Museums
Which Leiden museums suit you?
Choose the museum that fits your interests and available time, not simply the most famous one.
8 minute read · Updated September 27, 2026
Which museum should you choose in Leiden?
Choose Museum De Lakenhal for art and Leiden's city history, the National Museum of Antiquities for archaeology and ancient civilisations, Rijksmuseum Boerhaave for science and medicine, or Naturalis for nature and biodiversity.
Japan Museum SieboldHuis focuses on Japan in a historic Rapenburg house. Wereldmuseum Leiden explores cultures and collections from different parts of the world. The botanical garden combines living plant collections with university history.
How many museums fit into one day?
Most visitors will enjoy one major museum plus a city walk more than two extensive museum visits. Two shorter visits can work when the museums are close together and you already know which galleries matter to you.
Prices, opening hours, exhibitions and booking rules may change. Compare official websites for your visit date. The CityGuide can then connect your museum choice with nearby historic places.
- ✓Art: Museum De Lakenhal
- ✓Antiquity: National Museum of Antiquities
- ✓Science: Rijksmuseum Boerhaave
- ✓Nature: Naturalis
- ✓Plants: the botanical garden
From story to place
Bring your Leiden walk to life with these places. Explore their stories or find them on the map.
Leiden · Netherlands
Hortus Botanicus
52.1571° N · 4.4845° E
Explore this place →View on the map ↗Leiden · Netherlands
Cleveringa 1940
52.1569° N · 4.4856° E
Explore this place →View on the map ↗Frequently asked questions
How many museums does Leiden have?
Visit Leiden presents thirteen museums in and around the city, covering art, archaeology, science, nature and world cultures.
Which museums are near Leiden city centre?
De Lakenhal, Boerhaave, the National Museum of Antiquities, SieboldHuis, Wereldmuseum and the botanical garden are in or close to the centre. Naturalis is nearer the station but outside the tightest centre loop.