Things to Do in
Leiden

We delve into the rich history and vibrant culture of Leiden's Golden Age on this ±90-minute free, tip-based, walking tour. Explore the picturesque canals, majestic mansions, and hidden courtyards while uncovering stories of the Pilgrims and the Dutch Masters. Your guide will lead you through 12+ significant stops, including the iconic Molen de Valk and the stunning Hortus Botanicus, where tulip mania began. Whether you're a local or a traveler, this tip-based tour offers a unique perspective of the city’s past and present. - This walking tour will cover 2-3 km in 90 minutes throughout the city's historic center, highlighting areas for your continued exploration. - Explore historic sites like the Molen de Valk and the Hortus Botanicus - Insightful narratives on Leiden's role in art, history, and culture - Available in English and Spanish with knowledgeable local guides - Suitable for all individuals comfortable with the walking distance, uneven cobblestone streets, and some stairs

This is the only Dutch landscape walking tour in the Leiden area, which is also close to the Dutch flower fields. This tour can be combined with a visit to the Dutch flower fields close to Leiden as well (in the vehicle)

Discover two of the most historically rich cities in the Netherlands on this half-day private tour, with a transfer between the cities included. In Leiden, your guide walks you through a city packed with stories: it heroically survived a Spanish siege in 1574, it is where Rembrandt was born, where the Pilgrim Fathers found refuge before sailing to America, and where the oldest university in the Netherlands was founded. In Delft, you step into the Dutch Golden Age: canals, churches, and the stories of Vermeer and William of Orange. Walk past the leaning Old Church and the towering New Church, discover lesser-known gems like the former Dutch East India Company office, and hear the stories of the city that shaped so much of Dutch history. The transfer between the two cities takes just 20 minutes. You can do the tour in either direction. This is a private tour. You set the pace, and if you have any special requests or an interest in a certain topic, just let us know.

Discover the Hidden courtyards, windmills and Dutch secrets with a local expert, completely tailored to your interests. Ideal for couples, families and small groups upto 8. These private guided day tours in the Netherlands blend Dutch culture, history, and nature into a relaxed, immersive experience. You are in best hands during this custom Holland day trip. What some of the travelers said before you on this trip- "Our guide was Mr. PJ… genuinely concerned… a fun loving way......". Enjoy hidden gems, cultural stories, and local cuisine while traveling sustainably & stress-free—perfect for those seeking a deeper, more meaningful connection on a private guided day tour of Netherlands. - Tailored tours focused on culture, nature, or culinary experiences - Multilingual guide fluent in English, Dutch, and Spanish - Private and relaxed atmosphere for small travel parties - Highly rated by travelers for exceptional service and attention to detail during custom Holland day trip

Explore Leiden on a private walking tour through one of the most historically rich cities in the Netherlands. With your own knowledgeable local guide, you discover a city that played a key role in Dutch history, art, and science. Leiden is home to the country’s oldest university, beautifully preserved canals, and the birthplace of Rembrandt. During this guided tour, your guide brings the past to life with stories of painters, pilgrims, professors, and Leiden’s heroic resistance and relief during the Eighty Years’ War. The private tour of Leiden takes place entirely in the compact historic center and normally lasts about 1.5 hours. Because this is a private walking tour, the pace and focus are flexible and can be adapted to your interests. This tour is ideal for travelers who want insight, context, and stories rather than a simple checklist of sights.

In this one day remembrance tour you get the story of the British 1st Airborne Division in the iconic Battle of Arnhem in September 1944. First we visit the landing zone at Ginkel Heath and the culvert. Then we follow the route of 2nd Para battalion to the John Frost Bridge in Arnhem via Kate ter Horst House, Lonsdale Church, Urquhart House and Elisabeth Gasthuis. We go back to Oosterbeek for Hotel Hartenstein, the White house, Hacket's Hollow and the perimeter. We conclude with a visit to the CWGC Oosterbeek Cemetery to pay our respects. Visit to the Hartenstein Airborne museum is optional and may impact the schedule.

