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

Discover endless fun and historic charm on a family adventure in Leiden, Netherlands.

19 July 2023

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.

Travel plan

• Start your adventure at the funky EVA Hotel, with its vibrant colors and eclectic decor. A true feast for the eyes!
• Wander through the narrow lanes of the historic city center, where crooked houses seem to whisper secrets from centuries past.
• Embark on a treasure hunt at Leiden's bustling markets, where exotic spices, vintage treasures, and friendly locals await.
• Uncover the hidden gems of Leiden's museums, like the anatomical theatre, where you can learn about the human body while feeling both fascinated and slightly squeamish.
• End your day with a relaxing boat ride along Leiden's serpentine canals, watching the picturesque cityscape unveil before your eyes.

• Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the lovely 't Klompekolkje café, where warmth and nostalgia drip from every inch of the charming interior.
• Immerse yourself in Leiden's rich history at the SieboldHuis, where Japanese artifacts and stunning exhibitions will transport you across continents and centuries.
• Laze under the shady trees of Leiden's tranquil botanical gardens, listening to the hum of insects and feeling your worries melt away.
• Immerse yourself in the world of Van Gogh at the Huis van Gijn, a quirky museum celebrating the enduring legacy of this artistic genius.
• Savor a hearty Dutch dinner at Brasserie Buitenhof, where mouthwatering dishes are served with a side of friendly banter from the welcoming staff.

• Start your day with a wholesome breakfast at Ontbijtbar SIS, where every bite is a burst of flavors and colors.
• Take a leisurely bike ride through the outskirts of Leiden, exploring the enchanting Dutch countryside, with its windmills, tulip fields, and grazing cows.
• Immerse yourself in the fragrant world of flowers at the Hortus Botanicus, where rare orchids and towering palm trees transport you to a tropical paradise.
• Discover the magic of Dutch cheese-making at the De Kaaswinkel, where creamy Gouda and pungent Edam reign supreme.
• Tantalize your taste buds with a dinner at De Waag, a historic building turned restaurant, where each dish is a masterpiece worth celebrating.

• Indulge in a leisurely breakfast at the charming en suite Hotel Nieuw Minerva, where every corner is adorned with whimsical artwork.
• Explore the art galleries of Leiden, from the sleek and contemporary Lakenhal museum to the small, independent studios bursting with creativity.
• Unleash your inner artist at the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum, where you can try your hand at traditional crafts and learn about the intriguing journey of the Pilgrims.
• Stroll along the picturesque Rapenburg canal, lined with majestic mansions and secret courtyards, providing endless inspiration for painters and dreamers alike.
• Satisfy your hunger with a delightful dinner at Just Meet, where a blend of international flavors and a dash of quirkiness create a truly unique dining experience.

• Start your final day in Leiden with a bountiful breakfast at the cozy Hartevelt Hotel, where warm smiles and homemade treats make you feel like family.
• Visit the mysterious Soetendaal windmill, where the creaking gears and swirling sails will transport you straight into a Dutch fairytale.
• Take a scenic canal boat tour, bidding farewell to Leiden's picturesque waterways and waving at friendly ducks along the way.
• Discover the local delicacies at Leiden's vibrant farmers market, where cheese, stroopwafels, and fresh herring await your taste buds.
• Find a sunny spot in one of Leiden's charming parks, where you can relax, reflect on your adventures, and start planning your next quirky journey.