As you might know by now, Leiden has a special place in our hearts here at DutchReview. Given it’s where our office is based, it should be of no surprise that we frequently get asked: “where should we go out for dinner in Leiden?”

Well, if you’re wondering the same thing, then lucky you — we like eating, and we like writing about it. So we have come up with the top hotspots for a lekker night out at restaurants in Leiden.

Let’s kick off this list with the best place to eat meat in the city (don’t worry, we got some excellent veggie options coming as well).

But not just any meat…

1. Just Meet

This one was on my Leiden list for a long time, but it was always packed when I tried to walk in on a Saturday or Sunday. I was relieved when I finally secured a reservation at this deluxe meat-eating establishment on the Breestraat.

Just Meet is located in an absolutely fabulous building. There are two large dining rooms, both equally atmospheric and divided by a hallway with a large piano in it. It also has one of the best classic staircases you’ll encounter in Leiden.

We started this dinner with a serving platter called ‘Plateau Just Meet’, and that was awesome from the get-go. It even featured some vegetables on it:

But now, let’s go on a truly carnivorous adventure. See, for real meat lovers, you need to go for one of the sharing steaks. After selecting your meat of choice (ask the waiter for their recommendation), they will collect your meat from the “curing cabinet”.

A fun part of the process is that you get to select your own knife. Each knife comes with its own story (we definitely talked about these knives for 10 minutes — sorry to our lovely waitress for keeping you so long!)

After the foreplay, you can watch the cooks prepping a beautiful plate of meat.

And there it is, one of the best steaks I’ve ever tasted in the Netherlands. My mouth is watering evening now as I’m writing about it.

2. Aan de Rijn

Having a coffee or beer at the beautifully located Aan de Rijn while visiting Leiden’s Saturday street market is one of my favourite things to do. It’s just made for your Instagram.

So if you’re pining for the classic canal views of Leiden, this is the place to be. The interior is also pretty goddamn gorgeous when the weather in the Netherlands fails us, as usual.

As you can see, the place has got it going on. With some funky tunes and the quality service by Roos, David, and the crew, you’re in for a fun night eating out in Leiden.

Shared dining is the done thing here. The idea is that you select a couple of small dishes at once, which are beautifully arranged on a wooden board. It’s a solid concept, and you can mix and match whatever you want (honestly, there are no bad choices).

A great terrace, lovely decor, and a shared dining concept is just the start of what Aan de Rijn has to offer — you can’t go wrong with that.

3. Bar Lokaal

Not far from Aan de Rijn is another crowd-pleaser in Leiden (not that anything is far away in Leiden, but this one is literally around the corner). Bar Lokaal brings you some deluxe veggie dishes, but no need to worry meat-lovers. They’ve got some top-notch cuts for carnivores as well.

First of all, it’s worth noting that Bar Lokaal is located at one of the most beautiful squares in Leiden — the Hooglandse Kerkplein. After having a few glasses of wine, you can almost taste that romanticized 16th/17th century.

Like many other spots in the city, Bar Lokaal encourages sharing (which is good because I’m always eyeing up what everyone else has ordered). The portions, and the price tags, are a bit bigger than other shared dining venues, so you should be satisfied if you order between four and six dishes.

We devoured a lovely smoked rib-eye, but where Bar Lokaal really shines is in when it comes to their vegetarian dishes. Especially their cauliflower dish is making a name for itself. Here’s a picture of it — it tasted just as good as it looks.

Other tips? Well, make a reservation if you want to bag a spot — it’s packed most of the time, and you can see why. Luckily, they’re open for breakfast and lunch as well if you’re around for a daytime bite.

4. Freddy’s Gastrobar

For a tasty meal that will have you lekker waving and a cosy interior, Freddy’s Gastrobar in Leiden is a great place to grab a filling lunch or romantic dinner.

A new restaurant to the landscape of Leiden’s many food hotspots, Freddy’s opened up in 2022. Built into the lowers floors of the Heineken Head Office, this gastro bar is named after the famous Freddy Heineken.

With multiple food choices on offer, from three-course set meals to delicious desserts and even vegan options for those plant-based folks, this restaurant in Leiden has something for everyone.

Freddy’s is also a mere hundred metres away from Leiden station, so it makes a great final stop on a day out in the small Dutch city. Plus, with some epic borrel deals, it’s also a great spot for post-work drinks — because we all know that Dutch 9-5 is stressful.

And, if you’re a big beer drinker, you’ll be delighted to know that Freddy’s has two tables with their very own beer taps, meaning you can have a night with endless drinks and chatter.

If you do take a trip to Freddy’s, make sure you do a bit of research about Freddy Heineken, the man who was kidnapped, and make sure you note the painting of the namesake himself on the walls while you enjoy the plush seats and sit at the grand wooden tables.

5. Pizzabakkers in Leiden

Fancy a pizza with a view of the prettiest house in Leiden? And all that without breaking the bank? Well then, you’re in luck because there’s a Pizzabakkers in Leiden too!

De Pizzabakkers is a small and homley franchise. A few of them are popping up around the Netherlands, all of them run by spirited owners who put in their heart, soul, and salami. Their pizzas are always delicious, thanks to the influx of Italians in the Netherlands. You’ll even find a young Italian lad doing his magic in the kitchen. This authenticity puts it far above other generic franchises.

Since I lived in Italy for a while, I have been absolutely spoiled when it comes to pizza and espresso. So I can happily report that the Pizzabakkers in Leiden also passes my totally unscientific pizza-eating trial.

What else is there to know? Well, prices are reasonable, which is good if you want to swing by for a quick pizza. I had the pizza of the month twice, and both were great pizzas with premium toppings and were enough to satisfy my (large) appetite. Another plus side to the Pizzabakkers in Leiden is that they have a scenic terrace where you enjoy the view of (what is in my opinion) the prettiest house in Leiden.

6. The Roof at PLNT

Wait a minute, isn’t the DutchReview office at PLNT? It sure is! And you might have spotted the rooftop in our Instagram stories.

The roof at PLNT is a unique place in the city’s heart. In the middle of the ‘Singelpark’, it’s a great place for students, startups, entrepreneurs, and residents to congregate. Dutch innovation is even put to the test on the roof. For example, there are plans to make the roof retain rainwater and for plants to generate electricity.

It is covered with beautiful flowers and greenery and boasts stunning views over Leiden and, yes, even a chicken coop! You might have just thought that it was only open for us lucky few, but the Rooftop is opening up to the public more and more.

Is the weather decided to be typically Dutch and rain? Well, you’re always welcome to stop by for coffee or have lunch in the ultra-hip workplace/cafe in PLNT.

Both the roof and the indoor Midi provide a range of healthy options and with economical prices. ( You might even run into us!)

7. City Hall

If you’ve ever visited Leiden, you’ll know the City Hall — a beautiful building that marks the city centre. But it offers more than admin queries. Tucked within the historic building is an Italian bistro. This is the perfect place for a treat (as the menu is on the pricey side), but it’s worth splashing out.

8. Tabú

Did you know that Leiden never used to have a Latin, Mexican, or taco restaurant? That’s loco, right. Well, Tabú has solved this issue with its stunning canal views, colourful decor and zesty food.

It has to be mentioned that every Monday and Wednesday from 5 to 7 PM, they host a “cocktail madness” when two of their daily special cocktails go for 12 euros.

9. Lot en de Walvis

It’s a staple of the Leiden food and drinks scene and one of my favourites (whenever the weather permits). One of the best parts of Lot en de Walvis is the great location, with gorgeous views of the marina and an extensive terrace.

Here was our list of top dining spots in Leiden! Have you been to any of these restaurants yet? Or have we missed your favourite off the list? Let us know in the comments below!

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in July 2019 and was fully updated in December 2022 for your reading pleasure.

