The 27 most beautiful sights and museums to visit in Leiden

Courtsies, the university, glorious history and numerous museums. Leiden is known for everything! And that's not crazy. In the beautiful city there is plenty to see and experience during a day of city. The 28 kilometres of canals, hundreds of monuments and historical sights give the city a unique and atmospheric character. In museums you can also see masterpieces by Rembrandt, treasures from Japan and special objects from science. Discover your favourite places and experience them during a day at Leiden.

Are you planning a weekend getaway or do you want to be on a city trip to Leiden? Have a look at our tips for the best hotels and B&B to stay.

Rijksmuseum van Oudheden

This museum brings antiquity and archaeology to life. Enjoy ancient civilizations from Egypt, Roman times, Middle Ages and much more.

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De Burcht

This is one of the oldest existing examples of a castle in the Netherlands. A fenced refuge for people from attackers.

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Samuel de Zee's hof

Founded by Samuel the Sea who had left no offspring out of four marginals. He put his capital on this in the design of this court.

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Pieterskerk

Leiden's benchmark for almost 900 years. From Catholic Church to meeting place. You will also find the Pieterskerkcafé, a hidden gem.

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Our recommendations for a delicious lunch in Leiden

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De Leidse Sterrewacht

Visitors like to convey the beauty of our universe here. You will also learn more about the rich history of Leiden Astronomy.

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Nieuwe Rijn

A cosy district with numerous restaurants and eateries. Many have a terrace on or along the water in summer on which it is wonderful to stay.

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Molenmuseum de Valk

Curious what a mill looks like inside and how it works? Then discover seven floors full of stories and history at the Molenmuseum de Valk.

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Museum Het Leids Wevershuis

The Wevershuis shows 'the other side of Leiden'. Not the Leading of the wealthy elite with their imposing properties, but the Leading of the workers

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Nice B&B's in the city center of Leiden

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Hartebrugkerk

An imposing neoclassical monument in the Haarlemmerstraat. A place of rest amidst all the hustle and bustle.

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Sint Annahofje

Find peace and quiet in one of the most beautiful and oldest courtyards in Leiden. This is also the only Leiden court that still has its own chapel.

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Beestenmarkt

From 1616 to 1969 this square was the stage of the livestock market. The ringing of the 'Sheep Bell 'between number 9 and 10 gave the go-ahead for the trade.

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Hooglandse kerk

An imposing, late Gothic cross basilica that has been decorating the heart of Leiden for centuries. A monument with a turbulent history.

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15 beautiful places and museums in historic Leiden

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Rijksmuseum Boerhaave

Let yourself be intrigued by five centuries of science. Discover microscopes, the oldest heliocentric planetarium and visit the anatomical theatre.

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Rapenburg

There are many stately buildings on this most beautiful canal in the city. Some members of the royal family lived here during their studies.

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Het plantsoen

This landscaped city park is located on the former strongholds of the city. Its location on the water makes it a wonderful place.

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Pieterskerk

For almost 900 years this church has been an important meeting place in Leiden, nowadays used for concerts and events.

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Koornbrug

For centuries, the wheat was traded on this bridge. The canopy kept everything dry and the corn was stored under the roof.

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Museum Volkenkunde

A museum about people. Marvel at objects that tell a human story and learn about the world's enormous cultural diversity.

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Naturalis Biodiversity Center

With 42 million objects, Naturalis manages one of the largest natural history collections in the world. Until September 2 in the sign of poison!

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Marekerk

The Marekerk is located in the middle of Leiden and is therefore not to be missed. You can recognize the church by its round dome and special shape. Usually open on Saturday.

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