What should you not miss in Leiden?
Start in the historic centre at De Burcht, the fish market and Pieterskerk. From there, the university, Rapenburg, the botanical garden and several courtyards are a short walk away. Leiden is not just a collection of monuments: its streets connect stories of trade, science and the people who shaped the city.
- ✓De Burcht and the historic centre
- ✓Pieterskerk, the Academy Building and Rapenburg
- ✓Hortus Botanicus and Leiden's museums
- ✓The fish market and Nieuwe Rijn on market days
Planning a day or weekend
For a day trip, combine a city walk, lunch near Nieuwe Rijn and one museum. For a weekend, divide the historic centre and the outer canals over two days. This leaves time for a courtyard, café or an unplanned stop.
If you visit on Wednesday or Saturday, include the market. The Market & Craft route passes the historic fish market and the Schaapsvishandel fish stall. On other days, the route directs you to the family shop on Herenstraat.
Walk independently with GPS
There is no fixed meeting time or group to wait for. Choose a route, share your location and start at the nearest stop. The order can be optimised again while you walk, and completed stops remain saved.
Frequently asked questions
How much time do you need in Leiden?
In one day you can combine the historic centre, a walking route and one museum. A weekend also gives you time for the outer canals, more museums and quieter local places.
Is Leiden easy to explore on foot?
Yes. The main sights in the centre are close together. A bicycle is useful for places farther outside the centre.
When is the Leiden market?
The main city-centre market normally takes place on Wednesday and Saturday. Around public holidays, always check current municipal information.