At a 33-minute drive from the hotel, you will find one of the most beautiful places in Friesland, Franeker. The city of Franeker is one of the 11 cities of the Elfstedentocht and is particularly known for the historical planetarium. In the Planetarium museum, you can view the oldest working planetarium in the world.

Eise Eisinga Planetarium in Franeker

The Eise Eisinga Planetarium in Franeker is a unique place where science, history, and the universe come together. This special planetarium is the oldest still working planetarium in the world and stands on the UNESCO World Heritage List. In the planetarium, you can view an impressive mechanical model of our solar system that accurately depicts the movements of the planets and the night sky.

The planetarium was built in the 18th century by Ice Eisinga in the ceiling of his own living room. He wanted to explain how the solar system works and alleviate unrest among the population. What began as a personal project grew into a world-famous monument where visitors today learn more about the universe and the science behind the solar system.

The Planetarium Museum

Besides the famous planetarium, it offers the Planetarium Museum in Franeker various permanent and temporary exhibitions. During your visit, the museum takes you on a journey through time: from current knowledge about the universe and modern space travel to the time of Eise Eisinga and his special invention.

The museum shows how our knowledge of the universe has developed over the centuries. Through interactive presentations and informative exhibitions, visitors discover how scientists have come to understand the cosmos better and better.

Additionally, the museum has a rotating collection with temporary exhibitions, which means that there are regularly new exhibitions to see. This ensures that a visit to the museum is always surprising and interesting.

The Planetarium Museum Franeker has moreover been declared as childproof museum, making it a perfect outing for families with children. Young and old can discover more about planets, stars, and space in a fun and educational way.

Visit the Planetarium in Franeker

After your visit to the museum, you can relax in the cozy café. Here you can both inside as outside on the terrace take a seat for a drink or a small snack.

In addition, there are regularly special events organized, such as intimate living room concerts in the historic building of Eise Eisinga. This makes the planetarium not only a museum but also a place where culture, science, and history come together.

A visit to the Eise Eisinga Planetarium in Franeker is a unique experience for anyone interested in the universe, science, and history.

Franeker

Outside your visit to the Planetarium, the city of Franeker offers a cozy and historical atmosphere. Enjoy a nice drink on a terrace or take a surprising city walk. In addition, the city offers a wide range of museums to further expand your cultural day.

Planetarium Groningen

Although Franeker is known for its planetarium museum, it is also interesting to mention that Groningen has its own planetarium. The planetarium in DOT Groningen offers a unique view of the universe and is definitely worth a visit for astronomy enthusiasts. From our hotel, it is only a half-hour drive to this Planetarium!

Hotel Drachten

Combine your visit to the planetarium with an overnight stay at Van der Valk Drachten for a complete experience! After a fascinating day full of discoveries in the planetarium and exploring the historic city of Franeker or the bustling city of Groningen, you can enjoy a delicious dinner and a pleasant overnight stay in our hotel!