Top reasons to visit Leiden
- Cultural Richness: Discover Leiden's rich history through its notable museums, historic Leiden Castle, and esteemed Leiden University.
- Vibrant City Centre: Stroll through the charming centre, featuring stunning architecture, delightful cafes, and a lively atmosphere.
- Family-Friendly Activities: Enjoy a variety of attractions, including amusement parks and eco-conscious adventures perfect for families.
- Outdoor Pursuits: Embrace outdoor experiences in the picturesque surroundings, ideal for eco-conscious travellers.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of hotels and charming bed and breakfasts to suit every preference.
Find great hotels near Leiden
Explore a variety of hotel accommodations in Leiden, South Holland, where you can find the ideal base for your visit. From charming bed and breakfasts to modern hotels equipped for business travellers, the city offers options to suit every preference. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly lodging or a relaxing beach vacation experience, you'll discover top hotels in Leiden that cater to your needs and ensure a memorable stay.
- Bastion Hotel Amsterdam Airport: This 4-star hotel is situated approximately 21km from Leiden and is ideal for business travellers seeking a comfortable stay. With a guest rating of 8.0 out of 10, the Bastion Hotel Amsterdam Airport boasts a range of amenities designed to facilitate a productive experience. Features include a well-equipped business centre, free Wi-Fi throughout the property, and a restaurant offering a selection of international cuisine. The inviting atmosphere is complemented by modern furnishings, making it a convenient choice for those on work-related trips.
- Hyatt Place Amsterdam Airport: Also rated 4 stars with a stellar guest rating of 9.0 out of 10, the Hyatt Place Amsterdam Airport is approximately 21km from Leiden and caters to families and luxury seekers. This hotel offers child-friendly amenities such as cribs, window guards, and a First Aid kit, ensuring a safe environment for younger guests. Pet-friendly services, including food and water bowls for furry companions, make it a suitable choice for pet owners. With spacious rooms and a chic design, this property provides a welcoming atmosphere for both leisure and business travellers.
- citizenM Schiphol Airport: Located around 24km from Leiden, the citizenM Schiphol Airport offers a modern and innovative approach to accommodation, with a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. This 4-star hotel is particularly appealing to business travellers, featuring unique, tech-savvy rooms equipped with large beds and mood lighting. The hotel’s communal areas encourage relaxation and social interaction, while the convenient location near the airport makes it an excellent choice for those needing quick access to travel. The stylish decor and modern amenities ensure a refreshing stay.
Where to stay in and around Leiden
Leiden, a charming city steeped in history and culture, offers an array of experiences for travellers. Stroll through the vibrant centre of Leiden, where stunning architecture and delightful cafes await. Venture into nearby towns to discover family-friendly atmospheres and romantic spots, perfect for leisurely exploration. With eco-friendly options and a welcoming community, your stay in this picturesque region promises to be both enriching and memorable.
- Leiderdorp: Situated a mere 3km from Leiden, Leiderdorp is a charming city that invites families and eco-conscious travellers alike. The area enjoys a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peak seasons occurring in March to April and September. Here, you can immerse yourself in outdoor activities, explore local parks and botanical gardens, or enjoy a day at the nearby beach. The city is particularly known for its family-friendly attractions, including an amusement park that promises fun for all ages.
- Merenwijk: Nestled within the vicinity of Leiden, Merenwijk is a delightful neighbourhood that attracts visitors year-round. With a spike in arrivals during the summer months of July to August, this area is perfect for those seeking a romantic escape or family outings. Merenwijk boasts lovely lakes and water features, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. You can partake in educational activities or enjoy a round of golf at local venues, while monuments in the area add a touch of historical charm.
- Oegstgeest: Located just 3km from Leiden, Oegstgeest is a picturesque city that offers a balanced mix of family-friendly and eco-friendly experiences. The city sees a consistent number of visitors, peaking in April, July, and September. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the local parks and botanical gardens, while the nearby shopping mall centre caters to those seeking retail therapy. Visitors can also enjoy the amusement park, making Oegstgeest a perfect destination for a memorable family outing.
Things to do near Leiden
Shopping
In the heart of Leiden, you’ll discover charming boutiques along the canals, perfect for unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Mall of the Netherlands for a wider selection of shops, or check out the vibrant markets like the weekly Saturday market for local treasures.
Recreation
In Leiden, Spa & Wellness Leiden offers a serene environment with rejuvenating treatments and a tranquil atmosphere. For relaxation, visit the Hortus Botanicus, where you can stroll through lush gardens and find peace among diverse plant species, ideal for unwinding and reconnecting with nature.
Adventure
At Circuit Park Zandvoort, located 26km from Leiden, experience the thrill of motor racing amidst an exhilarating atmosphere. Feel the adrenaline rush as you watch high-speed races or consider taking a driving experience yourself, perfect for motorsport enthusiasts seeking an adventurous day out.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant atmosphere at Café de Keyser on the Haarlemmerstraat for a casual drink and lively conversation. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the Poppodium Gebr. de Nobel for local music acts and an eclectic crowd, making for an entertaining evening out in Leiden.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Leiden
To enjoy Leiden on a budget, take advantage of the city's free attractions such as Scheveningen Beach and Valk Windmill. Opt for biking or walking to navigate the city affordably. For accommodation, visit between December and February for lower prices, and consider booking a month in advance or seeking last-minute deals on Expedia. Mondays typically offer the cheapest rates, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia’s filters to find eco-friendly options and combine your bookings for additional savings.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Leiden are December to February, 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Leiden is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- 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, including 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 most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You could potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservations in Leiden with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Leiden
Leiden is an excellent destination for family-friendly, outdoor, and eco-conscious holidays, offering a variety of attractions such as museums, art galleries, and botanical gardens. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture and history by exploring the notable museums in Leiden, visiting the historic Leiden Castle, and discovering the prestigious Leiden University. This charming city provides a delightful blend of activities for those seeking cultural and outdoor experiences.
- Keukenhof Gardens: Located 13km from Leiden, Keukenhof Gardens is a stunning botanical garden renowned for its vibrant tulip displays. Visitors can wander through meticulously landscaped gardens, enjoy romantic strolls, and create lasting family memories amidst a breathtaking array of flowers, particularly during springtime when the blooms are at their peak.
- Leidse Schouwburg - Stadsgehoorzaal: Situated in the heart of Leiden, this historic building is a cultural gem. With its rich history and elegant architecture, it hosts various performances and events, offering a glimpse into the local arts scene while immersing you in the charming atmosphere of this vibrant city.
- Madurodam: Just 14km from Leiden, Madurodam is a captivating miniature display featuring intricate models of Dutch landmarks and cities. This family-friendly attraction provides an engaging way to explore the Netherlands in a compact setting, making it a delightful experience for visitors of all ages.
Best time to go to Leiden
The best time to visit Leiden is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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 three major airports nearby. AMSterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) is located 26km away, with luxurious hotels such as Pulitzer Amsterdam and Grand Hotel Amrâth, both approximately 11km from the airport. EINdhoven Airport (EIN) is 100km away, featuring excellent options like NH Collection Eindhoven and NH Eindhoven Conference Centre, both 6km from the airport. Lastly, Brussels National Airport (BRU) is 140km away, offering upscale accommodations like Radisson Collection Grand Place Brussels, 10km from the airport, with various transportation services available. Each airport provides accessible connections to these nearby hotels, making your travel seamless.