As we stepped off the train at Leiden Centraal, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation wash over me. I had heard whispers about this charming Dutch city, often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors, Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam. But something about Leiden intrigued me, and I was determined to uncover its hidden gems.
Leiden charmed us from the moment we arrived. This small Dutch city packs a big punch with its rich history and vibrant culture. We found ourselves strolling through narrow cobblestone alleys and along picturesque canals lined with beautiful 17th-century buildings. Leiden University, founded in 1575, gives the city a youthful energy. We saw students zipping by on their bikes between classes.
One of the first things I discovered on our Leiden visit was how the city serves as an excellent base for exploring both North and South Holland. It’s well connected to Amsterdam and other cities in just minutes.
For our own trip, we ended up choosing one base each for North and South Holland, but I’m not sure if that was the right strategy. Leiden’s central location and excellent public transportation connections make it easy to venture out and discover quite a lot of the surrounding region. I made mental notes of how you can travel to nearby cities while making the most of your time here.
Public transport is excellent, so you should not miss seeing more of South Holland. Use our extensive guides on places to visit in The Hague and the best things to do in Delft!
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Where Is Leiden, Netherlands?
Leiden sits in the province of South Holland, right in between the Netherlands’ biggest tourist draws. It’s about 50 km (25 minutes by train) south of Amsterdam, roughly 12 minutes north of The Hague, and around 20 minutes from Rotterdam. The city grew up along the Oude Rijn river, which splits into the network of canals you’ll be wandering along on your visit.
Because it’s wedged so neatly between North and South Holland’s biggest cities, Leiden works just as well as a home base for your whole trip as it does for a day trip from Amsterdam.
Hidden Gems in Leiden: Top Things to See and Do
The city’s compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot or by bike. We chose to just wander around and step into a few places that piqued our curiosity. It’s a great way to see the sights! We discovered a city that truly had it all without feeling overwhelming.
The history of Leiden is quite interesting, so it’s also worth taking a guided walking tour of the city in about 2 hours.
Morning:
If you’re visiting Leiden as a day trip and arriving by train, one of the first sights you’ll see is Morspoort – the western city gate through which you can enter the historical town.
Here’s a walking map of our own one day in Leiden. There are several world class museums that you can visit if you choose to, and I’ll tell you about some of them later in this post. For this Leiden itinerary, the route will take you to the other must-see sights.
1. Picnic Breakfast at Molen de Put
When in Leiden, a picnic at Molen de Put is a must. This charming windmill stands by the water, offering a peaceful spot for a lunch break.
Bring a picnic blanket and some sandwiches. You can spend about an hour here, enjoying the views and the quiet.
2. Exploring Leiden’s Canals and Waterways
Leiden’s canals are a big part of what makes this city so charming. The city has over 28 kilometers of waterways, so there’s plenty to enjoy while you stop at the many sights throughout your Leiden visit.
After passing through Morspoort, turn right and you’ll cross the first major canal, Galgewater, by the Rembrandt Bridge. This is a picturesque white drawbridge spanning De Rijn canal. Although the bridge itself is not directly related to Rembrandt, it offers a beautiful view of the canal and the surrounding historic buildings.
You can view the historic Stadstimmerwerf from across this canal. It used to be the residence and workshop of Leiden’s master carpenter.
One of my favorite spots was the Nieuwe Rijn canal in the heart of town. It’s lined with cafes and shops, perfect for a relaxing afternoon where you can grab a coffee and watch the boats go by. Don’t miss the Rapenburg canal. It’s often called the most beautiful canal in the Netherlands. The old university buildings along its banks are stunning.
The bridges in Leiden are also worth checking out. My favorite, the Visbrug, is an old stone bridge with great views of the surrounding area. It marks the start of the Nieuwe Rijn canal.
For a unique view, I recommend taking a boat tour of Leiden’s canals, like these. These usually last about an hour and give you a different perspective on Leiden’s history and architecture. Maybe book an evening tour to see the city lights reflected in the water.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try renting a kayak or paddleboard. It’s a fun way to explore at your own pace. Just be careful of other boat traffic!
