10 Top Things to Do in Leiden 🇳🇱: Explore the Best of the Netherlands 

Things to Do in Leiden: A Complete Guide

1. Explore the Historic Burcht van Leiden

The Medieval Marvel. Perched atop a rare 9-meter hill in the heart of Leiden, the Burcht van Leiden stands as one of the Netherlands’ oldest surviving fortresses. During my recent visit, I discovered this 11th-century shell keep offers the most spectacular panoramic views of the city, particularly of the majestic Hooglandse Kerk.

Hidden Gem Experience. What surprised me most was how cleverly concealed this fortress is – nestled behind tall buildings, you might walk right past it! The entrance at Van der Sterrepad leads to a steep climb that instantly transports you back in time.

Practical Details. The fortress welcomes visitors daily from 8 AM to 8 PM, and the best part? Entry is completely free. I recommend visiting early morning for the best photography opportunities and fewer crowds.

Local’s Tip. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the ancient walls – it’s a favorite spot among Leiden residents. The surrounding park area provides perfect spots for relaxation while soaking in views of the Rhine’s tributaries below.

Historical Significance. Walking along the brick walls, you’ll find traces of the fortress’s evolution from a medieval defensive stronghold to a beloved public park. The 1574 Spanish siege made this site a powerful symbol of Dutch resistance.

Photography Spots. The circular promenade around the ramparts offers stunning 360-degree views of Leiden’s historic center. My favorite spot is the southeastern corner, where you can capture both the ancient walls and the towering church spires in one frame.

Essential Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes for the steep climb
• Visit during sunset for magical city views
• Look for the 17th-century decorative portal by Rombout Verhulst
• Bring a camera for panoramic city shots

Seasonal Magic. While beautiful year-round, I found spring brings special charm when the surrounding gardens burst into bloom, creating a perfect contrast with the ancient stonework.

⭐ Best activities

• Hidden Stories of Leiden Self-Guided Audio Tour – Discover Leiden’s fascinating history and culture at your own pace with this self-guided audio tour through the historic center.

2. Visit the Hortus Botanicus

Botanical Time Travel. The Hortus Botanicus, established in 1590, captivated me with its remarkable collection spanning over four centuries. As the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands, it’s where the first tulips in Western Europe bloomed, making it a living piece of Dutch history.

Garden Highlights. During my exploration, I found the Japanese Garden particularly enchanting, while the Victoria amazonica greenhouse houses giant water lilies that can support the weight of a small child – though I wouldn’t recommend testing this!

Insider Tips:

• Visit between 10 AM and 2 PM for optimal greenhouse conditions
• Thursday afternoons offer guided tours in English
• The garden café serves excellent botanical-inspired teas

Seasonal Spectacles. The best time to visit depends on what you want to see. Spring brings magnificent tulips, summer showcases tropical plants, while the autumn colors transform the garden into a golden paradise.

⭐ Best activities

• Hortus Botanicus Leiden: Skip The Line Ticket – Skip the line and get ready for a blooming brilliant day in the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands. Leiden’s Hortus botanicus was first planted in 1590, and it’s home to all manner of flowery treasures. See the Japanese herbal gardens, a rare tulip tree that’s been here since 1716, a famous lily that only blossoms once a year, and much more!

3. Discover Molen De Valk Windmill Museum

Windmill Wonder. Standing proudly since 1743, Molen De Valk offers a unique glimpse into traditional Dutch life. As I climbed the steep stairs, each floor revealed a different aspect of miller’s life, from living quarters to grain storage.

Authentic Experience. The working mechanism of the mill still functions today, and if you’re lucky like I was, you might catch the miller demonstrating how grain becomes flour using centuries-old techniques.

Best Views in Town. The viewing platform at 25 meters high provides an unmatched perspective of Leiden’s historic center. My top tip: visit on a clear day when the sails are turning for the most authentic Dutch experience.

