Discover the historic city center of Leiden

Winter Wonder Weeks

From November 23, 2024, to January 7, 2025, the Winter Wonder Weeks will take place in Leiden. During this period, the city transforms into a magical winter wonderland, featuring highlights such as the floating Christmas market on the Nieuwe Rijn, an ice skating rink, and festive lights throughout the city. It's the perfect time to explore the city in its winter glory and enjoy cozy activities, delicious treats, and a festive atmosphere!

Wall poems walk

Leiden has several wall poems. The project "Poems on Walls" started in 1992 and was completed in 2005. A beautiful walk takes you past the most beautiful places in Leiden. The walk takes you past the wall poems in the center and stays almost within the canals. During this walk you will see about 25 of the 101 poems. Passersby are stimulated by the poem itself and by the visual image of the letters and the background of the wall. They are confronted with different images of writing, referring to other cultures. Many poems offer reflections on language, color or on being a poet. Discover for yourself during this wall poetry walk.

Canal Tour

What many people don't know is that Leiden is the second largest canal city in the Netherlands after Amsterdam! Therefore, there is nothing more fun than exploring Leiden from the water. Sail with a tour boat through the Leiden waters, but also on the Kagerplassen and in the Bollenstreek.

The Castle of Leiden

In the middle of Leiden stands the Burcht of Leiden. This castle stands on an artificial hill and is one of the oldest castles in the Netherlands. Walk around the wall while enjoying a beautiful view. Afterwards you can relax at the bottom of the hill with a snack and drink.

Katwijk aan Zee

About 14 kilometers from Leiden, easy to reach by car or public transport. Katwijk has a beautiful, wide beach where you can enjoy the sea, the sand and various beach bars.

Noordwijk aan Zee

About 15 kilometers from Leiden. Noordwijk is known for its wide beaches, beautiful dune areas and luxurious beach bars. There are also many activities and events throughout the year.

Wassenaar

Wassenaarslag is approximately 11 kilometers from Leiden. It is a quieter beach than Scheveningen or Noordwijk, ideal for people looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Museum visit

Leiden is known as a true treasure trove for museum lovers, with no fewer than 13 top museums within walking distance of each other. Whether you are fascinated by the treasures of science, want to learn everything about the life of the Young Rembrandt, immerse yourself in nature or meet T.rex Trix in Naturalis, Leiden has something for everyone. Some highlights not to be missed include the National Museum of Antiquities, where you can marvel at artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece and Rome. The Museum De Lakenhal, where you can learn more about the Young Rembrandt and other Dutch masters. And of course Naturalis, the national museum for biodiversity, with the famous T.rex Trix, should not be missing from your list. Every museum in Leiden offers unique exhibitions and fascinating exhibitions that will surprise and inspire you. For more information about the museums and their current exhibitions, visit Visitleidingen.nl.