3. Follow Young Rembrandt at Rembrandtplaats
Rembrandt, one of the most famous Dutch artists in history, was born in Leiden in 1606. He spent his formative years in this picturesque city before moving to Amsterdam to further his career. Leiden played a significant role in shaping Rembrandt’s early life and artistic development.
When visiting Leiden, Netherlands, a must-see spot for any Rembrandt enthusiast is Rembrandtplaats (Rembrandt Square). This charming square is located in the heart of Leiden’s old town, just a short walk from the artist’s birthplace. The centerpiece of the square is a bronze statue of a young Rembrandt, created by sculptor Auke Hettema in 1963. The statue depicts the artist as a young man, holding his palette and brushes, ready to take on the world.
Surrounding the statue, you’ll find several historic buildings that provide a glimpse into Leiden during Rembrandt’s time.
4. Visit the Leiden University Botanical Garden
Start your trip to Leiden at the Leiden University Botanical Garden. It’s one of the oldest botanical gardens in Europe, founded in 1590.
You can enjoy a wide range of plants, including rare and exotic species. Don’t miss the tropical greenhouse and the Japanese garden section. They are quite pleasing. Plan to spend about an hour and a half here, soaking in the serene atmosphere. Get your Hortus Botanicus tickets here.
5. Visit the Old Observatory
The Old Observatory is a historic landmark that played a significant role in advancing astronomical research and education in the Netherlands. The observatory boasts a unique blend of neoclassical and neo-gothic architecture, with its striking dome housing the telescope. This telescope is over 120 years old!
Throughout its century-long tenure as a university observatory, the Old Observatory was home to notable astronomers like Frederik Kaiser, who made important contributions to the field. Today, the building serves as a museum and cultural center, offering visitors a chance to explore the beautifully restored interior, complete with original telescopes and astronomical instruments.
Guided tours last about an hour and provide insight into the history of astronomy and the scientific achievements that took place within the observatory’s walls. The Old Observatory’s unique atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in astronomy, science, or Leiden’s rich cultural heritage.
6. Relax in the Van der Werf Park or the Het Plantsoen
When exploring Leiden, take a moment to unwind in the city’s beautiful green spaces, such as Van der Werf Park and Het Plantsoen. These picturesque parks offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets and provide the perfect setting for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing picnic.
Van der Werf Park, located along the Oude Vest canal, features well-manicured lawns, charming footbridges, and plenty of benches to sit and enjoy the scenery. The park’s central location makes it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and during the summer months, you might even catch an open-air concert or cultural event.
Just a short walk away, Het Plantsoen is another lovely park in Leiden. This 19th-century park boasts lush gardens, winding paths, and impressive tree-lined avenues. The park’s serene pond, complete with a fountain and resident ducks, adds to its idyllic charm. Het Plantsoen is also home to a few historic monuments, including a statue of the Dutch scientist Hermann Boerhaave.
Afternoon:
7. Stroll Around Pieterskerk
Dating back to the early 12th century, this former church is one of the oldest buildings in Leiden and has witnessed countless historical events, including the signing of the Pilgrim Fathers’ contract before their voyage to America.
The Gothic architecture of Pieterskerk is truly a sight to behold. It has soaring ceilings, intricate stained-glass windows, and detailed stone carvings. The church’s impressive organ, one of the largest in the Netherlands, is a highlight not to be missed. Don’t miss the memorial to famous Dutch humanist Erasmus, who studied here.
Pieterskerk is now a multifunctional space, hosting various events, exhibitions, and even weddings. While it is open to visitors for specific hours, it’s always a good idea to check the schedule in advance.
Take your time to explore its interior. Spend about 30 minutes looking at the beautiful stained glass windows and historic artifacts. Guided tours are available, providing deeper insights into the church’s fascinating history and architectural features.