Practical Pointers:

• Open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM
• Photography is allowed throughout
• Last admission is 30 minutes before closing
• Located just 5 minutes from Leiden Central Station

Weather Watch. The windmill operates differently depending on wind conditions. I learned that traditional millers use a fascinating system of colored flags to communicate with other windmills about weather changes and operational status.

4. Take a Boat Tour of Leiden’s Canals

Canal Adventures. Gliding through Leiden’s waterways offered me a completely different perspective of this historic city. The network of canals, dating back to the 17th century, creates a mesmerizing maze that tells stories of the city’s golden age.

Boat Options. My favorite discovery was the electric boat rental service – a sustainable way to explore at your own pace. For those preferring guided experiences, several operators offer informative tours in multiple languages.

Seasonal Wisdom. Summer months call for open-top boats, but I found the covered vessels during shoulder season equally charming, especially with their cozy blankets and hot chocolate service.

Navigation Notes:

• Morning tours offer calmer waters and better photo opportunities
• Evening cruises showcase illuminated bridges
• Weekend tours should be booked in advance
• Some operators offer drink packages

⭐ Best tours

• Leiden City Canal Cruise – Experience Leiden’s stunning architecture and history from the water on this guided canal cruise.
• Historic City Center Cruise – Explore Leiden’s picturesque canals while learning about its rich history from an expert guide.

5. Follow the Rembrandt Walking Route

Artistic Heritage. Walking in Rembrandt’s footsteps through Leiden’s cobblestone streets felt like stepping into a living museum. The young artist’s presence still echoes through the medieval lanes where he developed his extraordinary talent.

Route Essentials. The official Rembrandt Route app transformed my phone into a time machine, revealing hidden stories behind seemingly ordinary facades. Download it before starting your journey – it works offline and includes audio commentary.

Must-See Spots:

• Latin School where young Rembrandt studied
• St. Peter’s Church where his family worshipped
• The reconstructed studio where he learned to paint

Time Travel Tips. The Young Rembrandt Studio, housed in his former workshop, uses cutting-edge technology to demonstrate how the master developed his signature style. I was fascinated by the interactive displays showing his progression from apprentice to master.

Photography Paradise. Early morning light bathes the historic buildings in a golden glow reminiscent of Rembrandt’s paintings. My camera particularly loved the contrast between ancient architecture and modern street life along the route.

Local Insight. Consider timing your walk to end at café In Den Vergulden Turk, one of the oldest establishments in Leiden, where Rembrandt himself might have stopped for refreshment. Their traditional Dutch apple pie makes for a perfect break.

Cultural and Artistic Attractions in Leiden

1. Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (National Museum of Antiquities)

World-Class Collection. The museum houses one of the world’s top 10 Egyptian collections, featuring over 1,400 exceptionally preserved artifacts including statues, jewelry, papyri, painted coffins, and mummies. The centerpiece is the 2,000-year-old Temple of Taffeh in the entrance hall, which features a spectacular light show demonstrating the museum’s history.

Interactive Experiences. Visitors can digitally “unpack” a three-meter-long crocodile mummy and the mummy of priest Ankhhor using innovative 3D technology. The museum offers engaging exhibits for all ages, with special audio tours and family activities available.

2. Naturalis Biodiversity Center

Star Attraction. The museum’s crown jewel is Trix, one of the most complete T. rex skeletons ever found and the first to be permanently displayed outside the US. This remarkable specimen features unique pathologies in its face, jaw, tail, and ribs, along with a rare preserved furcula and complete set of gastralia.

Modern Exhibits. The newly renovated dinosaur hall provides an immersive experience with six featured dinosaur mounts, including Plateosaurus, Camarasaurus, and Triceratops. The specimens are enhanced by computer-animated backgrounds showing reconstructed dinosaurs in their natural environments.

