What To Do in the Leiden Region

1. Visit Leiden's Many Museums

Leiden has many museums, from the natural history museum Naturalis to the science museum Boerhaave. To check out all 13 museums that Leiden has to offer, take a look at Streek van Verrassingen's website.

2. Discover Leiderdorp's Nature Playground

The beautiful municipality of Leiderdorp has a natural playground for children to explore to their heart's content. You can take part in a treasure hunt, have a family picnic, and enjoy the some outdoor games with everyone. Visit their website for the latest news and opening times.

Naturalis exterior of museum Anatomical theater

3. Bond with Goats at Boerderij 't Geertje

If you're an animal lover, then there's nothing better than spending some time with some beloved farm animals. Boerderij 't Geertje lets you get up close and personal with a variety of animals, from feeding the goats to pony rides. Learn more about all the activities they offer on their website.

4. Take a Stroll Through Hortus Botanicus

Leiden's Hortus Botanicus is the oldest botanic garden in the Netherlands, with some sections dating back to 1590. The gardens feature exotic plants from all over the world, and you can also learn more about the rich history of the gardens themselves. Discover more on their website.

Boerderij 't Geertje sign

5. Step Back in Time at Museum Voorschoten

Museum Voorschoten, in Voorschoten, provides a wealth of information about the culture and history of the municipality. If you're keen to learn a little bit more about the history of the Leiden region, then this is the perfect place to visit. For the latest events and news, you can check out their website.

6. Take Part in Water Sports at Vlietland

Nearby Leiden, Vlietland's Water Sports Centre offers a range of activities, from sailing to climbing and more. Take a look at their website for more information.

Museum Voorschoten in Voorschoten

7. Enjoy Leiden from the Water

Leiden is a wonderful city to explore from the water, with 28 kilometres of canals and 88 bridges throughout the city. This means that you can come with your own boat into Leiden and navigate the city via its canals. If you don't have your own boat, then there are many opportunities for boat tours or renting a boat to explore on your own. Learn more on VisitLeiden's website.

8. Discover the Young Rembrandt Studio

Rembrandt van Rijn grew up in Leiden, and you can visit the studio where he learned to paint and draw under the expert tutelage of Jacob van Swanenburgh. The Young Rembrandt Studio gives you a glimpse into Rembrandt's early life, and is well worth a trip for any art or history lovers! Learn more about the studio on VisitLeiden's website.

Sign on the door out front of Young Rembrandt Studio A nice busy day on the canal in the heart of Leiden

9. Explore Voorschoten's Duivenvoorde Castle

Duivenvoorde Castle in Voorschoten offers not only the opportunity to tour the beautiful historic castle but also many scenic walks on the estate itself. The castle also has its own museum, which allows you to learn more about the rich history of the building. Learn more on Duivenvoorde Castle's website.

10. Take a Walking Tour Through Leiden's Courtyards

Leiden has 35 courtyards throughout the city, each with its own history and charm. At certain times of the year, some of these courtyards even have their own concerts! You can buy a walking tour map of the courtyards so that you can explore them at your own pace during your visit. Learn more about the courtyards and the walking tour on VisitLeiden's website.

Castle Duivenvoorde in Voorschoten

Other Activities in the Leiden Region