What to do in Friesland in 2026? The ultimate top 4 for activities and stays

The Dutch holidaymaker is massively choosing familiar, versatile destinations close to home, where peace, space, and water recreation are central. In 2026, Friesland is the absolute hotspot for travelers looking to enjoy a quirky mix of culture, expansive nature, and world-class water sports, without the crowds of abroad. Whether you are looking for active water sports on the Frisian Lakes or want to discover the historical charm of the Eleven Cities, this province offers it all. Discover our selection of vacation rentals and experience the ultimate holiday feeling in your own country.

De Alde Feanen National Park is one of the most beautiful water areas in the Netherlands and perfectly fits the growing need for peace, space, and ecotourism in 2026. Here, endless reed lands, swamp forests, and open lakes alternate with charming water sports villages.

Why go now? In 2026, the focus is more than ever on sustainable and local travel. De Alde Feanen offers the ideal base to discover the unique flora and fauna in an eco-friendly way – by whisper-quiet electric sloop or canoe.

Activities:

• Rent an electric whisper boat and sail through the narrow peat ditches and turf banks.

• Visit the De Alde Feanen Visitor Center for interactive exhibitions and excursions with a forest ranger.

• Climb the bird-watching tower in Earnewâld to spot rare marsh and water birds.

Stay: Choose one of our attractive vacation rentals right on the water near Earnewâld (Eernewoude). These detached waterfront homes often have their own private boat dock, allowing you to sail straight from your backyard onto the lake for an early morning tour.

Southwest Friesland breathes water sports and tradition. The region around Sneek combines vibrant water recreation with a rich history dating back to the Golden Age.

Why go now? Sneek is celebrating various cultural events and renewed water sports routes in 2026, making its historic heart more vibrant than ever for culture and water sports enthusiasts.

Activities:

• Visit the iconic Waterpoort monument, the ultimate symbol of Friesland.

• Discover the Frisian Maritime Museum and learn all about rich shipping history and the Eleven Cities Tour.

• Take a boat trip on the Sneekermeer and enjoy the lively harbors and cozy terraces.

Stay: Discover our range of comfortable chalets and houseboats in the Sneek region. Perfect for families and water sports enthusiasts who want to combine comfort with a central location near the lakes.

Ameland is the versatile Wadden Island where forests, dunes, expansive beaches, and authentic villages alternate. The island combines a rich beachcombing history with modern facilities and endless outdoor activities.

Why go now? In 2026, Ameland is the ultimate place for travelers looking to combine active outdoor sports with ultimate relaxation in the fresh sea air, with plenty of focus on sustainable island tourism.

Activities:

• Climb the historic 'Bornrif' lighthouse in Nes and enjoy a panoramic view over the Wadden Sea and the North Sea.

• Take an impressive horseback ride on the beach through the forests and across the wide beaches.

• Visit the Ameland Nature Center in Hollum to learn all about the unique Wadden nature and sea aquarium.

Stay: Book a comfortable island cottage or an attractive dune bungalow via Leisure Time, within walking distance of the beach and cozy villages like Nes or Hollum.

Dokkum is the northernmost Eleven Cities town and forms the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Wadden Sea. Here you can taste the authentic Frisian atmosphere amidst old ramparts and monumental buildings.

Why go now? Northeast Friesland has been named one of the most upcoming 'slow travel' regions of the Netherlands in 2026, where small-scale charm and hospitality take center stage.

Activities:

• Walk along the historical Dokkum ramparts and visit the Bonifasius Chapel.

• Take a day trip to the Wadden Sea for mudflat hiking or catch a boat to Ameland.

• Taste local delicacies like Dokkum coffee and genuine sugar bread specialties in the old city center.

Stay: Stay in a unique, renovated farmhouse or a luxury country house in the quiet surroundings of Dokkum. Ideal as a comfortable base to explore both the Wadden coast and the historic towns.

1. What is the best time of year to visit Friesland?

   Friesland is beautiful all year round. Spring and summer (May through September) are ideal for water sports, cycling, and terrace weather. Autumn and winter are perfect for peace seekers, walkers, and ice-skating enthusiasts in frosty weather.

2. Is Friesland suitable for a holiday with children?

   Definitely! From the Kameleon Village Terherne to the Frisian Maritime Museum and endless beaches and swimming lakes: there is so much to experience for young adventurers and families.

3. Can I also spend a holiday in Friesland without a boat?

   Absolutely. Although water takes center stage, Friesland features hundreds of kilometers of bike paths, beautiful forests in Gaasterland, and expansive walking areas in the national parks.

4. What kind of accommodations can I book in Friesland via Leisure Time?

   Our range varies from luxury waterfront villas with private docks and modern chalets at holiday parks to cozy nature cottages and historic farmhouses in quiet villages.

5. Are pets welcome in the vacation rentals in Friesland?

   At Leisure Time, you will find many pet-friendly vacation rentals in Friesland. You can easily filter by adding pets to your traveling party, so your dog can also enjoy the expansive walking areas.

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Ready to discover the ultimate Frisian waters, historic towns, and beautiful nature? View our complete holiday offer for 2026 right away and book your favorite vacation rental with Leisure Time for an unforgettable time!