Finding the Perfect Gift This Season

November 23, 2022 | Leiden International Centre

Sometimes you may find yourself needing a little inspiration in order to discover the perfect gift for friends and family for special events. December in the Netherlands brings with it many gifting opportunities, from Pakjesavond ('gifting evening') on December 5th to Christmas Day, and even New Year's Eve. So if you're uncertain about what sort of present might be the best - whether it's for your friend, family member, neighbour, or colleague - then check out our top Dutch themed suggestions below.

1. Dutch Cookbooks - explore the Netherlands through its cuisine

If you've ever wanted to try out some traditional Dutch cuisine, then consider buying a Dutch cookbook for your loved one. Not only are there some delicious meals to be discovered, but you may also find yourself learning more about Dutch culture itself!

2. Escape Rooms - the active Christmas present

Although it might not fit in a neatly wrapped box, if you're looking for a fun activity to include the whole family in then it's worth taking a look at your nearest escape rooms. Leiden even has its very own Rembrandt themed escape room!

3. Poffertje maker - bring mini pancakes to your home

For pancake lovers, a poffertje maker might be just the thing to brighten up your Christmas morning. After all, who can say no to some freshly made mini pancakes for breakfast (or dinner)?

4. Personalised calendars - keep track of your agenda whilst thinking of your friends and family

Calendars come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, but some of the very best are those that are personalised for you. Why not fill out a calendar with some beloved photo memories, quotes, and special dates?

5. Socks, hats, and mugs - the perfect stocking-fillers

Socks, hats, and mugs might be staple gifts, especially useful when searching for the ideal stocking filler, but there's a good reason for it. From woolly wintery socks with red-nosed reindeer on them to personalised mugs and fluffy hats, the choices are endless!

6. Books and biographies on Rembrandt

Leiden is the birthplace of Rembrandt van Rijn, and he grew up and began his work as an artist in the city. There are a wide variety of books and biographies on Rembrandt's life and his artworks that provide a fascinating insight into one of the most well-known Dutch painters.

Would you like to gift a little bit of Leiden to friends and family this Christmas? Then why not consider some Leiden region themed gifts from Leiden's Tourist Information Office?

1. A 1000 piece puzzle of Leiden city: Perfect for puzzle-lovers, you can put together an aerial view of the city with this gift, with the final result revealing a picturesque map of Leiden.

2. Leiden's Blue Hour (Leiden in het Blauwe Uur): This beautiful photobook showcases Leiden's iconic locations during the 'blue hour', just after sunset and just before sunrise, photographed by Carla Matthee.

3. Leiden themed apron: For the cooking enthusiasts out there, this apron provides the ideal opportunity to both celebrate Leiden and protect your clothes from your culinary adventures!

4. Candles: If it's a cosy candlelit Christmas evening you're after, candles might be just what you've been looking for! With a range of different scents, sizes, and colours you can fill your house (or stockings) with a vast array of candles, including a Leiden themed one.

Find these gifts and more at the Tourist Information Office!