Leiden - Discovering Netherlands

Travelling to Leiden

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Leiden, a pretty good destination in Netherlands (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Leiden and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Leiden, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Netherlands, here's everything to know about Leiden for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Leiden

Leiden is a city located in the province of South Holland in the Netherlands. It is known for its rich history, beautiful canals, and cultural heritage. Leiden has many historical landmarks, including the famous Leiden University, which is one of the oldest universities in Europe. Some other popular attractions in Leiden include the Pieterskerk, the Museum de Lakenhal, and the De Valk Windmill. Leiden also has a vibrant food and drink scene, with many cafes, bars, and restaurants serving local and international cuisine.

What to visit in Leiden

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions in Leiden and information about each: 1. Rijksmuseum van Oudheden: This national museum of antiquities has a fascinating collection of ancient artifacts, including Egyptian mummies, Greek and Roman statues, and ancient jewelry.
2. Hortus Botanicus Leiden: This botanical garden dates back to 1590 and features an impressive collection of plants from all over the world. It includes a tropical greenhouse, a Japanese garden, and an extensive collection of tulips.
3. De Burcht: This historic fortress dates back to the 11th century and is located in the heart of the city. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of Leiden.
4. Pieterskerk: This stunning Gothic church dates back to the 14th century and is home to numerous beautiful stained-glass windows.
5. Museum De Lakenhal: This museum showcases the art and history of Leiden, including paintings by local artists and displays about the city's textile industry.
6. Leiden Canals: A boat tour through the canals is a must-see attraction in Leiden, offering a unique perspective on the city's architecture and history.
7. The National Museum of Natural History: This museum features exhibits on the natural world, with highlights including dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and live animal displays.
8. Molen De Valk: This historic windmill was built in 1743 and is now a museum dedicated to the history of windmills in the Netherlands.
9. The Burchtstraat: This picturesque street features colorful buildings with Dutch gables, and is the perfect spot for a stroll or a cup of coffee at one of the many cafes.
10. Rijn en Schiekade: This canal-side street is lined with beautiful buildings and offers stunning views of the Leiden skyline. It's the perfect place to relax with a drink or a bite to eat.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Netherlands, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Leiden.

When to go on holiday to Leiden

The best time to visit Leiden is between the months of April and September, as the weather is pleasant and the city's gardens are in full bloom. However, keep in mind that July and August can be quite crowded, as many tourists visit during these months. If you prefer a quieter experience, it's recommended to visit during April, May, or September when the crowds are fewer, and the city is still just as beautiful. Keep in mind that the weather in the Netherlands can be unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to pack for cooler temperatures and have a raincoat or umbrella handy, regardless of the time of year.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Leiden

There are several ways to get to Leiden, Netherlands: 1. By train: Leiden is well connected to other major cities in the Netherlands via the Dutch railway network. Trains run frequently to Leiden from Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht and other cities.
2. By bus: There are several bus lines that connect Leiden to other cities in the Netherlands and Europe, including Eurolines and Flixbus.
3. By car: The A4 and A44 highways pass close to Leiden, making it easily accessible by car. There are also several parking facilities in the city.
4. By plane: The nearest airports to Leiden are Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and Rotterdam The Hague Airport. Both airports are well connected to Leiden by train or bus.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Leiden, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Leiden

Here are some typical foods from Leiden, Netherlands: 1. Stamppot - a Dutch dish made of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables, typically carrots and onions, and served with sausage or bacon.
2. Haring & broodje haring - raw herring, marinated in a mixture of salt, onions, and vinegar and served with pickles or onions on a bun.
3. Kaas (cheese) - Leiden is known for its famous Leidse kaas, a semi-hard cheese with a mild and nutty flavor.
4. Bitterballen - small deep-fried balls made of a mixture of beef and beef broth, usually served with mustard.
5. Rijsttafel - a Dutch-Indonesian dish that consists of various rice dishes accompanied with side dishes such as satay, rendang, and sambal.
6. Stroopwafels - two thin layers of crispy waffle filled with caramel syrup, traditionally served with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
7. Oliebollen - deep-fried dough balls typically eaten around New Year's Eve, dusted with powdered sugar and sometimes filled with apples or raisins. These are just a few of the many traditional foods from Leiden that you can try!
You can find general info about typical foods in Netherlands here.

