Leeuwarden, Netherlands: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Leeuwarden, Netherlands? If you're planning to go to Leeuwarden, the following is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Leeuwarden, Netherlands

Based on the climate and weather in Leeuwarden, Netherlands, the best time to go is July. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Leeuwarden, Netherlands

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Leeuwarden, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Leeuwarden, Netherlands by month

January

January is brisk. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leeuwarden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you pick the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you see the Fries Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

February can be brisk. Temperatures average in the high 30s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leeuwarden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Make sure to choose the necessary type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the Fries Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

March in Leeuwarden can be brisk. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leeuwarden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the correct kind. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you see the Fries Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you go to Leeuwarden in April, you will notice that it is pretty cool. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the low 50s F (low 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leeuwarden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you find the right kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Fries Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

May in Leeuwarden is chilly. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leeuwarden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you choose the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

If you see the Fries Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

June in Leeuwarden is relatively cool. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 50s F (mid 10s C) to 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leeuwarden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Fries Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

July in Leeuwarden is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leeuwarden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to get the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Fries Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Leeuwarden is balmy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C) to high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leeuwarden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you see the Fries Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

September in Leeuwarden can be chilly. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (high 10s C) during the day. It rains occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leeuwarden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Ensure that you get the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Fries Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

October in Leeuwarden is cool. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the 40s F (single digits C). It tends to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leeuwarden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. It's important that you find the right type. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

If you see the Fries Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

November in Leeuwarden is cold. The average overnight temperatures in the area are in the high 30s F (single digits C). It tends to rain sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leeuwarden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Be careful to find the right kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the Fries Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December here can be very chilly. Temperatures average in the low 40s F (single digits C) during the day. It rains about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Netherlands has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Leeuwarden. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and F. Take care to pick the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you see the Fries Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Leeuwarden, Netherlands

Leeuwarden, a charming city in the Dutch province of Friesland, is a hidden gem for many tourists who are looking for a unique travel experience. Known for its rich history, art, culture, and scenic beauty, Leeuwarden offers visitors an opportunity to indulge in several activities that will make their vacation worth cherishing.

If you’re planning a trip to Leeuwarden and wondering what the city has in store for you, here are the top tourist attractions to explore:

1. The Oldehove Tower – The leaning church tower of Oldehove is a prominent landmark that dominates Leeuwarden's skyline. The tower's construction began in the sixteenth century, but it wasn't completed due to ground instability. Today, visitors can tour inside the tower and climb its 200 steps to enjoy spectacular views of the city.

2. Fries Museum – The Fries Museum, located in the heart of Leeuwarden, is a fascinating museum that showcases the cultural heritage of Friesland. The museum features an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, ceramics, and historical artifacts that span over 800 years of Frisian history.

3. Prinsentuin – Prinsentuin is a beautiful garden, located in the center of Leeuwarden, that offers a serene and tranquil environment where visitors can relax and admire the greenery. The garden is home to a variety of exotic plants, beautiful fountains, and a pond filled with colorful fish.

4. Blokhuispoort – Blokhuispoort, a former prison that was transformed into a cultural hotspot, is a unique attraction that should be on your must-visit list. The prison's history dates back to the sixteenth century, and today, it houses shops, restaurants, and a hostel. Blokhuispoort also hosts several cultural events throughout the year.

5. De Grote Kerk – De Grote Kerk, also known as the St. Boniface Church, is an impressive Gothic-style church located in the heart of Leeuwarden. The church was built in the fifteenth century and features a stunning interior adorned with intricate details and beautiful stained glass windows.

6. AquaZoo Friesland – AquaZoo Friesland is a family-friendly attraction that features a variety of aquatic animals, including penguins, seals, and polar bears. Visitors can watch the animals' playful behaviors, learn about their habitats, and participate in feeding sessions.

7. Het Princessehof – Het Princessehof is a beautiful museum that is home to impressive collections of ceramics and glassware from many parts of the world. The museum is housed in a stunning historic building that offers a glimpse into the city's rich history.

In conclusion, Leeuwarden offers plenty of things to see and do, making it a perfect destination for tourists who appreciate a blend of history, art, culture, and natural beauty. With the city's top tourist attractions mentioned above, you can be sure of an unforgettable vacation experience. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and head to Leeuwarden for a memorable holiday!

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Belmont, New Hampshire, United States of America, North Pole, Alaska, United States of America, Clorinda, Argentina, Thief River Falls, Minnesota, United States of America, Judaean Desert, Israel, Kidapawan, Philippines, Princeton, West Virginia, United States of America, Logansport, Indiana, United States of America, Bastia, France, Altiplano, Bolivia, and Arkhangelsk Oblast, Russia.