Leiden is a picturesque town centrally located between Amsterdam and The Hague, and happens to look gorgeous in the rain. Given that our DutchReview office is located here, it’s no surprise we think the city is glorious.

Some cities need sun for their beauty to truly shine but not our lovely Leiden! It is stunning in all seasons — wet winter, windy Autumn, cloudy spring and yes, the cold summer!

We teamed up with the talented @carjstudio, who clearly has a knack for city photography as well. Enjoy the following photos of Leiden in the rain!

The Leiden harbour

Views across Leiden harbour with the Molen De Valk in the background

The city centre — City Hall, Haarlemmerstraat and Leiden’s old trade office

Shooting across the pretty canals

We hope you enjoyed these stunning photos! (And that they make you appreciate the rainy weather a bit more).

Have you been to Leiden? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in October 2019, and was fully updated in January 2024 for your reading pleasure.

Albeit small and charming, there are loads of things to do in Leiden. As one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands, it never fails to amaze!  

From windmills to secret courtyards, you can easily fill a week with things to do in this gorgeous, old, university town. Here are our 17 top tips!

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1. Delve into history at the Burcht van Leiden

It’s quite unique to come across a hill in the Netherlands, so enjoy the steep climb while you can. This medieval fortification gives you the best view of the stunning Hooglandse Kerk, and of Leiden in general!

The 11th-century construction was once a medieval fort and is now an adorable park open to the public. It’s also seen as a national symbol signalling the Dutch defeat of the Spanish in 1574.

READ MORE | Why is the Netherlands so flat? The complete explanation

Climb the hill, but don’t stop there! You can also walk on top of the walls themselves if you take the stairs inside the Burcht.

2. Stop to smell the flowers at Hortus Botanicus

The oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands is definitely worth a visit during your trip to Leiden. Beautiful, romantic, and packed with interesting plants, Hortus Botanicus is a favourite for locals and tourists alike.

The garden has several greenhouses and is open for anything from casual strolls to event rentals. There’s also an adorable café for when the rain (inevitably) sets in. 

READ MORE | Penis plant comes to bloom for first time in 24 years — smells like ‘rotting flesh’

Here’s a hot tip; if you study at Leiden University, it’s totally free to enter! But watch out, you’re going to want to buy everything they have in the gift shop.

3. Experience real Dutchness at Molen De Valk windmill museum

You simply cannot visit the Netherlands without seeing a windmill, and if you’re going to Leiden, you’re in luck — there’s one hanging out right in the centre! 

De Valk is the only windmill left of the 19 that once stood within the city walls of Leiden. Originating in the 1600s, the windmill offers great insight into 300 years of milling history. 

READ MORE | Best windmill site in the Netherlands: Kinderdijk or Zaanse Schans?

You can enjoy the windmill museum or simply admire the construction from the outside — believe us, you won’t want to miss it. 

4. Get lost at Wereld Museum Leiden

The first museum of Ethnography in Europe is hard to miss if you’re visiting Leiden. The museum is one of the oldest of its kind in the world, and it’s a crown jewel in the university city’s long and proud research tradition.

Book a guided tour, or just admire the museum at your own pace — but be warned that you can easily lose yourself in the many exhibitions for hours and hours! 

READ MORE | Something for the whole family! Let your kids run wild at Wereld Museum Leiden’s Animal Academy

If you have some extra time on your hands, why not check out some of the fascinating exhibits on show?

You can currently wander through eye-opening installations on maps and let your children run free to learn from the animal kingdom. If that doesn’t tickle your fancy, how about enrolling in traditional New Zealand Haka war dance workshops and checking out Buddhist and Islamic creative drawing workshops?

5. Take a refreshing boat tour on Leiden’s canals

With its 28km of canals, a boat tour in Leiden should be on every visitor’s bucket list. There are tons of companies to choose from, offering a range of options.

Private or group, morning, midday, or evening, open-air or protected from the rain — there’s something for every taste!

READ MORE | Renting a boat in the Netherlands: all you need to know

Being less infested with tourists than bigger cities (*cough* Amsterdam *cough*), a boat tour in Leiden is a peaceful and tranquil experience. 

If you’re sure the weather is going to be good, it’s definitely worth it to book an open-air boat — you see way more than if you have a roof! 

6. Explore the human body at the Corpus Museum

The world’s first-ever museum dedicated to exploring the human body is located in Leiden!

What happens with your body when you listen to music or get a splinter? This museum is super interactive and suits all age groups (although kids find it especially fun). 

On your visit, you’ll literally be walking around ‘inside’ a massive human body, whilst being inside a 35 metres tall building that looks like — you guessed it — a human body. 

READ MORE | Living in Leiden: 5 things to do when you move to Leiden

However, reservations are almost a must because this museum fills up quickly! Also, make sure you book your tickets online, for a small discount.

Please note: children under the age of six are not permitted in the museum. 

7. Be inspired by Leiden’s many wall poems

Leiden is full of beautiful poetry, simply painted onto the walls of its houses. More than 100 poems written by local poets have given the city a lovely creative vibe for over 30 years!

The poems are written in several different languages, so it might be an idea to check out their translations for maximum enjoyment. 

READ MORE | 7 of the best free things to do in Leiden

If you want some deets to complement your art experience, and you’re down to test your Dutch skills, most bookstores in Leiden sell a handy book called Dicht op the Muur, containing information about the first 101 wall poems. 

Or even better, you can try out one of these pre-made routes completely for free! 

8. Stroll among the stalls at the Saturday market in Leiden

Every Saturday, you can enjoy lovely Dutch treats in Leiden’s weekly street market. There’s no better way to be introduced to Dutch delicacies, crafts, or just Dutchies in general! 

Prices tend to be lower than other shops in the Netherlands, so it’s really an opportunity to let loose and secure all those souvenirs and travel gifts!

READ MORE | Eating out in Leiden in 2024: the top hotspots to check out!

If you can’t find enough food and drinks to satisfy your tourist belly at the market itself — fear not! There are tons of cafés and restaurants surrounding the market too. 

9. Admire Leiden’s beautiful Pieterskerk

With 900 years of history, there are few better ways to explore the city of Leiden than through a visit to the Pieterskerk. 

What used to be Leiden’s main Catholic church has its roots all the way back to the 1300s. Today it serves as a museum and event venue, but the impressive building is still worth a visit.

READ MORE | The pilgrims in Leiden: Where were the pilgrims before they sailed to America?

Enjoy a concert, ponder the historical exhibitions, or simply admire the building.

10. Explore secret courtyards in Leiden

A poorly kept secret is that most Dutch cities are full of gorgeous hidden courtyards. These romantic gems are also all over Leiden if you know where to look.

The courtyards are enclosed by so-called hofjes — 13th- to 19th-century shelters for elderly, poor, and homeless people. Today, the houses surrounding the inner courtyards look like real fairytale castles, and most constructions are open to the public. 

READ MORE | Hidden gems in the Netherlands: unique places you wouldn’t think to visit

Some are even open without any entrance requirements! To find the best ones yourself, all you need is on a hofjes map that’s easily purchased for €3.50 at the tourist information office. 

However, the easiest and most rewarding (albeit not too private and romantic) way to explore Leiden’s 35 hofjes is with a tour, so you get the most out of the local history knowledge.

11. Enjoy a drink on the water in Leiden

Leiden is full of canals, and the canals are both framed and covered with cutesie little restaurants, bars, and cafés as far as the eye can see. 

If you’re visiting the Netherlands, you might have heard of the quintessentially Dutch concept of the borrel (if not, educate yourself here). An afternoon on a floating terrace in Leiden is the perfect way to really blend in with the locals.

READ MORE | A local’s guide to Leiden – the best places to eat, drink, and shop

If drinking on the water makes you nauseous, don’t stress: there are tons of borrel-worthy bars on more steady ground as well. The centre is packed with places to satisfy all tastes (and budgets). 

