Leiden, a charming city located in the heart of the Netherlands, is often overshadowed by the more popular tourist destinations like Amsterdam and Rotterdam. However, this vibrant city is rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture, making it a hidden gem for travelers. Known as the birthplace of Rembrandt and home to one of the oldest universities in Europe, Leiden offers a wealth of fascinating attractions. Here are the seven best places to visit in Leiden that will help you discover the city’s unique character.
1. Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (National Museum of Antiquities)
A must-visit for history enthusiasts, the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden is Leiden’s premier museum dedicated to archaeology. Located in a beautiful 19th-century building, this museum houses a vast collection of ancient artifacts, including items from Ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. The museum’s Egyptian collection is particularly impressive, featuring mummies, statues, and everyday objects that bring to life the fascinating culture of ancient Egypt.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions on a variety of archaeological topics, offering visitors a chance to delve into different aspects of ancient history. With its interactive displays and educational resources, the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden is a great stop for visitors of all ages.
2. Hortus Botanicus Leiden
Leiden is home to one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world: the Hortus Botanicus. Established in 1590, this peaceful oasis is a true gem for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The garden features a stunning collection of over 10,000 plant species, including rare and exotic plants from around the globe.
Visitors can wander through lush greenhouses filled with tropical plants, walk along tree-lined paths, and enjoy the serenity of the garden’s many corners. The Hortus Botanicus is not only a place for relaxation but also a center for research and conservation. It’s an ideal place to learn about the history of plant science and the role the garden has played in the development of botanical research over the centuries.
3. Leiden University and its Historical Significance
As the oldest university in the Netherlands, founded in 1575, Leiden University is a key part of the city’s identity. The university’s rich history is reflected in its beautiful buildings and its association with some of the world’s most famous scientists and thinkers, including the likes of Albert Einstein, Francis Bacon, and, of course, Rembrandt.
While the university itself isn’t a typical tourist destination, visitors can explore its historic center and nearby landmarks. The university’s main building, located on the Rapenburg Canal, is a prime example of the city’s stunning architecture. Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll through the picturesque streets around the university, where you can catch a glimpse of Leiden’s academic heritage.
4. The Rembrandt Museum
Leiden is famously the birthplace of the renowned Dutch painter Rembrandt van Rijn, and his legacy is still alive in the city. The Rembrandt Museum offers a deep dive into the life and work of the artist, showcasing a range of his paintings, sketches, and personal artifacts. The museum is housed in the former home of Rembrandt’s first art teacher, Pieter Lastman, where young Rembrandt honed his skills before going on to become one of the greatest painters in art history.
While the museum doesn’t boast a large collection of Rembrandt’s masterpieces, it provides a fascinating insight into his early life, artistic development, and the cultural context of the Dutch Golden Age. Visitors can admire works from his contemporaries as well, giving a broader perspective on the art scene during the 17th century.
5. The Leiden Canals and Historic Center
Leiden’s charming historic center is a highlight of any visit to the city. One of the best ways to explore the city is by strolling along its canals, which wind their way through narrow streets lined with beautiful old buildings, cozy cafes, and boutiques. The canals are the heart of Leiden’s cityscape and offer a picturesque setting for a leisurely walk or bike ride.
Several boat tours are available, allowing visitors to experience the city from the water and learn more about Leiden’s fascinating history. The most famous canals include the Rapenburg Canal and the Nieuwe Rijn, both of which are lined with historic buildings, many of which date back to the 16th and 17th centuries.
6. Pieterskerk (St. Peter’s Church)
Pieterskerk is one of Leiden’s most iconic landmarks. This stunning Gothic church, built in the 14th century, is renowned for its striking architecture, impressive organ, and beautiful stained glass windows. The church has played a central role in the city’s history and has served as a place of worship, a cultural venue, and even a burial site for notable figures throughout the centuries.
Inside the church, visitors can admire the intricate stone carvings and explore the rich history of Pieterskerk. The church’s tower offers panoramic views of Leiden, providing an excellent opportunity to take in the beauty of the city from above. Pieterskerk is also home to regular concerts, making it an excellent destination for music lovers.
7. National Museum of the History of Science and Technology (Huis van de Historie)
Leiden is known for its significant contributions to science, and the National Museum of the History of Science and Technology offers an intriguing glimpse into the city’s role in scientific progress. The museum’s collection includes rare scientific instruments, early telescopes, and maps that were used by some of the leading thinkers of the time.
A visit to this museum is a fantastic way to understand how Leiden has been a hub for scientific discovery, hosting some of the world’s most important scholars and researchers. The museum is particularly well-suited for those interested in the history of science and technology, and its exhibits are both educational and visually engaging.
