Sailing to Franeker, what is there to do?

Franeker in Frisian Frjentsjer is one of the Eleven Cities in Friesland. The city is located north of Bolsward and west of Leeuwarden. The rich history of Franeker is reflected in the city. With grand monuments, beautiful museums, and stunning buildings, Franeker is definitely worth a visit. And did you know that Franeker used to have a university? From 1585 to 1811, you could find the University of Friesland in Franeker. Ultimately, Napoleon put an end to the university. But you can still find the academic history in this gem of the Frisian Eleven Cities. Will you sail with one of our motorboats to Franeker and discover this beautiful place?

Sailing to Franeker

If you sail to Franeker, you will enter the city via the Harinxma Canal. From the water, you can see the city walls and moor just a stone’s throw away from the city center. Most moorings are located at the ramparts. In the past, these types of dikes were used to defend the city. Now you can take a lovely walk along them.

Where can I dock my boat in Franeker?

As we just mentioned, you can moor your boat at the ramparts in Franeker. These moorings are equipped with electricity, there are water tap points, and a public toilet building with washing facilities. You pay €1.25 per meter, which includes the amenities. Also, bring some change for the showers, as you will pay €0.50 per shower.

Marina de Franeker Watersport Association

Additionally, you can moor your boat at the marina of the Franeker watersport. This is located a short distance outside the center. When you moor at the marina, there are open moorings available for visitors. For this, look for a box with a green sign. Or you can choose a mooring at the end of the harbor, near the harbor office and toilet building.

The harbor master will come by to collect the mooring fees. They prefer contactless payment (PIN). If you miss the harbor master, you can deposit the harbor fees in a designated envelope in the mailbox of the harbor building.

The following amenities are available at this marina:

• electricity and drinking water at the dock
• wastewater disposal station
• toilets and shower facilities
• free use of bicycles
• play equipment for children
• picnic tables
• free WIFI

Boat rental Franeker

With the boats from Varen met Sil, you can easily sail throughout Friesland. Are you looking for an adventurous holiday or do you want to enjoy peace and space? With a sailing holiday in Friesland, it can all be done. Rent a boat for your sailing holiday with Varen met Sil and sail to Franeker, for example. Do you have questions? Then contact us.

Our motorboats

What is there to do in Franeker?

During your visit to Franeker, there is plenty to do, stroll through the center and explore the small streets. In various places in the city, you will find QR codes. You can scan these with your mobile and listen to stories from Franeker, about Franeker. Touching, funny, and sometimes a bit strict. 

The History of Franeker

Do you love history? Then you must not miss the Korendragershuisje. This little house has been there since 1643, where products such as grain, beer, and legumes were checked before they could be transported further. And when you say Franeker, you also say Eise Eisinga. In Franeker, you will find the Planetarium of Eise Eisinga, the model of the sun with six planets revolving around it. And it still works! Visit this unique museum and learn more about the planets and our solar system.

The town hall in Franeker is also a true sight. This impressive building is constructed in Frisian Renaissance style. Above the entrance of the town hall, you can see the coat of arms of Friesland, and among the stained glass windows, there are still 27 coats of arms visible. From March 1 to November 1, you can visit the town hall for free from Tuesday to Friday.

Annual PC in Franeker

A true Frisian sport is kaatsen. In Franeker, the PC takes place every year, the largest kaats tournament in Friesland. In the city, you will find two towers built in honor of the 150th anniversary of the kaats tournament. At the edge of the kaats field stands the oldest student pub in the Netherlands, which is now also used as a mini-museum full of old kaats items.

Delicious food in Franeker

Do you want to eat something delicious in the city? Then visit the bakery café Schaafsma, where you can enjoy the tastiest pastries and coffees. For example, try their oranjekoek. A true Frisian delicacy. Delicious with a cup of coffee. Prefer something savory? Then settle down at Brasserie de Stadstuin. As the name suggests, you can sit in the beautiful garden here. But of course, you can also sit inside and enjoy a tasty toast or the soup of the day.