Leiden in a Day: Canals, Museums & More!

Discover the charming beauty of Leiden, Netherlands - where history meets modernity.

22 April 2023

Leiden, Netherlands is a charming and historic city with canals, museums and beautiful architecture, making it a must-see destination for tourists. Visitors can take a relaxing canal boat tour, wander through the picturesque streets and enjoy the many museums, such as the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden and the Naturalis Biodiversity Center. Additionally, Leiden offers plenty of cozy cafes, shops and restaurants for travelers to enjoy.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
Day

Exploring Leiden's History and Culture

  • Start your day with a coffee at Lola Bikes & Coffee, a trendy café that doubles as a bike shop.
  • Visit the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, a museum with an impressive collection of ancient Egyptian and Roman artifacts.
  • Walk along the picturesque canals and admire the stunning 17th-century architecture.
  • Enjoy a traditional Dutch lunch at Hofje van Wijs, a cozy café in a hidden courtyard.
  • Stop by the Stadhuis (City Hall) to see the beautiful Renaissance-style building and climb the bell tower for a stunning view of the city.
  • End your day with a beer and some bitterballen (deep-fried Dutch snacks) at Café De Vergulde Kruik, a lively pub with a charming old-world ambiance.

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: Lost in Canals, Windmills, and Dutch Delights!

Leiden, Netherlands offers a perfect family-friendly getaway with its charming canals, cobbled streets, and beautiful old architecture. Explore the fascinating history and culture at the interactive Museums including the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, where unique dinosaur skeletons and interactive displays await. Take a leisurely boat tour along the canals and visit the picturesque Leiden Central Park for some outdoor fun and relaxation.

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.

A Romantic 5-Day Getaway in Leiden, Netherlands

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.