Franeker
Franeker (or Frjentsjer in the Frisian language) is a city in the province of Friesland, the Netherlands. It is most notable for its Eise Eisenga Planetarium, the oldest still in operation, and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2023.
Understand
[edit]The history of Franeker goes back to early medieval times. The old centre is still surrounded by a canal, but most of the associated defensive structures have been demolished in the 19th century.
Get in
[edit]Franeker lies about 20 km to the west of Friesland's capital, Leeuwarden.
By car
[edit]From Leeuwarden, take the A31.
By train
[edit]A direct train service connects Franeker with Leeuwarden and Harlingen.
Get around
[edit]See
[edit]
- 1 Eise Eisenga Planetarium, Eise Eisingastraat 3, ☏ +31 517 393 070, info@eisinga-planetarium.nl. Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 11:00-17:00; Apr-Oct also M 11:00-17:00. The world's oldest still operational planetarium, from the late 18th century. It's also a cultural world heritage site. €6 for adults, €5 for children.
- 2 Martena Museum, ☏ +31517392192. Tu-Su11:00–17:00, closed M. Playing the role of the town museum, it houses historical exhibits, including one on Franeker university. €6, museumkaart accepted.
- Korendragerhuisje. 10:00-21:00. Very small museum in a very small house from 1634 about grain harvesting, but worth a short free visit. Free entrance.
- PC Franeker. A prestigious ball game event with a tradition that goes back to 1853. Held every year on the fifth Wednesday after June 30th, e.g., on July 31, 2024.
Do
[edit]Buy
[edit]Eat
[edit]- 1 Snacks en Broodjeshuis Feenstra, Voorstraat 4, ☏ +31517392828. 11:30–20:30, closed Tu. A variety of foods, from cheap and tasty burgers to a proper plate of typical Dutch fare. €5–13.
Drink
[edit]Sleep
[edit]- Tulip Inn, 78 Hertog Van Saxenlaan, ☏ +31 517-398000, fax: +31 517-393111, info@tulipinnfraneker.nl. €94.
Go next
[edit]| Routes through Franeker |
| Harlingen ← | W  E |
→ Leeuwarden |