Leiden Travel Guide (Bollenstreek/South Holland/Western Netherlands/Netherlands/Benelux/Europe)

Introduction to Leiden

Located in the Bollenstreek area of South Holland in Western Netherlands, Leiden is a picturesque city steeped in Dutch charm and history. Home to the country’s oldest university, Leiden University, the city is a hub for education and innovation. Being the birthplace of the famous artist Rembrandt van Rijn, Leiden is also renowned for its exceptional museums and historical landmarks.

The city has a rich cultural and natural heritage that travellers from across the world come to explore. This travel guide will take you on a virtual tour of the top places to visit, hiking and biking routes, the food and drink scene, and where to stay in Leiden.

List of Places to Visit in Leiden

From enchanting museums and historical landmarks to natural wonderlands, Leiden is brimming with numerous tourist attractions. Here is a list of places that every visitor must explore:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Museum De Lakenhal - One of the oldest museums in the Netherlands, the De Lakenhal Museum is home to a vast collection of traditional, modern, and contemporary Dutch art.
Leiden American Pilgrim Museum - A museum dedicated to American pilgrims who sought religious freedom and set sail on the Mayflower.
Molenmuseum De Valk - Take a tour of one of the few remaining mill towers in the Netherlands. You can climb up to the top and enjoy the panoramic view of the city.
Burcht van Leiden - A historical castle in the heart of the city that dates back to the 11th century. The castle is now a museum that houses many artifacts related to Leiden’s past.

Natural Attractions of Leiden: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Hortus Botanicus Leiden - One of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, Hortus Botanicus is well-known for its large collection of rare and exotic plant species.
Kagerplassen - An intertwined series of lakes and waterways, Kagerplassen is a must-visit place for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
De Leidse Hout - A peaceful forest that serves as a perfect spot for family picnics and romantic walks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Leiden

Leiden is a cyclist and walking-friendly city, and it is always a good idea to explore the city on foot or bike to experience its true essence. Here are some of the top hiking/biking routes that you must try out:

City Centre Walk - A walk through the city centre that allows you to experience Leiden’s enchanting architecture and landmarks such as the Pieterskerk and the Burcht van Leiden.
Leiden Lakes Biking Trail - A scenic bike ride that takes you on a 30km trail around Leiden’s stunning lakes and waterways.
Van Leyden Route - A beautiful cycling route that takes you through the city’s historic centre, along the Rhine, and around its picturesque suburbs.

Best Things to Do in Leiden: Activities and Tours

Leiden is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure, history, and culture. Here are some of the best things to do in Leiden:

Take a Canal Tour - A great way to explore the city’s waterways and historic landmarks.
Visit the Leiden Market - One of the largest and most popular markets in the Netherlands, the Leiden Market is a fun place to shop, taste local foods, and buy souvenirs.
Take a Stroll through the Beach Town of Katwijk aan Zee - A small, charming town with a beautiful beach where you can relax and take in the scenic views.

Week-Long Itinerary for Leiden

If you’re planning on spending a week or more in Leiden, here’s an ideal itinerary that covers the city’s top attractions and must-visit spots:

Day	Activity
1	City Centre Walk and Pieterskerk Visit
2	Leiden Museums Tour
3	Leiden Lakes Biking Trail
4	Kagerplassen Lake Tour
5	De Leidse Hout Walk and Hortus Botanicus Visit
6	Trip to the Beach Town of Katwijk aan Zee
7	Leiden Market Visit and Shopping Tour

Food and Drink Scene of Leiden

Leiden’s food and drink scene is famous for its traditional Dutch delicacies that you can’t miss. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

Hutspot & Stamppot - A hearty dish made with mashed potatoes, carrots, and onions served with spicy beef sausage or meatballs.
Haring en wittebrood - A Dutch classic consisting of raw herring served on bread with onions and pickles.
Stroopwafel - A delicious sweet treat made with thin waffles and a caramel filling that melts in your mouth.