3. Museum Boerhaave

Nobel Legacy. The museum showcases remarkable scientific achievements, including equipment from four Dutch Nobel Prize winners and groundbreaking inventions like Willem Kolff’s first dialysis machine. The collection features approximately 126,000 objects, including Einstein’s fountain pen and the first administered COVID-19 vaccine.

Historical Setting. Located in a former convent in central Leiden, the museum features a reconstructed anatomical theater and houses significant artifacts like Heike Kamerlingh Onnes’s helium liquefaction apparatus. The museum was named European Museum of the Year in 2019 for its artful approach to communicating science through personal stories and cutting-edge technology.

Hidden Gems and Local Experiences in Leiden

1. Explore Hofjes (Hidden Courtyards)

Historic Sanctuaries. Leiden boasts 35 remarkable hofjes scattered throughout the city center, each offering a peaceful escape from urban life. These courtyard gardens, dating back to the 17th century, were originally created as housing for elderly members of religious communities.

Jean Pesijnhofje. One of the most notable courtyards is the Jean Pesijnhofje, established in 1683 by Marie de Lannoy. Located at Kloksteeg 21, this historic site features 12 almshouses symbolizing the twelve apostles, a traditional architectural pattern found in Dutch hofjes.

2. Discover Wall Poems Around the City

Artistic Legacy. Since 1992, Leiden’s walls have been transformed into an open-air poetry museum featuring over 110 poems in various languages. The project, initiated by the Tegen-Beeld Foundation, began with a Russian poem by Marina Tsvetaeva and concluded in 2005 with Federico García Lorca’s Spanish piece “De Profundis.”

Cultural Diversity. The collection showcases works from renowned poets including E.E. Cummings, William Shakespeare, Pablo Neruda, and local Dutch poets. Many poems are accompanied by translations in Dutch and English, making them accessible to both residents and visitors.

3. Stroll Along Rapenburg Canal

Architectural Splendor. The Rapenburg, considered the most beautiful canal in Leiden, features 120 well-preserved 17th and 18th-century buildings characterized by cream-white facades and distinctive Rapenburg green window frames. The canal stretches for two miles, creating a crescent through the heart of the city.

The Miniaturist Connection. The canal gained additional fame as a filming location for the BBC’s adaptation of “The Miniaturist.” The production team chose Leiden over Amsterdam due to its well-preserved historical architecture and quieter atmosphere. The series utilized Rapenburg’s historic facades and interlinking streets to recreate 17th-century Amsterdam.

Practical Tips:

• Visit hofjes between 10 AM and 5 PM
• Respect residents’ privacy when exploring courtyards
• Download the Wall Poems walking guide for a self-guided tour
• Best photography conditions along Rapenburg are during early morning or late afternoon

 

Outdoor Activities in Leiden

1. Relax at Het Plantsoen Park

Green Oasis. Het Plantsoen Park, designed in the English landscape style, offers a refreshing escape from city life. During my visit, I discovered this 19th-century park features winding paths that lead to surprising viewpoints and hidden corners perfect for relaxation.

Nature’s Theater. The park’s historic aviary houses colorful birds, while the ornate fountain creates a soothing atmosphere. I found the best picnic spot near the old music dome, where you can watch boats glide by on the adjacent canal.

Seasonal Splendor. Spring brings magnificent displays of tulips and daffodils, while autumn transforms the park into a canvas of golden hues. The park’s carefully maintained gardens showcase different blooms throughout the year.

2. Visit Singelpark

Urban Innovation. Stretching 6.5 kilometers around the city, Singelpark is Europe’s longest continuous park, connecting various green spaces along Leiden’s historic city walls. The park perfectly combines urban development with nature conservation.

Fitness Paradise. The dedicated running track, marked with distance indicators, makes it ideal for both casual joggers and serious runners. I particularly enjoyed the workout stations scattered along the route.

3. Enjoy a Drink on a Floating Terrace

Floating Experiences. Annie’s, a converted cargo boat turned restaurant, offers traditional Dutch cuisine with a modern twist. The deck provides stunning views of passing boats and historic buildings.

