Eise Eisinga Planetarium

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The Eise Eisinga Planetarium in Franeker, the Netherlands, is the oldest functioning planetarium in the world. Built between 1774 and 1781 by Dutch wool carder and amateur astronomer Eise Eisinga, this living masterpiece of mechanical engineering still operates with its original mechanism. The planetarium accurately shows the movement of the solar system on the ceiling of a canal house living room, a marvel of precision and passion that continues to inspire visitors centuries later.

What to See & Do

  • 🪐 Watch the original 18th-century planetarium mechanism ⚙️ in motion on the ceiling 🤩✨
  • 🔭 Explore the museum’s astronomy exhibits 📜 and Eise Eisinga’s scientific models 💡✅
  • 🧠 Learn about 18th-century astronomy ⏳ and Dutch innovation in science 🇳🇱👍
  • 🏠 Visit the preserved canal house interior 🛋️ where Eisinga lived and worked 🖼️✅
  • 🗣️ Attend educational sessions 🧭 and guided tours 🗺️ explaining the mechanical operation ⚙️✅

How to Get There

  • 🚂 By Train 🚶‍♀️: 20 minutes from Leeuwarden 🚉 to Franeker Station 📍, then a 5-minute walk ⏱️💨✅
  • 🚗 By Car 🅿️: Easily accessible 🛣️ via A31 motorway, paid parking nearby 💰👍
  • 🚲 By Bicycle 🗺️: Located on the scenic **Elfsteden Route** 🚴‍♂️, perfect for cyclists 🌿✅

Travel Tips

  • ⏰ Arrive early 🤫 to enjoy a quieter visit 😌 before tour groups arrive ⚠️✅
  • 🗣️ Ask for an English guided tour 🗺️ for a detailed explanation 🧠 of the mechanism 💡👍
  • 🤝 Combine your visit 🖼️ with nearby Franeker attractions 🏰 such as **Museum Martena** and City Hall 🗺️✅
  • 📸 Photography is allowed 🚫, but avoid using flash 💡 to protect exhibits 🙏❌

Suggested Itinerary

  • 10:00 AM – Arrive 🧭 and begin the guided tour 🗣️ of the planetarium 🪐💨
  • 11:00 AM – Explore the museum exhibits 📜 and mechanical models ⚙️✅
  • 12:00 PM – Visit the planetarium shop 🛍️ or café ☕ for souvenirs and refreshments 🍰😋
  • 1:00 PM – Continue your Franeker tour 🏰 at nearby **Martena Museum** 👋

Opening Hours & Entry

Open:

Daily: Tuesday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Entry Fee:

€6 (Adults), €4 (Children under 12 & Students)

Best Time to Visit:

Morning hours (10:00 AM – 12:00 PM) for fewer crowds and better guided sessions.

Location

📌 Eise Eisinga Planetarium, Eise Eisingastraat 3, 8801 KE Franeker, Netherlands

👉 View on Google Maps

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