Top reasons to visit Leiden
- Historical Significance: Explore the rich history of Leiden, home to Leiden Castle and prestigious Leiden University.
- Cultural Attractions: Visit numerous museums and art galleries, showcasing a blend of artistic and historical treasures.
- Beautiful Botanical Gardens: Enjoy the serene botanical gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls and family outings.
- Vibrant City Centre: Wander through picturesque streets, bustling with shops, cafés, and a friendly atmosphere.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Engage in educational experiences and fun at local theatres and amusement parks.
Find great hotels near Leiden
Leiden offers a delightful selection of accommodation options, from charming bed and breakfasts to well-equipped hotels catering to both business travellers and families. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly stay or a central location to explore this historic city, you'll find top hotels that meet your every need. Embrace the unique charm of Leiden while enjoying comfortable lodgings tailored to provide an unforgettable experience.
- Bastion Hotel Amsterdam Airport: Located approximately 21km from Leiden, the 4-star Bastion Hotel Amsterdam Airport offers a distinctive blend of comfort and convenience, making it ideal for business travellers. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms equipped with modern amenities, a restaurant serving a variety of cuisines, and a cosy lounge area perfect for unwinding after a day of meetings. The hotel’s strategic location near the airport facilitates easy access to transport links, ensuring a seamless travel experience.
- Hyatt Place Amsterdam Airport: Situated about 21km from Leiden, the 4-star Hyatt Place Amsterdam Airport is a family-friendly hotel that embraces an eco-certified theme. Rated highly by guests, this establishment caters to those seeking a sustainable stay. Families will appreciate amenities like complimentary cribs, child safety features, and a focus on eco-friendly practices. The hotel’s central location allows for easy exploration of the city, while spacious rooms and a range of dining options enhance the overall experience.
- citizenM Schiphol Airport: Positioned 24km from Leiden, citizenM Schiphol Airport is a contemporary 4-star hotel designed for the modern traveller. With a guest rating of 9.2, it boasts a stylish, tech-savvy environment perfect for business trips. The hotel features innovative rooms equipped with smart technology, a 24-hour canteenM offering fresh food and drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere. Its proximity to the airport allows for convenient access, making it a practical choice for those on the go.
Where to stay in and around Leiden
Leiden, a charming city in South Holland, offers a delightful mix of historical and cultural experiences, perfect for family and eco-friendly vacations. Wander through its picturesque streets, explore the vibrant city centre, and discover the best locations in Leiden that boast a friendly atmosphere. Nearby cities further enhance your adventure, inviting you to enjoy romantic settings and luxury escapes. Whether you're seeking leisure or exploration, Leiden and its surroundings cater to every traveller's desire.
- Leiderdorp: Situated approximately 3km from Leiden, Leiderdorp is a charming city that offers a delightful escape for families and eco-conscious travellers. With a steady influx of visitors throughout the year, it experiences peak travel seasons from March to April and September. The city is renowned for its outdoor experiences, including lush parks and a stunning botanical garden, making it perfect for leisurely strolls and family outings. Additionally, an amusement park and nearby beach provide ample opportunities for fun and relaxation, ensuring a memorable visit for all ages.
- Merenwijk: Nestled within the vicinity of Leiden, Merenwijk is a picturesque neighbourhood that draws visitors for its outdoor activities and romantic ambiance. The area welcomes guests year-round, with peak visits occurring in July to August and October. Merenwijk is ideal for families, offering educational venues and an amusement park, alongside scenic lakes and charming water features. The neighbourhood is perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and exploring local monuments, making it an ideal spot for those seeking a tranquil yet engaging experience.
- Oegstgeest: Located a mere 3km from Leiden, Oegstgeest is a vibrant city that attracts families and eco-friendly travellers alike. With a steady stream of visitors, peak seasons occur in April, July, and September. The city features a variety of activities, including an amusement park, educational facilities, and a shopping mall centre, providing plenty of entertainment options. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to parks, botanical gardens, and beaches, making Oegstgeest a fantastic destination for outdoor adventures and quality family time.
Things to do near Leiden
Shopping
In Leiden, visit the charming Bio-Bazar for unique gifts and local produce. The weekly market at the Beestenmarkt offers a delightful selection of fresh flowers and artisanal products. If you're up for a drive, explore the shopping options at the Mall of the Netherlands, located about 18km away, featuring numerous shops and restaurants.
Recreation
In Leiden, the Body & Mind Wellness Centre offers a serene environment with various treatments, including massages and yoga classes. Additionally, the Spa & Wellness Leiden features saunas and wellness baths, providing a tranquil escape for relaxation and rejuvenation amidst the city's charming atmosphere.
Adventure
Experience the thrill of motor racing at Circuit Park Zandvoort, located 26km from Leiden. Feel the adrenaline as you watch high-speed races or even take part in a driving experience. The vibrant atmosphere offers a unique blend of sports and adventure for motorsport enthusiasts.
Nightlife
In Leiden, Café de Keyser offers a relaxed atmosphere with local brews and live music. For a lively night, head to Club Vibes, where DJs spin various genres, attracting a vibrant crowd. Enjoy late-night cocktails at La Femme, a chic bar known for its stylish décor and ambience.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Leiden
To save money on your trip to Leiden, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February and November for lower accommodation rates. Opt for walking or cycling to explore the city, as it's compact and pedestrian-friendly. Look for free attractions like Scheveningen Beach and Valk Windmill. When booking, aim for Mondays for the best hotel prices, and check Expedia for last-minute deals and package offers that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Be sure to utilise filters for budget and eco-friendly options to find the best deals.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Leiden are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Leiden about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Leiden is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Leiden is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the best prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel reservation in Leiden with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Leiden
Leiden is ideal for family-friendly, outdoor, and eco-conscious holidays, offering a rich array of attractions such as museums, art galleries, and botanical gardens. Visitors can immerse themselves in culture while exploring highlights like Leiden Castle, the city's various museums, and the prestigious Leiden University. This charming city caters to those seeking a blend of artistic, historical, and natural experiences.
- Keukenhof Gardens: A stunning botanical garden located 13km from Leiden, Keukenhof Gardens is renowned for its vibrant floral displays, especially during the spring bloom. Visitors can wander through beautifully landscaped pathways, making it an idyllic spot for families and couples alike to enjoy nature's artistry.
- Scheveningen Pier: Situated 14km away from Leiden, Scheveningen Pier offers a blend of leisure and history. This iconic jetty features charming eateries, amusement attractions, and panoramic views of the North Sea, perfect for those seeking a leisurely stroll steeped in historical context.
- Louwman Museum: Located 11km from Leiden, the Louwman Museum is a fascinating transport museum showcasing an extensive collection of vintage cars. This cultural gem provides an engaging experience for families and car enthusiasts, highlighting the evolution of automotive design and technology.
Best time to go to Leiden
The best time to visit Leiden can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Leiden falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Leiden falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Leiden
Flying into Leiden is convenient, with AMSterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) bEINg the closest, situated 26km away. Recommended hotels nearby include the five-star Pulitzer Amsterdam and Grand Hotel Amrâth Amsterdam, both 11km from the airport, providing easy access. BRUssels Airport (BRU) is 140km away, with luxury options like Radisson Collection Grand Place Brussels and Le Châtelain, both around 6-11km from the airport, offering various transport services. Eindhoven Airport (EIN), located 100km from Leiden, has excellent hotels such as NH Collection Eindhoven, just 6km away, ensuring smooth transfers. Each airport presents ample accommodation and transport choices for a seamless travel experience.