Local Flavors. My favorite discovery was “De Bruine Boon” floating café, serving local craft beers from Leiden’s own Leidsch brewery. Their bitterballen (Dutch croquettes) paired perfectly with a cold Leidsch Blond.

Evening Magic. The best time for canal-side dining is during sunset, when the water reflects the golden hour light. Many terraces offer blankets and heating lamps during cooler months.

Must-Try Local Specialties:

• Leiden cheese with cumin (at floating cheese shop ‘t Kaasbootje)
• Fresh herring from the canal-side fish stand
• Local craft beers from floating pub De Twee Spieghels

Insider Tips:

• Reserve floating terrace seats in advance during summer months
• Visit parks early morning for best bird watching
• Download the Singelpark running route map
• Bring a picnic blanket for impromptu canal-side stops

⭐ Best activities

• Floating Terrace: Appetizers and Drinks at Paterswoldsemeer – Make your stay in Groningen extra great with a day on the lake aboard a boat that resembles a floating terrace – complete with appetizers and drinks!

Free Things to Do in Leiden

1. Visit De Burcht (Free Entry)

Ancient Fortress. De Burcht van Leiden, one of the Netherlands’ oldest surviving fortresses, offers free entry and is open daily from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM. The 11th-century shell keep sits atop a 9-meter artificial hill, providing stunning 360-degree views of Leiden.

Cultural Hub. Vrijplaats Cultural Center hosts regular public activities including debates, theater shows, music performances, and film screenings. The venue serves as a dynamic space for alternative culture and community gatherings.

Market Experience. The weekly Saturday market brings local life to Leiden’s historic center.

City Gates Legacy. Historic city gates stand as testament to Leiden’s medieval past, with several well-preserved examples accessible for exploration.

Visitor Tips:

• Visit De Burcht early morning for best photography conditions
• Bring comfortable shoes for climbing the fortress stairs
• Check Vrijplaats’ current event schedule online
• Market is busiest between 11:00-14:00

Accessibility Note: De Burcht requires climbing steep stairs and is not wheelchair accessible. The historic gates and market are accessible to all visitors.

Weather Consideration: The fortress platform offers limited shelter, so check weather conditions before visiting. The Saturday market operates year-round, with more vendors during warmer months.

2. Attend Events at Vrijplaats Cultural Center

Alternative Scene. Vrijplaats stands as Leiden’s hub for underground culture and creative expression. During my visits, I’ve experienced everything from experimental music nights to thought-provoking art installations.

Event Variety. The center hosts regular events including:

• Live music performances
• Independent film screenings
• Art exhibitions
• Political debates
• Workshop sessions

Community Space. The venue features a vegetarian café where I discovered delicious homemade soups and fresh sandwiches. The informal atmosphere makes it perfect for meeting locals and fellow travelers.

Practical Info. Events typically start around 20:00, with the café opening from 12:00. Check their monthly program online for current events and exhibitions.

3. Explore Weekly Saturday Market

Market Experience. The historic Saturday market transforms Nieuwe Rijn into a vibrant shopping street from 8:00 AM to 17:00. The market’s location along the canal creates a quintessentially Dutch atmosphere.

Best Finds:

• Artisanal Dutch cheese stands
• Fresh seasonal produce
• Traditional street food
• Local crafts and textiles
• Fresh flowers and plants

Local Tip. Visit the cheese stalls early for free tastings, and don’t miss the fresh stroopwafels made right in front of you. The market is especially lively during spring when flower vendors showcase traditional Dutch blooms.

Weather Note. The market runs year-round regardless of weather, though some vendors may close during severe conditions. Many stalls offer coverage during rain.

4. Walk Through Historic City Gates

Surviving Gates:

• Zijlpoort: Built in 1667 in classical style, located on the northeast side
• Morspoort: Constructed in 1669, situated in the northwest of the city

Walking Route. Start at Morspoort, follow the old city walls’ path along the canals to reach Zijlpoort. This route offers excellent views of Leiden’s historic architecture and waterways.

