🌸 Things to Do in Leiden – A Chill City Full of Surprises

Leiden

1. Take a Canal Tour with a Local Twist

Move over Amsterdam—Leiden has more canals and way fewer tourists. Hop on a boat and cruise past old windmills, university buildings, and chill little bridges. You can even rent your own whisper boat!

2. Explore the Hortus Botanicus (Botanical Garden)

This is the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands, right in the heart of the city. Super peaceful, and a great spot for nature content or slow-travel vibes.

3. Climb the Burcht van Leiden

A hidden castle ruin on a hill? Yes, please. This ancient fort offers panoramic city views and is perfect for a quick, unexpected adventure in the middle of town.

4. Wander Around the Pieterskwartier

Cute cobbled streets, historic vibes, and some of the best cafés and little boutiques. Very “walking tour meets aesthetic feed.”

5. Visit the National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden)

If you're into ancient Egypt, Greece, or Roman artifacts, this place is a must. Also: it’s a great indoor option on rainy days.

6. Grab Coffee at Lot & de Walvis or ROOS

These are iconic local cafés with cozy interiors and great food. Perfect for a midday break or to catch up on travel journaling.

7. Discover Leiden’s Wall Poems

All around the city, you’ll spot poems painted on buildings in over 30 different languages. It’s like an open-air museum for poetry lovers—and such a unique photo opp.

8. Walk in the Footsteps of Rembrandt

Leiden is Rembrandt’s birthplace! There’s even a Rembrandt walking route that takes you through key parts of his life.

9. Check Out the Weekly Market at Nieuwe Rijn (Wed & Sat)

This is where locals shop—cheese, stroopwafels, fresh bread, flowers... and the canal right next to it makes it super photogenic.

10. Catch Sunset at the Park near Molen de Valk (The Falcon Windmill)

A classic Dutch windmill, right next to a calm park. Come here for golden hour—thank me later.