young at 19:00.

Eise Eisinga Planetarium

In the quaint city of Franeker (Frisian: Frjentsjer), you’ll find the oldest working planetarium in the world. The Planetarium Room is the centrepiece of the Eise Eisinga Planetarium. The model of the sun with the 6 planets turning around it still functions and is one of the three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Fryslân.

Eise Eisinga was an amateur astronomer who built this planetarium between 1774 and 1781 in his living room with his father and brother, merely to prove a pastor wrong. The pastor claimed in a booklet that the world would perish due to an alignment of four planets. Eisinga then built this planetarium to prove the science behind the planets. The Eise Eisinga Planetarium is now a masterpiece of science and craftsmanship. This incredible orrery accurately displays the positions of the planets and their orbits around the sun, all driven by a complex mechanism of wooden gears and weights.

AquaZoo Leeuwarden

AquaZoo Leeuwarden is where water and wildlife come together to create a magical experience for visitors of all ages. Located just outside Leeuwarden, this unique zoo specializes in aquatic animals and offers an engaging adventure through various waters. Stroll along the scenic pathways and encounter the diverse range of animals, from penguins and polar bears to otters, seals, and exotic reptiles.

Poolcafé Freezone

Whether you’re a pool enthusiast or simply looking for a lively spot to hang out, Poolcafé Freezone offers a welcoming space where good times are guaranteed. With seven pool tables, four dartboards, and over 50 different types of local and international beers, it’s a great place to relax after a day of exploring Leeuwarden or to kickstart your night out in the city.

Prinsentuin Park

The Prinsentuin (Prince’s Garden) is a serene oasis in the heart of Leeuwarden perfect for relaxation and leisurely strolls. Wander through lush gardens, enjoy the vibrant flower beds, and take in the scenic views of the canals that wind through the park. Prinsentuin is a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike, offering ample space for picnics, outdoor activities, and peaceful reflection.

Of course, these are only a few of the magical places the province of Fryslân has to offer. With this as your base, we hope you venture out to discover the area and make amazing memories.

If you want to discover more of what Friesland has to offer, keep an eye out on our Instagram where we share current and upcoming events in the North.

Our Instagram