Discover two of the prettiest and most historically significant cities in the Netherlands on this private half-day tour, with a transfer between the cities included. In Leiden, your guide walks you through a city packed with stories: it heroically survived a Spanish siege in 1574, it is where Rembrandt was born, where the Pilgrim Fathers found refuge before sailing to America, and where the oldest university in the Netherlands was founded. In The Hague, you explore the political and royal heart of the Netherlands: the Binnenhof, Noordeinde Palace, foreign embassies, and the elegant streets that have been at the center of Dutch power for centuries. You can do this tour both ways: starting in Leiden or starting in The Hague. You can also choose to be picked up and dropped off at a location of your choice, like in Amsterdam. And remember: It is you who determines the pace of this tour.

Explore the enchanting canals of Leiden on a private boat tour. With exclusive access to the city’s picturesque waterways, this wonderful cruise offers a unique perspective of Leiden’s rich history and culture. Enjoy onboard drinks and snacks while a friendly local guide shares hidden gems and stories about the city’s landmarks. Perfect for couples or small groups seeking an intimate experience, this private tour allows you to immerse yourself in the charm of Leiden at your own pace. - 90-minute private canal cruise tailored for 2 to 6 passengers, or a private bigger group tour for up to 25 persons. - Enjoy drinks and snacks included during the cruise - Guided by a knowledgeable local captain who shares insights about Leiden - Depart from Beestenmarkt, just a short walk from Leiden Central Station (our bigger group tour starts at the Aalmarkt in the center of Leiden)

In this workshop you will not only learn about how to make your own unique piece of handicraft, but you will also take it home with you! Moreover, you will pick your own unique piece or pieces of leather and will combine them in any style you want. This makes every piece unique and totally meets the wishes of every guest. You will be working inside a monumental building, constructed in 1875, while enjoying the large variety of colorful leather hides surrounding you. It all adds up to a very exclusive experience!

On this full-day private tour, you will discover The Hague, Delft and Leiden. See the highlights of all three old cities together together with our passionate guide. Lunch and transfers between the cities are included. Forget about Amsterdam! During this tour, you will see three totally different sides of the Netherlands. From charming artistic Leiden and classy political The Hague to quaint old Delft. You'll dive into the Dutch Golden Age and get to know modern Dutch society at the same time. From Rembrandt to Vermeer and from William of Orange to Napoleon Bonaparte. Be prepared to learn a lot and to see some royal palaces, our parliament, charming canals, old churches, Delft Blue pottery, historical sites, an old university and more. See you soon! You can do this tour both ways: starting in Leiden or starting in Delft. You can also choose to be picked up and dropped off at a location of your choice, like in Amsterdam. And remember: It is you who determines the pace of this tour.

Unravel the hidden trail via your mobile and discover the most beautiful places of Noordwijk & Noordwjk Binnen! Search the streets to find the answers along the way. Study statues, artworks, buildings and more! Learn more local stories of history and culture about the beach life, fishermen, the flower bulbs while walking to the romantic streets of Noordwijk-Binnen with linden trees everywhere. Play with one team, or compete against each other. For the best experience, we recommend to play the Schnipseljagd with 1-5 players per team. You can take breaks whenever you like. The Schnipseljagd is a selfguided tour. You can also order the Schnipseljagd in our webshop. Within a few minutes, you can start playing on your mobile phone. When you order the Schnipseljagd via Tripadvisor/Viator we will send you a text-message, within 24 hours, requesting your email address. You'll receive the Schnipseljagd link by e-mail. Don't forget to also check your spam-box.

With our exciting treasure hunt for kids you'll experience a unique family adventure. It's a special scavenger hunt for kids that can play 'detective' in the streets of Noordwijk aan Zee. They will have to work together to answer the questions that will pass along the way. It's a fun outdoor-activity that you can play whenever you want, cause this activity is completely selfguided through your mobile phone.

