Franeker

Franeker (or Frjentsjer in the Frisian language) is a city in the province of Friesland, the Netherlands. It is most notable for its Eise Eisenga Planetarium, the oldest still in operation, and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2023.

church at square

Understand

The history of Franeker goes back to early medieval times. The old centre is still surrounded by a canal, but most of the associated defensive structures have been demolished in the 19th century.

Get in

Franeker lies about 20 km to the west of Friesland's capital, Leeuwarden.

By car

From Leeuwarden, take the A31.

By train

A direct train service connects Franeker with Leeuwarden and Harlingen.

See

Korendragerhuisje

• 1 Eise Eisenga Planetarium, Eise Eisingastraat 3, ☏ +31 517 393 070, info@eisinga-planetarium.nl. Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 11:00-17:00; Apr-Oct also M 11:00-17:00. The world's oldest still operational planetarium, from the late 18th century. It's also a cultural world heritage site. €6 for adults, €5 for children.  
• 2 Martena Museum, ☏ +31 517392192. Tu-Su11:00–17:00, closed M. Playing the role of the town museum, it houses historical exhibits, including one on Franeker university. €6, museumkaart accepted. (updated Nov 2023)
• Korendragerhuisje. 10:00-21:00. Very small museum in a very small house from 1634 about grain harvesting, but worth a short free visit. Free entrance. 

Planetarium View

working of planetarium on loft

• PC Franeker. A prestigious ball game event with a tradition that goes back to 1853. Held every year on the fifth Wednesday after June 30th, e.g., on July 31, 2024. 

Martena museum from the garden

city hall

Eat

• 1 Snacks en Broodjeshuis Feenstra, Voorstraat 4, ☏ +31 517392828. 11:30–20:30, closed Tu. A variety of foods, from cheap and tasty burgers to a proper plate of typical Dutch fare. €5–13. (updated Nov 2023)

Sleep

• Tulip Inn, 78 Hertog Van Saxenlaan, ☏ +31 517-398000, fax: +31 517-393111, info@tulipinnfraneker.nl. €94. 

Go next

• Leeuwarden

Routes through Franeker

Harlingen ←

W  E

→ Leeuwarden