The area with the most options is along the canal De Rijn and Nieuwe Rijn, although areas outside of the immediate city centre are less crowded.

12. Embark on Leiden’s Rembrandt-themed walking route

Famous Dutch painter Rembrandt spent several years of his life in Leiden, so you can easily learn about loads more than just his pictures by taking the Rembrandt Route.

As part of the tour, you’ll explore Rembrandt’s first years as an artist in the studio of his first teacher, Jacob van Swanenburgh (the so-called Young Rembrandt Studio).

READ MORE | Rembrandt masterpiece reconstructed and expanded with AI: see it like never before

The route is accessible via a purchasable booklet, and the tour also can be downloaded via the Rembrandt Route App!

13. Get starstruck at the Heineken Star Bar in Leiden

Ever wondered where the famous Dutch beer brand Heineken got its logo? We’ll tell you anyways! One of the oldest brown pubs in Leiden, De Vergulde Kruik, allegedly sold their red-star logo to Heineken for about €400 in today’s money.

The pub is centrally located and really feels like a time machine when you step inside. With its 19th-century stained glass, original silver taps, and cosy atmosphere, De Vergulde Kruik is a favourite among locals, students, and occasionally a tourist or two. 

If you’ve had enough of the endless supply of Dutch beer (like a crazy person), you might be happy to hear that the pub also serves delicious food! 

14. Watch the stars at Leiden’s Old Observatory 

As the oldest of its kind, the Observatory in Hortus Botanicus is one of the things to do in Leiden that is well worth a visit. It’s frequently used as a university building, but it’s also open to visitors. 

FUN BONUS FACT BOX: Another academic hotspot that’s open for visitors is a sink once used by Albert Einstein! 

Check out the visitors’ centre, book a private tour, or join one of the monthly open evenings of one of Leiden’s astronomy societies.

Enjoy an astronomy lecture and try out a telescope at the open evenings — the perfect date idea if you ask me!

15. Take a green break at Het Plantsoen Park 

This 19th-century city park of Leiden is a popular spot for weekend strolls along the water.

In addition to fresh air, green grass, and beautiful flowers, there are also other interesting sights in Het Plantsoen, such as the old aviary, the fountain, and the 350-year anniversary monument of the relief of Leiden.

READ MORE | The Singelpark in Leiden: how citizens created one of the best parks in the Netherlands

The park was designed by architect Salomon van der Paauw in English style. In its time, the project was funded by the municipality of Leiden, which hired several unemployed people for the construction. 

Stay up to date on the activities in the park and its surroundings via the Het Plantsoen newsletter, produced by the Het Plantsoen Association. 

16. Let your history geek loose at the Bibliotheca Thysiana in Leiden

Founded in 1653 in honour of the Dutch legal expert Johannes Thysius, this old library contains over 2500 books and several thousand pamphlets. 

The building is the only surviving 17th-century construction in the Netherlands that was built for the purpose of being a library — an interesting piece of history if ever there was one!

READ MORE | Photo report! An ode to the lovely city of Leiden

Not only is the library a great source of legal reading material, but you can also book meeting rooms or join a guided tour of the building (albeit for quite a fee).

17. Admire the beautiful Leiden’s Marekerk

The round dome of the Marekerk is quite striking and impossible to miss if you visit Leiden. The reformed Protestant church was the first of its kind in Leiden and keeps lots of history and beauty between its walls.

There are usually lots of concerts taking place in this historical building, but if you’re just in the mood to sit and relax, you can also enjoy a coffee at the Marekerk café.

READ MORE | Organ concerts and vaulted ceilings: 15 churches to visit in the Netherlands

The church is still very much active, so make sure you check the schedule if you’re just popping by for a look. 

There’s no shortage of things to do in the beautiful city of Leiden, so get your walking shoes and cameras ready! It’s the perfect blend of exciting and calm and should be on any traveller’s bucket list.

Which attractions will you visit in Leiden? Do you have any suggestions to add to the list? Tell us in the comments below!

You may very well know by now how the Dutch like to spend their Christmas and Sinterklaas holidays — especially with all this press about Zwarte Piet going around — but how do they celebrate Thanksgiving in the Netherlands?

You might be thinking, “Um…they don’t?” but wait just one turkey-day minute, dear reader! Haven’t you ever heard about Leiden‘s Thanksgiving history? *adjusts glasses* Well, then, let us teach you.

The history of Thanksgiving

For those who don’t know much about Thanksgiving, here’s the basic story: in the 17th century, a bunch of Pilgrim colonists sailed their ship (the Mayflower) to North America, fleeing religious persecution in England.

There, they celebrated their first corn harvest by sharing a feast with the friendly Native American tribe, who taught them how to farm the land. The end!

Well, not really. Thanksgiving is one of the most popular American celebrations — and well-known around the world. It is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, and is associated with being thankful and charitable.

READ MORE | The pilgrims in Leiden: Where were the pilgrims before they sailed to America?

But to foreigners, what most stands out is the image of the typical American family seated around a dinner table filled with delicious dishes and a giant cooked turkey.

So what role did Leiden play with regard to Thanksgiving?

“Hold up!” we hear some of you Dutchies cry. “You left out the part where the pilgrims came to the Netherlands for over 10 years.” And it’s true — most of us have never heard the full story of Thanksgiving.

History teachers tend to leave out the fact that before the pilgrims arrived in Massachusetts, they first stopped in the Dutch city of Leiden, and stayed there for a long time — though who could blame them? That’s what most of us foreigners living in Leiden have done!

One of the main reasons they fled to the Netherlands was because the Dutch were more accepting of their religious practices.

The Dutch Republic (Republiek der Zeven Verenigde Nederlanden) certainly seemed more appealing than the disparaging eyes and unwavering religious beliefs of the English.

Why did the pilgrims leave Leiden?

The pilgrims actually went to Amsterdam first, where it all was going smoothly for a while. After spreading out to live in Leiden and building new lives, the Pilgrims realised that they were changing too much. Worse: they were losing their religion.

They were grateful for everything given to them here but were struggling to adapt to the Dutch culture, which was now too liberal for their liking.

READ MORE | Dutch-American history: how the Netherlands played a pivotal role in America’s Independence

William Bradford, Plymouth’s faithful Pilgrim and Colony governor, said they were being “…drawn away by evil examples into extravagance and dangerous courses.”

Jeez. He really didn’t agree with the “immoral” Dutch ways. So, fearing this would be the end of their congregation if they didn’t move on, the Pilgrims decided to head to America.

A celebration of life and unity

In 1620, the pilgrim’s emigration from Leiden — where they had worked for about 12 to 20 years — truly began.

They left Leiden via the canals and transferred onto a leaky “Speedwell” (a ship built in 1577) in Delfshaven. Then, they finally boarded the famous Mayflower in Southampton.

Ultimately, the actual time span between the pilgrims leaving England and finally completing their famous voyage and the great feast is pretty long.

Today’s “day of thanks” in Leiden

It was during the Civil War, between 1861 and 1865, that President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday. Nowadays, Thanksgiving is a time for reflecting on the people and things in our lives we are most grateful for.

What better reason to come to Leiden than to celebrate Thanksgiving, spending a day exploring the pretty canals and cobbled streets? From its tiny alleyways to its wide-open roads, Leiden is a city that can sometimes feel much smaller than it is (in the best way).

Every year in Leiden, there is a Thanksgiving Day Service held at the Pieterskerk, a beautiful church. One of the pilgrim leaders, John Robinson, is actually buried here, which makes it all the more interesting to visit. Or slightly creepy. Or both.

Pilgrim and Thanksgiving spots to check out in Leiden

The city is home to the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum, a cute little medieval house dedicated to the Pilgrims (located on Beschuitsteeg, near the bell tower of the Hooglandse Kerk church).

