Leiden, Netherlands Travel Guide

Explore Leiden, a historic gem in the Netherlands, known for its beautiful canals, rich academic heritage, and vibrant cultural scene.

Leiden is a picturesque city in the Netherlands, known for its rich history, stunning canals, and vibrant academic atmosphere. As the birthplace of Rembrandt, this city offers a captivating blend of culture and art. Wander through its cobblestone streets and discover an array of museums, including the National Museum of Antiquities and the Museum of the History of Science. The city's centuries-old buildings and quaint bridges create a timeless charm that is sure to enchant any visitor. Leiden is home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, Leiden University, which was founded in 1575. The university's botanical garden, Hortus Botanicus, is a serene oasis in the heart of the city and a must-visit for nature lovers. The garden features a diverse collection of plants and flowers, including some rare species. The city's academic vibe is complemented by its lively cafe culture, where you can sip a coffee by the canal or enjoy a meal at one of the many outdoor terraces. Leiden's vibrant events calendar ensures there's always something to do. The annual Leiden International Film Festival and the Leiden Marathon are just a few highlights. The city's central location also makes it an ideal base for exploring the Dutch countryside and nearby cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam. Whether you're interested in history, art, or simply soaking in the local atmosphere, Leiden offers a unique and memorable experience for every traveler.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Visit the Hortus Botanicus early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful stroll.
Take a boat tour through Leiden's canals for a unique perspective of the city.
Check out the market on Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Nieuwe Rijn for fresh produce and local delicacies.
Leiden is very bike-friendly. Consider renting a bicycle to explore the city and its surroundings.
Don't miss the Burcht van Leiden, an ancient fort offering panoramic views of the city.

Explore Leiden: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Leiden

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Rijksmuseum

Explore the treasures of Dutch art and history at the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces and rich cultural heritage.

4.7

Van Gogh Museum

Immerse yourself in the world of Vincent van Gogh at the Van Gogh Museum, home to the largest collection of his masterpieces in Amsterdam.

4.6

Anne Frank House

Explore the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam: a poignant museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Anne Frank during World War II.

4.5

Keukenhof

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Keukenhof, the world's largest flower garden, where vibrant tulip displays and stunning landscapes await every spring.

4.7

Best landmarks in Leiden

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Burcht van Leiden

Explore the Burcht van Leiden, a medieval fortress that offers stunning views and a deep dive into the rich history of this charming Dutch city.

4.4

National Monument

Discover the National Monument in Amsterdam: A striking tribute to history, resilience, and remembrance in the heart of Dam Square.

4.4

National Museum of Ethnology

Explore a world of cultures at the National Museum of Ethnology in Leiden, showcasing diverse artifacts and stories that connect humanity.

4.4

St. Lawrence Church

Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of St. Lawrence Church, a Gothic masterpiece in the heart of Rotterdam, reflecting the city's resilience and culture.

4.5

Best restaurants in Leiden

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WAAG

Experience culinary delights at WAAG, a vibrant restaurant and bar in the heart of Leiden offering traditional Dutch flavors and modern cuisine.

4.2

Stadscafé Van der Werff

Discover authentic Dutch cuisine at Stadscafé Van der Werff in Leiden - where tradition meets vibrant atmosphere.

4.1

Very Italian Pizza Leiden

Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Very Italian Pizza in Leiden, where delicious flavors meet a cozy atmosphere.

4.1

Einstein Leiden

Discover Einstein Leiden: A culinary gem offering delightful meals and drinks in a charming setting by the picturesque Nieuwe Rijn.

4.2

Best bars in Leiden

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North End

Enjoy a true Dutch pub experience at North End Pub in Leiden, with vibrant atmosphere, delicious food, and a wide selection of drinks.

4.3

Lemmy's Beer and Whiskycafé

Experience the best beers and whiskies in Leiden at Lemmy's Beer and Whiskycafé, a cozy spot perfect for relaxation and socializing.

4.5

The Duke of Oz

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Duke of Oz, Leiden's top sports bar, featuring live games, a wide drink selection, and a lively crowd.

4.4

Bar Lokaal

Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Bar Lokaal, Leiden's bistro that combines local flavors with a cozy atmosphere.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Leiden

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De Twee Spieghels

Experience the vibrant jazz scene at De Twee Spieghels, a cozy bar and pub perfect for music lovers in the heart of Leiden.

