Things To Do
in Burgum
Burgum is a small town in Friesland that sits close to the Frisian countryside, offering a calm atmosphere and easy access to water and green spaces. Its streets blend historical charm with modern cafés and markets, reflecting a friendly local vibe. The town serves as a gateway to larger Frisian towns and lakes, while retaining its own intimate character and community feel.
Visitors can enjoy easy cycling routes, quaint canal views, and approachable Dutch hospitality in Burgum.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring traditional Dutch pastries and a steaming cup of coffee. Stroll through the picturesque streets of Burgum, taking in the charming architecture and vibrant flower displays. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the historic Sint-Vituskerk, a beautiful 12th-century church that offers a glimpse into the town's rich heritage.
After lunch, take a guided walking tour to learn more about Burgum's history and cultural significance. Visit the nearby Museum Dokkum, which showcases regional art and artifacts, providing an insight into the area's past. Spend some time exploring local shops, where you can find unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant offering traditional Frisian cuisine. Opt for fresh fish dishes or try the local specialty, ‘Sûkerbrood’. Wrap up your evening with a peaceful walk along the Burgumermar, taking in the serene views of the lake under the starlit sky.
Kick off your day by heading to the Burgumer Mar, where the calm waters welcome you for a morning of nature exploration. Rent a kayak or canoe to paddle around the scenic lake, soaking in the sights and sounds of the natural surroundings. Keep an eye out for the diverse birdlife that inhabits the area, including herons and various waterfowl.
After an active morning, enjoy a picnic lunch by the lakeside, relishing the fresh air and stunning views. In the afternoon, take a leisurely hike along the marked trails around the lake, where you can discover the diverse flora and fauna of the region. Look for informational signs that share interesting facts about the local ecosystem.
As the day winds down, return to Burgum and dine at a lakeside restaurant where you can enjoy a meal with a view. Savor local dishes while watching the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors. End your evening with a relaxed stroll along the promenade, enjoying the gentle evening breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥤Coffee or soft drink | $3-5 |
| 🧀Grocery staple per week | $40-60 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per liter) | $1.8-2.5 |
| 🧭Public transportation ticket | $3-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful town with friendly locals
- Beautiful Frisian countryside nearby
- Bike-friendly streets and easy exploration
- Limited nightlife and dining options in Burgum center
- Some services require short trips to larger towns like Drachten or Leeuwarden
- "Goeie môre" - Good morning
- "Hoe giet it?" - How are you?
- "Tankewol" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Burgum
Visit one of these nice places.
Serene lake views with reflections at sunrise or sunset; ideal for landscapes and silhouettes.
Iconic Frisian farmland with grazing animals and traditional windmills set against open skies.
Historic architecture and colorful market surroundings great for street photography.
Calm water reflections and quaint canals with periodic drawbridges and boats.
Food in Burgum
Burgum Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A selection of local Friesland cheeses, often with rye bread, apples, and regional honey.
Must-Try!
Potatoes mashed with vegetables (kale or endive) and served with smoked sausage; a hearty Dutch staple commonly available in Burgum’s cafés.
Mini fluffy pancakes topped with butter and powdered sugar; popular at markets and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, dairy, baked goods, and regional snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; maintain polite eye contact and greet locals when entering shops.
Give way to pedestrians, stay in bike lanes, and signal turns; pass others on the left.
Respect residential quiet hours; keep voices down in residential areas, especially evenings.
Safety
Tipping in Burgum
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up a bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in casual places.
Credit/debit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still used in some smaller spots.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Fields turn green and flowers bloom; the weather is milder and days grow longer.
Warm days ideal for outdoor markets, lakeside visits, and long daylight hours.
Harvest season brings golden fields and fewer crowds; potential rain showers.
Chillier with possible frost and occasional snow; cozy cafés and winter markets.
Burgum at Night
Hiking in Burgum
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic lakeside walking/hiking path with water views and wildlife.
Expansive heathland and forest with varied trails and birdlife.
Airports
How to reach Burgum by plane.
Regional airport serving the Friesland area with short-haul European flights; roughly the closest international option.
Major international hub with extensive connections; typically reachable by train or flight via connections from Groningen or Leeuwarden.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, retirees, and farmers; a tight-knit community feel.
Many visitors and locals use bicycles as a primary mode of transport.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
An intrinsic part of Dutch life; Burgum and Friesland offer extensive cycling networks.
Multiple lakes and canals make water sports popular in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Burgum.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in cafés and restaurants; look for dishes with cheese, vegetables, and grains, or ask for meat-free versions.