Things To Do
in Leiden
Leiden is a compact university city in South Holland with a rich maritime history. Its elegant canals, gabled townhouses, and world-class museums give the center a timeless charm. The city serves as a melting pot of students, locals, and visitors who enjoy laid-back cafés, markets, and bike-friendly streets.
From sunlit quays to intimate courtyards, Leiden rewards slow wandering and thoughtful discoveries.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the bustling market square, where you can enjoy fresh pastries from local bakeries. As you stroll through the cobbled streets, take in the stunning architecture of the various historic buildings. Don't forget to visit the National Museum of Antiquities to immerse yourself in ancient history.
After lunch at a charming café overlooking the canal, head to the Botanical Gardens, known for their beautiful collections and peaceful atmosphere. Spend some time wandering through the lush greenery and diverse plant species, a perfect spot for relaxation. As you walk back, stop by the Old Observatory, a nod to the city’s rich scientific heritage.
As the sun sets, choose a riverside restaurant for dinner, enjoying local Dutch cuisine with a view of the water. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the canals, perhaps enjoying a gelato from a nearby shop. End your evening with a visit to a local pub for some live music or a cozy atmosphere.
Begin your day at the Museum of the History of Science, where you can explore fascinating artifacts and exhibits. Next, head over to the Molen de Valk, a traditional windmill, and climb to the top for panoramic views of the city. This morning will set the perfect cultural tone for your day in Leiden.
After a traditional Dutch lunch, visit the Kunstmuseum, where contemporary art pieces beautifully contrast with classical works. Spend time admiring the collections and perhaps participating in any ongoing exhibitions or workshops. The nearby Hortus Botanicus offers a serene place to unwind after your artistic exploration.
For dinner, choose a trendy restaurant in the city center, where you can sample innovative takes on classic Dutch dishes. After your meal, attend a performance at the Stadsschouwburg, the city's main theater, to experience local talent. Wind down by grabbing drinks at a nearby bar, enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Grocery basics for a week | $60-90 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way public transport fare | $2-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $90-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with rich history
- Excellent museums and a lively student culture
- Beautiful canal views and easy access to nature
- Great rail links to Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam
- Smaller nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Prices can be higher in tourist areas
- Keukenhof and bulb fields are seasonal crowds
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de bushalte?" - Where is the bus stop?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
Places to Visit in Leiden
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic spires, medieval architecture, and reflections in the water along the canal.
Ancient greenhouse and tranquil gardens ideal for wide and macro shots.
A picturesque 17th-century weigh house on a sunny canal square.
A mix of Gothic and modern architecture with student vitality.
Food in Leiden
Leiden Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty mash of potatoes with kale or sauerkraut, usually served with smoked sausage or vegetarian sausage.
Must-Try!
Fresh herring eaten with onions, commonly available at markets and stalls.
Thin caramel-filled waffles, best enjoyed with coffee or tea.
Kale purée with smoked sausage; a classic winter dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and seasonal snacks.
Historic square with street food stalls and lively bars; try Indonesian rijsttafel and local snacks.
Seasonal pop-up stalls around the city center; sample Dutch pastries and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch people tend to be direct and punctual; greet with a handshake; be on time for meetings.
Respect personal space; keep noise reasonable in public transport and cafes.
Ring bells when passing, stay in bike lanes, and signal intentions clearly.
Safety
Tipping in Leiden
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; if not, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common.
Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash usage is still common in smaller venues; PIN and tap-to-pay are standard.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bulbs bloom across the region; Keukenhof is at its peak; canal life and outdoor markets return in full swing.
Long days and pleasant evenings; ideal for boat trips, relaxed outdoor dining, and strolls along the canals; expect occasional showers.
Golden light and fewer crowds; harvest markets and comfortable walking weather.
Cold but festive; Christmas markets, cozy cafés, and occasional frost or light snow, with longer indoor cultural options.
Leiden at Night
Hiking in Leiden
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest and lake trails just outside the city center.
Scenic hikes around the Kagerplassen near Warmond; popular for birdwatching.
Seasonal walking routes through blooming tulip fields in spring.
Airports
How to reach Leiden by plane.
Major international hub; direct rail connections to Leiden Central; about 15–30 minutes by train.
Smaller regional airport; accessible by bus and train connections; roughly 40–60 minutes to Leiden.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large student population due to Leiden University and medical centers.
Residential neighborhoods with parks and good schools.
Many expatriates and researchers drawn by the universities and research institutes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime with many local clubs and matches.
Common in schools and clubs across the region.
A core mode of transport and sport; bikes are everywhere.
Canal and lake-based activities are popular among locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Leiden.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
How to navigate as a vegetarian in this location: look for veggie stamppot, mushroom dishes, and Indonesian vegetarian options; many places can adapt dishes on request.