Explore the Historic Pesthuis in Leiden
Discover the Pesthuis in Leiden, a historic museum that reveals the city's past through captivating exhibits and serene surroundings.
The Pesthuis, a captivating museum and monument in Leiden, offers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history. Once a plague house, it now serves as a cultural hub, inviting tourists to delve into Leiden's past through fascinating exhibits and engaging narratives. With its remarkable architecture and serene surroundings, the Pesthuis is a must-visit for those looking to explore the historical depth of this charming Dutch city.
A brief summary to Pesthuis
- Leiden, NL
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience and more personal interaction with the exhibits.
- Check the museum's website for special exhibitions or events that may enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the museum and its surroundings involves walking.
- Consider combining your visit with a tour of nearby historical sites for a full day of exploration.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from Leiden Central Station, exit the station and head south towards Stationsweg. Continue straight until you reach the crossing with Beestenmarkt. Turn left onto Beestenmarkt and continue down the street. After a few minutes, you will reach the large square at the center of Leiden. From here, take the right onto the Breestraat, which will lead you towards the historic area of the city. Follow Breestraat until you reach the market square, then continue walking straight until you hit the intersection with the Haarlemmerstraat. Turn left onto Haarlemmerstraat and walk for about 10 minutes, keeping an eye out for the Pesthuis sign. Pesthuis will be on your right at 2333 ZC Leiden.
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Public Transport
For those starting from the outskirts of Leiden, you can take a bus or tram to the city center. Utilize the local bus service (check the nearest bus stop for routes that head towards the city center). Alight at the station named 'Leiden, Beestenmarkt'. From there, follow the instructions outlined for walking from the Central Station: turn left onto Beestenmarkt, then follow Breestraat to Haarlemmerstraat, and keep an eye on your right for Pesthuis at 2333 ZC Leiden.
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Bicycle
If you are renting a bicycle, start at the city center and head towards the Breestraat. Follow the same path as the walking directions, cycling down Breestraat and Haarlemmerstraat. The ride will take approximately 10-15 minutes depending on your speed. Pesthuis will be conveniently located on your right side at 2333 ZC Leiden.
Discover more about Pesthuis
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
VVV Leiden
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Rembrandt statue by Toon Depuis
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Land van Roo - Historical Landmark
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Scheltema Leiden
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Groeneveldstichting
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Vrouwenkerkhof
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Marekerk
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Gravensteen, Leiden University
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Hartebrugkerk
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Leiden City Hall
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Unmissable attractions to see
Naturalis Biodiversity Center
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The Art
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National Museum of Ethnology
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Morschpoort
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Tuin Wereldmuseum Leiden
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Gilde Leiden stadswandelingen hofjes
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Molen De Put
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Rembrandt Bridge
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Sint Salvatorshofje
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Spooktocht Leiden
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Rembrandtplaats
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Rembrandt Herdenkingsplaquette
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Beestenmarkt
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Essential places to dine
Restaurant Twelve
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FREDDY’S Leiden
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La Plancha Spanish restaurant
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Pipa Streetfood Bar
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Thai Restaurant Sisaket
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Paco Ciao
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Stadscafé Van der Werff
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Visrestaurant Crabbetje
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Restaurant Rubens
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Proeflokaal Sijgje Leiden
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El Gaucho
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La Cubanita Leiden
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Restaurant La Diva
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Restaurant Hudson Leiden
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Casa Ramon
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Naturalis Museum Shop
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Harlem 6
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House of items
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Kleurrijk Geluk
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De Winkel in Leiden
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Olive Oyl's Rusty Zipper
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University Shop Leiden
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Vintage Island
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Flying Tiger Copenhagen
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Boutique van Gendt
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EDUARD Leiden
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Lemmy's Beer and Whiskycafé
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Rock café Lazarus
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The Duke of Oz
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North End
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Restaurant Proeflokaal 1574
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Café 't Praethuys
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Café Frank
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Scott's Tavern
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Mister Jansen
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Jeanpagne Bistro & Wijnbar
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De Twee Spieghels
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Café Jantje van Leiden
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Café De Uyl van Hoogland
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