Visit Leeuwarden!
Leeuwarden is the cultural capital of the province of Friesland and located very close to the Van der Valk hotel Hardegarijp. Young or old, Leeuwarden has something to offer for everyone. Do you like museums? The Fries Museum showcases one exhibition after another. Also, in the Princessehof, one of the two palaces in Leeuwarden and also known as the Rijksmuseum of the North, various exhibitions are displayed. But not only inside the museums, you can also enjoy art outside. Leeuwarden offers a fun "Miniature People Route". In the city center, you can admire small figurines, miniature people, at 42 locations. Walk through the streets and alleys of the city center in search of these little "Liwadders". This way, you will truly discover unknown spots. You can obtain a map for this route at the reception.
Leeuwarden has a historically rich city center. The Oldehove, the icon of the city of Leeuwarden, must not be missing from the list of historical highlights. The centuries-old tower is even more leaning than the Leaning Tower of Pisa! You can admire the tower both from the inside and outside. Climb to the top of the tower via the old spiral staircase and enjoy a beautiful view over the city! On the other side of the city center, you will find the "Blokhuispoort". This is a former prison from the 16th century and you can see this reflected in everything! Where the tough guys used to be, you will now find various shops, restaurants, and creative entrepreneurs.
In Leeuwarden, you can also fully enjoy on and by the water. The city canal runs through the entire center! Rent a boat yourself or let yourself be taken on a traditional Frisian "praam". The skipper will tell you all about the rich history of the city!
If you prefer to seek peace and quiet, take a walk to the hidden courtyards and guesthouses Luilekkerland, Boshuisengasthuis, and the Sint Anthony Gasthuis. Here you will find an oasis of tranquility, as if time has stood still!
In addition to culture and history, the center of Leeuwarden also offers plenty of opportunities for shopping, enjoying a terrace, or having a bite to eat or a drink in one of the many cozy restaurants and bars.
Every year, several festivals are organized in both the city center and the outskirts of Leeuwarden, the Groene Ster. In the recreational area of the Groene Ster, you will also find Aqua Zoo. A zoo where you can admire the most special animals. Tickets for Aqua Zoo can be obtained at our front desk.
Leeuwarden is easily accessible by car, motorcycle, bicycle, and public transport. Our staff will gladly provide you with the most up-to-date public transport schedules and inform you about the best parking options.