Workum Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, where to stay and eat, how to get here, and more with our travel guide to Workum, Netherlands.


Introduction to Workum

Workum is a small, charming city in Friesland, a province in the northern region of the Netherlands. Sitting on the IJsselmeer, surrounded by sailboats and picturesque windmills, Workum is known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic natural beauty. It offers a range of attractions, activities, and tours that make it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the Netherlands.

List of Places to Visit in Workum

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Jopie Huisman Museum: This museum celebrates the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Jopie Huisman with a collection of his paintings and drawings.
  • Korenmolen De Udewal: This windmill is one of the few remaining flour mills in Friesland. Visitors can climb to the top of the mill and see how it works in action.
  • Stadhuis Museum: This museum houses a collection of historical paintings, artifacts and furniture from the 17th and 18th centuries and tells the story of Workum’s rich cultural heritage.

Natural Attractions of Workum: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ijsselmeer Beach: Workum has a sandy beach, where visitors can relax and enjoy scenic views of the Ijsselmeer.
  • Frisian Lakes: Workum is surrounded by a network of lakes and canals that are perfect for sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking.
  • Ganzenveld Nature Reserve: This nature reserve is home to a diverse range of indigenous bird species. Hiking and cycling trails are also available for visitors to explore the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Workum

  • Gaasterland Route: This 30 km route takes visitors through the scenic countryside and forests of Gaasterland.
  • Sneekermeer Route: This 43 km route takes visitors along the Sneekermeer Lake, through picturesque villages and countryside.
  • Elfstedentocht Route: This 200 km route takes visitors through 11 historical towns and cities in Friesland, including Workum.

Best Things to Do in Workum: Activities and Tours

  • Watersports: Workum is known for its watersports activities, including sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking. Visitors can rent equipment and book private lessons.
  • Explore the Old Town: Stroll through the charming old town of Workum and admire the historic buildings, canals, and picturesque architecture.
  • Take a Boat Tour: Climb aboard a boat and explore the canals and waterways surrounding Workum.

Week-Long Itinerary for Workum

Day Activities and Tours
Day 1 Explore the Old Town of Workum and visit the Jopie Huisman Museum
Day 2 Try windsurfing or sailing on the Ijsselmeer
Day 3 Take a boat tour of the canals and waterways surrounding Workum
Day 4 Visit the Stadhuis Museum and enjoy lunch at a local café
Day 5 Cycle the Elfstedentocht Route and visit nearby towns
Day 6 Hike through the Ganzenveld Nature Reserve and try birdwatching
Day 7 Enjoy a day at Ijsselmeer Beach, and watch the sunset over the water

Food and Drink Scene of Workum

Must-Try Dishes

  • Zuurkoolstamppot: A traditional Dutch dish made from mashed potatoes, and sauerkraut.
  • Flemish Stew: A beef stew braised in beer and flavored with bay leaf, thyme, and mustard.
  • Stroopwafels: A sweet treat made from two thin waffles sandwiched with caramel syrup.

Local Beverages

  • Jenever: A traditional Dutch gin, served neat or in a cocktail with tonic water.
  • Liqueur: Friesland is known for its artisan liqueurs made from local fruits and berries.

Where to Stay in Workum: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • De Vereeniging: This charming hotel is located within a historical building in the heart of Workum’s old town.
  • Het Gouden Anker: This cozy guesthouse offers comfortable rooms with a scenic view of Workum’s harbor.
  • StayOkay Hostel: This modern hostel provides affordable accommodations, including private rooms and dorms.

What to Buy in Workum: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Pottery: Workum is known for its traditional Frisian pottery, with distinctive blue and green glazes.
  • Cheese: Friesland is also known for its delicious cheese varieties, including Gouda, Edam, and Frisian clove cheese.
  • Lacework: Visitors can purchase handmade lacework products, such as doilies and table runners, from local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Workum

Workum is proud of its cultural heritage, which is characterized by its rich artistic and artisanal traditions. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes when entering someone’s home. Workum also has a strong sailing culture, and visitors should expect to see many sailboats and other watercraft on the canals and waterways.

Best Time to Visit Workum

The best time to visit Workum is from May to September when the weather is warm and conducive to outdoor activities such as watersports and hiking. The city also hosts many festivals and cultural events during this time, such as the Workum Art Festival in July and the Sneekweek boating festival in August.

Do’s and Don’ts of Workum

Do:

  • Do rent a boat and explore the scenic waterways surrounding Workum.
  • Do taste the local cheese and liqueurs at nearby farms and distilleries.
  • Do respect local customs and traditions, such as removing shoes when entering someone’s home.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment when hiking or cycling.
  • Don’t try to smoke or drink in public places.
  • Don’t ignore safety rules when participating in watersports activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Workum

Workum is a relatively safe city with low crime rates. Visitors should be aware of the potential risks associated with watersports activities, such as drowning and hypothermia in cold water.

Health in Workum

Workum has several medical clinics and pharmacies, and visitors can access emergency medical care at the nearby hospitals in Sneek and Leeuwarden. It is also important to have appropriate health insurance coverage when traveling to the Netherlands.

Getting to Workum: Transportation Options and Logistics

Workum is easily accessible by car, train, or plane.

Airports Near Workum

  • Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: 120 km away from Workum (1.5-hour drive)
  • Groningen Eelde Airport: 120 km away from Workum (1.5-hour drive)

Bus Stations Near Workum

  • Workum Bus Station: The station is located in the center of Workum and offers local and regional bus services.
  • Sneek Bus Station: The station is located 20 km from Workum and offers national and international connections.

Other Options

  • Car rental: visitors can rent cars at the Schiphol Airport or in nearby cities like Amsterdam, Leeuwarden, and Groningen.
  • Train: Workum does not have a train station, but visitors can take the train to nearby cities like Sneek or Leeuwarden and then transfer to a local bus or taxi.

How to Get Around in Workum

Workum is a small city, and visitors can easily explore it on foot or by bike. Bicycles are available for rent at several locations in the city, and there are also taxis and local bus services available.

Where to Go Next from Workum: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Sneek: This historic city is known for its picturesque canals, lively markets, and cultural attractions.
  • Harlingen: This charming harbor town is known for its historic lighthouse, beautiful beaches, and seafood restaurants.
  • Leeuwarden: This capital city of Friesland has a vibrant arts and culture scene, with a wealth of museums, theaters, and galleries.

Conclusion

Workum is a hidden gem in the Netherlands, offering a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or relaxing beach vibes, Workum has something for every type of traveler. From exploring the charming old town to indulging in the local food and drink scene, Workum is a must-visit destination that should be on every traveler’s radar.