Musea and more

History within reach

When walking through Leiden its rich history still seems very much alive. The University's Academic Building, the Waag and the Burcht, the stately mansions lining the famous Rapenburg, the beautiful churches Pieterskerk and Hooglandse Kerk and the 35 almshouses each tell a part of Leiden's history. This is where Rembrandt was born and developed his painting skills, this is where doctor Boerhaave taught and where Clusius brought the first Dutch tulips into flower.

10 museums all close together

Leiden has 10 museums, all well worth a visit. The priceless and unique collections on show there enjoy international fame. The National Antiquity Museum, with its Egyption, Greek and Roman collections, the National Museum for Cultural Anthropology with its treasures from different cultures, the Boerhaave Museum, unveiling the history of medical science, the De Lakenhal Municipal Museum, exhibiting works by Rembrandt, Lucas van Leiden and Jan Steen and of course Naturalis, the National Presentation of Natural History, are only a selection of all the treasures the Leiden museums have on display. Please click here for more information.

Centre of science

Leiden's atmosphere is largely determined by its university. In 1575 Leiden was the first city in the North of Holland to be given a university in reward for the courageous behaviour displayed by its citizens during the Spanish occupation. The university has developed into a world-famous centre of science, while its many students contribute to the lively and convivial atmosphere in the city.

Lively shopping and entertainment centre

The old city centre of Leiden boasts a wide variety of shops. Moreover, every Wednesday and Saturday there is a general market along the water. This market has been in existence for 9 centuries! Leiden's culinary aspect is reflected in the wide variety of restaurants and bars on offer. The Leiden Jazz Week in January, the ten-day summer festival the Leiden ´Lakenfeesten´ in July and the celebration of the Relief of Leiden on 2, 3 and 4 October are but a few examples of the many events that take place throughout the year.