Combine a visit to the Keukenhof Gardens with a beautiful windmill Cruise (of approximately 1 hours) on the 'Kagerplassen' (also known as the 'Amsterdam Lakes') During the cruise you can enjoy the beautiful views, historic windmills and typical Dutch villages in the famous bulb region. The boat is covered and offers an open deck as well, providing great photo opportunities, so be sure to bring your camera! Come at your own pace and first enjoy a beautiful 1 hour windmill Cruise on one of the great ships of Rederij van Hulst. When checking in for the cruise you will get your timed entrance ticket for the Keukenhof Gardens which can be visited after the cruise. The Keukenhof Gardens are located only 15 minutes (by car) from the cruise departing point. With the Keukenhof ticket you will have directly access to the gardens (we will reserve a time slot after the cruise for you) Attention! You will receive the Keukenhof ticket at our meeting point in Warmond.

This tour is a step above the rest – with unique cultural experiences and fine dining and lodging. Two guides, a group size limited to fourteen, and a support van in case you get tired. You’ll stay at three wonderful 3- and 4-star hotels (the first on the ocean, close to blooming fields of daffodils, hyacinths, and tulips; the second in the historic center of Delft; the last on a picturesque lake). After finishing pleasurable days of biking along safe, flat bicycle paths and small roads, you’ll enjoy four superb dinners of three or four-courses (the Dutch really know how to cook!). This tour is led personally by Denise so you’ll be traveling with a guide who really knows the local area and can give you the best service Van Gogh Tours has to offer!

Explore Delft, Rotterdam and Gouda on a full-day private tour. You will get to know three very different, beautiful cities that all played a major role in Dutch history. First up, you will see Leiden, known its stunning canals and classy streets. Step back in time as you explore its old center. The city that heroically survived a Spanish siege in 1574 is full of stories: it was the home of Dutch Master Rembrandt, the oldest university of the country, and the Pilgrim Fathers. Next up is Delft, a picturesque town full of centuries-old facades, squares, churches and canals. Discover the city of Johannes Vermeer, known for its blue pottery, the final resting place of the Orange family, and its top-rated Technical University. You'll have lunch here. Lastly, you'll go to Gouda, with its charming town hall, fascinating weighing house and impressive church. You will explore the old city center, and your guide will tell you all about it. You end the day with a little cheese tasting there.

After Amsterdam, Leiden is considered as the second most important city in the Netherlands with regards to waterways and canals. This is the best selling Leiden walking excursion with a live guide in the Netherlands to be found in TripAdvisor or viator or Get your Guide. This tour also includes Entry to the Rembrandt's first art Studio. EXTRA OPTIONS * You can visit the Dutch Tulip fields by Cycling in Combination with Leiden for just Eur 50 per preson extra (March-May every year). * You can add a 2 hour Beer Tasting or a delicous High Tea at a hotel at the end for just Eur 59 per person extra *You also can extend this trip for a 6 hour "City til Beach tour" for just Eur 79 per person extra. We start in the Leiden city center and end at the beach of the Leiden in Noordwijk. * You can also combine Leiden with the medieval cities of Delft or The Hague - for just Eur 99 per person extra Feel free to send us a message if you want to customize this tour as you wish. We help you

In this workshop you will not only learn about how to make your own unique piece of handicraft, but you will also take it home with you! Moreover, you will pick your own unique piece or pieces of leather and will combine them in any style you want. This makes every piece unique and totally meets the wishes of every guest. You will be working inside a monumental building, constructed in 1875, while enjoying the large variety of colorful leather hides surrounding you. It all adds up to a very exclusive experience!