It’s an old building full of furniture, books, maps, engravings, and other materials from the Pilgrim times. It’s meant to recreate how these people lived in England, Leiden, and New England.

You’ll also find a memorial on the ruins of Leiden’s Vrouwekerk (AKA “lady’s church”), which the museum helped install. The bronze engraving commemorates the history of the church and its connections with the Pilgrims.

In the rest of the Netherlands, thanksgiving isn’t that big of a deal — but many American expats are bringing the traditions a little closer to their origins.

If you want to celebrate Thanksgiving in the Netherlands, you can find traditional meals (turkey, mashed potatoes, vegetables and gravy) at restaurants across the country.

Grab your friends and family and enjoy! Lekker!

Now you know a little more about this not-so-American holiday. Do you have any fun facts about the pilgrimage? Let us know in the comments below!  

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in November 2018, and was updated in November 2023 for your reading pleasure. 

Feature Image: Stedelijk Museum De Lakenhal/Wikimedia Commons/Public Domain

The pilgrims in Leiden were a religious group that escaped from England and came to live in the Netherlands. From there, they would sail to the New World and become a crucial group in the history of the US. 

Before the pilgrims came to Leiden, the city already had a history of diverse inhabitants. Before they were expelled at the beginning of the 80 Years’ War, the streets of Leiden housed the Catholic Spaniards.

After they were forced to leave, French-speaking refugees took their place. All of this led to a massive increase in population: between the late 16th century and the mid-17th century, the population of the city grew from 15,000 to 45,000.

Then, the pilgrims arrived. Anyone familiar with the founding story of the United States will have heard about this group before: the tiny group of people who sailed to America aboard the Mayflower to become the founders of the Colony of Plymouth in New England.

Another association you’ll have with the pilgrims is, of course, Thanksgiving.

Fleeing from England

So how did the pilgrims end up in Leiden? Well, prior to their move to the Netherlands, many of the pilgrims lived in a farming village called Scrooby, close to northern Nottinghamshire.

Because of the beliefs they held, they had irreconcilable differences with the Church of England, so the group had to leave the country.

By the early 1600s, Queen Elizabeth was persecuting the pilgrims. An example that her successor, James I, followed. Elizabeth made it illegal to attend the services of an unofficial church. Disobeying meant fines, imprisonment, or execution.

Leiden: the pilgrim’s home away from home

Like anyone sensible, the pilgrims didn’t love the idea of dying for their beliefs.

So, they left England in 1608. They held high hopes that they would establish a city somewhere that would allow them to keep their religious beliefs and identity.

First, the pilgrims arrived in the largest city of the Netherlands, Amsterdam. Amsterdam was already home to many separatist groups, as well as people following religions other than Christianity, so the pilgrims decided to settle in Leiden instead.

READ MORE | Religion in the Netherlands: a perspective on the different religions in the country

Leiden was the second biggest city in the Netherlands at the time and had a thriving industrial centre with a lot of job opportunities in the textile and brewing sectors. These industries allowed the pilgrims to find work without Dutch language skills.

In the permission letter from the city for their relocation, pastor Robinson wrote that Leiden “refuses no honest people free entry to live in the city, as long as they behave honestly and obey all the laws and ordinances, and under those conditions, the applicants’ arrival here would be pleasing and welcome.”

The pilgrims settled on land close to St. Pieterskerk. In a short amount of time, the number of Pilgrims in the city increased to 300 from the initial 100.

Pilgrims in Leiden

For pilgrim families who moved to Leiden from bigger cities, adjusting to city life was not such a big deal. However, for those who came from farming backgrounds, the adjustment was more difficult.

Apart from a few, like William Brewster, who eventually took a job as an English teacher and John Robinson, who enrolled at the University of Leiden for a doctorate, many of the pilgrims worked at demanding jobs six days a week.

In addition, they lived in small, one-roomed houses. Parents would sometimes teach their kids how to read and write at home, and they would then help out around the house from age 8 and up.

Times of hardship

Life in this newfound city was not easy. At first, this was accepted, but as the years went by and many of the original pilgrims got older, they started to find their living conditions intolerable.

READ MORE | The museum town of the Netherlands: 14 great museums to visit in Leiden

Many of them had little to no educational background. That, and the language barrier, made going about daily life difficult. Additionally, their now grown-up children were learning Dutch, refusing the “old ways”, and yearning for a different way of life. Their parents feared that their legacy was approaching extinction.

At the same time, the political state of the Netherlands was becoming more unstable. There was a military coup, and the number of riots, military restrictions, and instances of censorship had increased dramatically.

Journey to the unknown

Afraid of losing their identity, the pilgrims of Leiden decided to leave behind the harsh conditions of Leiden in search of a new home. They didn’t want to assimilate or be punished for their beliefs. In the end, they decided to sail to America.

At first, only a few of the pilgrims made the journey to America. These were the youngest and fittest pilgrims from Leiden. Moreover, each of them had essential skills that would be crucial for their lives in the New World.

The rest of the Leiden pilgrims were supposed to join them later — but some of them didn’t make it over. As the years went on, the pilgrims who stayed in the Netherlands became part of the Dutch culture and the Calvinist church. Some even changed their names.

The Pilgrims and their story is an important part of the Dutch-American culture, which shaped the national identity shared by millions today.

Did we miss any important facts about the pilgrims’ lives here? Tell us in the comments below!

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in November 2018, and was updated in November 2023 for your reading pleasure. 

Tired of the museums in Amsterdam and devoured all that the museums in the other major cities have to offer? Don’t worry, the Netherlands is a small country, but Leiden has an abundance of culture and art to discover.

We’ve come up with a list of no less than 14 museums you can visit to get your brains tingling with rich history, culture, and art.

Don’t have time? Skip ahead!

• 14. Volkenkunde Museum (Museum of Ethnology)
• 13. Rijksmuseum Boerhaave
• 12. National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden)
• 11. Young Rembrandt Studio
• 10. Naturalis Biodiversity Center
• 9. Museum de Lakenhal — the best art museum in Leiden?
• 8. Siebold House
• 7. De Valk Windmill Museum
• 6. Stoomtrein Katwijk-Leiden
• 5. Academic Historical Museum
• 4. CORPUS
• 3. Leiden American Pilgrim Museum
• 2. The Leiden Weaver’s House
• 1. Botanical Gardens

1. Wereld Museum Leiden

Wereld Museum Leiden is super close to Leiden Centraal and is one of the National Museums of World Cultures in the Netherlands. It has objects from countries around the world, like China, Indonesia, Japan, and Korea. To get a feel of the museum, check out our video!

Feeling your curiosity rising? You better check it out yourself, Wereld Museum Leiden is massive, and you can easily spend a whole day just there.

READ MORE | Let your kids run wild this autumn break at Wereld Museum Leiden’s Animal Academy! 

2. Rijksmuseum Boerhaave

Wondering how the Netherlands contributed to the field of science and how this history of science shapes our life here? The Rijksmuseum Boerhaave should be on your list of museums to visit in the Netherlands.

Named after one of the prominent scientists of the Netherlands, Herman Boerhaave, the collection at this museum spans about five centuries and is curated in collaboration with scientists of our times. It has something for all ages.

READ MORE | The Wonders of Science! 7 Reasons to visit Museum Boerhaave in Leiden

The building itself is historically significant and a beauty to look at as well. It has been through a lot of changes since it was built in 1440.

First, it was the St. Caecilia’s Convent, then went on to be a home for the plague victims in the city and the mentally affected.

After that, it became the first academic hospital in Northern Europe as St. Caecilia’s Hospital. It was here that the museum’s name-giver taught medicine some 300 years ago.

3. National Museum of Antiquities (Rijksmuseum van Oudheden)

The National Museum of Antiquities celebrated its 200th anniversary in 2018, and it should definitely be on your list! The highlight of the museum is their permanent Egyptian Collection — which they boast to be one of the top 10 of its kind.

