Franeker – A Walk Through Time Our first stop in Friesland is Franeker, one of the legendary “Eleven Towns”. This charming town is steeped in history. As we stroll along its canals, you’ll see the 17th-century Town Hall, the quaint grain carriers' cottage, and other architectural gems. But the true highlight is a visit to the Eise Eisinga Planetarium, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the oldest functioning planetarium in the world. Suspended from the ceiling of a traditional canal house, this 18th-century masterpiece of science and craftsmanship continues to track the movement of planets with astonishing accuracy.

Wieuwerd – Mysteries Beneath the Church Next, we visit the tiny village of Wieuwerd, home to a mysterious crypt beneath a medieval church. Here, naturally preserved mummies—discovered centuries ago—still rest in their original tombs. Their presence is still a mystery.

Woudsend – Lunch in a Sacred Space By midday, we arrive in Woudsend, a charming village surrounded by lakes and waterways. Here, you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch at ’t Ponkje, a unique restaurant located in a converted church. With its high arched ceilings and stained-glass windows, the setting is as unforgettable as the food—classic Dutch cuisine with a modern twist. After Lunch, we take a short stroll to see Windmill “'t Lam”, a beautifully restored grain mill that still operates today.

Hindeloopen – Friesland’s Best-Kept Secret We continue our way to Hindeloopen, another part of the Eleven Towns, and arguably one of the prettiest towns in the Netherlands. Tucked behind a dike on the shores of Lake IJsselmeer, this storybook town blends the charm of Volendam and Giethoorn, yet remains blissfully undiscovered. Wander its cobbled streets, cross its quaint wooden bridges, and admire the elaborately decorated houses that reflect the town’s rich maritime heritage.