Is Leiden an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other cities in the Netherlands, Leiden can be considered as a relatively expensive destination for tourists. However, it depends on your budget, expectations, and travel style. Accommodation prices in Leiden, especially in the city center, can be relatively high. Additionally, the cost of dining and entertainment may also be higher compared to other Dutch cities. However, there are also lots of free or low-cost things to do and see in Leiden, such as visiting the city's numerous museums, parks, and historic sites.
Overall, while Leiden may not be the most budget-friendly destination, it offers a unique and authentic Dutch experience that many travelers find well worth the extra expense.

Where to find accomodation in Leiden

Leiden is a charming and compact city with great transport links. When it comes to finding accommodation, it depends on your preferences and itinerary. However, there are a few areas that are particularly convenient for visiting Leiden: 1. City Center: This area has many hotels, B&B's, and apartments, offering easy access to the city's main attractions like museums, markets, and restaurants.
2. Stationsplein Area: It is just outside the city center, near the train station, and has several comfortable hotels and apartments offering easy connectivity to other cities and towns.
3. De Waard: Located in the south of the city, near the university and botanical garden, this area offers a peaceful and green environment with some good mid-range hotel options.
4. Leiden Noord: Situated in the north of the city, this residential area has some budget options like hostels and self-catering apartments.
Overall, you will find many options to suit your budget and preferences, but I recommend booking in advance to get a better deal and location.
You can check hotel prices at Leiden here:
Booking.com

Is Leiden a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Leiden is considered a safe place for tourists. Like any other city, it's always a good idea to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, but statistically speaking, the overall crime rate in Leiden is low. However, it's always a good idea to take common-sense precautions like keeping an eye on your belongings and staying aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. It's also a good idea to follow any safety advice provided by your hotel or other local authorities.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Netherlands here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Leiden.

What type of travelers will enjoy Leiden the most?

Leiden, Netherlands can be enjoyed by a wide range of travelers. The city offers a variety of attractions and activities that cater to everyone's interests. Couples can enjoy romantic walks along the city's canals and historic streets, explore the museums and art galleries of the city and have a coffee or a beer in one of the cozy cafes or bars.
Young and adventurous travelers can enjoy Leiden's nightlife, with its lively bars and nightclubs, or try some adrenaline-boosting activities such as a stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking on the canals, or take a bike tour around the city.
Families with children can enjoy the many parks and playgrounds, as well as the educational museums and interactive exhibitions, such as the Naturalis Biodiversity Center or the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden.
Overall, Leiden is a charming city that can be enjoyed by any type of traveler.

How to get around Leiden

In Leiden, you can move around by bicycle, bus, train, or car. Bikes are a popular and easy way to get around the city, as it is flat and has good cycling infrastructure. The bus system is efficient and covers most parts of the city, and the train is convenient for traveling to nearby cities. If you prefer to drive, there are several rental car companies available. However, note that parking in Leiden can be expensive and difficult, so it's recommended to use other transportation options when possible.

What to see around Leiden

Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Leiden: 1. Rotterdam - a modern, vibrant city with stunning architecture, great museums, and a buzzing food scene. 2. The Hague - known for its government buildings and royal palaces, but also has a beautiful beach and fantastic art galleries and museums. 3. Delft - a charming town with historic canals, beautiful architecture, and renowned for its Delftware pottery. 4. Keukenhof - one of the most beautiful spring gardens in the world, where you can see millions of blooming flowers, especially tulips. 5. Haarlem - a picturesque medieval town with beautiful historic buildings, museums, and art galleries, and a great shopping scene. 6. Gouda - a typical Dutch cheese town with a pretty old town center and museums dedicated to cheese-making.
7. Utrecht - known for its stunning cathedral and historic university, but also a great destination for shopping, eating, and nightlife.
I hope this helps!
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