Local Beverages

Jenever - A traditional Dutch gin made from juniper berries, grains, and herbs.
Leiden Beer - A locally crafted beer with a unique flavour profile that’s popular among Leiden’s beer enthusiasts.

Where to Stay in Leiden: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Leiden offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the top places to stay in Leiden:

Boutique Hotel de Barones van Leyden - A luxurious hotel located in the heart of the city that offers stylish rooms, fine dining, and exceptional service.
De Doelen - A historic hotel that dates back to the 17th century and offers comfortable rooms and a traditional Dutch breakfast.
Steenhof Suites - A modern boutique-style hotel that provides spacious suites with all the amenities, including a kitchenette with a dining area.

What to Buy in Leiden: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Leiden has a wide range of souvenirs and local products that visitors can take home to remember their trip. Here are some of the things that you can buy in Leiden:

Leiden Blue Tile - A blue and white painted tile that represents Leiden’s historic connection with the Dutch pottery industry.
Leiden Cheese Fondue - A delicious cheese fondue mix that’s made with local Dutch cheese and herbs.
Delftware - A beautiful blue and white pottery that’s made in nearby Delft. You can find several souvenir shops in Leiden that sell Delftware.

Local Culture and Customs of Leiden

Leiden’s locals are warm, welcoming, and open-minded towards visitors. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its embrace of cultural and ethnic diversity. It’s also customary to greet others with a handshake and eye contact in Dutch culture.

Best Time to Visit Leiden

Leiden is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit the city is during the spring (March - May) when tulips and other flowers are in full bloom, creating a colourful landscape. The weather is also mild and pleasant during this time, making it an ideal season for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Leiden

Do:

Do take a bike or walking tour of the city to explore its natural and cultural wonders.
Do try out the local Dutch cuisine and beverages.
Do learn a few Dutch phrases to communicate with the locals.

Don’t:

Don’t litter or be disrespectful towards the city’s heritage sites.
Don’t smoke in public areas or litter cigarette butts on the streets.
Don’t forget to carry a raincoat or an umbrella as the weather can be unpredictable in the Netherlands.

Safety and Health

Safety in Leiden

Leiden is a safe city, and the crime rate is low. However, tourists are advised to take precautions like avoiding unlit areas at night and keeping valuables in a safe place. It’s also important to be aware of your surroundings while in the city centre.

Health in Leiden

Leiden has an excellent healthcare system, and visitors can access medical assistance at hospitals and clinics throughout the city. Tourists from EU countries are entitled to emergency medical treatment with their EHIC (European Health Insurance Card), but other visitors may have to pay for medical services.

Getting to Leiden: Transportation Options and Logistics

Leiden is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including air, rail, bus, and car.

Airports Near Leiden

The closest international airport to Leiden is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which is located about 20 minutes away from the city by train or car.

Bus Stations Near Leiden

Leiden has several bus stations, including Leiden Central Station and Leiden Lammenschans Station, which are both easily accessible from the city centre.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Leiden by train, with several direct connections from various cities in the Netherlands and other parts of Europe.

How to Get Around in Leiden

Leiden is a walkable city, and many of the top attractions and landmarks are located in close proximity to each other. Visitors can also rent bikes or use public transport to get around the city. The city’s bus and train services are efficient, affordable, and well-connected to various parts of the city.

Where to Go Next from Leiden: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Leiden is located in the heart of the Netherlands, making it an ideal base for exploring other major Dutch cities and attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit in the nearby areas around Leiden:

Amsterdam - The capital city of the Netherlands and a hub for culture, history, and entertainment.
Rotterdam - A vibrant port city that’s known for its modern architecture and cultural diversity.
The Hague - The seat of the Dutch government and a cosmopolitan city that’s home to several museums and art galleries.

Conclusion

Leiden is a hidden gem that’s waiting to be explored by tourists from across the world. From its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes to its unique food and drink scene, Leiden has something to offer to every type of traveller. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey to this magical city of the Netherlands.