Experience a Romantic Weekend in Historic Leiden

Discover passion in the charming canals of Leiden.

22 April 2023

A romantic trip to Leiden, Netherlands promises to be a beautiful experience filled with stunning architecture, picturesque canals, and charming streets lined with cozy cafes and boutique shops. Couples can take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Botanical Garden or enjoy a boat ride on the idyllic canals. Additionally, a visit to the beautiful Leiden Castle is a must-do for anyone wishing to delve into the rich history of the region.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Discovering Leiden's History

  • Check-in at the charming Boutique hotel Steenhof Suites
  • Visit the Museum De Lakenhal to learn about Leiden's textile industry
  • Wander around the picturesque Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world
  • Climb up the 233 steps to the top of the Molen de Valk windmill for panoramic views of the city
  • Have dinner at De Waag, a medieval weigh house turned restaurant, offering classic Dutch dishes with a modern twist
Day 2

Exploring Leiden's Culture and Charm

  • Start the day with coffee and stroopwafels at Het Stadscafe van der Werff, a cozy cafe with a historic vibe
  • Take a boat tour through Leiden's canals, passing by quaint houses and charming drawbridges
  • Visit the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, a national museum of antiquities, featuring Egyptian and Roman artifacts
  • Stroll around the picturesque Pieterswijk area, admiring the charming houses and boutiques
  • End the trip with dinner at De Vriend, a cozy restaurant with a Mediterranean-inspired menu and a relaxed atmosphere.

How to get there

Plane

The easiest and quickest way to get to Leiden is by flying into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and then taking a train directly to Leiden Central Station. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes and trains generally run every 15 minutes.

Car

Driving to Leiden is fairly straightforward, however parking in the city can be difficult and expensive. There are various parking garages dotted around the city, as well as some on-street parking areas. A popular option for those driving into Leiden is to park at the P+R Lammenschans car park and take public transport into the city center.

Train

Leiden is easily accessible by train from various cities in the Netherlands. The closest train station to Leiden is Leiden Central Station, which is serviced by trains from Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and other major cities.

Boat

Although Leiden is a fairly small city, it is possible to get there by boat via the Old Rhine river. There are various boat hire options available from nearby towns such as Leiderdorp and Oegstgeest, allowing visitors to take a relaxing journey down the river and moor up in Leiden's picturesque city center.

Bus

There are various buses that run to Leiden from nearby towns and cities. These include Arriva and Connexxion, and tickets can be purchased either online in advance or at the bus station. The main bus station in Leiden is Leiden Centraal Busstation.

More travel plans

4 Days of Budget Fun in Leiden, Netherlands

A trip to Leiden, Netherlands on a limited budget can be an exciting and enriching experience. With numerous options for budget accommodation and transportation, it's possible to explore the city's canals, museums, and historic landmarks without breaking the bank. From strolling through the picturesque streets to indulging in Dutch cuisine, a budget trip to Leiden can be a memorable and affordable adventure.

Leiden's Quirky Adventure: 5 Days of Fun and Exploration

Leiden, Netherlands offers a perfect family-friendly trip with its charming canals, picturesque windmills, and an array of child-friendly attractions. Take your little ones to the interactive Naturalis Biodiversity Center to learn about nature and the animal kingdom, or explore the kid-friendly SieboldHuis Museum to discover Japanese art and culture. End your day by strolling along the beautiful Leiden canals, enjoying delicious Dutch treats like stroopwafels, and creating lifelong memories with your family.

Leiden in 2: The Ultimate Weekend Getaway

Leiden is a charming city that offers visitors an authentic Dutch experience. It is known for its beautiful canals, historical buildings, museums, and vibrant cultural scene. Some of the must-visit attractions in Leiden include the Museum De Lakenhal, Leiden City Hall, and the Hortus Botanicus Leiden.

Leiden, Netherlands: Family Fun, Canals, and Pancakes

Leiden, Netherlands, offers a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its charming canals, picturesque windmills, and rich history. Take a leisurely boat tour along the canals to soak in the city's beauty, explore the National Museum of Antiquities to discover ancient artifacts, or visit the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, where kids can marvel at a wide variety of plants and enjoy the tropical greenhouses. With its relaxed atmosphere, Leiden provides a delightful setting for a memorable family vacation.