Things To Do
in Bolsward
Bolsward is a historic Frisian town with a picturesque medieval center and an inviting canal network. It sits along Friesland’s traditional water routes, offering a compact, walkable town center framed by centuries-old architecture. The town features the imposing Grote Kerk, charming guild houses, and a small museum that chronicles Bolsward’s local history.
It serves as a convenient base for exploring the Frisian countryside and day trips to nearby towns along the Elfstedentocht route.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure with a stroll through the picturesque streets of Bolsward, where you'll be greeted by the charm of historic buildings and canals. Visit the iconic St. Martin's Church, admiring its stunning architecture and rich history. Grab a coffee at a local café and enjoy the view of the town square.
After lunch, take a leisurely bike ride along the scenic countryside paths surrounding Bolsward, soaking in the vibrant landscapes and traditional Dutch farmhouses. Stop by the local museum to learn about the town's maritime history and the importance of the waterschap (water board) in the region. As you explore, discover hidden gems like quirky shops and art galleries.
Wind down your day with a traditional Dutch dinner at a cozy restaurant, where you can savor local dishes such as poffertjes and haring. After your meal, take a peaceful evening walk along the canals, illuminated by soft lights reflecting off the water. Conclude your day with a drink in a friendly local pub, mingling with residents and fellow travelers.
Start the morning with a visit to the town's historical archives, where you can dive into the rich tapestry of Bolsward's heritage. Join a guided walking tour led by a local historian to understand the significance of various landmarks and anecdotes about the town. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby bakery, sampling traditional Dutch pastries.
Explore the local artisan shops and markets, where craftsmen showcase their skills in pottery, woodworking, and textiles. Participate in a workshop to create your own handicraft, adding a personal touch to your visit. As the afternoon sun sets, savor a delicious lunch at a farm-to-table restaurant that highlights local produce.
Spend the evening at a cultural event, such as a concert or theater performance, often hosted in the town's civic center. Engage with the local community and experience the vibrant arts scene that Bolsward has to offer. After the show, enjoy a relaxed evening at an outdoor café or take in the night sky from a quiet spot along the canal.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket (local) | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with rich history
- Easy day trips to Friesland countryside and nearby towns
- Welcoming locals and a relaxed pace
- Strong local markets and seasonal Frisian specialties
- Nightlife is quieter compared to larger cities
- Limited big-city-style dining and nightlife options
- Some services may be concentrated in larger nearby towns
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you are
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Bolsward
Visit one of these nice places.
Climb the tower for panoramic views over Bolsward’s canal network and red-tiled rooftops.
Colorful façades and historic architecture provide classic Dutch-town photography opportunities.
Photograph traditional canal houses, small bridges, and boats along Bolsward’s waterways.
Historic courtyard scenes with period architecture and seasonal exhibitions.
Food in Bolsward
Bolsward Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty potato-and-vegetable mash often served with sausage; a comforting staple in Friesland.
Must-Try!
Ripe, locally caught herring sold at markets; enjoy it with onions on a bread roll for a classic Dutch bite.
Butter-rich pastries and krentenbollen commonly found in local bakeries, perfect with coffee.
Friesian cheeses and dairy-based snacks are common accompaniments to bread and beer.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with local produce, cheeses, pastries, and seasonal specialties.
Seasonal stalls and pop-up bites along the canal for light, quick eats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple 'hallo' or 'goedemorgen'; use 'u' for formal address when appropriate.
Cycling is the primary means of transport; stay in dedicated lanes and give way to pedestrians on sidewalks.
Queue patiently, avoid loud behavior in public, and respect local customs and countryside spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Bolsward
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common but not mandatory.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Cash is accepted at most places, and ATMs are available in town centers.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Green fields reemerge, fruit trees blossom, and outdoor cafés begin to open. Pleasant for walking and short rides.
Long days, mild to warm temperatures, and outdoor events; expect occasional showers. Great for canal walks and markets.
Cooler days with colorful countryside; good for quieter visits and nature walks in nearby reserves.
Chillier and damper, with occasional frost or snow; some outdoor venues close early, but festive lights and markets can appear around holidays.
Bolsward at Night
Hiking in Bolsward
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A 3–5 km walk along the town’s canal ring with views of historic houses and bridges.
Forest and wetland trails a short drive away, offering birdwatching and boardwalk paths.
Hiking options through woodlands and farmlands to the south, with gentle elevation and scenic viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Bolsward by plane.
Major international hub with extensive flight options; accessible from Bolsward via rail connections and road links.
Regional airport offering several European routes; practical for Northern Netherlands access.
Smaller airport serving regional and seasonal flights; alternative gateway to the central Netherlands.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Dutch-speaking with a notable Frisian identity and cultural heritage.
A prominent regional community with strong language and cultural traditions.
A mix of students from nearby towns and local families maintaining an easy-going pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A core part of Frisian life; flat terrain and extensive bike paths make cycling a daily activity.
Popular among locals with community clubs and weekend matches.
In cold winters, frozen canals and ice rinks draw skaters when conditions allow.
Access to nearby lakes and waterways supports boating on calm days.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bolsward.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; ask for seasonal vegetables, salads, and dairy-free choices.
Many cafés and restaurants can prepare gluten-free versions; notify staff in advance.
Non-dairy milk options and hot alternatives are available at most cafés.