International visitors

A dynamic, historic seaport and two rural villages in a setting of sea, sky and green landscape.
Billowing clouds sweep inland. The sea glitters under shafts of sunlight and seagulls are hanging in the wind over the expansive dike which protects the green land behind it. 

Read more about Harlingen
 

  • The town of Harlingen is definitely worth a visit

    This is not only the opinion of the Ouwe Seunen, as the habitants of Harlingen are called, but it is also shared by the many people who visit the Frisian harbourtown. Because of the mixture of monuments (over 500!), the ferries to the Wadden Sea Islands and the many facilities on the field of art, culture, ships, hotel and catering industry and events, Harlingen is a very lively magnet to tourists.  

  • Between land and sea: Harlingen

    From whatever side you approach the town, the striking silhouette of its two spires can always be seen from afar. Outlined against a wide expanse of sea, land and sky. Harlingen has a close bond with the sea and shipping. The ebb and flow of the tide still predominates the old harbours in the town centre.

  • Living in Harlingen

    In the historic centre of Harlingen, bordered by Noorderhaven and Zuiderhaven, where the ebb and flow of the tide still predominate, the combination of living and working has existed for centuries.

  • The harbours of Harlingen

    Apart from the large fishing fleet and the inter-island ferries, many merchant ships including coasters and barges call at the port every year. Around 1 million tonnes of various commodities are handled annually.
    Added to this are 1 million tonnes of salt locally extracted at great depth.In its various docks - which are free from bridge and lock restrictions - Harlingen has 1500 metres of quayside at which ships can be loaded and discharged. Timber warehouses have been part of Harlingen for centuries.

  • Companies in Harlingen

    There is a great deal involved in equipping a ship. This has led to the establishment of all kinds of businesses which are used not only by shipping, but by other branches of industry.

  • The history of Harlingen

    Around the year 1157, Eilwardus Ludinga founded the monastery of Ludingakerke in the village of Almenum. The monks dug canals in order to improve the facilities for merchant shipping.As a result of this, the area west of Almenum, Harlingen, became so important that it was granted a charter in 1234. North-west of Harlingen lay the town of Griend with its fortifications and canals. In 1287 most of Griend was swallowed up by the sea during a storm.