This collection includes the full 2,000-year-old Egyptian temple from the village of Taffeh.

READ MORE | 7 things the Dutch don’t talk about, but should

For anyone who wants cultural heritage to be returned to their countries of origin, we can rest easy when it comes to this temple.

Back in the 60s, this was one of the few temples that were at risk due to the construction of the Aswan High Dam across the Nile.

After UNESCO made an international call to save the sites at risk, the Netherlands played a role in the rescue operations. To show their gratitude, this temple was a gift from Egypt to the Dutch people.

Apart from this permanent collection, the museum has some great exhibitions about the classical world and allows you to explore the history of:

Ancient Greece, Etruria, and the Roman Empire; the only complete survey of the archaeology in the Netherlands; explore the life of the Netherlands during Roman times; the Dutch and the ancient Near East (from present-day Turkey to the Arabian Peninsula and from Lebanon to Afghanistan).

As you can see, there’s a lot to see at this museum, and it’s truly an underrated gem — not to be missed!

4. Young Rembrandt Studio

Okay so, the sun is shining, you don’t want to spend your time indoors, but you still want to do something intellectually stimulating?

Sign up for the Rembrandt Experience in Leiden. We have specially curated a route through Leiden so that you can walk in the footsteps of a young Rembrandt, and still have a day in the sun (or rain)!

READ MORE | The Rembrandt Experience: discover the life of a Young Rembrandt in Leiden

The whole of Leiden is actually kind of a museum on Rembrandt, it was his birthplace.

The exhibition on Rembrandt’s youth in Leiden can be seen at the Young Rembrandt Studio. This is where he actually learned to paint from his tutor Jacob van Swanenburgh.

Nowadays, it’s a shop with lovely Rembrandt memorabilia. This charming shop also provides a free experience that will give you a glimpse into Rembrandt’s Leiden days — in a completely mesmerising way.

5. Naturalis Biodiversity Center

Love learning more about nature? Do you want to get your little one more interested in the world around them? Want to see a T-Rex? You might want to plan a visit to the Naturalis Biodiversity Center then!

Naturalis is dedicated to keeping a record of all-natural life on Earth. They want to preserve the knowledge of biodiversity and nature for everyone to enjoy.

READ MORE | Lekker? Giant meatball from extinct woolly mammoth unveiled in Amsterdam

They conduct research to contribute to solutions “for major, global issues involving climate, living environment, food supply, and medicine”. What’s better is that they are a place for the whole family!

6. Museum de Lakenhal — the best art museum in Leiden?

The Lakenhal’s building has been around since 1640 and underwent a huge renovation and restoration in 2019. This museum shows history and fine art, housing some of the finest paintings from the Dutch Golden Age.

The collection includes “The Last Judgment” (ca. 1526/27) by Lucas van Leyden, the “Brillenverkoper” (ca. 1624) by Rembrandt van Rijn, and “Contra-Composition VII” by Theo van Doesburg.

If you want to learn more about the history of the Lakenhal, exhibition, go to their website and start planning your visit!

7. Siebold House

Looking to get a little taste of Japan here in the Netherlands? Go to the Siebold House, which has been reinstated with the support of the Japanese and Dutch governments, various Dutch and Japanese companies, and the city of Leiden.

The museum features seven different rooms, each with its own story to tell — with cultural treasures collected during the 19th century by the Bavarian physician Philip Franz von Siebold.

8. De Valk Windmill Museum

With its seven floors and 29 metres of height, the De Valk Windmill Museum in Leiden is hard to miss. De Valk Windmill is one of the last remaining windmills from the 19th century and became a museum in 1966 after the death of miller Willem van Rhijn.

This museum provides gorgeous views of the city of Leiden, so if you’re looking for great shots, this is the place to go!

9. Stoomtrein Katwijk-Leiden

Want to travel back in time? Head on over to the Stoomtrein Katwijk-Leiden (Katwijk is a beach town near Leiden). No, it doesn’t have time travel technology, but it does have a 100-year-old steam locomotive waiting for you!

It’s not a high-speed train like the ones we’re used to. It’s an old-fashioned steam train for you to enjoy — just like maybe your grandparents did.

So if you want to know how this works, this museum is the place for you. It’s a museum where you can smell, watch, and touch to see how everything works. It’s kid-friendly, so you can take the whole family there!

10. Academic Historical Museum

This historical museum is housed in the Academy building of Leiden University. Its collection is linked to this building and the history of Leiden University, where it has a plethora of items to browse through.

The rich history of the university and student life is displayed for everyone to enjoy.

11. CORPUS

Ever wondered how the human body works? Or want to get your kids interested in biology or give them a gentle nudge towards the natural sciences? Then the CORPUS Experience might just be the perfect place for you.

You can take a “journey through the human body” in just 55 minutes, with a guided audio tour which is available in eight languages.

A visit here usually takes two and a half hours, but be sure to reserve a spot on one of the tours because they leave at specific times.

You will go through the journey in groups of 16, and it is recommended to arrive 20 minutes before your chosen time.

12. Leiden American Pilgrim Museum

This beautiful house was built around 1365-1370 and tells us the story of how the Pilgrims founded New England and their time living in Leiden. You’ll get to see how they used to live and important events through a collection of 16th and 17th-century maps.

You will be able to see what Pilgrim life in Leiden looked like, how the children studied and played, and so much more! Want to know more about their history? Pay this place a visit!

13. The Leiden Weaver’s House

You may not see this museum immediately because it doesn’t seem like your run-of-the-mill house on an ordinary street, but you have to remember that the house itself is the museum exhibit.

The Leiden Weaver’s house has an interesting history that reflects the people of Leiden’s passion for preserving their neighbourhoods.

This museum was founded by the Het Kleine Leidse Woonhuis foundation in 1976, an initiative by the citizens to stop “large scale interventions in the impoverished part of the city.”

READ MORE | 13 unmissable World Heritage Sites in the Netherlands to visit

This house was going to be demolished to make way for roads, but thanks to this initiative, it was preserved.

It doesn’t have any permanent exhibitions, but different temporary exhibitions. Maybe not what you would expect from a museum, but definitely a spot you don’t want to miss out on.

14. Botanical Gardens

Did you know that the city of Leiden is home to one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world? The University of Leiden was responsible for planting the first seeds in this historical garden.

READ MORE | 17 unforgettable things to do in Leiden in 2023

It really is a sight for sore eyes! Take a relaxing afternoon out and stroll through the gardens.

Will you be visiting one of these museums in Leiden? Or have we missed out on anything? Tell us in the comments below!

Feature Image: Kees Hummel/Leiden Marketing
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in May 2019, and was fully updated in September 2023 for your reading pleasure. 

Visiting Leiden? Wonderful idea! Is your bank account eating away at your overdraft?

No problemo, we’ve got you covered with 7 of the best free things to do on your trip to Leiden.

1. Visit De Burcht

The first unmissable free attraction is De Burcht, the public park with the circular fort. A shell keeps back in the day, the De Burcht is now a romantic patriotic symbol of Leiden.

It’s basically a miniature castle right in the heart of the city, with a panoramic view from the top. To get the most out of this experience, climb up at sunrise or sunset.

2. Go on a poetic scavenger hunt

From poetry decorating the facades of townhouses to giant scientific formulas marking the walls — Leiden is full of street art to discover entirely for free.

The city is overflowing with poetry written in different languages, inspired by a single-wall poem in 1992. If you’re feeling wild, you could try finding as many as possible, though it should be mentioned that there are over 120 wall poems in total.

READ MORE | An ‘international’ exhibition! Portraits of Leiden’s expats on show

There’s even a cute and funky website featuring tailored routes walking you past the wall poetry, and also offering translations where necessary.

