Discover the courtyards of Leiden
Idyllic places, oases of peace and quiet in the hustle and bustle of the city
Courtyards of 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! Every courtyard has its own story to tell. Many of the courtyards are still inhabited and, to be honest, who wouldn't want to live here? Almost all the courtyards can be visited, but please respect the residents’ privacy.
Courtyard walk
You can buy a courtyard walking tour map for € 6.95 at the VVV tourist office. Entrance to the Sint Anna Almshouse (chapel/museum) is € 2 per person (open Saturdays 14.00-16.00). Visiting the chapel/museum is optional. Or maybe you'd prefer to take a guided tour of the courtyards? No problem! See our guided tour page.
Leiden Hofjes Festival
Every year at Whitsun there are courtyard concerts, where you can enjoy a wide variety of musical genres and performances, ranging from jazz to classical music, and from blues to children's performances. A whole weekend of lively culture in the Leiden courtyards! The Leidse Hofjes Festival will take place this year (2026) on May 24 and 25..
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All courtyard gardens
Others wondered
Leiden has more than 35 courtyards, meaning the city has one of the highest numbers of courtyards per inhabitant. Many of these courtyards are hidden behind gates and can only be discovered on foot.
The Leiden courtyards are special because of their combination of tranquility, history, and seclusion. They offer a stark contrast to the lively city and show how care, community spirit, and architecture came together centuries ago.
Many of Leiden's courtyards are accessible during the day, but not all of them. Many courtyards are still inhabited and require peace and respect. Opening hours and access rules vary per courtyard and are often indicated at the entrance.
The Leiden courtyard route takes you past all the courtyards in Leiden. The Courtyard Route is 5 kilometers long and takes about 2 hours, depending on your pace and the number of stops you make. The route can easily be combined with a visit to a museum or a break in the city centre. Pick up the route booklet at Tourist Office Leiden, Stationsweg 26.
Experience the highlights
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Leiden from the water
Leiden from the water
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Pilgrim Fathers in Leiden
Pilgrim Fathers in Leiden
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Historic city center
Historic city center
