Leiden's canal ring
Cycle beside the water and view the old centre from a calmer perspective.
Public route preview
Leiden canals and city cycling route
Green spaces, science and city history beyond the busiest streets
Cycling routeca. 7 kmabout 2-3 hoursFamily friendly
Route overview
What can you expect?
Canals & City reveals a broader side of Leiden. This self-guided cycling route links the green canal ring, science heritage and historic neighbourhoods with the city centre. The distance is manageable while showing considerably more than a short central walk.
Choose this route if you want an active day with a varied mix of water, greenery and urban stories. It works well as a relaxed half-day experience and can be resumed from your current position. Around 3 October the app adapts part of the experience to Leiden's Relief celebrations. Exact routing, GPS guidance and complete stories remain part of the Leiden package.
Orientation without spoilers
See which part of Leiden you will explore
This map gives an impression of the area. Exact stops, smart order and live GPS guidance become available with the Leiden package.
A limited preview
Selected highlights
Hortus and university quarter
A district where botany, education and centuries-old buildings meet.
Read more about this place →Science and the city
Discover why knowledge and research are so closely connected to Leiden.
The complete stop list and exact route order unlock after purchase.
How the self-guided tour works
1
Choose a route and start whenever it suits you.
2
Follow the GPS guidance on your phone while walking.
3
Read or watch the complete story at each stop.