Franeker, known as Frjentsjer in Frisian, is one of the Eleven Cities in Friesland. The city is located north of Bolsward and west of Leeuwarden. Franeker’s rich history is evident throughout the city. With grand monuments, beautiful museums, and stunning buildings, Franeker is definitely worth a visit. Did you know that Franeker once had a university? From 1585 to 1811, Franeker housed the University of Friesland. Ultimately, Napoleon brought an end to the university, but the academic history can still be discovered in this gem among the Frisian Eleven Cities. Are you sailing to Franeker with one of our motorboats to explore this beautiful place?
Sailing to Franeker
When sailing to Franeker, you’ll enter the city via the Van Harinxma Canal. From the water, you’ll see the city walls and can moor just a stone’s throw away from the city center. Most moorings are located along the bastions, which were once used as defenses for the city and now provide a scenic walking path.
Where can I moor the boat in Franeker?
As mentioned earlier, you can moor your boat along the bastions in Franeker. These moorings provide electricity, water taps, and a public toilet facility with washing facilities. The cost is €1.25 per meter, inclusive of these amenities. Be sure to have some change for the showers, which cost €0.50 cents each.
Franeker Watersport Association Marina
Additionally, you can moor your boat at the Franeker Watersport Association Marina, located just a short distance outside the city center. For transient boaters, there are open moorings marked with a green sign on the berths. Alternatively, you can choose a berth near the harbor office and toilet facilities at the end of the marina.
The harbor master will collect mooring fees. They prefer contactless payment (PIN). If you miss the harbor master, you can deposit the harbor fee in a designated envelope into the mailbox at the harbor office.
The following amenities are available at this marina:
- Electricity and drinking water at the pier
- Waste water disposal station
- Toilets and shower facilities
- Free use of bicycles
- Children’s playground
- Picnic tables
- Free WIFI
Hiring a Boat in Franeker
With the boats from Varen met Sil, you can easily navigate throughout Friesland. Whether you’re seeking an adventurous vacation or simply want to enjoy peace and space, a boating holiday in Friesland offers it all. Rent a boat now for your boating vacation with Varen met Sil and sail to destinations like Franeker. Have questions? Feel free to contact us.
Things to Do in Franeker
During your visit to Franeker, there’s plenty to explore. Take a stroll through the city center and wander through its quaint streets. You’ll find QR codes at various spots in the city that you can scan with your mobile phone to listen to stories about Franeker—touching, funny, and sometimes a bit stern.
History of Franeker
If you love history, a must-see is the Korendragershuisje (Corn Carrier’s House), which has stood since 1643. This house was where products like grain, beer, and pulses were inspected before further transport. And when talking about Franeker, one cannot miss mentioning Eise Eisinga. In Franeker, you’ll find the Eise Eisinga Planetarium, a model of the sun with six planets orbiting around it. And it still works! Visit this unique museum to learn more about the planets and our solar system.
Another notable attraction in Franeker is the City Hall, built in the Frisian Renaissance style. Above the entrance of the City Hall, you’ll see the coat of arms of Friesland, and the stained-glass windows display 27 coats of arms. From March 1st to November 1st, you can visit the City Hall for free from Tuesday to Friday.
Enjoy your exploration of Franeker
Annual PC Event in Franeker
A true Frisian sport is “kaatsen” (Frisian handball). Each year in Franeker, the PC (Permanente Commissie) takes place, the largest kaatsen tournament in Friesland. In the city, you’ll find two towers built to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the tournament. Adjacent to the kaatsen field stands the oldest student pub in the Netherlands, now also used as a mini-museum filled with old kaatsen memorabilia.
Delicious Dining in Franeker
Looking to enjoy some delicious food in town? Visit Bakkerscafé Schaafsma, where you can indulge in the tastiest pastries and coffees. Don’t miss out on trying their “oranjekoek,” a true Frisian delight, perfect with a cup of coffee. Prefer something savory? Relax at Brasserie de Stadstuin. As the name suggests, you can enjoy the beautiful garden setting, or cozy up indoors with a tasty toasted sandwich or soup of the day
