• Countries
• Netherlands
• Leiden

A Romantic 5-Day Getaway in Leiden, Netherlands

Experience an enchanting romantic getaway in the picturesque city of Leiden.

22 April 2023

Leiden, Netherlands is an ideal destination for a romantic trip, boasting charming canals, colorful flower fields, and historic windmills. Take a stroll through the picturesque city center, visit the beautiful botanical gardens, and enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the many cozy restaurants offering traditional Dutch cuisine. Whether you're interested in history, art, or outdoor activities, Leiden offers a perfect blend of attractions for an unforgettable romantic getaway.

Travel plan

• Check into your charming and cozy hotel, Huys van Leyden, located in the heart of the city.
• Take a leisurely stroll around the picturesque streets of Leiden and admire the stunning architecture.
• Head to the vibrant and bustling Market Square and indulge in some people-watching with a cup of coffee or tea.
• Visit the Stadhuis Museum to learn about the history of the city and explore the elegant rooms decorated in 16th-century style.
• Savor some delicious Dutch pancakes and apple pie at De Vriend Cafe-Restaurant, a local favorite.

• Start your day with a visit to the Museum De Lakenhal, which houses an impressive collection of paintings and sculptures by renowned Dutch artists.
• Take a scenic boat tour along the canals of Leiden to appreciate the stunning views of the city.
• Visit the Leiden Observatory, which was once the oldest operating university observatory in the world, and learn about the discoveries made by Dutch astronomers.
• Wander through the green and tranquil Hortus Botanicus, the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands.
• Dine at the atmospheric Bistro Berlage and enjoy the seasonal French-Dutch cuisine.

• Take a short train ride to the charming seaside town of Katwijk and spend the day lounging on the sandy beach.
• Visit the Katwijks Museum to learn about the local maritime history and admire the impressive collection of seashells.
• Browse through the numerous seafood stands and indulge in some freshly caught herring or kibbeling.
• Take a scenic bike ride along the colorful bulb fields, which are in full bloom from late March to mid-May.
• Enjoy the romantic sunset over the North Sea before returning to Leiden.

• Take a bus tour to the Kinderdijk Windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and see the iconic windmills in action.
• Visit the fairytale-like Castle De Haar, located in the picturesque village of Haarzuilens, and admire the impressive Gothic architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens.
• Take a guided tour of the 400-year-old Cruquius pumping station, one of the most impressive pumping stations in the world.
• Stop by the historic cheese town of Gouda and sample some of the famous Gouda cheese.
• Enjoy an intimate dinner at Brasserie de Poort, renowned for its contemporary French cuisine and extensive wine list.

• Have a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and say goodbye to Leiden.
• Visit the Museum Volkenkunde, which offers an extensive collection of artifacts from around the world and learn about the diversity of human culture.
• Take a walk through the beautiful and serene Van der Werf Park and admire the lovely fountains and sculptures.
• Relax at the cozy and charming Boterhuis Hotel, which offers beautiful views of the city and comfortable amenities.
• Sip some traditional Dutch jenever at Cafe Olivier, a lively and atmospheric bar located in a former church.