Friese Historische Steden

From fortified towns to World Heritage Sites.

Leeuwarden

Leeuwarden, capital of Friesland and one of the most beautiful towns on the Eleven Cities route, buzzes with history and charm. Stroll through the narrow streets, admire the canals and discover the versatility of this city.

Culture, art and views

From the historic Waag to the modern Fries Museum, from colourful murals to street poems, there is something for everyone. Climb the Oldehove for a beautiful view over the city and end the day on one of the terraces by the water. Leeuwarden combines Frisian tradition with contemporary charm.

Moderne fontein genaamd ‘Love’ met twee witte hoofden omgeven door mist, gelegen in een parkje in Leeuwarden met moderne gebouwen op de achtergrond.
Het monumentale gebouw van de Hoofdwacht in Leeuwarden met klassieke pilaren, omliggende historische panden en de moderne Achmeatoren op de achtergrond.
De Oldehove, de karakteristieke scheve toren van Leeuwarden, gefotografeerd op een zonnige dag met een blauwe lucht en enkele wolken, omringd door bomen en een open plein.

Dokkum

A stone’s throw from Hantum lies Dokkum, the turning point of the Eleven Cities route and one of the most beautiful fortified towns in Friesland. The old ramparts, picturesque canals and historic buildings make a walk through the centre a genuine discovery.

A town with character

Visit the old brewery, the Bonifatius Park or the Admiraliteitshuis museum. And did you know that the bells of Dokkum ring every evening at 21:50, as a reminder of the time when the town gates were closed? A down-to-earth yet hip town, perfect for shopping, terrace sitting and culture.

Franeker

Let yourself be surprised by Franeker, a town full of picturesque canals, historic buildings and the imposing Martini Church. The town centre is definitely worth a stroll, if only to take in the beautiful façades.

World Heritage and Frisian charm

Visit the Eise Eisinga Planetarium, the oldest working planetarium in the world and on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2023. Take a boat trip through the canals or discover the local culture in the cosy cafés. Franeker is a town you should not miss during a stay in Friesland.