Important Note. The market is currently undergoing changes to meet fire safety regulations, with some stalls being relocated to ensure proper emergency access. However, this doesn’t affect the overall market experience.

Day Trips from Leiden

1. Keukenhof Gardens (Seasonal)

Spring Spectacle. Keukenhof Gardens are open from March 20 through May 11, showcasing the world’s most beautiful spring garden. The 19th-century park features spectacular displays of Dutch spring flowers, including tulips, daffodils, hyacinths, and crocuses.

Timing Strategy. For the best experience, visit before 10 AM or after 5 PM on weekdays to avoid peak crowds. Mid-April to early May typically offers peak tulip blooming conditions.

Garden Features:

• 15 km of hiking trails
• Windmill and maze
• Indoor flower shows
• Children’s playground
• Picnic areas
• Restaurant facilities

Visitor Tips:

• Book tickets in advance to guarantee entry
• Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds
• Early season showcases crocuses and daffodils
• Mid-season features tulips at their peak
• Gardens are wheelchair accessible
• Dogs are permitted
• Open daily from 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM

Transportation Note. Located in Lisse, the gardens are easily accessible from Leiden, making it a perfect day trip destination during the spring season.

⭐ Best activities

• Day Trip to Keukenhof Gardens from Amsterdam with Tour Guide – Take a break from the busy capital and discover the ‘Garden of Europe’ on a day trip to Keukenhof from Amsterdam. Explore the park’s tulip-lined pavilions with your guide and learn about the park’s botanical history, then take advantage of free time to wander at your own pace. Travel with ease to the outlying attraction with included round-trip transfer from a central Amsterdam location.

2. Noordwijk Beach

Coastal Escape. Just a quick 15-minute drive from Leiden, Noordwijk Beach stretches for 13 kilometers along the North Sea coast. I discovered that this Blue Flag beach offers more than just sunbathing – it’s a year-round destination for water sports, coastal walks, and stunning sunset views.

Beach Activities. During summer months, the beach transforms into an adventure playground. I tried kitesurfing at one of the five designated water sports zones, while the beach clubs offer equipment rental for everything from paddleboards to beach yoga mats.

Space Adventure. The Space Expo, Europe’s first permanent space exhibition, sits just behind the dunes. As ESA’s visitor center, it offers an extraordinary glimpse into space exploration. I was amazed to discover that actual astronaut training happens right here in Noordwijk.

3. Space Expo Noordwijk

Interactive Exhibits. The highlight of my Space Expo visit was the life-size model of the International Space Station’s Columbus laboratory. You can try on a real space suit and experience what it’s like to work in zero gravity conditions.

Seasonal Magic. While summer brings beach volleyball tournaments and sailing competitions, winter offers dramatic seascapes and cozy beach pavilions serving traditional Dutch pea soup. The coastal walking path through the dunes remains accessible year-round.

Local Tips:

• Visit Space Expo on Wednesday afternoons for English guided tours
• Beach clubs are open March through October
• Free parking available at Northgo Sport Complex
• Best sunset views from pavilion De Zeemeeuw

Weather Watch. The Dutch coast can be unpredictable, but that’s part of its charm. I learned that morning visits often offer the calmest conditions for both beach activities and Space Expo exploration.

⭐ Best activities

• Space Expo Entry Ticket – Visit Europe’s first permanent space exhibition and discover the fascinating world of space exploration.

Practical Information for Visiting Leiden

How to Get to Leiden from Amsterdam

Train Connections. Direct trains run between Amsterdam Centraal and Leiden Centraal every 15 minutes, with a journey time of 35-37 minutes. I found the earliest train departs Amsterdam at 04:46 on weekdays, perfect for early birds wanting to maximize their day in Leiden.

