Leiden, a city steeped in history and culture, offers an abundance of attractions and activities that will appeal to visitors of all ages. Located in the province of South Holland, Leiden is known for its picturesque canals, historical buildings, and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you're interested in museums, nature, or simply soaking up the ambiance, Leiden has something for everyone.
Shopping and Dining in Leiden
Leiden offers a wide range of shops and eateries to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for high-end fashion, local crafts, or just a cosy place to eat, you'll find it here.
Burcht van Leiden - A medieval fortress on an artificial hill, dating back to the 11th century. This monument offers a panoramic view of the city and is the perfect place to start your exploration. Nearby, you'll find cosy cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a snack and a drink after your visit. Burgsteeg 14, Leiden
Haarlemmerstraat - The main shopping street of Leiden, with a mix of well-known chains and unique boutiques. It's the perfect place to shop for fashion, accessories, and gift items. Haarlemmerstraat, Leiden
Weekly Market - Every Wednesday and Saturday, the Botermarkt, Vismarkt, Aalmarkt, and Nieuwe Rijn transform into a vibrant market where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, cheese, fish, and much more. It's a great place to experience the local culture and taste delicious local products. Nieuwe Rijn, Leiden
Pieterskwartier - This charming district is known for its narrow streets, unique shops, and boutiques. A perfect place to get lost and experience the true Leiden atmosphere. Pieterskerk-Choorsteeg, Leiden
Events and Activities in Leiden
Leiden is a bustling city with a wide range of events and activities throughout the year. Here are some highlights you shouldn't miss.
Leidens Ontzet - Celebrated every year on October 3rd, it commemorates the relief of the city from Spanish siege in 1574. It is one of the biggest festivals in the Netherlands, with parades, fairs, concerts, and fireworks.
Museumnacht Leiden - During the Museumnacht, Leiden's museums open their doors to the public in the evening. The event offers a unique chance to explore the collections and enjoy special activities and performances.
Leiden Blues & Jazz Week - An annual music festival held in January. The event attracts both national and international artists and offers a week full of great music at various locations in the city.
Lakenfeesten - A summer festival with markets, music, and various activities along the canals.
Top 13 Most Beautiful Attractions in Leiden
Leiden is rich in attractions that reflect the city's rich history and culture. Below you will find a list of our favourite and most photogenic locations, presented in random order, all located in the historic centre of Leiden. Don't miss these beautiful spots during your visit.
Rijksmuseum van Oudheden
The national archaeological museum of the Netherlands. The museum houses an impressive collection of artefacts from antiquity, including Egyptian mummies, Greek statues, and Roman artefacts. A must-see for history enthusiasts. Rapenburg 28, Leiden
Hortus botanicus Leiden
The Hortus Botanicus Leiden, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, is a must-visit for nature and plant enthusiasts. This historic garden offers a serene escape from the city hustle ...
Visit the Natural History Museum Naturalis in Leiden, a vibrant place where you don't just see nature but truly experience and engage with it. This modern museum invites visitors of all ages on ...
The rich and fascinating world of cultures at the Museum of Ethnology in Leiden. This leading museum presents an extensive collection of objects that highlight the diversity and beauty of ...
The art museum of Leiden, with a collection ranging from medieval art to modern works. The museum is housed in a historic building that once served as an inspection hall for cloths, an important product of Leiden during the Golden Age. Oude Singel 32, Leiden
Molenmuseum de Valk
A beautifully preserved corn mill from 1743. Today, it is a museum where visitors can learn about the history of mills in the Netherlands and enjoy a beautiful view of the city from the top floor. 2e Binnenvestgracht 1, Leiden
Pieterskerk
A historic church dating back to the 14th century. The impressive Gothic building is often used for events and concerts and offers a glimpse into the rich religious history of Leiden. Pieterskerkhof 1A, Leiden
University of Leiden
This Academy Building has housed Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands, since 1575. Unfortunately, it is not open to the public.
It houses an impressive collection of objects from Japan collected by Philipp Franz von Siebold during his stay there in the 19th century. The museum offers a unique insight into Japanese culture and natural history.
Rapenburg 19
Rijksmuseum Boerhaave
The national museum of the history of science and medicine, named after the Dutch scientist Herman Boerhaave. It offers interactive exhibitions and historical medical instruments that illustrate the development of scientific knowledge.
Lange St. Agnietenstraat 10
Hartebrug Church
The Hartebrug Church, officially the Church of Our Lady Immaculate Conception, is an iconic Catholic church on the Haarlemmerstraat. Known for its white façade and the inscription 'Hic Domus Dei est et Porta Coeli', which means 'This is the house of God and the gate of heaven'.
Haarlemmerstraat 106
Brouchovenhof
A historic courtyard house in Leiden, dating back to the 17th century. The courtyard consists of 16 houses and has the status of a national monument. The Brouchovenhof offers a peaceful escape from the city bustle and is a beautiful example of traditional Dutch courtyard culture.
Papengracht 16
Overview
Discover Leiden, a City Full of History and Culture
A city that you can easily explore on foot or by bike. Leiden, with its rich history, beautiful canals, and vibrant cultural life, offers something for everyone. Every nook and cranny of this historic city tells its own story, full of history and beauty.
Whether you're interested in art, science, or just want to enjoy Dutch hospitality, Leiden welcomes you with open arms. Plan your visit today and see for yourself why so many travellers are enchanted by this unique city. Leiden is waiting to be discovered!
Parking in Leiden
If you want to visit the centre of Leiden by car, there are several parking options available. Here are some recommended parking places for tourists and visitors:
Parkeergarage Lammermarkt - This car park is within walking distance of the city centre and offers around 1,000 parking spaces. Lammermarkt, Leiden
Parkeergarage Morspoort - Located near the historic Morspoort, this garage has around 500 parking spaces. Morssingel 2, Leiden
Parkeergarage Haarlemmerstraat - Close to the main shopping street of Leiden, this car park offers around 400 parking spaces. Haarlemmerstraat, Leiden
Parkeergarage Garenmarkt - A modern car park with around 750 parking spaces, ideal for visitors to the Burcht van Leiden and surrounding attractions. Garenmarkt, Leiden
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