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Leiden
Leiden City Tour: Live Guide & Canals - Netherlands
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Overview
The Leiden City Tour with Live Guide offers a captivating exploration of one of the Netherlands' most charming cities. Often called 'Little Amsterdam' because of its beautiful waterways and many bridges, Leiden is second only to Amsterdam in its abundance of canals.
This walking tour, led by a live guide, provides insights into the city's rich culture, history, and modern life. Travelers can expect to see iconic landmarks such as the Morspoort City Gate, the historic Molen de Put Windmill, and the area where Rembrandt was born. The tour also passes through the lively Beestenmarkt (Animal Square) and by important buildings like the Stadsgehoorzaal (Concert Hall), St Pieters Church, Stadhuis (City Hall), Hooglandse Church, De Burcht Fortress, and the bustling Haarlemerstraat Shopping Street.
This experience includes bottled water to keep you refreshed as you discover Leiden's hidden gems. Please note that visiting inside the Stadsgehoorzaal and City Hall is not included unless prior appointments are made. This tour offers a unique way to experience Leiden's beauty and learn about its significance, especially for those interested in the Pilgrim Fathers' history. It’s a memorable experience filled with culture and beautiful scenery. 
Highlights
Discover Leiden's Canals: Explore why Leiden is known as 'Little Amsterdam' with a walk along its scenic waterways.
Live, Engaging Guide: Enjoy a tour led by a knowledgeable guide who shares stories of Leiden's past and present.
See Historic Landmarks: Visit iconic spots like the Morspoort City Gate and Rembrandt's birthplace.
Small Group Experience: Benefit from a more personal tour with a small group of fellow travelers.
Sentiment Analysis
Most customers loved the tour, appreciating the knowledgeable guide, the beautiful scenery, and the insights into Leiden's history and culture. A few wished for more time at certain stops or a slightly slower pace, but overall, the experience was highly rated.
Customers enjoyed the guide's deep knowledge of Leiden.
Visitors highlighted the beauty of Leiden's canals and architecture.
Travelers appreciated the small group size, making the tour feel personal.
The tour was praised for providing historical context and current trends.
Some visitors wished for more time inside specific buildings.
A few customers felt the pace was a bit fast.
The Journey
Morspoort City Gate
Step back in time at the Morspoort, one of Leiden's two remaining city gates, a striking symbol of the city's historical defenses. Originally constructed in wood around 1611, the gate was rebuilt in stone in 1669 in the Dutch Renaissance style. Admire its old-fashioned design and imagine the bustling activity of centuries past as travelers passed through this iconic entrance to Leiden. It offers a tangible connection to Leiden's rich past and provides an excellent photo opportunity.
Molen de Put Windmill
Discover Molen de Put, a reconstructed windmill that stands as a testament to Leiden's milling heritage. While viewed from the outside, this windmill offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the ingenuity of 17th-century industrial architecture. The original mill, built in 1619, ground corn until a fire led to its rebuilding. Demolished in 1817, it was lovingly reconstructed in 1987, allowing visitors to appreciate the historical significance of windmills in Dutch culture and industry.
Rembrandt's Place
Pay homage to the master at Rembrandt's Place, a small square dedicated to Leiden's most famous son. Before his Amsterdam fame, Rembrandt van Rijn spent his formative years in Leiden. This location features an artwork inspired by his self-portrait in his Leiden studio from 1629, with a bronze relief of the self-portrait. Additionally, discover another portrait in ceramic. The area provides a moment to reflect on the early influences that shaped Rembrandt's extraordinary artistic talent.
Beestenmarkt (Animal Square)
Visit the Beestenmarkt, or Animal Square, where livestock trading once defined the area's bustling atmosphere. Today, it has transformed into a pleasant square featuring a beautiful water fountain, where children happily play. Though the animal trading is now history, the Beestenmarkt offers a tranquil respite and a glimpse into Leiden's evolving urban landscape, making it a delightful stop for families and those seeking a moment of relaxation.
Stadsgehoorzaal (Concert Hall)
Admire the Stadsgehoorzaal from the outside, a grand concert hall on Breestraat that serves as a cultural hub for Leiden. This historic building hosts not only musical performances in its Big Hall and chamber music hall but also weddings and parties. If open, you might get a glimpse inside the reception area, but regardless, the exterior architecture and vibrant atmosphere make it a noteworthy stop on your city tour.
St Pieters Church
Marvel at the grandeur of St Pieters Church, Leiden's most significant church, steeped in history dating back to its origins as a chapel in 1121. From the outside, witness centuries of architectural evolution and learn about the church's pivotal role in Leiden's religious and cultural life. Consider visiting inside (fee applies) to fully appreciate its historical and current significance, but even from the outside, the monuments and stories surrounding it offer a compelling glimpse into Leiden's past and present.
Stadhuis (City Hall)
View the Stadhuis, Leiden's classical city hall dating from 1596, currently undergoing renovation (as of May 2023). While internal visits may be limited due to the ongoing work, the building's exterior presents a striking example of Leiden's architectural heritage. Historically a meeting place and wedding location, the Stadhuis remains a central symbol of Leiden's civic administration. Note the temporary city hall location near the central station during the renovation period.
Hooglandse Church
Behold the towering Hooglandse Church, a Gothic masterpiece soaring 71 meters high. Its characteristic silhouette, with a lower nave and tower compared to the choir and transept, makes it a distinctive landmark in Leiden. As a place of worship for the Protestant Church in the Netherlands, the Hooglandse Church embodies the city's religious heritage. If open, step inside to fully appreciate its architectural splendor; otherwise, admire its imposing exterior and learn about its importance to the local community.
De Burcht Fortress
Conclude your Leiden tour at De Burcht, a circular fortress dating back to the 12th century. Climb to the top of this elevated monument (note: not suitable for wheelchair users or those with baby prams) and enjoy panoramic views of Leiden and its surroundings. Originally used to spot approaching enemies, De Burcht offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the city's layout and historical defenses, providing a memorable finale to your exploration of Leiden.
Haarlemerstraat Shopping Street
Stroll along Haarlemerstraat, Leiden's vibrant shopping street, on your way back towards the central station. Discover a diverse array of world-class brands and local souvenir shops, offering something for every taste. Whether you choose to continue back to the station or linger longer in this charming street, Haarlemerstraat provides a delightful opportunity to experience the modern-day energy of Leiden and pick up a memento of your visit.
Know Before You Go
This Leiden City Tour with a live guide includes bottled water to keep you refreshed during your exploration. Please note that entry inside the Stadsgehoorzaal (Concert Hall) and City Hall is excluded, as visits are only possible with prior appointments. Be prepared for a walking tour that showcases the beauty and history of Leiden.
Hot Tip
Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour covering several key sites. Also, consider bringing a small notebook to jot down interesting facts shared by the guide. A hat and sunglasses are recommended on sunny days.
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