Moving to a new place can be both exciting and a bit scary, especially if you’re a student settling into a unique place like Friesland. This province in the northern Netherlands is known for its rich history, distinct culture, and beautiful scenery. Friesland welcomes students from all over the world. This guide will help you get settled and make the most of your time here.
Friesland, or Fryslân as the locals call it, is a northern Dutch province with around 650,000 people. It’s the only Dutch province with its own official language – Frisian – alongside Dutch. Friesland is home to cities like Leeuwarden (the provincial capital and a popular student city), Sneek, and Drachten. The region combines a laid-back lifestyle with a strong community spirit, making it a great place to study and live.
Friesland is different from other Dutch provinces in several ways. The Frisian people are known for their strong sense of identity, pride in their language, and deep connection to their land and traditions. Unlike the western urban areas of the Randstad, Friesland is characterized by its wide-open spaces, extensive waterways, and a slower, more relaxed pace of life.
More than just study
When you’re not busy with classes, Friesland has a lot to offer. Whether it’s exploring the great outdoors or diving into local culture, there’s always something to keep you engaged.
Nature and outdoors: Friesland is a paradise for nature lovers. You can explore the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site, or take a boat trip through the province’s extensive network of canals and lakes. You can explore the islands like Terschelling and Ameland, go hiking, or even take a cycling trip along the numerous trails. The Eleven Cities (Elfstedentocht) route is a famous ice-skating path in winter and a beautiful cycling route in the warmer months.
Sightseeing: Leeuwarden, the cultural heart of Friesland, offers museums, art galleries, and historical sites. The Oldehove, a leaning tower in Leeuwarden, and the Fries Museum are must-visit spots. For a taste of traditional Friesland, explore quaint villages like Hindeloopen and Workum. You might also consider visiting the scenic village of Giethoorn, often referred to as the “Venice of the North.”
Sports: Sport is an important part of Frisian culture, with a particular love for ice skating. In the winter, join in the excitement of skating on natural ice if the weather permits. Friesian horse riding is also a popular activity; the province is famous for its beautiful black Friesian horses. If you’re more into team sports, check out the local soccer clubs or the vast number of gyms and sports centers around the province. Universities also offer opportunities to participate in a variety of sports, from basketball to sailing.
Learn the lingo: A guide to Dutch and Frisian
While most people in Friesland speak Dutch, learning a few words of Frisian can help you connect with the locals. Many universities offer Dutch language courses, and you might also find Frisian courses if you’re interested in diving deeper into the local culture. Don’t worry – most Frisians are bilingual and will be happy to help you practice your Dutch!
Friesland foodie finds: From local delights to global bites
Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between classes or a place to enjoy a nice meal with friends, Friesland has a variety of options. Try local specialties like “sûkerbôle” (sugar bread) and “dúmkes” (Frisian spiced biscuits). In Leeuwarden, you’ll find plenty of student-friendly options, from international cuisine to traditional Dutch meals.
Restaurants: Try Proefverlof for a chic dining experience or De Walrus for more casual bites.
Cafés and bars: If you’re a coffee lover, Lazy Lemon in Leeuwarden is a cozy café with great brews. For nightlife, head to Club Red or Neushoorn for live music, or enjoy a casual evening at a pub like Fire Café.
Shopping: Friesland’s cities offer a range of shopping experiences, from large department stores to small, unique boutiques. Leeuwarden’s Nieuwestad is the main shopping street, featuring popular Dutch chains like HEMA, Blokker, and a few international stores. For daily groceries, you’ll find supermarkets like Albert Heijn, Jumbo, and Lidl. The weekly markets are a great place to pick up fresh produce, cheeses, and other local products.
Score a student spot: Friesland housing tips
Finding a place to live is a crucial step in settling down in Friesland, especially in Leeuwarden. The student housing market can be competitive, so it’s essential to start your search early.
In Leeuwarden, you’ll find a range of housing options, from university-managed dormitories to private rentals and shared apartments. Many students opt for shared housing, which is not only more affordable but also a great way to make new friends. Prices can vary depending on the location and type of accommodation, but generally, Friesland offers more affordable housing compared to cities in the Randstad region.
If you prefer a quieter setting, you might consider looking for housing in the smaller towns or villages surrounding Leeuwarden. These areas offer a more relaxed lifestyle and often have good public transportation links to the city.
Several platforms and resources are available to help you secure accommodation:
Kamernet.nl: One of the largest student housing platforms in the Netherlands, Kamernet lists rooms, apartments, and shared housing options. You can filter by location and budget to find what works best for you.
HousingAnywhere.com: A good option for international students, HousingAnywhere offers verified listings for both short-term and long-term stays. You can arrange housing before arriving in Friesland, ensuring a smooth transition.
SSHXL.nl: This nonprofit provides affordable student housing near universities and colleges. It’s a great resource for finding budget-friendly options in Leeuwarden.
Funda.nl: While primarily a site for buying and selling properties, Funda also lists apartments and houses that can be rented by students. It’s a good option if you’re looking for something more independent or if you’re planning to share a place with friends.
Facebook groups: Local Facebook groups like “Leeuwarden Student Housing” are useful for finding sublets or student rooms. These groups are updated frequently, and many students prefer this method for finding accommodation.
If you’re struggling to find housing, temporary solutions like staying at a hostel or Airbnb can buy you some time as you continue your search. Additionally, some universities have dedicated housing offices that can help students with their housing needs.
Meet the friendly faces of Friesland: A cultural dive
Friesland’s residents are known for their independence and straightforwardness. The Frisian language, as well as local customs and festivals, like the “Fierljeppen” (pole vaulting over water) and the Elfstedentocht are central to life here.
One thing you’ll quickly notice is how friendly and welcoming the Frisian people are, despite their reputation for being somewhat reserved at first. Once you get to know them, you’ll find they’re warm, helpful and hospitable.
Living and studying in Friesland can be an unforgettable experience. With a bit of preparation and some local know-how, you’ll feel right at home in this place before you know it!