8. Visit Young Rembrandt Studio
For a deeper dive into Rembrandt’s life and works, visit the nearby Young Rembrandt Studio (Het Jonge Rembrandt Atelier). This museum is housed in a 17th-century building and features interactive exhibits that explore the artist’s early years and his development as a painter and etcher. Entry costs €2.50 per person (free for kids under 6), and it’s open Tuesday through Sunday from 12:00 to 17:00 (closed Mondays). Have your portrait taken in front of a camera and instantly transformed into six unique Rembrandt-inspired masterpieces. Choose your favorite and have it printed on the spot as a special souvenir of your visit.
9. Discover De Waag (Weigh House)
De Waag, or the Weigh House, is a significant historical building in Leiden that has stood the test of time. Its construction, led by the renowned architect Pieter Post, was completed with a grand opening in 1659. For centuries, De Waag played a vital role in the city’s commerce, serving as a place where merchants could weigh and trade their goods.
Interestingly, De Waag was more than just a weigh house. At times, the attic room was transformed into an autopsy room, adding a unique and somewhat macabre aspect to the building’s history. The Weigh House continued to fulfill its primary function until 1972, when the last unit of cheese was sold.
Today, De Waag stands as a cultural monument, a testament to Leiden’s rich history and heritage. The building now houses a gallery and occasionally hosts important ceremonies. It is worth just stopping outside to appreciate its architectural beauty.
10. Spend time at the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum
The Leiden American Pilgrim Museum is a small but fascinating museum that tells the story of the Pilgrims’ journey from England to America, with a focus on their time spent in Leiden. Located in a historic 14th-century house, the museum offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of these early settlers of the the 1600s.
The museum’s collection includes artifacts, photographs, and documents that highlight the Pilgrims’ experiences, such as a rare 1592 Geneva Bible and a 1620 edition of “Of Plimoth Plantation.”
Visitors can explore themed rooms, including a 17th-century kitchen, living quarters, and a space dedicated to the Pilgrims’ journey on the Mayflower. The museum also showcases the lasting impact of the Pilgrims’ values on American history and culture.
Plan to spend 30 to 45 minutes here to see all the exhibits.
11. Highland Church (Hooglandse Kerk)
The Highland Church (Hooglandse Kerk) stands as a testament to Gothic architecture and historical significance. This stunning church, originally constructed in the 14th century, captures the essence of medieval craftsmanship with its soaring spires and intricate stonework.
The church has witnessed centuries of history, evolving from a Catholic place of worship to a Protestant church following the Reformation in the 16th century.
While the church’s interior is open to the public for limited hours, a visit to its exterior is enough, as the inside is quite minimalist. Stroll around the church grounds and take in the grandeur of its towering buttresses and beautiful stained-glass windows. The detailed façade, adorned with sculptures and carvings, provides a glimpse into the rich history and artistry of the period.
12. Explore the Burcht van Leiden (Fort)
Standing atop a man-made hill, the Burcht van Leiden is an 11th-century shell keep. We climbed its short but steep flight of stairs for amazing views of the city. The fortress played a crucial role during the Spanish siege of 1574.
It’s free to visit and only takes about 30 minutes to explore. Take your time to enjoy the views of the city from the top. The surrounding park is perfect for a picnic with a view of this ancient structure.
13. Check out the Old Sluice (Zijlpoort)
You should visit the Old Sluice, or Zijlpoort, if you have time. It’s a historical gate built in the 1660s. You can walk around and see the beautiful architecture and old walls.
Take some photos and enjoy the view by the water.
14. Tour the Windmill Museum De Valk
Finally, you may have just enough time to visit the Windmill Museum De Valk to see a real, working windmill. But if you don’t, it’s still a wonderful sight to see from the outside before you leave Leiden. Located close to the train station, it stands out with its tall sails.
You can climb the windmill and enjoy views from the top. Inside, you’ll find exhibits showing how the mill works and its history.
Plan to spend about 30 minutes here. It’s fascinating and educational, perfect for a short visit.