4.5

NEXT Leiden

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Leiden at NEXT, where music, dance, and a lively atmosphere unite for an unforgettable night out.

3.5

Kiki club

Experience the electrifying nightlife at Kiki Club in Leiden, where unforgettable evenings and vibrant social scenes await.

2.7

De Hut van Ome Henne

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Leiden at De Hut van Ome Henne, a night club with live music, a bar atmosphere, and a café vibe.

3.4

Best shops in Leiden

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Markthal

Explore the culinary delights and vibrant atmosphere of Markthal Rotterdam, a must-visit food court and shopping center for every traveler.

4.4

Hoog Catharijne

Discover Hoog Catharijne, Utrecht's vibrant shopping mall featuring diverse stores, delicious dining, and a unique blend of local and international flair.

4.3

de Bijenkorf Amsterdam

Experience luxury shopping at de Bijenkorf Amsterdam, the premier department store featuring high-end fashion, gourmet food, and exquisite craftsmanship.

4.3

The Passage

Explore The Passage in The Hague: a historical shopping mall blending architectural beauty with a wide range of shops and cafes.

4.4

Explore Leiden on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Leiden, mapped for you.

Leiden Essentials

Leiden is accessible via several transportation options. The nearest international airport is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, located about 30 kilometers away. From Schiphol, you can take a direct train to Leiden Centraal station, which takes approximately 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can reach Leiden by car via the A4 or A44 highways from Amsterdam or The Hague. Regular bus services also connect Leiden to nearby cities.
Leiden has an efficient public transportation system primarily operated by buses. The Leiden Centraal train station is a major hub, offering frequent train services to major Dutch cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam. For shorter distances, biking is a popular and convenient option; the city has an extensive network of bike lanes. Taxis are also available but are generally more expensive. Walking is another viable option, as many attractions are within close proximity in the city center.
The official currency in the Netherlands is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially Visa and MasterCard. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, markets, or in case card facilities are unavailable. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city, particularly in the central areas.
Leiden is generally a safe city for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, especially in crowded areas like train stations and markets where pickpocketing can occur. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and stay vigilant. There are no specific neighborhoods known for high crime rates targeting tourists, but it is always advisable to stay aware of your surroundings.
In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. Leiden has several hospitals, including the Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC), which offers comprehensive medical care. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress casually but smartly; jeans and comfortable shoes are acceptable. Don't wear overly revealing clothing, especially in religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and speak quietly. Public Transport: Do buy a ticket or a travel card before boarding. Don’t forget to check in and out using the OV-chipkaart on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. Don’t be overly familiar with strangers; the Dutch value their personal space. Eating & Drinking: Do try Dutch specialties like herring and stroopwafels. Don’t leave a tip automatically; it is not mandatory but appreciated for good service.
To experience Leiden like a local, consider visiting the weekly markets held on Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Nieuwe Rijn, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and local goods. Renting a bike and exploring the city and its surroundings is a must. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. Lastly, enjoy a canal boat tour to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its rich history.

When is the best time to visit Leiden?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Leiden

