7 good reasons to spend your holiday in Friesland
You know Amsterdam. Maybe Rotterdam. Possibly Utrecht. But Friesland? That’s where things get interesting. This northern province doesn’t follow the crowd — it does its own thing. With water everywhere, cities full of character, and a culture that’s anything but mainstream, Friesland is where tradition meets bold ideas.
Here, street art and skûtsjes go side by side. Kitesurfers share the horizon with UNESCO heritage. And every village, city, and festival brings something unexpected. Curious? Good. That’s exactly the kind of traveller Friesland is made for.
Space, stillness, and nature
Room to breathe
Friesland means no crowded beaches, no high-rise hotels. Instead, you’ll find open landscapes with endless meadows, lakes, dikes, and quiet forests. Perfect for switching off. Ideal for hiking, cycling, or simply taking in the view. Nature without the crowds — that’s Frisian luxury.
2. Holiday by the water
Peaceful, but with all the comforts
Friesland is laced with lakes, canals, and rivers. Whether by boat, canoe, SUP board, or simply relaxing on the shore — water is always within reach. And the best part? No boating license needed. With countless small harbours, waterside picnic spots, and charming canal villages, your holiday becomes uniquely Frisian — and refreshingly easy-going.
3. Frisian hospitality
Warm, honest, and real
Here, you’re not just a tourist — you’re genuinely welcome. Hosts in Friesland take their time, proudly share their region, and always have a story to tell. Whether you’re staying at a farm, a cosy B&B, or a small family-run restaurant, you’ll feel the care behind everything. It’s authentic, down-to-earth, and something truly special.
4. Culinary discoveries
From field to fork
Friesland surprises with bold regional flavours. Try the famous Friese Nagelkaas, fresh fish from the IJsselmeer, local Beerenburg, or a slice of sweet Oranjekoek. You’ll find farm shops, cosy cafés, fish restaurants, and even vineyards dotted across the region. This is how food should be — local, sustainable, and full of character.
5. Sustainable travel
Conscious enjoyment
Friesland thinks ahead. Many accommodations are Green Key certified, local markets offer organic products, and cycling and hiking routes are excellently maintained. Whether you’re travelling by e-bike, camper, or train, you’ll find everything you need for an eco-friendly holiday — without compromising on comfort.
6. Easy to reach
Surprisingly close, wherever you’re coming from
Friesland might feel like a world of its own, but getting here is easier than you'd expect. From Amsterdam, you're in the heart of Friesland in just over 90 minutes. Groningen Airport Eelde is less than an hour away — ideal for travellers from the UK or Scandinavia. Coming from Brussels? It's a smooth 4-hour trip by car or train. Even Paris is within reach — just 6 to 7 hours away by train or car.
7. Authentic, not touristy
Friesland does things differently
Friesland isn’t your typical Holland. No clichés here — just real stories. From the legendary Eleven Cities and centuries-old churches to a living language (Frysk), unique culture, and true craftsmanship. Visiting Friesland means discovering something new — and many find themselves coming back for more.
