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Leiden

Netherlands, Europe

Leiden, known as the birthplace of Rembrandt and the world's oldest university city, is a charming destination filled with picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural life. Highlights include the stunning National Museum of Antiquities, the botanical gardens of Hortus Botanicus, and lively markets. With numerous cafes and lively terraces, Leiden offers a true taste of Dutch culture. The city's festival scene, particularly during the Leiden International Film Festival, draws many visitors, making it appealing for both history buffs and modern explorers.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-4 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Valkenburg

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

8 Best Things to Do in Leiden

1. Visit the National Museum of Antiquities

Explore ancient artifacts from Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

2. Stroll through Hortus Botanicus

Wander in one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

3. Explore the Museum of the History of Science

Discover historic scientific instruments and their uses.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

4. Visit the Old Observatory

Check out Leiden's historic astronomical observatory.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

5. Take a canal cruise

Enjoy a scenic boat tour through Leiden's canals.

Available all year

Family-friendly

Booking required

1.5 hrs

6. Visit the Pieterskerk

Explore the historic church known for its architecture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

7. Discover the National Museum of Natural History

Engage with exhibits on biodiversity and evolution.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

8. Walk through the Molen de Valk

Visit a historic windmill with stunning views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

8 (#21 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Dutch

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Stamppot

V

Mashed potatoes with vegetables. (National dish)

Haring

Raw herring fish, often served with onions.

Bitterballen

Deep-fried meatballs, served with mustard.

Stroopwafel

V

Thin waffle cookies with syrup filling.

Poffertjes

V

Small fluffy pancakes, often served with sugar.

Phrases to learn

English

Dutch

Hello

Hallo

(Hah-loh)

Yes/No

Ja / Nee

(Yah / Nay)

Thank you

Dank je

(Dank yuh)

Excuse me

Pardon

(Par-don)

How much?

Hoeveel?

(Hoo-vel)