Leiden is a city in the Dutch province of South Holland. It’s known for its centuries-old architecture and for Leiden University, the country’s oldest, dating from 1575. The university houses the Hortus botanicus Leiden Botanical Garden, founded in 1590, where the tulip was introduced to Western Europe. The Museum de Lakenhal displays works by the Dutch Masters including Rembrandt, who was born in Leiden. ― Google
April to May 🌷
Tulip season! Keukenhof Gardens and nearby flower fields are in bloom
Great time for boat tours and garden walks
June to September ☀️
Warm, festive, and perfect for exploring canals, museums, and outdoor cafés
October to March ❄️
Quieter but cozy — ideal for museum visits and Leiden’s classic Dutch atmosphere
October 3: Leidens Ontzet (Leiden Liberation Festival), a major local celebration
Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) – 20 minutes by direct train
Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) – ~30 minutes by train or car
Well connected to Amsterdam (35 min), The Hague (15 min), Rotterdam (30 min)
Leiden Centraal Station is just a short walk from the city center
Accessible via A4 and A44 highways
Several central parking garages available
World-class collection of Egyptian, Roman, and Greek antiquities
Fascinating exhibits on Dutch scientific innovation — microscopes, anatomy, astronomy
Art and history of Leiden, featuring works by Rembrandt and 17th-century masters
One of the oldest botanical gardens in the world (founded 1590)
Peaceful oasis with rare plants and historic greenhouses
Stunning Gothic church with ties to the Pilgrims before they sailed to America
Founded in 1575, it’s the oldest in the Netherlands
Albert Einstein and Rembrandt are among its notable affiliates
Stroll or take a boat ride through the canals
Visit Molen de Valk, a classic windmill and museum
Take a guided canal cruise (especially lovely in spring or sunset)
Rent a bike and explore nearby tulip fields or Katwijk beach
Visit Rembrandt’s birthplace site and walking route
Wander through the Leiden Markets (Wednesdays and Saturdays) for flowers, cheeses, and local food
Attend Leiden International Film Festival or one of the many academic conferences
Huys van Leyden – boutique charm in a historic canal house
Boutique Hotel d'Oude Morsch – modern luxury with fortress views
Golden Tulip Leiden Centre – comfort and convenience near the station
City Hotel Nieuw Minerva – classic Dutch interior, great location
Hotel Mayflower – central and affordable
IBIS Leiden Centre – modern and practical right by the train station
Olivier Leiden – Belgian cuisine and beers in a beautiful former church
Better Bagels – authentic New York-style bagels, excellent breakfast/lunch
Lot & de Walvis – great brunch and terrace on the harbor
Pakhuis – stylish setting with great seasonal menus
De Gaanderij – traditional Dutch with a modern twist
Roos – vegetarian-friendly café with excellent cakes and lunch
Try stroopwafels, Leidse kaas (cheese), and fresh herring from the market
Leiden blends intellectual prestige with artistic tradition
Locals enjoy their bike-friendly, water-rich city with a focus on books, coffee, and cultural events
The city hosts many international students and researchers, giving it a global feel
Events like Leidens Ontzet and Museum Night celebrate the city’s deep connection to freedom and knowledge
Strong Rembrandt legacy is celebrated in art walks and exhibitions