Leiden, an amazing Dutch city in the Netherlands. A place that I personally never have been before. Although, now I’m really wondering, why not? Leiden truly surprised us on our day trip. Leiden will definitely be a city that I will recommend to other travelers or even friends and family here in the Netherlands. Leiden is located in the province of South Holland. So, with that I’m mind, I also wanted to write a new blog about the city in the province Zuid-Holland.
History of Leiden
The history of Leiden can be tracked down for a really long time. Around the 15th century, Leiden is one of the biggest places in County of Holland. Leiden has always been popular due to its textile productions, just like my hometown Tilburg.
Another famous thing about Leiden is that it was the first place in the Netherlands to have a university. Even until today, Leiden is still a really big student city. When visiting you will then also see many students learning for school or chilling in the weekend in one of the green parks. The old Academy building, where the young Rembrandt studied, is a testament to the city’s rich cultural and educational heritage.
Leiden University, the oldest university in the Netherlands, has been one of Europe’s most prominent scientific centers for over four centuries. Its rich history of scientific discoveries and its bustling, international atmosphere due to its diverse student body make it a significant landmark in the city.
Something that you will notice and see throughout the city? Keys! The story behind all the keys actually goes way back. Back to the year 1293, even before Leiden was one of the biggest cities. The keys were given to Apostle Peter. Peter was given the keys of Kingdom of Heaven.
Where to stay in the City Centre?
Leiden offers more than enough hotel options, although we have not stayed in the city for tonight. There are still some hotels that are worth mentioning:
- Boutique Hotel Steenhof Suites: Just take a look at this hotel. If you like the old typical dutch buildings, then you will definitely like to stay in this hotel. The hotel is located in the historical part of the city, what makes it the perfect start location for your romantic getaway in the Netherlands.
- De Doelen: Another hotel that is the perfect picture of old Dutch buildings. Choose hotel ‘De Doelen’ if you want to stay beside the famous canals and watch boats passing by just standing by your window. The hotel offers some large rooms with all necessities. Perfect after a long and busy day in Leiden.
Sightseeing & Activities:
There is more than enough to do in Leiden. Enjoy some shopping or just walk around and wonder the beautiful city. Wanting to do more during your trip? Here are my favorite things to do in Leiden:
- Visit Burcht van Leiden: The Burch van Leiden is a historical part of the city located right in the middle. So hidden that we even walked straight past it without noticing it was behind the houses. The Burcht is free to visit and besides offering you an inside on the history of Leiden, it also gives you an amazing view of the city. Even more special than the specific Burcht (castle) is one of the last in the Netherlands. If you have more than enough and some good weather, try a nice picnic in the grass just by the Burcht. Perfect relaxing activity if you ask me!
- Sail the canals: Leiden has so many beautiful canals just like Amsterdam or Utrecht. Although I need to say there is a pretty big difference. In other cities you so many big tour boats. In Leiden I didn’t even get to see one. Not to say that they are not there but we saw we more people just renting a small boat and exploring by themselves. I would for sure know what my preference would be!
- Explore the market: We had the luck to be visiting Leiden on a Saturday and explore the Saturday market. Let me tell you, the market was huge! We walked it around 2 and 3 times just because there was so much to see. Visiting the Saturday market is like a perfect piece of Dutch culture or even history. While visiting the market you even have to change to try out some dutch dishes like eating a haring or a stroopwafel.
- Walk through the city gates: Take a self-guided walking tour through Leiden and explore the historical city gates. These gates not only highlight the beauty of the courtyards but also offer a glimpse into the city’s historical charm and attractions.
Museum Galore:
Leiden being a typical university city also has many different museums in the city. Some of them are even a bit special. That’s why I wanted to mention them separately as they will definetly be worth your while:
- CORPUS: One of the Netherlands most unique experiences and museums in one. Corpus museum will tell you more about your own human body. No not just with information boards and pictures. No, in Corpus you get to walk throughout the human body and be taking on a tour past all human parts. Riding down the highway you already see the big Corpus body ready for your visit. Corpus is nice to visit with children but also for adults.
- Naturalis Biodiversity Center: Naturalis is not only a museum but also a real biodiversity center. Students also are able to learn at the museum. Besides that, the museum also holds some of the largest natural history collections. Take a look inside this super interesting museum to learn more about all nature has to offer. You will even get to see a skeleton of a thirteen meter long dinosaur.
- Rijksmuseum van Oudheden: Leiden doesn’t only offer museums regarding nature. If you are looking for something else, consider checking out the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden. The museum focusses mostly on 4 different eras. One of them being the period of Old Egypt, where you will even get to see an old temple. Rijksmuseum is completely different from the rest but still just as amazing!
- National Museum of Antiquities: Among the 13 museums in Leiden, the Dutch National Museum of Antiquities stands out with its archaeological treasures and insights into ancient civilizations. This museum is a must-visit for culture lovers looking to discover art and history in the city.
Day Trips from Leiden:
Leiden is perfectly located near Den Haag but also perfect accessible from Amsterdam. Although the city is worth your while and even perfect for a little getaway. You also have the perfect home base to visit some other places. Consider visiting the famous Dutch hotspot Keukenhof. Explore the blooming flower fields with all its beautiful colors. For planning day trips and getting more information about the city, visit the Leiden tourist information office.
Looking for the perfect shopping experience? Consider going to the Westfield Mall. The biggest and one of the few shopping malls in the Netherlands. Perfectly I love the mall for a full day of shopping and enjoying some nice food in the food court.
I hope the city Leiden will surprise you just as much as it did to use. I love that the Netherlands is in full bloom with some good weather. Finally! Leiden is the perfect place to spend your summer day and enjoy all the beauty and history the city has to offer!