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Leiden. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHallo
  [HAH-loh]
- GoodbyeTot ziens
  [tot zeens]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNee
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeAlsjeblieft
  [als-yuh-bleeft]
- Thank youDank je wel
  [dahnk yuh vel]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [soh-ree]
- How are you?Hoe gaat het?
  [hoo gah-t het]
- Fine. And you?Goed. En met jou?
  [khoot. en met yow]
- Do you speak English?Spreek je Engels?
  [sprake yuh eng-els]
- I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [ick buh-grayp het neet]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk wil graag de menukaart zien, alsjeblieft
  [ick vil khraahg duh meh-noo-kart seen, als-yuh-bleeft]
- I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [ick ayt khayn vlays]
- Cheers!Proost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIk wil graag betalen, alsjeblieft
  [ick vil khraahg buh-tah-lun, als-yuh-bleeft]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Ga weg!
  [ga wegh]
- Call the Police!Bel de politie!
  [bel duh poh-lee-tee]
- Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
  [bel uhn dohk-tur]
- I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [ick ben vuhr-dwahlt]
- I'm illIk ben ziek
  [ick ben zeek]
- I'd like to buy...Ik wil graag kopen...
  [ick vil khraahg khoh-pun]
- I'm just lookingIk kijk alleen maar
  [ick kayk a-layn mahr]
- How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [hoo-vel kost het]
- That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [daht is tuh dur]
- Can you lower the price?Kunt u de prijs verlagen?
  [kunt yoo duh prees vur-lah-ghun]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [hoo laht is het]
- It's one o'clockHet is een uur
  [het is uhn oor]
- Half past (10)Half elf
  [hahlf elf]
- MorningOchtend
  [ohk-tund]
- AfternoonMiddag
  [mee-dahkh]
- EveningAvond
  [ah-vohnt]
- YesterdayGisteren
  [khiss-tur-un]
- TodayVandaag
  [vahn-dahkh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [mohr-khun]
- 1Een
  [uhn]
- 2Twee
  [tway]
- 3Drie
  [dree]
- 4Vier
  [feer]
- 5Vijf
  [fayf]
- 6Zes
  [zehs]
- 7Zeven
  [zay-vun]
- 8Acht
  [ahkh-t]
- 9Negen
  [nay-khun]
- 10Tien
  [teen]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is een/de...?
  [vahr is uhn/de]
- What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [vaht is het ah-dres]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kunt u me laten zien (op de kaart)?
  [kunt yoo meh lah-tun zeen (op deh kart)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?
  [vahn-ur is duh vohl-hun-duh (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Een kaartje (naar ....)
  [uhn kahrt-yuh (nar)]

History of Leiden

Leiden, situated in the Dutch province of South Holland, began as a settlement on the banks of the Old Rhine. The earliest known written record of Leiden dates back to 860 AD, when it was referred to as 'Leithon.' The strategic location by the river allowed the town to flourish as a hub for trade and commerce.
One of the most pivotal events in Leiden's history was the Siege of Leiden during the Eighty Years' War. The city was besieged by Spanish forces in an attempt to suppress the Dutch Revolt. After a grueling four-month siege, the citizens of Leiden were on the brink of starvation. However, the siege was broken on October 3, 1574, when Dutch forces flooded the surrounding land, forcing the Spanish to retreat. The relief of Leiden is celebrated annually on October 3rd, known as 'Leidens Ontzet.'
In 1575, in gratitude for the city's resistance during the siege, William of Orange founded Leiden University. It became the first university in the Netherlands and quickly grew into a prestigious institution. The university attracted scholars from all over Europe, including the likes of René Descartes and Albert Einstein, and played a significant role in the Dutch Golden Age of science and culture.
Leiden holds a special place in the history of the Pilgrims, the English separatists who later sailed to America on the Mayflower. Fleeing religious persecution in England, the Pilgrims found refuge in Leiden in 1609. They lived and worshipped in the city for over a decade before embarking on their historic journey to the New World in 1620.
The 17th century was a period of immense prosperity for Leiden, as it became a center for the textile industry. The city's economic success was driven by the production of high-quality woolen cloth, which was exported across Europe. Leiden's wealth contributed to a flourishing of the arts and sciences, solidifying its reputation as a cultural and intellectual hub.
Leiden's intricate canal system is a testament to Dutch engineering prowess. The canals were developed extensively during the 17th century to facilitate trade and manage water levels. Today, they remain a defining feature of the city's landscape, offering picturesque views and a unique way to explore Leiden by boat.
Named after the renowned Dutch physician Herman Boerhaave, the Boerhaave Museum in Leiden is dedicated to the history of science and medicine. Established in 1931, the museum houses an extensive collection of scientific instruments, medical artifacts, and rare books, reflecting Leiden's rich legacy in scientific discovery and innovation.
The Leiden American Pilgrim Museum, located in a 14th-century building, offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Pilgrims during their time in Leiden. The museum features period furnishings, artifacts, and exhibits that tell the story of the Pilgrims' stay in the city and their journey to America.
The National Museum of Antiquities, or Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, is a premier archaeological museum in Leiden. Founded in 1818, it boasts an impressive collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt, the Near East, Greece, and Rome. The museum serves as a center for archaeological research and education, attracting scholars and visitors from around the world.
Founded in 1590, the Hortus Botanicus Leiden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. It was established by the university for the study of medicinal plants and quickly became a center for botanical research. The garden features a diverse collection of plants from around the globe, including the first European tulip bulbs, which played a key role in the Dutch tulip mania of the 17th century.