Discover the canal-woven gem of Leiden on a guided city tour. Explore the waterways, bridges, and cultural significance of this unique city, known as the little Amsterdam.
Discover the canal-woven gem of Leiden on a guided city tour. Explore the waterways, bridges, and cultural significance of this unique city, known as the little Amsterdam.
- Morspoort - The Morspoort (Mors entrance) will be one of the first attractions visited in the city. It is one of the two remaining historic city gates in Leiden. Originally constructed in wood around 1611, the stone gate was built in 1669, designed by W. van der Helm. The gate was constructed in a style considered old-fashioned for the Dutch…
- Morspoort - The Morspoort (Mors entrance) will be one of the first attractions visited in the city. It is one of the two remaining historic city gates in Leiden. Originally constructed in wood around 1611, the stone gate was built in 1669, designed by W. van der Helm. The gate was constructed in a style considered old-fashioned for the Dutch Renaissance period.
- Molen de Put - Among the many windmills in Leiden, Molen de Put is visited from the outside due to its convenient location along the route. The original windmill was erected in 1619 and rebuilt after a fire in 1640, serving until the 1800s. Primarily used for grinding corn, it was demolished in 1817 and reconstructed as a standard windmill in 1987 by the windmill association.
- Rembrandtplaats - Renowned Dutch Renaissance artist Rembrandt was born and raised in Leiden before relocating to Amsterdam. The adjacent Rembrandtplaats is visited, featuring artwork inspired by Rembrandt’s 1629 self-portrait in his Leiden studio. The young Rembrandt is depicted looking at an easel with a bronze relief of his self-portrait. Nearby, another portrait of Rembrandt is crafted in ceramic.
- Beestenmarkt - The next stop is Beestenmarkt (animal square), historically a marketplace for animals like sheep, horses, and cows. Today, it is a charming square with a delightful water fountain where children enjoy playing. No animals are sold here in modern times.
- Stadsgehoorzaal - En route to the city hall, the Stadsgehoorzaal, a concert hall on Breestraat in Leiden, is viewed from the outside. The building houses a large hall, a chamber music hall, the Aal market hall, and a historic hall. It also hosts weddings and parties. During the tour, the Stadsgehoorzaal is observed from outside, with the reception area accessible if open.
- Pieterskerk Leiden - St Pieters Church is the most prominent church in Leiden, originally built as a chapel in 1121. After numerous restorations and additions, it became the principal church in Leiden. The church is visited from the outside during the city tour. It is generally open from 11 am to 6 pm, with an optional entry fee of 5 Euros. The tour provides insights into the church’s history and current activities from the outside.
- het Stadhuis van Leiden uit 1596 - The Stadhuis (city hall) of Leiden, a classical building from 1596, is visited from the outside on the way to the Hooglandse Church from St Pieters Church. Interior visits are restricted. The city hall served as a meeting place and wedding venue, similar to the Stadsgehoorzaal. As of May 2023, it is undergoing renovation, with a temporary city hall located near the central station.
- Hooglandse Kerk - The Hooglandse Church, one of the tallest in Leiden at approximately 71 meters, is a Gothic structure with a distinctive silhouette due to its lower nave and tower compared to the choir and transept. It is used by the Protestant Church in the Netherlands for Sunday services. The church is visited from the outside, with interior access available if open.
- Burcht van Leiden - The Burcht of Leiden is the final attraction on the city tour. This circular monument from the 12th century served as a lookout for approaching enemies. Situated on a small hill, it offers panoramic views of Leiden and its surroundings. Visitors can climb the Burcht, though it is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with baby prams, to admire the city’s beauty from above.
- Haarlemmerstraat - Known as the shopping street in Leiden, Haarlemmerstraat is passed on the way back to the central station from the Burcht. It features a variety of shops, including world-class brands and local souvenir stores. Visitors can choose to return to the central station or linger in the charming Haarlemmerstraat.

- Entrance to Young Rembrandt’s Art Studio
- Bottled water
- All Fees and Taxes
- Entrance to Young Rembrandt’s Art Studio
- Bottled water
- All Fees and Taxes
- Visiting inside Stadsgehoorzaal and City Hall (only possible with prior appointments)
- Visiting inside Stadsgehoorzaal and City Hall (only possible with prior appointments)
Following Amsterdam, Leiden is regarded as the second most significant city in the Netherlands concerning waterways and canals. With over 57 bridges within the inner city, it offers a unique experience that should not be missed. Some Dutch affectionately refer to Leiden as “little Amsterdam.”
This is the only walking tour in Leiden with a live guide…
Following Amsterdam, Leiden is regarded as the second most significant city in the Netherlands concerning waterways and canals. With over 57 bridges within the inner city, it offers a unique experience that should not be missed. Some Dutch affectionately refer to Leiden as “little Amsterdam.”
This is the only walking tour in Leiden with a live guide available on TripAdvisor, Viator, or Get Your Guide. The tour is enriched with valuable insights into the city’s cultural significance and current trends. Additionally, it includes entry to Rembrandt’s first art studio. This city tour can also be combined with the Dutch windmill and polder walking tour, located on the outskirts of Leiden.
Leiden is also renowned for its world-famous university buildings, mansions, and museums featuring exceptional exhibitions. For travelers from the USA, Leiden holds special significance due to the Pilgrim Fathers, who resided here in the 17th century.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.