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Discover the Wonders of Nature at Naturalis Biodiversity Center

Explore the Naturalis Biodiversity Center in Leiden, a premier natural history museum offering a journey through Earth's diverse ecosystems and captivating exhibits.

★★★★★4.5 (6949)

Naturalis Biodiversity Center in Leiden is a captivating natural history museum perfect for tourists seeking to explore the diversity of life on Earth. With an impressive collection of exhibits, fascinating research, and interactive displays, it promises an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

Plan your visit

A brief summary to Naturalis Biodiversity Center

Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.

Plan your visit

📍
Darwinweg 2, Leiden, 2333 CR, NL
Monday
10 am-5 pm
Tuesday
10 am-5 pm
Wednesday
10 am-5 pm
Thursday
10 am-5 pm
Friday
10 am-5 pm
Saturday
10 am-9:30 pm
Sunday
10 am-5 pm
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Naturalis Biodiversity Center.

Local know-how to help you travel smarter and make the most of every moment.

Purchase tickets online in advance to skip the lines and ensure entry on busy days.
Check the museum schedule for special exhibitions and events that might be taking place during your visit.
Take advantage of the guided tours available, which provide in-depth insights into the exhibits and research.
Visit the museum café for a delightful break; they offer local snacks and beverages to recharge your energy.
Allow at least three hours to explore the wide array of exhibits and interactive displays fully.

Discover more about Naturalis Biodiversity Center

Located in the charming city of Leiden, the Naturalis Biodiversity Center stands as a beacon of natural history, inviting tourists to explore the rich tapestry of life on Earth. This renowned museum showcases an extensive collection of over 37 million specimens, ranging from fossils and minerals to preserved animals and plants. Each exhibit is thoughtfully curated to engage visitors and foster a deeper appreciation for biodiversity, making it an ideal destination for families, students, and nature enthusiasts alike. One of the highlights of the museum is its impressive dinosaur skeletons, which capture the imagination and intrigue of guests young and old. The museum also features interactive displays that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the world of research and discovery, providing insights into the scientific processes that help us understand our planet's ecosystems. For those interested in astronomy, the observatory at Naturalis offers a unique perspective on our universe, complementing the natural history exhibits beautifully. The center is not just a museum; it is a research institute that plays a vital role in global biodiversity research, offering educational programs that encourage a love for science and conservation. With its modern architecture and beautiful surroundings, a visit to Naturalis is both an educational and a visual delight, making it a must-see attraction in Leiden. Plan your visit to discover the endless wonders of nature and the important role we play in preserving it for future generations.

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    Getting There

    Bus

    From the central bus station in Delft, take bus line 40 towards 'Leiden'. The journey will take approximately 25 minutes. Get off at the 'Leiden, Naturalis' stop. The Naturalis Biodiversity Center is a short 5-minute walk from the bus stop. Head southeast on Darwinweg, and the museum will be on your left at Darwinweg 2.

    Train

    From Delft train station, board a train towards 'Leiden'. The train ride will take about 15 minutes. Once you arrive at Leiden train station, exit the station and walk towards the bus terminal. Take bus line 40 from the bus terminal towards 'Leiden, Naturalis'. Get off at the 'Leiden, Naturalis' stop and walk 5 minutes southeast on Darwinweg to reach the museum located at Darwinweg 2.

    Bicycle

    If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike from one of the rental stations in Delft. Follow the bike path towards the 'N470' road and continue towards Leiden. The ride will take approximately 30-40 minutes. Once you reach Leiden, follow signs for Darwinweg, and you will find the Naturalis Biodiversity Center located at Darwinweg 2.

    Walking

    For those who enjoy walking, it is approximately a 40-minute walk from the center of Delft to the Naturalis Biodiversity Center. Start at the Markt square in Delft and head northeast on the 'Voldersgracht'. Continue straight until you reach 'Breestraat', then head towards the 'N470' road. Follow the road signs to Leiden, and you will arrive at Darwinweg, where the museum is located at Darwinweg 2.

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    File:Gezicht op de Nieuwe Kerk te Delft Prospect der Neuen Kirche, samt dem  Marckt zu Delft (titel op object) Delft (serietitel), RP-P-1932-351.jpg -  Wikimedia Commons

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