If you want to see some more historic windmills in the Netherlands, we have a guide to the best sites!
Best Museums in Leiden
In addition to the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum, there are a whole host of other very good museums to visit. Had we had more time or stayed in Leiden as our base, we would have visited at least a couple of them. If you’re interested, here is a handy list for you:
National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden): You can spend 1.5–2 hours here, marveling at mummies and ancient statues from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Try not to miss the incredible light show, which brings the museum’s 200-year history to life. The star of the show is the Egyptian temple in the central hall, which serves as the backdrop for this mesmerizing spectacle. Get ready for a stunning display of images, music, and narration. It’s a four-minute extravaganza three times a day.
Museum De Lakenhal: Learn about Leiden’s history and art. You can explore works from famous Dutch masters like Rembrandt. Plan to spend about two hours here. The museum isn’t huge, but there’s plenty to see.
Rijksmuseum Boerhaave: It’s a museum on the history of science and medicine. It houses an extensive collection of historical instruments, scientific apparatus, and medical equipment spanning five centuries. You can explore exhibits on microscopy, human anatomy, and the work of renowned Dutch scientists. Highlights include the reconstructed 17th-century Anatomical Theater and the Leiden Cabinet, containing over 1,000 scientific objects from the 18th century. You should plan to spend at least an hour here.
National Museum of Natural History (Naturalis): This is a fantastic place to learn about the natural world, especially for kids. You can see dinosaur skeletons, rare minerals, and lots of fossils. Don’t miss the T. rex skeleton!
Japan Museum SieboldHuis: You’ll find a unique mix of Japanese and Dutch art here. The museum, named after Philipp Franz von Siebold, showcases pieces he collected from Japan. Plan to spend at least an hour. Don’t miss the beautiful prints and detailed maps.
Wereldmuseum Leiden (formerly Museum Volkenkunde / the National Museum of Ethnology): You can see artifacts from all over the world, from ancient relics to modern cultural items. The displays cover Africa, Asia, the Americas, and more. You can easily spend 2.5 to 3 hours here. Here’s where you can buy Wereldmuseum tickets online here.
CORPUS – Journey Through the Human Body: Just outside Leiden, this unique museum takes you on an immersive ride inside the human body. In about 1.5 hours, glide past giant beating hearts, wander through pulsing lungs, and climb into a colossal brain, all brought to life with interactive multimedia. Don’t miss the panoramic elevator ride from head to toe, a genuinely unforgettable perspective on how your own body works. You can get your Corpus museum tickets online here.
Places to Visit With Leiden As Your Base
A majority of visitors stay in Amsterdam and explore other places from there. But Amsterdam’s tourist accommodations are really expensive, and it is a very busy and sometimes chaotic city. If you want the opposite for your base in the Netherlands, you should consider Leiden.
Leiden’s central location makes it perfect as a home base for exploring nearby Dutch cities and attractions. Amsterdam is an obvious choice, just 30 minutes by train. This makes it easy to visit the city multiple times during your stay. Try something completely different by going on a Rotterdam architecture walk.
Here’s a handy table of several places you can visit, with travel times from Leiden:
| Destination | Drive Time | Train Time |
|---|---|---|
| Amsterdam | 45 min | 30 min |
| The Hague | 35 min | 12 min |
| Rotterdam | 40 min | 33 min |
| Utrecht | 1 hr and 20 min | 45 min |
| Delft | 30 min | 20 min |
| Haarlem | 35 min | 20 min |
| Kinderdijk | 1 hr | 1 hr 40 min (2 changes) |
| Gouda | 40 min | 40 min (1 change) |
| Keukenhof Gardens | 25 min | 25 min by Keukenhof Express Bus |
| Katwijk Beach | 18 min | 27 min |
Use Omio to compare and buy transport tickets to and from Leiden.
