Leiden, City of Discoveries and History

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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

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.

Walking route past the highlights

This walk of just over 3 kilometres starts a few minutes from the station and ends on the Rapenburg, the most beautiful canal in Leiden.

1. Molen de Valk Windmill Museum: a corn mill from 1743 with views over the city, right by the station.
2. Museum De Lakenhal: Leiden's art museum in the former inspection hall for cloth.
3. Rijksmuseum Boerhaave: the national museum of the history of science and medicine.
4. Hartebrugkerk: the Catholic church with the white columned facade on the Haarlemmerstraat.
5. Brouchovenhof: a quiet 17th century almshouse courtyard on the Papengracht.
6. Pieterskerk: the 14th century Gothic church in the heart of the Pieterskwartier.
7. Leiden University: the Academiegebouw, heart of the oldest university in the Netherlands, founded in 1575.
8. Rijksmuseum van Oudheden: Egyptian mummies, Greek statues and Roman finds on the Rapenburg.
9. SieboldHuis Japan Museum: the Japanese collection of Philipp Franz von Siebold, the end point of the route.

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.
• Parkeergarage Morspoort - Located near the historic Morspoort, this garage has around 500 parking spaces.
• Parkeergarage Haarlemmerstraat - Close to the main shopping street of Leiden, this car park offers around 400 parking spaces.
• Parkeergarage Garenmarkt - A modern car park with around 750 parking spaces, ideal for visitors to the Burcht van Leiden and surrounding attractions.