Latticed by canals, rivers, bridges, and windmills, Leiden really lives up to its nickname of “Little Amsterdam.” It boasts the Netherlands’ oldest university and was once home to Rembrandt and the Pilgrim Fathers. This elegant city fuses Golden Age history and rich culture with a fizzing student ambiance in its cool shops and floating restaurants. Things to do in Leiden include exploring its cobbled alleyways and museums; retracing the steps of Rembrandt; relaxing in its canalside bars; and admiring nearby windmill-studded lowlands and flower fields.
Leiden comes into its own in spring and summer. April-May is perfect for visiting, as it's when the tulips and surrounding Bollenstreek bulb fields bloom. Alternatively, summer’s warmer weather lets you make the most of the city’s waterways, boat restaurants, and bars—though July-August is typically rainier than May-June. Come during Leiden’s Ontzet festival, held annually in the run-up to and on October 3, when locals celebrate the end of a 16th-century siege with fairs and fireworks.
The easiest way around Leiden is on foot: its historic district is only a 10-minute stroll from its Central Station. The city is also bike-friendly; many locals cycle rather than drive and bike rental stores are plentiful. Otherwise, use Leiden’s efficient public transport: trains and buses serve most points in the center and suburbs, and function via a single-ticketing system. Buy a disposable OV-chipkaart (OV-chipcard) at stations or shops, load it with credit, and you’re away.
Don’t leave Leiden without sipping sundowners at a floating bar. One of the buzziest is the Vlot Grand Café moored at Prinsessekade 5L. This glass-enclosed space has waterborne indoor and outdoor terraces overlooking bobbing barges and the Molen De Put windmill on Leiden’s Rhine (Rijn) River. Order cold beers and nibble on bitterballen (breaded meatballs served with mustard) as you admire the views.