You can choose different themes too! If you have an emotional affinity toward the natural world, for instance, they’ll give you a digital map featuring 10 wall poems on nature. Pretty handy, eh?

3. Parks, parks, parks

Leiden offers several beautiful parks, but the two you should definitely check out are Het Plantsoen and Van der Werfpark.

Take a picnic blanket to Het Plantsoen and relax by the waterfront. If you have some cash to spare, drop by your favourite supermarket and get some snacks to enjoy.

READ MORE | The Singelpark in Leiden: how citizens created one of the best parks in the Netherlands

The park is designed according to English gardening practices — so you might wanna bring some tea, darling!

For all those history nerds amongst you, Van der Werfpark is built on the site of a gunpowder explosion in 1807. This was called the ‘Great Ruin’ but is now where the statue of Van der Werff stands proudly on his pedestal.

4. Climb the De Put windmill

De Put windmill has been destroyed twice, but it is such a lovely historical landmark that they keep rebuilding it! The view, framed by a small circular window, is well worth the climb.

Plus, its neighbouring bridge leads to Rembrandtplaats on the opposite side, and the mill and the bridge together make for a charming Dutch scene.

READ MORE | 17 unforgettable things to do in Leiden in 2023

Another charming detail: you can buy different kinds of flours at the windmill. From wholewheat to spelt or bread flour, De Put sells it all.

5. Explore the courtyards

Looking for a tranquil place for a time-out? Stroll around some of Leiden’s 35 courtyards (hofjes). Every single courtyard has its own story to tell and some even date as far back as the 13th century.

READ MORE | The best photo spots in Leiden

Regardless, all courtyards are extremely well-maintained and are hidden right in the city centre. In such an urban landscape built above the water, you wouldn’t imagine all those secret gardens lie between the buildings.

6. Attend an event at Vrijplaats

Vrijplaats is a cultural centre run by volunteers that hosts a range of live music events and DJ nights. Whether you’re a punk, disco, sci-trance or folk fan, there is something for everyone. Organisations use this space for parties, theatre performances, film screenings and debates.

READ MORE | 11 energising places to work or study in Leiden

They also have the wonderful Weggeefwinkel, a give-away shop where customers can find crockery, clothing, toys, books and electrical appliances that need a new home.

This deservedly won the Marga Klompé prize in 1999 for ‘the most social and peace-loving project’.

7. Experience the Saturday market

Leiden is usually a quaint and quiet place, but if you like a little bustle, why not check out the Saturday market? Try some free samples of (delicious) cheese, olives and dips.

READ MORE | Leiden’s new hotspot: Freddy’s Gastrobar

Did we miss one of your favourite things to do in Leiden for free? Tell us in the comments!

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in October 2018, and was fully updated in July 2023 for your reading pleasure.

What if we told you that there’s a park in the Netherlands that’s kind of like the High Line (that elevated railroad tracks-turned-park in New York)?

Well, first of all, you wouldn’t think of Leiden. This typical Dutch town doesn’t have that many high-rise buildings. And second, you would definitely think: why hasn’t anybody told me about this magnificent piece of urban nature already? Don’t worry, we will!

What is the Singelpark?

The Singelpark is simply said, a park made up of the ‘ring’ of canals around the old city centre of Leiden.

The inner city of Leiden is, with all its magnificent old buildings, not the greenest city centre of the Netherlands. As such, the desire for more lush local green scenery is always increasing.

So, instead of a random little park or a lawn, the city has welcomed the Singelpark.

This stunning park includes the ring of outer canals and all adjacent parks and buildings. The existing parks didn’t disappear (don’t worry hortus botanicus fans!) but became part of the Singelpark.

The road around the canals is also part of the Singelpark, allowing you to walk through the whole six kilometres of the park.

A walk around the Singelpark: 7 highlights

Since the Singelpark is, in its essence, a tour-around-the-town route, you can start a walk through the park basically anywhere. Let’s start at the spot which is closest to the central station.

Molen de Valk: Leiden’s iconic windmill

The Molen de Valk has been standing there since the start of the 17th century, so it’s certainly one of Leiden’s pride and joys. The mill was originally used for grain, and now it’s a little museum.

READ MORE | The best photo spots in Leiden

I ‘have’ to cycle past it every time I go to the DutchReview office, and it’s certainly a sight that dominates the area.

Chill in the grass near the windmill, or check out the awesome Lakenhal if you’re here in Leiden for a day.

If you want to continue walking through the Singelpark, then just head in the direction of the large chimney — where you’ll find the next part of the Singelpark.

Energy park: the home of DutchReview

It isn’t all canal houses and windmills in Leiden. In 1902, a big energy plant was built here, its chimney 80 meters tall. For years I was looking at this one from my student room, thinking: I like it, and it belongs in Leiden, but does it belong in a park?

Well, the answer is yes! The facility itself is clean and without weird fumes or noises, and the whole area around is a nice park with some monumental old industrial buildings.

More importantly, the DutchReview office is here! As you might know, we have an office at PLNT — the innovation hotspot of Leiden.

PLNT itself is sort of a spot in the Singelpark too, as the building has a kick-ass rooftop garden with all kinds of natural gimmicks and awesome views.

Zijlpoort: one of those gorgeous gates to Leiden

As you can see on the Singelpark map, there’s a certain kind of shape of the ‘Singels’  around Leiden.

In the olden days (we’re talking 1500-1700 here), these canals were used for defence against attackers (damn Spaniards!), and naturally, there were spots to open the gates and let visitors in.

The Zijlpoort is one of these passages. It dates back to 1667, and might be one of the prettiest buildings in town.

You can eat at the Zijlpoort too, as the fish brasserie de Poort is located there. Really close to the Zijlpoort is the massive Meelfabriek, which is also part of the Singelpark route — a giant grain factory which has been transformed into apartments and other things.

The Plantsoen: a green oasis

The Plantsoen is a lovely park in Leiden-Zuid. It’s truly a place of leisure with grassy plains, stately trees, a large fountain, and even a birdhouse.

Hortus Botanicus: the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands

Did you know that the city of Leiden is home to one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world?

The University of Leiden was responsible for planting the first seeds in this historical garden, lovingly called the ‘Hortus’ by its inhabitants. You can enjoy a day in the sun and stroll through the garden for a relaxing day.

Another highlight is the classy observatory which is located, more or less, in the hortus.

Rembrandtpark: remembering the famous painter

Did you know Rembrandt was born and raised in Leiden? Along the route of the Singelpark you will find a cute little park perfect for sunbathing and watching the boats pass by. It’s the Rembrandt Park!

Volkenkunde Museum: a museum about humans

More or less at the end of the Singelpark is the Volkenkunde Museum. (spoilers: no end, it’s a loop, that’s the idea of a singel). The garden of the museum is now also part of the Singelpark.

The Volkenkunde Museum has objects from around the world, like China, Indonesia, Japan and Korea. It’s close to Leiden Centraal and the windmill, our ‘starting point’ of this tour through the Singelpark.

The Singelpark: by citizens and for citizens

An important feature of the Singelpark is the input and commitment of the residents of Leiden.

The Singelpark is not an ordinary park that the municipality has set up as you would expect from a new park. Residents, stakeholders, interested parties, companies, and the municipality have teamed up to make this all possible.

From concept to putting the shovels in the dirt and getting their fingers green, the citizens of Leiden were the heart and soul of this project. The ‘Friends of the Singelpark Foundation’ brings people and organizations together who want to realize and maintain this dream that’s called the Singelpark.

Perhaps you’re reading this, love Leiden and are thinking: I want to be part of this too! Well, good news, you can!

By supporting financially as a ‘friend’, but above all by rolling up your sleeves yourself: planning and planting, maintenance, and management, feel welcome to get involved.

