Skip to main content

Autumn in the Leiden Region

Scroll down

Autumn may just be the best season to visit the Leiden region.

With the leaves turning red and the weather getting colder, the many canals and charming old houses in the Leiden region become even more beautiful. This is also a great time for both indoor and outdoor activities. On this page you can find tips on how to make the most out of autumn!

Leiden International Film Festival

LIFF was founded in 2006 and has grown into one of the most important film festivals in the Netherlands. This edition will feature over 100 films from all over the globe, ranging from arthouse films to mainstream movies, and everything in between! 

Read more

Sinterklaas

  • On Saturday, November 14, 2026 at 12:00, Saint Nicholas will set foot at the Beestenmarkt! 

  • They will be coming to Leiderdorp on Saturday 14th of November. More information coming soon. 

  • More information about Sinterklaas's visit to Voorschoten coming soon! 

    Sinterklaas in Voorschoten

  • Saint Nicholas will be returning to Zoeterwoude again this year! On Saturday 21 November he will arrive at Noordbuurtseweg around 11:30 in the morning!

Autumn Activities

Exhibitions - Discover some of the 13 museums in Leiden!

  • Suriname is the most forested country in the world. But the forest is under serious threat - the plants and animals that live there, and the people who live there. Check out The Forest of Suriname exhibition!

    Read more
    Paper forest

  • The Castle Duivenvoorde in Voorschoten, will open its doors to the public from April 6th to December 18th.

    Read more

  • Visit Time for Papua: an impressive presentation of 400 objects, selected from the world’s largest Papua collection from western New Guinea.

    Read more

  • In Truth? The art of doubt, scientists and artists explore how we determine what is true.

     

    Read more

  • "Galleria" is a summer museum experience, showcasing twelve small exhibitions under one roof. From Egyptian temple fragments and Moroccan jewelry to contemporary art and personal stories

     

    Read more

Meet&Mingle

Meet&Mingles are our monthly socialising events and your opportunity to get to know people in the Leiden region! The event takes place in a different bar or café in the Leiden area every month, so you can expect to discover hidden gems along the way.

Whether you're just arriving in the region or already part of the community, this is a great opportunity to meet new people and expand your network in an informal setting while having drinks and snacks.

Find our more
People enjoying the meet and mingle

Leiden's Ontzet

Leiden's 'Ontzet' ('relief') refers to the liberation of Leiden city on the 3rd October 1574 from the Spanish forces. It has been commemorated every year since, with celebrations throughout the city.

A range of activities and events take place during this time, starting from the 1st October and continuing until the 3rd.

Make sure to take part in this incredible tradition, where everyone comes together and look forward to our shared future! 

Leiden International Centre invites internationals in the region to the English-sub screening of 'Tis maar eens per jaar, the beautiful documentary about the Leiden Ontzet celebrations. Come discover this tradition with us! 

Learn more about Leiden's Ontzet
Leidens Ontzet fairground

Food & Drinks

The Leiden region has plenty of cosy restaurants, bars and cafés to offer. 

You can warm up at one of the terraces on a rainy afternoon or grab a bite after a museum visit. Or do you want to meet a friend for coffee? You will find that there is something for everyone, from street food to fancy restaurants, from popular places to hidden gems. 

Discover the culinary hotspots in the region
People drinking coffee Wine glasses at a dinner table

Discover What Else There Is to Do

This website uses cookies

This website uses cookies (Functional, Analytical, Marketing) that are required for the website to perform as good as possible. By clicking on "I accept all cookies", you agree with the use of these cookies.