Where to Stay in Leiden
Where you rest your head can make or break a trip, and Leiden’s boutique hotel scene delivers exactly the kind of intimate, characterful stays that transform a good vacation into an unforgettable one. These three gems each offer something special – whether it’s waking up to canal views, stepping into centuries of history, or simply enjoying that perfect balance of comfort and charm that makes every moment feel effortless.
- Breathe Boutique Hotel: This adults-only sanctuary offers beautifully appointed rooms with kitchenettes overlooking peaceful canals. The combination of modern amenities and serene canal-side location gives you both the comfort of home and the magic of being somewhere truly special.
- Boutique Hotel d’Oude Morsch: Tucked into a heritage building just steps from Leiden’s historic heart, this intimate 18-room hotel puts you right in the thick of things while maintaining that cozy, personal touch. The fact that you can walk to museums, restaurants, and shops in minutes while enjoying generous breakfasts and exceptionally friendly staff makes this a go-to for experiencing authentic Leiden living.
- Boutique Hotel Steenhof Suites: Staying in this gorgeously refurbished 15th-century house feels like stepping into a living piece of Dutch history, where original architectural details blend seamlessly with luxury modern amenities. Each suite comes with spacious seating areas, Swiss Sense beds, and 50-inch smart TVs, proving that historical charm and contemporary comfort can coexist beautifully.
Historical Significance of Leiden
Leiden, a city rich in history, has played a vital role in academia and culture. From its prestigious university to its contributions during the Dutch Golden Age, you’ll see that Leiden is worth visiting because there’s plenty to discover.
Leiden University
Leiden University, founded in 1575, is the oldest university in the Netherlands. It has been a center for academic excellence for centuries. You’re walking through history when you stroll around its campus. Famous scholars like René Descartes and Albert Einstein have walked these same paths. Rembrandt even spent a few months there but found that academic life didn’t suit him!
A stroll around various parts of the university can take about 2-3 hours. You can check out the Academy Building and the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens. You’ll get a feel for the university’s long tradition of research and education.
Leiden’s Role in the Dutch Golden Age
Leiden was crucial during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century. It was a hub for textile manufacturing, which helped the city’s economy flourish. You can still see remnants of this era in the architecture and museums.
Spend about 1-2 hours exploring the city’s old streets and canals. Don’t miss the Museum De Lakenhal, where you can see art and artifacts from this vibrant period. Walking through this museum, you’ll get a vivid sense of Leiden’s prosperous past.
Leiden’s Role in Pilgrim History
Leiden played a crucial role in Pilgrim history as the refuge for English Separatists seeking religious freedom in 1609. The Pilgrims lived in Leiden for over a decade, enjoying religious tolerance and making essential preparations for their journey to the New World. In 1620, they departed from Leiden aboard the Mayflower, eventually establishing a settlement in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
Today, visitors can explore Pilgrim-related sites in Leiden, such as Pieterskerk and the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum, which offer insights into this significant chapter of history.
Leiden Travel Guide: Getting Around the City
Leiden is super walkable, but bikes are the way to go. You can rent one for a day at the train station. The city’s compact size means you can cycle everywhere in minutes. Buses run often if you need them. A tourist day ticket covers Leiden and South Holland’s Rotterdam and The Hague region on the bus service, trams, ferries and the metro.
Leiden, Netherlands FAQ
Is Leiden worth visiting?
Absolutely. Leiden packs canals, world-class museums, a historic university, and Rembrandt’s birthplace into a walkable city center, without the crowds you’ll find in Amsterdam.
How many days do you need in Leiden?
One full day is enough to hit the highlights on foot. If you want to properly explore a few of Leiden’s museums too, plan on two days.
What is Leiden known for?
Leiden is known as the birthplace of Rembrandt, home to the oldest university in the Netherlands (founded in 1575), and as the refuge where the Pilgrims lived before sailing for America on the Mayflower.
Is Leiden a good base for exploring the Netherlands?
Yes. Leiden’s central location and train connections make it an easy base for day trips to Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, Delft, and Keukenhof Gardens.
