Discover Bolsward: churches, canals and culture

When looking for a hotel in Bolsward, it helps to plan the focus of your stay in advance: churches and the history of the town hall, a walk along canals and monuments, or a seasonal experience on the water. The offerings have different focuses. You can choose what to visit based on whether you are mainly interested in historic buildings, a guided exploration of the city, or insights into local crafts and regional products.

Churches and architectural history

The Gothic Martinikerk was built between 1446 and 1466, is 68 metres long, and is protected as a Rijksmonument. Its construction period and specific size give a tangible sense of the church’s history and scale. The Broerekerk is an older site: it is Bolsward’s oldest monument and was built around 1300 as a monastery church for the Friars Minor, or Franciscans. Its glass roof allows safe access to the medieval ruin while preserving its character as a ruin. The Sint Franciscusbasiliek offers a different architectural note. It is a Roman Catholic church with expressionist architecture in the Art Deco style.

Town hall, museum and city walk

Museum De Tiid is located in Bolsward’s monumental town hall. It presents the history of the old trading town and the region of Southwest Fryslân. Guided tours take visitors through the historic town hall; the tower platform is accessible only with a guide. The stadswandeling Bolsward passes canals, monumental buildings and lesser-known places, offering insight into the city’s history. It focuses on the seven so-called treasures of Bolsward and is available at the VVV-Punt in Museum De Tiid.

Canals and green paths

A guided canal cruise lasts 45 minutes and takes you through the historic city canals. It also introduces the historic setting of the buildings along the water. The cruise and the stadswandeling have different focuses: the walk passes canals, buildings and other places, while the canal cruise centres on the canals and the buildings along the water. As the canal cruise is offered seasonally, check the dates and times before your visit.

Julianapark is a green Rijksmonument, laid out in 1913 to commemorate the centenary of liberation from French occupation. In the park, you can stroll among old trees, beside ponds and through a rose garden; the lawns are also available for use. An old aviary serves as a stage for small events. The park thus combines walking paths and garden areas with the use of the aviary as an event venue.

Crafts, tastings and market traditions

Us Heit Bier- & Whiskydistilleerderij produces pure beer and craft spirits with a Frisian flavour. Visitors can sample the drinks in the Proeflokaal. Tours explain how beer and whisky are made, the ingredients used and how the flavours develop. If you are planning a tasting or tour, check in advance whether booking is required.

Van Buren Bolsward is the only sheepskin tannery in the Netherlands and a family business with a history dating back to 1861. You can view its handcrafted sheepskin products in the shop and exhibition room; check opening details before your visit.

Bolletongersdei is an annual tradition in Bolsward. What began as a trading day for cows and livestock developed into a lively fair; the specific dates vary. If you would like to factor this market into your plans, check the dates for the relevant year.

More destinations

Discover more destinations: Wons, Kimswerd, Gaast, Pingjum, Parrega, Uitwellingerga, Offingawier, Makkum.

For the regional travel overview: Súdwest Fryslân.