From the Singelpark to museums to delicious diners, you are guaranteed to have a great time in DutchReview’s hometown.

If you need more suggestions on Leiden, why not ask our friends at Visit Leiden? They’ll gladly help you plan a trip to the sleutelstad.

What’s your favourite place in Leiden? Let us know in the comments below!

Feature Image: Martijn van der Nat/Supplied
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in June 2019, and was fully updated in May 2023 for your reading pleasure.

It is no surprise that there are plenty of stunning photo spots in Leiden — after all, the city is a breathtaking little gem, snugged neatly between Amsterdam and the Hague.

Leiden is a truly ideal spot for a photography tour, especially since all of its most stunning sights are within minutes of walking from each other. 

Are you ready to get that perfect shot? Here’s where you can find it!

1. De Burcht: for the best view of the Hooglandsekerk

De Burcht is worth visiting for many reasons. One of them, undoubtedly, is the fact that it’s located on a hill… in the Netherlands!?

If you know a thing or two about hills, you’ll know that they can provide fantastic views — and that sure is true for De Burcht as well. Here, you’ll get a breathtaking view of the glorious Hooglandsekerk of Leiden.

READ MORE | Why is the Netherlands so flat? The complete explanation

This imposing church is one of Leiden’s most famous monuments, so don’t miss this chance to get a stunning shot of it! 

2. The Hortus Botanicus: for exotic plants

Time for some greenery — and Leiden has just the right place to go: the university’s botanical gardens. 

The Hortus Botanicus is the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands. Beautiful, romantic, and packed with a great variety of plants, it’s easily one of the best photo spots in Leiden. 

Whether you want to shoot some Dutch tulips, or Leiden’s famous penis plant (yes, you read that right), this is the place to be! 

3. The Rapenburg: for magnificent canal views

One thing that can’t be missing from a good ol’ Dutch photo series is pictures of a canal view: glistening water reflecting in the camera, a charming boat floating by, and lush green trees decorating the side of the roads. Oh la la!

Sounds too good to be true? It’s not! The Rapenburg in Leiden can provide you with just that. Trust us; the 700-metre-long street has not a singular spot that is not worthy of a spot in a Kruidvat photobook!

READ MORE | The Amsterdam canal houses: why are they so wonderfully weird?

The snazziest street of the city hosts the oldest building of Leiden University, as well as plenty of great cafés, museums, and historical Dutch houses.

On top of that, it has a stunning canal that is frequently called the mooiste gracht (prettiest canal) in the whole city — and we can see why!

4. The Molen de Valk: for a quintessentially Dutch shot

If you walk towards Leiden’s city centre from the station, you will come past what looks like your typical painting of the Netherlands. 

The main star of the show? The Molen de Valk, the only windmill left of the 19 that once stood within the city walls of Leiden. 

Surrounded by the water and the park’s greenery, it makes for a truly stunning and quintessentially Dutch shot! 

5. The Pieterskerk square: to capture Leiden’s history

History buffs, and appreciators of all things beautiful, this one’s for you! A feast for the eyes and the brain alike: the Pieterskerk and its surroundings.

Charming little streets lead you to what used to be Leiden’s main Catholic church, with its roots dating all the way back to the 1300s. 

READ MORE | The pilgrims in Leiden: Where were the pilgrims before they sailed to America?

Important not just for Leiden’s history, this district of the city actually used to be settled by the American pilgrims in the 16th century.

The stunning church’s big windows, and red doors, along with the typical cobbled streets, easily make for one of the best photo spots in Leiden.

6. The Koornbrug: for the hustle and bustle 

Next up, let’s head to the Koornbrug. This stunning bridge has a unique look that will look great in any photo. Its canopy even hosts Leiden’s coat of arms!

The Koornbrug is located right on the Nieuwe Rijn, one of Leiden’s main canals. Stroll along, sit by the water, admire the Dutch architecture and get shots of Leiden’s hustle and bustle.

Oh, and if you need a break from carrying your heavy camera through the city, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of great cafés and yummy ice cream shops along this canal!

7. The little pink house: for a pop of colour

Just like Los Angeles has its famous pink wall, Leiden has its charming pink house — a pop of colour in the middle of the city centre. 

Dating back to 1635, this little dream house has quite the history in its lap. It used to be home to a well-known prostitute, who went by the nickname of Groene Haasje (little green hare).

At the time, the area the Little Pink House is in was deemed a Leiden-version of Amsterdam’s Red Light District. 

Today, it’s just the perfect spot to spice up your Instagram feed. Just look at that beautiful contrast between the sky’s baby blue and the house’s baby pink! Mooi, hé?

8. Outside the Volkenkunde Museum: to see the cherry blossoms

Last but certainly not least: The Volkenkunde Museum — a beauty both inside and out!  

While the inside of the National Museum of Ethnology is among the best things to do in Leiden, the museum’s surroundings are an attraction in themselves. 

READ MORE | The museum town of the Netherlands: 14 great museums to visit in Leiden

In the spring, this is a great place to observe the cherry blossom season slowly unfolding. On top of that, the museum will occasionally have artwork of fairs outside as well. This is a photo spot in Leiden that’s definitely worth checking out!

Whether you’re looking to get that perfect shot for your apartment’s photo wall or just a casual snap for your ‘gram, these photo spots in Leiden are great locations to be featured.

Do you know of any more great photo spots in Leiden? Tell us in the comments!

So you’ve decided! You’re going to move to Leiden! Congrats! It’s a beautiful Dutch town, and living in Leiden will be a life-changing experience!

But now that you’ve decided on moving to Leiden there are some choices to be made. Where to live? How to get a job? What to do?

This article will help you get on your feet if you’ve just made the move to Leiden or planning on it — and heck might even help you with stuff if you’re already living in Leiden for years on end.

1. Decided you want to make the move to Leiden? Check where you want to live in Leiden.

Leiden is a very beautiful and historic town that is filled with authentic Dutch buildings. That’s probably why you actually want to live there!

This is also why living in the city centre of Leiden can be a bit more costly, due to the historical and sentimental values of the houses situated there.

Plus, it’s small, and there’s a high demand from students.

Living in the Leiden city centre

Everything in between the old canals of Leiden is considered the old heart and center of Leiden. You’ll get the classic Leiden vibe at its best there, and with the city being really compact you can always walk or bike to almost anything.

But the city centre is also a bit on the pricey side when it comes to renting or buying a house, and all the events and students there make it a buzzing scene — but also a bit too busy for some.

If you venture a little further, you can find multiple neighbourhoods that are just as lovely. For instance, the neighbourhoods of De Merenwijk and Stevenshof are just a few minutes cycling away from the city center.

These two areas are good for families, as they are fully equipped with schools, playgrounds, and shops. The houses in these neighbourhoods were built between the 1970s and 1980s and carry the true spirit of traditional Dutch suburbs.

READ MORE | The museum town of the Netherlands: 14 great museums to visit in Leiden

Even fancier and closer to the centre of Leiden are neighbourhoods like the Tuinstadwijk, de Lage Mors and the Professorenwijk.

These Leiden neighbourhoods have some classy 1930s houses and are very popular among both Dutch and expat families. (There are quite a few other neighbourhoods as well, we left some out — feel totally welcome to ask about these in the comments!)

Another great option is living in Leiden’s neighbouring municipalities. Leiderdorp, Voorschoten, Warmond, Oegstgeest, and Katwijk are popular with families and often offer a better space-to-price ratio.

Oegstgeest would be the most popular option as it is right next to Leiden and generally offers more spacious housing options as well as classic Dutch-style houses. The neighbourhood is also generally safe, clean, and family-friendly. However, the prices can be pretty steep.

Katwijk (AKA Katwijk aan Zee) has more of an independent character to it. A former fishing village, Katwijk is ideal for someone who doesn’t want to live in the middle of all the hustle and bustle and wants the beach to be just a short bike ride away.

