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Top Leiden Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises

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Discover Leiden: From Pilgrims to Painters in Historic Key City

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

Discover Leiden: From Pilgrims to Painters in Historic Key City

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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Leiden's Shadows: A Dark History Walking Tour

Discover the hidden history of Leiden as you navigate its shadowy corners on this captivating 2-hour walking tour. Step away from the city's charming canals to explore tales of plague pits, public executions, and mysterious disappearances that shaped the city’s past. Knowledgeable guides will reveal chilling stories of crime and punishment that often go unheard. This atmospheric journey is designed for guests ages 12 and older, providing an intriguing insight into Leiden's darker side. - 2-hour walking tour exploring Leiden's dark history - Discover stories of plague, poison, and public executions - Led by knowledgeable guides for a deeper understanding of local lore - Recommended for ages 12 and older, perfect for friends, families, and history enthusiasts

Leiden's Shadows: A Dark History Walking Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Pilgrims and Painters of Leiden: A Self Guided Walking Tour

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.

Pilgrims and Painters of Leiden: A Self Guided Walking Tour

1 to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

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The famous Koornbrug (Corn bridge) next to the City hall-Leiden.

Leiden Tour with Live guide and Visit to Rembrandt's First Studio

1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

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90 minutes Self-Guided Walking tour with puzzles in Leiden

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!

90 minutes Self-Guided Walking tour with puzzles in Leiden

1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutesFree Cancellation

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Cruise with Keukenhof Entrance Ticket in Amsterdam Lakes

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.

Cruise with Keukenhof Entrance Ticket in Amsterdam Lakes

2 to 8 hoursFree Cancellation

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Leiden: City Walk in 7 Languages with Audio Guide on your Phone

WHY CHOOSE US? More than an audio tour - your complete Leiden city guide in one app. Some audio tours cost a little less. With CityAppTour, you simply get more: 45 richly detailed stories, audio & written text, photos, spoken navigation, practical city information and carefully selected local tips. Follow our 4.9 km route through Leiden's historic centre and discover Rembrandt's birthplace, the Pieterskerk, Rapenburg, the Burcht, hidden courtyards and the university city from which the Pilgrims once departed. Our stories go beyond short facts, giving you the background, details and context that bring Leiden to life. - 45 richly detailed stories in audio & text - Spoken navigation between stops - Photos, city info & food and drink tips - Works offline - Yours to keep - the tour never expires - Explore at your own pace More stories. More information. More freedom.

Leiden: City Walk in 7 Languages with Audio Guide on your Phone

2 to 4 hoursFree Cancellation

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Discover Leiden with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!

Discover Leiden with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!

1 to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

WIndmills are a common sight during our Dutch polder and windmill walking tour

Dutch Windmills & Polder Walking Tour

1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Leiden Private Canal Boat Tour with Drinks and Snacks

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)

Leiden Private Canal Boat Tour with Drinks and Snacks

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

The Best of Leiden: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

On this self-guided audio tour, you’ll discover how a medieval town transformed into a center of knowledge and culture that shaped global history. The tour begins at the Hartebrugkerk. You’ll weave through narrow alleys and alongside picturesque canals, exploring the Rijksmuseum Boerhaave, where medical science flourished. Along the way, you’ll discover how commerce, religion, and innovation shaped this influential Dutch city. You’ll climb the ancient Burcht van Leiden, a fortress that’s stood guard over the city for nearly a thousand years. Along quiet canals, you’ll find wall poems painted in dozens of languages and hidden hofjes (courtyard almshouses) that tell stories of charity and community. The tour ends at the ornate Renaissance façade of the Stadhuis. By the end of this tour, you’ll understand how this seemingly quiet Dutch city played an outsized role in science, art, and global affairs throughout history.

The Best of Leiden: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Self-guided city trail - JOLA's Schnipseljagd Noordwijk Sea Tour

Self-guided city trail - JOLA's Schnipseljagd Noordwijk Sea Tour

1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hoursFree Cancellation

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Zaanse Schans is a very popular attraction in the Netherlands with many windmills.

Discover the Hidden courtyards, windmills and Dutch secrets with an expert, completely tailored to your interests.-Day or Evening. Ideal for couples, families and small groups upto 8. These private guided day or evening tours in the Netherlands blend Dutch culture, history, and nature into a relaxed, immersive experience. You are in best hands during this custom Holland guided trip. Want to experience first hand , the night life of the Netherlands? Our expert will definitely show the secrets. 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 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 for exceptional service and attention to detail during custom Holland day or evening trip

Private Netherlands guided Day & Evening tour from your Hotel

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Windmill cruise through Warmond

Windmill cruise through Warmond

1 hourFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Leiden Photography Workshop and Historic Photo Walking Tour

Capture Leiden is a photography workshop first and a city walk second. Rather than simply being shown postcard viewpoints, you receive practical coaching in light, composition, framing, perspective, reflections and visual storytelling—then apply each skill immediately in historic Leiden. Small groups allow for individual feedback, and any phone or camera is welcome. Leiden’s canals, windmills, medieval streets and monumental architecture become a relaxed outdoor classroom, helping you create stronger images today and develop skills you can use on every future trip.

