Ultimate 3-Day Leiden Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See
Discover the charm of Leiden, a historic Dutch university city adorned with canals, centuries-old windmills, and vibrant cultural treasures.
Day 1: Leiden's Historical Heart
Morning
Start your Leiden adventure at the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden. This national museum is a treasure trove of Egyptian mummies, ancient Greek statues, and Dutch archaeological wonders—perfect for history enthusiasts.
Rijksmuseum van Oudheden
Afternoon
Stroll to the iconic De Burcht, an 11th-century circular fortress offering panoramic views over Leiden’s rooftops and waterways—one of the city's best photo spots.
De Burcht
Enjoy lunch at Annie's Vishandel, famed for its fresh herring and canal-side terrace—an authentic Dutch snack experience.
Annie's Vishandel
Evening
Have dinner at Oudt Leyden, a centuries-old pancake house where you can indulge in traditional Dutch pancakes in a cozy, historic setting.
Oudt Leyden
Day 2: Canals, Science, and Secret Gardens
Morning
Begin your day at the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, where rare plants, tranquil greenhouses, and vibrant flowers await.
Hortus Botanicus
Afternoon
Explore the fascinating Museum Boerhaave, the Netherlands’ national museum of science and medicine, filled with hands-on exhibits and curiosities from the golden age of discovery.
Museum Boerhaave
Take a break with lunch at Roos, a beloved café known for its creative sandwiches, homemade cakes, and beautiful canal-side terrace.
Roos
Evening
Enjoy a relaxed evening with a guided Canal Cruise—see Leiden’s illuminated bridges and historic facades from the water as the sun sets.
Canal Cruise
Day 3: Art, Windmills & Local Flavor
Morning
Visit the Molenmuseum de Valk, Leiden’s picturesque windmill museum, where you can climb to the top of a working mill and learn about Dutch windmill engineering.
Molenmuseum de Valk
Afternoon
Delve into the world of Dutch Masters at the Museum De Lakenhal, home to works by Rembrandt and other local legends, plus fascinating exhibitions on Leiden’s textile history.
Museum De Lakenhal
Refuel at Grand Café Van Buuren, a stylish local favorite for lunch with delicious Dutch classics and a sunny terrace overlooking the station square.
Grand Café Van Buuren
Evening
End your trip at the charming Proeflokaal Het Stadsbrouwhuis, a welcoming craft beer bar and brewery in a historic building—perfect for sampling local brews and raising a glass to your Leiden adventure.
Proeflokaal Het Stadsbrouwhuis
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