However, the cost of housing isn’t that friendly here, and there’s limited availability. A lot of the accommodations here are only available temporarily for holiday-goers.

If you just want to visit Katwijk, that’s an easy 30-minute bus ride or 30-40 minute cycle from the Leiden city centre.

As with so many Dutch regions, Leiden and its neighbouring municipalities are all conveniently within biking distance of each other with lovely bicycle paths to boot.

So now you know a bit more about potential living spots in or around Leiden. Time to properly settle yourself and register with the municipality of your new home.

2. Have a ton of legal questions after your move to Leiden? Walk in at the Expat Centre in Leiden for help

Moving to a new town can be quite stressful and confusing, especially if you’re new to the country as well. Thankfully, Leiden has an excellent Expat Centre which can help you with any questions of any sort you may have.

Located in the city center, the Expat Centre has partnered up with the Tourist Information Center and is just minutes away from Leiden Central Station.

The employees of the Expat Centre in Leiden will help you with the most essential aspects of moving to a new town.

Moreover, the ECL provides useful information about essentials of living in the Netherlands: get a bank account, finding a school, applying for a BSN number (think of it as a Dutch social security number), signing up with a doctor, and dealing with taxes.

But also think of how to find good spots to eat in Leiden and how to have a great time in the city (such as walking in the footsteps of a young Rembrandt, who was born in Leiden)

The Expat Centre will happily help you with answers to all your questions about life in Leiden. And if you want to gain some general knowledge about Leiden and life in the Netherlands, the Expat Centre in Leiden also offers an excellent digital booklet for your convenience.

The good people of the Expat Centre Leiden are there for you every Monday and Wednesday from 9 AM to 5 PM at the Tourist Information Centre (also known as the VVV). The centre is conveniently by the Leiden Central station at Stationsweg 26.

3. Want to work while living in Leiden? Where to look for a job in Leiden

Leiden University

When it comes to finding a job in Leiden, there are multiple sectors that are considerably developed in this charming Dutch town.

Leiden is famous for being a university town, its biggest and most popular one being, of course, Leiden University. This famous university was attended by historical figures such as Rembrandt and Einstein, as well as multiple members of the Dutch royal family.

Currently, the university has a large international staff spread across seven faculties. Due to Leiden University’s ever-growing popularity among students, this institution of higher education is constantly in search of new people to hire.

Leiden Bio Science Park

Another place in Leiden where a unique job opportunity may arise is the Bio Science Park.

It is the largest bioscience facility in the whole of the Netherlands, with a staggering number of 18 000 employees. It is Holland’s best life science research centre, which focuses on both education and business.

Leiden’s Bio Science Park offers a range of interesting jobs and is constantly looking for new great minds to join the team. So if you want to work, while simultaneously conducting crucial research, the Bio Science Park in Leiden may have some great job opportunity for you.

Creative and start-up scene in Leiden

More on the creative side of life? Leiden has more than its fair share of creative companies and promising start-ups.

Want some examples? Think about the exciting start-up venue of PLNT where Leiden fosters dozens of young creative and innovative companies, or the media-imperium of DutchReview, which is also located in Leiden (hey wait, that’s us ).

Getting even more personal, but if you need a web wizard, then we at DutchReview always called Nick from Get Big Webdesign if we were in need of a digital fix!

For some more examples of sectors to work in Leiden, you might want to check out Economie071!

Work at shops and restaurants in Leiden

Aside from a very impressive educational and creative scene, Leiden is also booming with life.

That is why this rather small town has so many different types of shops and restaurants. While finding a job in customer service in Leiden may be hard if you do not speak Dutch, it is still worth the shot.

After all, Leiden is a university town full of students from all over the world. This means that the town is becoming more open to English speaker in customer service, and businesses are looking for student workers.

Let’s also not forget that Leiden is geographically located in a very convenient place. Big cities like Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, and Utrecht are within a 30-minute train ride.

So if you’re having a hard time finding a job within Leiden, you can always look in the nearby cities.

4. The one thing that makes living in Leiden totally worth it? Enjoying the pretty sights in Leiden!

Leiden is a very picturesque town! There is a whole lot of Instagram material to prove that! Filled with beautiful canals, charming cafes and restaurants, an exciting street market, and breathtaking views. Leiden is truly like a fairy tale.

READ MORE | Eating out in Leiden in 2021: the top hotspots to check out!

There is also so much to do in your free time. Leiden is home to a variety of museums, such as the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, the National Museum of Ethnology, and the wonderful Museum of Antiquities.

Leiden is also home to the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands, the Hortus Botanicus, dating all the way back to 1590. For all the science lovers out there, there is also an observatory in Leiden which is open to the public.

Established by Leiden University in 1633, Leiden’s observatory is the oldest operating university observatory in the world.

Also, while walking through Leiden you can’t help but notice De Burcht. This 11th-century fort is perfect for walks and some pretty amazing photos. People even have their weddings here, and there’s a cute café at the entrance.

 

Dit is en blijft een van de populairste stukken van de stad. Behalve heerlijk rondlopen (wat je zo af en toe ècht moet doen, ook als Leidenaar), kun je hier goed afzakken bij Koetshuis De Burcht! @vincentsdrone #prachtigplaatje #dronephoto #leiden #cities #netherlands

Een bericht gedeeld door Leiden (@stadvanontdekkingen) op 7 Dec 2017 om 12:11 (PST)

If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, there is also the Leidse Hout, a marvellous park is located on the border of Leiden and Oegstgeest. It’s so big, that it is pretty much like a forest, so it allows for a perfect escape from the city.

Or, if you want to explore Leiden itself, you can always go on an expedition to find all the poems written on Leiden’s buildings.

Yes, that’s right! Poems!

The “Poems and Walls” project began in 1992, and today there are over 100 poems written in their original language scattered all around Leiden. And if by any chance you want to see the most popular ones, we have just the right event for you!

5. Haven’t decided to make the move to Leiden? At least come and enjoy these great events in Leiden

Another reason to decide to move to Leiden are the multiple exciting and fun events held throughout the year. Here are just a few of them to give you a taste of what life in Leiden has to offer.

Guided Tour of The Wall Poems of Leiden

This!

Leiden will be offering a guided tour of the wall poems of Leiden.

The entire tour takes about two to three hours. During the walk, you will get to see about 25 of the 101 wall poems of Leiden. As an added bonus will also get to marvel at the beauty of Leiden itself, and all the charming bars and restaurants. It’s also a great way for snapping a ton of Instagram material.

 

When a building knows the truth, but humanity doesn’t ? #FUNFACT ! Leiden has 101 poems written on various buildings around town#universaldeclarationofhumanrights #messageoflove #poem #poetry #humanrights #act1 #architecture #throwback #leiden #thenetherlands #holland #amen #preach #exploring #exploringeurope #europe #livingineurope #aroundeurope #rainydays #gloomy #equality #compassion #love #smalltowncharm #loveandpeace #equalityforall

A post shared by Veronika L. (@miss.veronicat) on Jan 30, 2018 at 2:15am PST

Leidens Ontzet

Leidens Ontzet, also known as the Relief of Leiden, takes place every year on October 3 and is a massive city-wide party!

It’s a time when students, working professionals, and native Leideners come together to engage in a night of carnival rides, herring, dancing, and (obviously) tons of drinking.

National Museum of Antiquities

The Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (National Museum of Antiquities) regularly has exciting and interesting exhibitions of the latest archaeological discoveries. There are both permanent and temporary exhibitions, so find one that you like and book a ticket!

So there you have it! Whether you’ve decided you want to move to Leiden or are already living there, these tips will help you during your stay.

Can you think of any other reasons why living in Leiden is a great idea? Let us know in the comments below!

This article was originally written in August 2018 and was fully updated in September 2022 for your reading pleasure.