Things To Do
in Burgum

Burgum is a charming town located in the province of Friesland, Netherlands. Known for its scenic canals and natural beauty, it offers a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to explore Dutch culture. The town is surrounded by lush landscapes and is an excellent base for outdoor activities.

With a rich history and friendly locals, Burgum provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Burgum
morning
:

Start your day with a walk around the picturesque Burgum Lake, enjoying the fresh air and natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Visit the local museum to learn about the history and culture of the region, followed by lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Dutch dinner at a local restaurant, then take a leisurely stroll through the town center to admire the quaint architecture.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a bike ride through the surrounding countryside to experience the stunning landscapes and traditional farms.

afternoon
:

Stop for a picnic in one of the local parks, then visit a nearby artisan market for unique handmade goods.

evening
:

Attend a local event or festival if available, or enjoy a quiet evening in one of Burgum's cozy pubs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$20
Coffee at a café$3
🍕Pizza delivery$15
🚇Public transport ticket$3
🛒Groceries for a week$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Scenic natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Peaceful atmosphere away from tourist crowds
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport may be infrequent
  • Less English spoken compared to larger cities
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Waar is...?" - Where is...?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don't speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Burgum

Visit one of these nice places.

Burgum Lake

A beautiful lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for capturing serene landscapes.

Historic Town Center

Featuring traditional Dutch architecture, this area is ideal for capturing the essence of Burgum.

Canal Views

The canals of Burgum provide picturesque reflections and charming views, especially at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Burgum

Burgum offers a delightful range of local dishes and drinks that reflect the rich culinary heritage of Friesland.

Burgum Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Friesche Nagelkaas

A traditional cheese from Friesland, known for its unique flavors and creamy texture.

Must-Try!

Berenboter

A local spread made from butter and sugar, often enjoyed on bread or pancakes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Burgum Market

A weekly market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Burgum experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 2°C (36°F) in winter to 22°C (72°F) in summer. Rain is common throughout the year, so packing an umbrella is advisable. The climate is generally pleasant, making it suitable for outdoor activities in most seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is important in Dutch culture; always strive to arrive on time for appointments or meals.

Greetings

A firm handshake is a common greeting, and it's polite to greet everyone in the room.

Direct Communication

The Dutch are known for their straightforwardness; it's considered respectful to communicate openly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Burgum is considered a safe destination with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take usual precautions, such as securing your belongings and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services are readily available, and locals are often willing to assist if you need help.

Tipping in Burgum

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring nature.

Summer

Summer is warm and perfect for enjoying water activities at the lake and local festivals.

Autumn

Autumn showcases stunning foliage, making it a great time for photography and nature walks.

Winter

Winter can be cold, but the town's charm remains, with opportunities for cozy indoor activities and winter markets.

Nightlife Guide

Burgum at Night

Burgum offers a relaxed nightlife scene with a few local pubs and bars where you can enjoy drinks and socialize with locals. The atmosphere is friendly and laid-back, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration. While there aren't large nightclubs, occasional live music events can be found, providing a taste of local talent.

Hiking in Burgum

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

De Alde Feanen National Park

A short drive from Burgum, this national park features diverse landscapes and well-marked hiking trails through wetlands and forests.

Drents-Friese Wold National Park

Located a bit further away, this park offers expansive trails for hiking and enjoying the beautiful natural scenery of the region.

Airports

How to reach Burgum by plane.

Groningen Eelde Airport

Approximately 40 km from Burgum, this airport serves domestic and limited international flights, making it a convenient option for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Burgum is quite walkable, with most attractions and amenities located within a short distance of each other. The town features well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian paths, making it easy to explore on foot. The peaceful atmosphere and scenic views enhance the walking experience, allowing visitors to enjoy the charm of the town at a leisurely pace.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Frisians

The native people of Friesland, known for their unique culture, language, and traditions.

International Residents

Burgum has a growing number of international residents attracted by its peaceful lifestyle and natural surroundings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is widely popular in the region, with many local clubs and matches drawing community support.

Field Hockey

Field hockey is another favored sport in Friesland, with several teams and events throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Burgum is generally light, with a well-planned road system. Public transportation options include buses that connect to neighboring towns and cities, though they may not run frequently. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes making it easy to navigate the area.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Burgum.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check the menu in advance.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are increasingly available in local eateries; communicate your needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Burgum is accessible, with several clinics and medical facilities available. The Netherlands has a high standard of healthcare, and residents are required to have health insurance. In case of emergencies, hospitals are well-equipped, and there are also pharmacies for minor health concerns.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide