The best hotspots in Leiden

Relaxing hotspots 

Burcht 

The oldest fortress in the Netherlands that is still standing? That's the fortress (in Dutch  called: De Burcht) of Leiden. With a six-meter-high ring wall, you can get a fantastic view of the city from whichever side you look. The fortress can be entered by climbing a long flight of stairs or following winding paths that spiral up from the eighteenth-century “English garden.” Escape from the crowds and go have a look. The fortress can be visited every day. 

Leidse Hout 

Leidse Hout is a public park that has existed since 1931 and has been owned by the municipality since 2008. Here you can dive into nature, play sports or take a walk in the greenery. In the mood for something cultural? Visit a concert at music tent the Waterlelie or check out the open-air theater. For a chill moment you can visit the Tea House or Liv Yoga en Mindfulness. 

Hortus Botanicus 

The Hortus Botanicus in Leiden is a botanical garden, founded in 1590 by Leiden University for medical and scientific purposes. For over four centuries, they have been collecting and growing plants from various climates and continents, making it the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands! Nowadays, the Hortus is not only educational, but also the perfect place to relax. Here, you find themed gardens such as the Chinese Herb Garden, the Mediterranean Garden and the Rosarium. Buy your ticket here and discover this unique green oasis in the middle of the city. 

Wijkpark Merenwijk 

The Wijkpark is located in the neighborhood “Merenwijk” in the northern part of Leiden. This park is the perfect place to unwind. It’s filled with tall trees, shrubs and herbs attracting various species of birds. For animal lovers, there is a petting zoo with cows, sheep, goats, pigs, chickens and other livestock. Feeling hungry? You can also grab a bite at the park: at the tea house, de Trotse Pauw, you can order a drink, a healthy sandwich, or a freshly baked treat. 

Vibrant Hotspots 

Leidse Waag 

In the 15th century, a wooden weigh house, called "waag" in Dutch, stood in Leiden. Goods were weighed here in order to collect honest taxes. In 1657, the original weigh house was replaced by a new one designed by Pieter Post, which still stands today. The Leidse Waag is an impressive example of Dutch Renaissance style, featuring a unique façade, large windows, and a striking little tower. It is now not only a national monument of Leiden, but also a popular café and restaurant. Try it out and have a bite in this charming historical setting. 

Lot & de Walvis 

The restaurant Lot & de Walvis is also located in an extraordinary building. The building “De Volharding” is named after the Leidsche Stoombootmaatschappij, which had its offices here since 1852. In the current restaurant, you can experience a blend of Asian and Mediterranean cuisine. You can go to Lot & de Walvis for lunch, dinner and shared dining, accompanied by the finest cocktails, wines and beers. Be sure to take a check out this hidden gem and enjoy delicious dishes in a cozy atmosphere. 

Paco Ciao 

Paco Ciao is another hidden gem. As soon as you step inside, the entrance to the restaurant is well hidden, and it's up to you to figure out where it is. Once inside, the lush plants, vintage furniture and distinctive lamps make you feel right at home. Paco Ciao is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, and in the evenings, it's also the perfect spot to enjoy a drink. 

Nobel 

Nobel is a music venue that provides a stage for everything relevant to contemporary pop culture. It is the place where audience and artist come together. The music venue offers an innovative range of music and other forms of (pop)culture. From game cafés and pop quizzes to Spoken Word and the Nobel Award - everything is connected to music in some way. Nobel also hosts live performances where you won't be able to stay still! Let yourself be surprised and dive into the world of music and culture at Nobel!