21-03-2024

The best museums in and around Leiden

Although Leiden is a relatively small city, it has plenty of interesting museums for you to explore. A lot of scientific discoveries have been made in Leiden, making it one of the most important cities in Europe for science. And that's reflected back in the many science museums in the city! Of course, there's great art too, and with some of the best art collections showcased in and around the city, you'll definitely get your dose of creativity here. Want to know of the best museums in and around Leiden? We'll share them here.

Getting the best for your buck

Before we get to the recommendations, it’s good to know that visiting museums in and around Leiden can be expensive. But this doesn’t have to stop you! At most places, you’ll get a pretty good discount if you’re a student or if you have a CJP pass (youth culture card), so remember to always bring it with you.

If you regularly visit museums and exhibitions, the Museumkaart (museum card) might be an option for you. The Museumkaart is € 75* per year and offers you unlimited access to almost all museums in the Netherlands at no extra cost.

*This is the price in 2024

The City of Discoveries: Leiden's (natural) science museums

Science is a big part of Leiden's identity. Home to one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands, Leiden University, the city has been the heart of scientific discovery for centuries. Within a short distance from Student Experience Leiden, you'll find Naturalis Biodiversity Center, which is known for its extensive collection of specimens, fossils and artifacts. It's not only a must-see for students studying related subjects, but for anyone that's interested in the wonders of the world.

On a sunny day, visit one of world's oldest botanical gardens: Hortus Botanicus Leiden. Here, you can admire various plant species, such as hundred-year-old trees, rare and (almost) extinct plants, and giant, oddly shaped flowers.

Though some might find this museum a little creepy, others may find it super interesting: the Anatomical Museum. Here, you can explore the wonders of the human body. The museum is open to the public only twice a year, but if you're a student at LUMC or a (para)medical student, you can visit the museum by appointment.

Experience the arts

At Museum De Lakenhal, you can admire visual arts, history and crafts in the old Cloth Hall building of Leiden. From old masters like Rembrandt van Rijn to contemporary artists like Charley Toorop, there's enough to enjoy! As a student, you can opt for a free tote bag to be included with your ticket purchase.

Museum Voorlinden* is a must-see! The museum is located in Wassenaar, a town southwest of Leiden, and is unique because it showcases the largest privately owned art collection in the Netherlands. And let us tell you, some of the works in this collection are real showstoppers. You can get there by bus in a little under an hour, or - if you're feeling active and the weather is nice - cycle there in about 40 minutes.

*It is important to note that this museum is not affiliated with the CJP or Museum card, and even as a student you pay full price for entrance. If your student budget allows it, we really recommend going there. The experience is worth it!

Museum Beelden aan Zee (which means Sculptures at Sea) is located in Scheveningen. As their name suggests, they showcase various sculptures created by contemporary artists, and the museum blends in perfectly with the location: Scheveningen Beach. It's a good idea to combine a visit to the museum with a relaxing day at the beach or a stroll on Scheveningen's boulevard.

Cultural historical collections

Interested in learning about cultures around the world, now and in the past? Then, the Wereldmuseum is where you need to go. You may recognize this museum's name from the museum in Amsterdam, which holds the same name. That's because the Wereldmuseum Leiden is part of an organization which has these cultural museums in Amsterdam, Leiden, and Rotterdam.

At the Sieboldhuis, you can explore a collection that is a result of the longstanding relationship between Japan and the Netherlands. In the 19th century, doctor Philipp Franz von Siebold collected peculiar and extraordinary items, such as prints, ceramics, fossils, specimens, clothing, world maps, and hundreds of other treasures. Next to the permanent collection, you can visit the temporary exhibitions, which are often collaborations with Japanese artisans and craftsmen.