What to do in Leiden?

Which museum is fun for the whole family? What does the concert agenda look like, where can you enjoy brunch and which hotspots should you really see? In this city full of idyllic courtyards, museums, monuments, stores, canals, restaurants, parks you can do anything!

With children

Are you coming to explore Leiden with the kids? There is plenty to do for the little ones; from playgrounds, the Leiden museums or a children's movie at the cinema! Rather go to the petting zoo or the swimming pool, that's possible too. Read more about the best tips for kids here.

Exploring makes you hungry

Getting thirsty or hungry while exploring the city? Leiden's catering establishments are the perfect place to relax! Come to one of the many terraces, restaurants or cafes for a break. The wide selection gives everyone the opportunity to stop by. Looking for something close to a museum, something vegan, a romantic restaurant or the perfect place to catch up? Read the best tips for eating & drinking in Leiden here.

Shopping

In the bustling center you will find a wide range of stores. From boutiques, small specialty stores and antique stores to well-known, large chains. Score something nice for yourself or as a gift for a loved one! Treat yourself to a shopping experience in leiden. For more shopping tips read on here.

Nostalgic Christmas Market
Nostalgic Christmas Market
The Christmas market in Leiden can, of course, be found once again this year at the Hooglandse Kerkgracht. For...
Sunday 22 December
Visit the Young Rembrandt Studio for free
Visit the Young Rembrandt Studio for free
Meet the young Rembrandt in a beautiful 7-minute 3D video experience in the house where he was taught by master...
weekly
The beauty of imperfection
The beauty of imperfection
Three guest exhibitors plus nineteen members of the Leidsche Modialen exhibit in the Stadstimmerwerf in Leiden.
until 19 January 2025
Rembrandt's Four Senses - His First Paintings
Rembrandt's Four Senses - His First Paintings
A celebratory exhibition at Leiden's Museum de Lakenhal, from the 20th of January 2024 until the 30th of March...
until 30 March 2025
Exhibition: Mapuche - A community on the move
Exhibition: Mapuche - A community on the move
The Mapuche are the original inhabitants of the area now covered by the states of Chile and Argentina. The exhibition...
until 20 July 2025
Enchanted by GOLD
Enchanted by GOLD
Wereldmuseum Leiden will celebrate the premiere of its new exhibition in December; Enchanted by GOLD.
until 26 October 2025