Leiden is a captivating Dutch city, renowned for its extensive historical sites, world-class museums, and the oldest university in the Netherlands, all set amidst charming canals and leafy courtyards. It offers a rich cultural experience in a relaxed setting, appealing to visitors interested in art, science, and history.
The city's vibrant student population contributes to a lively atmosphere, particularly in the compact city center, where numerous pubs, cafes, and restaurants line the canals. Areas along De Rijn and Nieuwe Rijn are popular for enjoying a drink by the water, providing ample opportunities to socialize with fellow travelers and locals.
Top 7 Things to do in Leiden
Leiden offers a blend of historical exploration, cultural immersion through its museums and botanical garden, and leisurely canal experiences.
1. Take a Canal Boat Tour
Experience Leiden from a unique perspective by taking a serene canal boat tour. These electric boats glide silently along the city's waterways, offering views of historic buildings, charming bridges, and significant landmarks like the City Hall and Hortus Botanicus. Live commentary or audio guides provide insights into Leiden's rich history as you pass through its medieval setting.
Cost: Adults: €12.00, Children (4-12 years): €7.00-€7.50, Children (0-3 years): €3.00. Student discounts of €1.00 may be available. Private electric boat rentals for up to six people are also an option for a more personalized experience.
Transport: Boats typically depart from Blauwpoortshaven 5, which is centrally located and within walking distance of Leiden Central Station.
2. Explore Molenmuseum De Valk
Visit Molenmuseum De Valk, an impressive 18th-century tower mill. Stepping inside, one can explore seven floors, including the miller's former living quarters and the intricate machinery that once ground grain. A climb to the top offers panoramic views over Leiden's rooftops and canals, providing a wonderful photo opportunity and a sense of Dutch heritage.
Cost: Adults: €6.00, Children (6-15 years): €3.00, Children (0-5 years): free. The Museumkaart provides free admission.
Transport: This iconic windmill is conveniently located just a 5-6 minute walk from Leiden Central Station.
3. Wander through Hortus Botanicus Leiden
Discover the Hortus Botanicus Leiden, the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands, founded in 1590. This tranquil oasis invites visitors to stroll among diverse plant collections, including exotic orchids, rare tropical plants in greenhouses, and a historic Ginkgo tree. It offers a peaceful escape and a fascinating glimpse into the world of botany and scientific discovery.
Cost: Admission for adults is approximately €11.50.
Transport: The garden is situated in the city center. While walkable from Leiden Centraal, a short 5-minute bus ride (costing around €1-€2) to stops like Paterstraat, Breestraat, or Rapenburg can be a quicker option.
4. Visit Rijksmuseum van Oudheden
Delve into ancient civilizations at the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, the National Museum of Antiquities. Its extensive collections span ancient Egypt, the classical world (Greece and Rome), the Near East, and Dutch prehistory. Highlights include real mummies, the Roman Temple of Taffeh, and artifacts that tell the story of the Netherlands over 300,000 years.
Cost: Adult entry is €14.00, which often includes an audio tour. Children under 18 can enter for free.
Transport: The museum is centrally located at Rapenburg 28. It is a brief 4-minute bus ride from Leiden Centraal, costing approximately €1-€2.
5. Explore Pieterskerk
Step into Pieterskerk, a magnificent late-Gothic church dating back to 1390. This historic landmark is famously associated with the Pilgrim Fathers and now serves as a museum and event venue. Inside, one can appreciate its grand architecture and learn about its centuries of significance in Dutch history, from the Reformation to its role today.
Cost: Entry for adults and children over 12 is €5.00. Children up to 12 years old have free entry.
Transport: Located in the heart of the historical city center, Pieterskerk is about a 15-minute walk from Leiden Central Station. Alternatively, a 5-minute bus ride to Breestraat (approximately €1-€2) followed by a 2-minute walk provides easy access.
6. Ascend De Burcht van Leiden
Climb to De Burcht van Leiden, an 11th-century fortress built on a modest man-made hill. This historic site offers truly commanding 360-degree views of Leiden's picturesque canals, red-tiled rooftops, and surrounding landscape. It serves as a historical landmark and a perfect spot to capture scenic vistas of the city.
Cost: Access to De Burcht is free, making it an excellent budget-friendly activity.
Transport: Positioned in the city center, De Burcht is easily accessible by foot from most central locations and is often a highlight of walking tours.
7. Wander the Canals, Hofjes, and Street Poems
Immerse yourself in Leiden's authentic atmosphere by simply wandering its picturesque canals and exploring the hidden 'hofjes' (almshouses), which are tranquil courtyards providing a peaceful retreat. As you navigate the charming cobbled lanes, keep an eye out for the unique street poems painted on buildings, adding an artistic layer to the city's historical beauty. This allows for spontaneous discovery and a deep appreciation of local life.
Cost: This exploration is entirely free, offering a rich cultural experience without an entrance fee.
Transport: This activity is best enjoyed on foot as it takes place throughout the compact and walkable city center.
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Our typical audience are those that want to see something new and get involved with authentic experiences of a country. Whether you are a backpacker, solo traveller, solo female traveller, straight or LGBTQ+ couple, family, you will find local and authentic experiences here.