Experience a new way to discover a city with this 'gamified' tour! Explore Leiden during this self-guided walking tour that lets you see the city in a different light. You'll even learn about hidden spots most locals don't know about! Immerse yourself in a uniquely crafted story as you solve engaging puzzles that highlight the history and noteworthy sights of the city. It appears a police officer has taken files containing sensitive information from the local police station. Can you track him and find out why he took the files before the information ends up in the wrong hands? Rally your friends and put your problem-solving and exploration skills to the test! - Start your adventure at any moment you choose - All you need is a smartphone with a mobile data plan - Suitable for a team of up to 5-6 players aged 15 and older (supervision recommended for younger players) - This city tour takes around 2 hours to complete and is approximately 2,5 kilometers long

Leiden, 17th century. You are Pieter Lastman, a celebrated Amsterdam painter searching for a successor. Word has reached you of an exceptionally gifted young man growing up in this city. You travel to Leiden to follow him in secret and decide: is this the one? This self-guided city game uses the Questo app to lead you through 10 chapters across Leiden's historic center. Start anytime at Windmill De Put and follow Rembrandt's story from his birthplace to his first atelier. No guide or fixed timetable: just you and the making of a master. Your route visits the landmarks of Rembrandt's youth: his birthplace square, the Latin school with a free interactive portrait feature at the door, the Pieterskerk where his parents are buried, and the atelier where he painted before leaving for Amsterdam in 1631. Suitable for couples, families, and anyone fascinated by Dutch Golden Age history. The route is open at any hour but best enjoyed during daylight. Download the free Questo app to begin.

The people of Leiden believe that their city is the most beautiful one in the country, if not the whole world. It is hard to argue with that :). In fact, there is no other place on Earth, where stories from all over the world are intertwined in such a dense tangle. This is the birthplace of Rembrandt and genius mocker Jan Steen. It is where the origins of the modern Netherlands come from, as well as the United States of America and modern art. Einstein and Churchill walked on these cobblestone pavements here. All these stories are full of surprises, amusing paradoxes, and sometimes ridiculous tales or absurdities. Here, the subject of botany suddenly turns from a primary school class into a real detective story, physics - into tragedy, commerce - into philosophy and the rational organization of the urban environment - into poetry. After Leiden, your life will never be the same!

Enjoy the Escape Tour, a fun and self-guided citygame through Leiden. Will you find the secret exit? Make teams of 2-4 people and dive into the story. Solve riddles and puzzles and discover the secret exit of Leiden! You can start whenever you want!

There's been a murder in the city. The police can't figure it out and time is ticking. Are you up for the challenge? With photos and a city map, you go into the city, looking for the right locations. At each location you take a group selfie and receive a new clue. Step by step you are getting closer to the truth.

From the city center of Leiden we will sail you to the beautiful lakes in less than 30 minutes. Once you arrive at the 'Amsterdam lakes' you can enjoy the Dutch polder landscape. This area is characterized by shallow lakes and islands. The islands are polders and are still being drained by 18 restored polder mills in operation. Most of these mills can be seen during the cruise. We will sail along polders with cows in the meadow, islands with historic windmills, colorful bulb fields and beautiful views. The lakes are littered with sailing boats and small boats, it cannot be more Dutch!

In the 1600s, a single tulip bulb sold for the price of a canal house - and the flower that started the famous tulip mania was planted right here in Leiden. This walking tour follows a trail that takes you to that spot at the Hortus Botanicus and through the streets where Rembrandt grew up, sketched his earliest works, and became the painter who would define the Dutch Golden Age. Along the way, you will hear how Leiden's canals were built as moats to stop invaders, why poems cover the city walls instead of graffiti, and how a group of English refugees, called the pilgrims, sheltered here before sailing - with nine future US Presidents among their descendants. Your local guide walks you through 12 stops, from the atmospheric Galgewater canal to the panoramic fortress of De Burcht. Along the way, you can get a Rembrandt-style portrait sketched and explore one of the city's hidden hofjes. Available in 9 languages. Works offline. No schedule, no group - just you and the city.