Transport Costs:

• Standard Class: €11.30 one-way
• First Class: €19.21 one-way
• Day Return: €22.60 standard class

Alternative Routes. The 37km bicycle journey takes about 2-3 hours through picturesque Dutch countryside. By car, expect a 35-minute drive via the A4 motorway, though parking in central Leiden can be challenging and costly.

Where to Stay in Leiden

Central District. The historic center, particularly around Rapenburg canal, offers the quintessential Leiden experience. During my stays, I’ve found this area ideal for first-time visitors wanting to explore the city’s main attractions on foot.

Local Living. Professorenwijk caught my attention with its beautiful 1920s architecture and academic atmosphere, while Burgemeesterswijk impressed me with its elegant villas and proximity to parks.

Neighborhood Features:

• Historic Center: Canals, museums, restaurants
• Professorenwijk: University facilities, quiet streets
• Burgemeesterswijk: Parks, upscale shopping

Budget Tip. Consider staying in nearby Leiderdorp or Oegstgeest for better value accommodation while maintaining easy access to central Leiden. Both areas offer frequent bus connections to the city center.

Transport Connection. The central station area provides excellent links to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (15 minutes), The Hague (11 minutes), and Rotterdam (35 minutes), making Leiden perfect for exploring the region.

❓ FAQ

What are the best things to do in Leiden for a perfect weekend?

Explore the historic city center with its canals, museums, and the oldest university in the Netherlands, founded in 1575. Take a walking tour along the Rapenburg canal, visit the Hortus Botanicus botanical garden, and climb De Burcht fortress for panoramic views.

When is the best time to visit Leiden, Netherlands?

Spring (April-May) offers pleasant weather and beautiful tulip fields in nearby Keukenhof Gardens, while summer (June-August) brings warm temperatures and outdoor festivals. Fall provides stunning foliage and fewer tourists, making it ideal for exploring the city’s hofjes and museums.

How many days do I need to explore Leiden and its surroundings?

Two full days allow you to see the main attractions in the city center and visit key museums like Naturalis and the National Museum of Antiquities. Add an extra day if you want to take day trips to nearby destinations like The Hague or Noordwijk Beach.

Is Leiden worth visiting compared to other Dutch cities?

Leiden offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and authentic Dutch atmosphere without the overwhelming crowds of Amsterdam. The city’s rich heritage as a university town, combined with its picturesque canals and connection to the Pilgrim Fathers, makes it a unique destination.

What are the must-see attractions along the canals in Leiden?

The Rapenburg Canal features stunning 17th-century architecture and is home to the oldest university buildings in the Netherlands. The historic Pieterskerk church and numerous hofjes (hidden courtyards) showcase the city’s Golden Age heritage.

How accessible is Leiden from Amsterdam?

Direct trains run frequently between Amsterdam Central and Leiden Central Station, with the journey taking just 35 minutes. The city center is compact and easily walkable, with most attractions within 15 minutes of the train station.

What makes Leiden unique in the history of the Netherlands?

Leiden earned its nickname City of Discoveries as home to the country’s oldest university and birthplace of Rembrandt van Rijn. The city’s successful resistance during the Spanish siege of 1574 is still celebrated annually during the October 3rd festival.

Can Leiden be explored in one day from Amsterdam?

A day trip allows time to see key attractions like De Burcht fortress, take a canal tour, and visit one major museum. However, staying overnight lets you experience the city’s evening atmosphere and explore more thoroughly.

Where are the best photo opportunities in Leiden?

The best shots can be captured from De Burcht fortress overlooking the city, along the Rapenburg Canal during golden hour, and at the two remaining city gates. The botanical garden and historic windmill De Valk also offer excellent photography locations.

How family-friendly is Leiden for visitors with children?

Leiden caters well to families with interactive exhibits at Naturalis Biodiversity Center and the National Museum of Antiquities. The city parks, canal tours, and windmill museum provide entertaining educational experiences for all ages.