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Historic city centre

Strolling through the alleys of Leiden, you imagine yourself back in the 17th century. The legacy of the young Rembrandt is still visible in the present. He would know exactly where to go to enjoy what Leiden has to offer. From the old Academy Building where he studied, along the canals, city gates, bridges and mills, through the many courtyard gardens. Immerse yourself in the beautiful stories of the city and get acquainted with Leiden's history. Don't forget, you are in the City of Discoveries!

Along all the highlights

The Leidse Loop is the ultimate walk that introduces you to Leiden's most beautiful spots. You'll pass many historical monuments, and unique views are guaranteed! Discover Leiden's history on this unique city walk past iconic highlights.

Discover City Walks

Explore 13 museums in Leiden - Collections of Leidens scientists

Young Rembrandt

Rembrandt van Rijn was born in 1606, the ninth child of a miller in Leiden. Here he saw the light and grew up in relative prosperity. In the seventeenth century he grew to become a great artist. This Dutch Era can still be clearly seen and felt in Leiden.

Read more about Rembrandt
Young Rembrandt School
  • Young Rembrandt School

City of Science

Did you know that Leiden is a true city of science? For centuries, Leiden has been a place of knowledge and expertise. Scientists and students study, research, and experiment in the Leiden Botanical Garden, in laboratories, and nowadays at the Leiden Bio Science Park. You can get acquainted with science yourself in the 13 Leiden museums, during the Days of Art & Science, and the Night of Discoveries.

Discover science in Leiden

Fancy a night out?

Leiden from the water

The historic city centre is home to no fewer than 28 kilometres of canals. To cross all these canals, you need bridges, and the city centre alone has no fewer than 88 bridges! Experience the city from the water! 

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For the best personal tips

How do I get to the Faculty of Law? Is there a walking tour of the Leiden courtyards? What is there to do this weekend? Your visit to Leiden starts at the Tourist Information Office! It is located close to Leiden Central Station and is easily accessible.

And, you can also come here for original Leiden gifts, such as drawings, puzzles, and souvenirs, or to purchase various gift cards. Come and stop by at Stationsweg 26. 

More about Tourist Information Office

Courtyard gardens in Leiden

Leiden has no fewer than 35 courtyards. Anyone unsuspectingly opening a door between two houses can suddenly find themselves standing in a beautiful historic courtyard! 

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Wandeling met Gilde Leiden in de hofjes.

What to do in Leiden? - Check the event calender

  • International Stand Up Comedy @QBus Club Leiden

    International Stand Up Comedy @QBus Club Leiden

    Our monthly international comedy event in Leiden! Top European & UK headliners doin...

    Friday 27 March

  • Visit the Young Rembrandt Studio

    Visit the Young Rembrandt Studio

    Meet the young Rembrandt in a beautiful 7-minute 3D video experience in the house where...

    until 21 March 2027

  • Z.T. Untitled

    Z.T. Untitled

    Z.T. Untitled is a thematic exhibition in which artists present their own themes.

    27 March, 28 March and 4 more days

  • Colourful connections

    Colourful connections

    Jolanda de Boer (woven works, sculptures of cardboard and painted textiles and Willem M...

    until 26 April

  • Plants & Planets

    Plants & Planets

    In Plants & Planets you will travel through time and space: from the Big Bang to th...

    until 7 February 2027

  • Pieter Geraedts – het niets dat nietst

    Pieter Geraedts – het niets dat nietst

    Shortly before his death, Leiden artist Pieter Geraedts donated seven works to Museum D...

    until 3 May

  • Guided tour of the Old Observatory

    Guided tour of the Old Observatory Across the water, the old observatory building with its domed towers can be seen among the trees.

    View one of the oldest telescopes in the Netherlands at the Old Observatory in Leiden.

    until 24 December

  • Refined ceramics by Yoko Silk

    Refined ceramics by Yoko Silk

    Yoko Silk's ceramics are hand-formed. The Texture Shell series is deeply rooted in her...

    Friday 27 March

Want to see more? - Check out these tips!

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