Price per group of 2-6 people. Within 2 hours, the Qula Leiden City Trail leads you along the best spots in Leiden, while you play fun riddles and assignments on your smartphone. Try to set a high score with family or friends and explore the city. There are no fixed start times or reservations, you choose your own day and time. The Trail is available 24/7 and there is no time limit - you can start, pause and stop whenever it suits you! It is offered in multiple languages ​​(Eng, Ger, Fr, Ned, Sp, It and more). The Qula City Trail is great fun and the most affordable outing for families and groups of friends. How does it work? When you book, you will receive an email with instructions on how to play the Trail on your smartphone. Android or iPhone compatible. Once at the starting point, start your quest through the city, it's that easy!

Discover Leiden like never before with the Secrets of Leiden City Game, a fun self-guided city game packed with puzzles, riddles and hidden stories! This GPS-based exploration game lets you experience Leiden while exploring famous spots such as the Pieterskerk, Leiden University Academiegebouw, windmill Molen De Valk, the Engelse Poort and the historic canals. Play solo for a personal challenge or together with friends, family or colleagues. During the game you solve tricky questions, puzzles, riddles and creative photo tasks to score points, unlock extra clues and solve the final mystery. Pause whenever you want and continue later at your own pace. Compete for a place on the leaderboard or play competitively for team building, making this scavenger hunt through Leiden perfect for every type of explorer.

Unravel the hidden trail via your mobile and discover the most beautiful places of Noordwijk aan Zee! To find the answers, you have to take a closer look at your surroundings. Study statues, artworks, buildings and more! Discover the seaside while walking the boulevard and learn more about the local beach life and fishery-culture. Explore the old fishermen’s town and find your way through the villa neighborhood hidden in the dunes. Play with one team, or compete against each other. For 1-5 players per team. You can take breaks whenever you like. The Schnipseljagd is a selfguided tour. You can order the Schnipseljagd easily in the webshop on our website. Within a few minutes, you can start playing on your mobile phone. When you order the Schnipseljagd via Tripadvisor/Viator we will send you a text-message, within 24 hours, requesting your email address. You'll receive the Schnipseljagd link by e-mail. Don't forget to also check your spam-box.

Explore Leiden in this self-guided detective scavenger hunt. In City Detective, you and your team solve a fictional case while exploring the city: an internationally renowned AI-scientist was abducted from his home, and it’s up to you to unmask the culprit. This fun and flexible Leiden city game lets you follow clues, eliminate suspects, and solve puzzles using your own smartphone. Along the way, you'll uncover quirky facts, hidden gems, and iconic landmarks, making it a unique thing to do in Leiden. Highlights: - Self-guided scavenger hunt through Leiden city centre. - Play at your own pace: start and pause whenever you like. - Follow clues, solve puzzles, and eliminate suspects. - Use your own phone = no tour guide needed. - Access via the Qugato app. - Available in English and Dutch. Whether you're with friends, family, or colleagues, this Leiden detective game is a fun, flexible and interactive way to explore the city and challenge your inner sleuth.

During the Discovery Trip "The Stolen Keys", you will explore the city of Leiden during a 90-minute self-guided walking tour. In 90 minutes, you will see the most iconic places of Leiden while solving fun puzzles about the environment. Do your best and set a new high score for the trip together with your friends or family. As Discovery Trips is self-guided, there are no fixed starting times. You can pick whenever you want to start discovering. Furthermore, the trip is available in English, German and Dutch. So, what are you waiting for? Let's discover!

Step into the world of Sherlock Holmes and solve a mysterious case during the Sherlock Holmes City Game - a self-guided adventure full of puzzles, plot twists, and hidden clues. This City Game is all about story-driven gameplay and immersive mystery solving, it pulls you into a captivating story that you solve together, making it a unique way to connect, play, and create memories with your group. Perfect for friends, families, colleagues or solo players who enjoy a challenge and love detective games. Whether you play solo or in teams, it's a flexible and fun experience that turns the city into your crime-solving playground. After booking, check your email for clear instructions, download the Loquiz app, and dive straight into your detective mission.