Leiden Photography Workshop and Historic Photo Walking Tour

2 hours 30 minutesFree Cancellation

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Rembrandt and Vermeer Tour with Dutch Cheese Farm Experience

Step into the world of the Dutch Masters on an unforgettable journey through the historic cities of Leiden and Delft. Follow in the footsteps of Rembrandt van Rijn and Johannes Vermeer while exploring charming canals, hidden courtyards, and iconic Golden Age streets. This small-group experience combines art, culture, and authentic Dutch hospitality in one perfectly curated day. Enjoy a visit to a traditional Dutch cheese farm, taste local cheeses, and discover the countryside that inspired centuries of Dutch tradition. Travel comfortably in a luxury minivan with a personal guide who brings the stories of Holland’s greatest painters to life. From picturesque Delft to historic Leiden, this tour offers the perfect mix of culture, scenery, and local flavors — ideal for travelers looking for a truly authentic Dutch experience.

Rembrandt and Vermeer Tour with Dutch Cheese Farm Experience

12 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Secrets of Leiden: Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour

Discover Leiden like never before with the Secrets of Leiden City Game, a fun self-guided walking tour and 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 and walking tour through Leiden perfect for every type of explorer.

Secrets of Leiden: Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

Private Walking Tour Young Rembrandt, Leiden

Close your eyes. Can you hear the sound of young Rembrandt running around in the alleys? And the shouts of the children playing? Can you hear the carts on the cobblestones coming in through the White Gate? The loose women calling out to the militia men? The quiet steps of Rembrandt going to his art class? Step into the world of Young Rembrandt and see what shaped him as an artist. Hear the stories that he heard about the Siege of Leiden. Find out how the proud people made a living in the bustling new republic and see their legacy in the Renaissance town of Leiden. Feel the liberty that attracted the Pilgrim Fathers, and made some leave to America. Look up at the sky and see the light that sheltered it all. It is here that an artist was made that conquered the world.

Private Walking Tour Young Rembrandt, Leiden

3 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Discover Leiden by playing Escape game The Alchemist

Discover Leiden by playing Escape game The Alchemist

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Private Flowerfield Tour in a smooth electric car from Leiden

It is a pleasure to sit in our quiet Tesla and pass by the beautiful flower fields with your own company. We will take some d tours through the colorful flower fields. After the nice smell of flowers we are going to breathe the salty healthy air of the sea. And finally we will taste the typical Dutch delicatessen: de zoute haring (salted herring). I know you’re not sure if you should buy one. So I will. When there are no blooming flowerfields we will visit the rural area near Zoeterwoude where we will see several meadow birds and we will visit a farmstore.

Private Flowerfield Tour in a smooth electric car from Leiden

1 to 3 hoursFree Cancellation

Self-Guided City Trail Kids Tour in Noordwijk (4-8 years)

Self-Guided City Trail Kids Tour in Noordwijk (4-8 years)

1 hour 30 minutesFree Cancellation

Member Pricing

Ontdek Leiden op een unieke manier met de Escape Tour, een leuke en self-guided citygame!

Escape Tours® Leiden - Self-guided citygame. Find the exit!

2 hoursFree Cancellation

Special Offer

Leiden, Delft & Gouda: Private Day Tour with Lunch & Cheese

Leiden, Delft and Gouda in one private day: three historic Dutch cities, each with its own story, linked by one guide. • Private guide for the whole day, the same guide in all three cities • Lunch in Delft and a cheese tasting in Gouda • Transfers between the cities included; pick-up from a location of your choice can be added In Leiden, you explore the old center along its canals. The city survived a Spanish siege in 1574 and was home to Rembrandt, the oldest university of the country and the Pilgrim Fathers. You pass the Morspoort city gate, the windmill De Put and the Pieterskerk. In Delft, you walk past the Market Square, the leaning Old Church and the Prinsenhof, and hear about Vermeer, Delft Blue and the House of Orange. Lunch is in Delft. In Gouda, you see the town hall, the weighing house and the St. John's Church, and end the day with a cheese tasting. You set the pace: want to spend longer somewhere? Just let your guide know.

Leiden, Delft & Gouda: Private Day Tour with Lunch & Cheese

8 hoursFree Cancellation

Price varies by group size

Member Pricing

e-Scavenger hunt Leiden: Explore the city at your own pace

e-Scavenger hunt Leiden: Explore the city at your own pace

3 hoursFree Cancellation

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