Leiden is a beautiful city in the Netherlands and is full of interesting places to explore. From its historic city center to its many museums and parks, there is something for everyone in Leiden. Here are the top 20 places to see in Leiden, Netherlands.
1. Burcht van Leiden – The Burcht van Leiden is a medieval fortress located in the heart of Leiden. It was built in the 16th century as a defense against Spanish attacks and is now open to the public. Visitors can explore the fortress and its grounds, take in the views of the city, and learn about the history of the area.
2. Rijksmuseum van Oudheden – The Rijksmuseum van Oudheden is a museum of ancient artifacts and art. It is home to a large collection of Roman and Egyptian artifacts, as well as Dutch and Flemish art. The museum also offers guided tours and educational activities.
3. Hortus Botanicus – The Hortus Botanicus is a botanical garden located in Leiden. It was founded in 1590 and is the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands. The garden is home to a variety of plants and flowers, and visitors can explore the grounds or take part in one of the many activities offered.
4. Leiden American Pilgrim Museum – The Leiden American Pilgrim Museum is dedicated to the history of the pilgrims who settled in Leiden in the early 17th century. The museum offers interactive exhibits, films, and tours that tell the story of the pilgrims and their journey to America.
5. National Museum of Antiquities – The National Museum of Antiquities is located in Leiden and is home to a large collection of ancient artifacts from all over the world. Visitors can explore the museum's galleries, which include artifacts from Egypt, Rome, Greece, and the Middle East.
6. Leiden University – Leiden University is one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands and is known for its many famous alumni, including Rembrandt, Spinoza, and Hugo Grotius. The university offers a variety of educational programs and activities, including tours of the campus and its many historic buildings.
7. De Burcht – De Burcht is an old windmill that dates back to the 17th century. It is located in the city center and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the mill and learn about its history.
8. Pieterskerk – The Pieterskerk is a church located in the center of Leiden. It was built in the 13th century and is home to a number of historic artifacts, including a painting by Rembrandt. Visitors can explore the church and learn about its history.
9. Hooglandse Kerk – The Hooglandse Kerk is a church located in the city center. It was built in the 14th century and is home to a number of historic artifacts. Visitors can explore the church and learn about its history.
10. Lakenhal – The Lakenhal is a museum located in Leiden. It was founded in the 17th century and is home to a large collection of Dutch and Flemish art. Visitors can explore the museum's galleries and learn about the history of Dutch art.
11. Botanical Garden – The Botanical Garden is located in Leiden and is home to a variety of plants and flowers. Visitors can explore the grounds or take part in one of the many activities offered.
12. Leiden Observatory – The Leiden Observatory is located in Leiden and is home to a number of telescopes and scientific instruments. Visitors can explore the observatory and learn about its history.
13. Leiden Zoo – The Leiden Zoo is located in the city center and is home to a variety of animals. Visitors can explore the zoo and learn about the animals that live there.
14. De Meelfabriek – De Meelfabriek is a museum located in the city center. It was built in the 19th century and is home to a large collection of artifacts related to the history of the city. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the history of Leiden.
15. Dutch Cheese Museum – The Dutch Cheese Museum is located in Leiden and is home to a large collection of Dutch cheeses. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the history of Dutch cheeses.
16. Leiden City Hall – The Leiden City Hall is located in the city center and is home to a number of historic artifacts. Visitors can explore the building and learn about the history of the city.
17. Museum Boerhaave – Museum Boerhaave is located in Leiden and is home to a large collection of scientific instruments and artifacts. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the history of science.
18. De Waag – De Waag is a historic building located in the city center. It was built in the 17th century and is home to a number of historic artifacts. Visitors can explore the building and learn about its history.
19. De Valk – De Valk is a historic windmill located in the city center. It was built in the 18th century and is open to the public. Visitors can explore the mill and learn about its history.
20. Leiden Museum of Natural History – The Leiden Museum of Natural History is located in Leiden and is home to a large collection of artifacts related to the natural history of the area. Visitors can explore the museum and learn about the history of the area.