The historic centre of Leeuwarden is ringed and crossed by canals, and one of the easiest ways to take its measure is from a low boat. Open-deck tour boats run hourly in season from the Prinsentuin and the Nieuwestad, looping past the Oldehove, the seventeenth-century gabled merchants' houses on the Eewal, and the old harbour at the Stadsgracht.
Tours last about an hour with English commentary in season. There are also self-rental electric "fluisterbootjes" (whisper boats) for a quieter, do-it-yourself version — perfect for a lazy summer afternoon.