Hotels in Leiden

Leiden: A Tapestry of Art, History, and Hidden Gems

Discover the enchanting city of Leiden, South Holland, where history seamlessly intertwines with vibrant culture. Stroll through the charming historic center, dotted with stunning monuments and picturesque canals. Visit world-class museums like the National Museum of Antiquities and the Museum of the History of Science, showcasing the city's scholarly heritage. Experience the lively atmosphere of local markets and cafes, perfect for a romantic getaway or an off-the-beaten-path adventure. With its delightful blend of history, art, and scenic beauty, Leiden invites travelers to explore its rich past and dynamic present all year round. For the best hotel rates in Leiden, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Leiden

Some of the best places to stay in Leiden are Amsterdam City Centre, Old Town Amsterdam and Scheveningen. Amsterdam City Centre is vibrant and bustling, ideal for first-time visitors with its iconic canals and attractions. Old Town Amsterdam offers a charming, historic atmosphere with narrow streets and traditional architecture. Scheveningen boasts a beautiful beach and lively promenade, perfect for relaxation. Hotel accommodations in these areas range from luxury options to cozy boutique stays, providing something for every traveler’s budget. In Leiden, you’ll find a mix of comfortable hotels, making it a convenient base for exploring the region. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Leiden:

1. Amsterdam City CentreOpens in a new window: Amsterdam City Centre is a vibrant area known for its rich cultural heritage and bustling atmosphere. It’s home to iconic landmarks like the Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, and Dam Square, making it a prime location for culture enthusiasts. For accommodations, Waldorf Astoria AmsterdamOpens in a new window offers a luxurious experience with adventure and business amenities, ideal for families. Hotel TwentySevenOpens in a new window is a boutique hotel with unique decor, perfect for those seeking a stylish stay. Canal House Suites at Sofitel Legend The Grand AmsterdamOpens in a new window caters to adventure seekers and families, providing excellent business facilities and child-friendly services.
2. Old Town AmsterdamOpens in a new window: Old Town Amsterdam is a historic district filled with charming streets, lively cafés, and artistic attractions. Close to Dam Square and the Van Gogh Museum, it’s an excellent spot for exploring the city’s culture. Sir Adam Hotel, part of Sircle CollectionOpens in a new window features convenient dining options and recreational activities, making it a favorite among travelers. YOTEL AmsterdamOpens in a new window offers a comfortable stay with onsite dining and fitness facilities, while Mercure Amsterdam North Station Opens in a new window stands out with its modern amenities and 24-hour fitness center, ensuring guests have a pleasant experience.
3. ScheveningenOpens in a new window: Scheveningen is a beautiful beach destination perfect for sun-seekers and families. With its stunning coastline and attractions like the Scheveningen Pier and Duinrell theme park, it’s ideal for relaxation and fun. Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus The Hague ScheveningenOpens in a new window is a luxury spa hotel providing direct beach access, perfect for unwinding. Hilton The HagueOpens in a new window is suited for adventure lovers and business travelers, featuring ample business amenities and recreational facilities. Hotel Des IndesOpens in a new window offers a blend of luxury and family-friendly services, making it a great choice for those traveling with children.

Things to do in Leiden for first time

Three days in Leiden offers travelers a chance to explore its charming canals, lush parks, and vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy leisurely boat tours, immerse yourself in local festivals, and take in captivating theater performances, all while soaking up the rich history and culture that define this picturesque city. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Leiden:

• Day 1: Start your journey at the stunning Keukenhof Gardens, where vibrant tulips and beautiful floral displays await you. After soaking in the natural beauty, make your way to Keukenhof Castle, where you can explore the historic grounds and enjoy a delightful lunch at the castle café. Next, venture to the Teylingen Castle Ruins, a picturesque site filled with remnants of the past. Stroll through the surrounding parkland, taking in the serene atmosphere and the impressive views of the castle remains.
• Day 2: Begin your day at Duinrell, a fun amusement park offering rides and attractions for all ages. After enjoying some thrills, head over to the beautiful Saint Joseph Church, known for its stunning architecture and peaceful ambiance. Take a moment to reflect before proceeding to the Lighthouse Noordwijk, where you can climb up for breathtaking views of the coastline and the surrounding area. This scenic spot is perfect for a photo-op as the sun sets over the North Sea.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Scheveningen Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shores or take a refreshing swim in the sea. Next, stroll along the Scheveningen Pier, where you can enjoy various activities, including shopping and dining with a view. Afterward, visit Corpus, an interactive museum that takes you on a fascinating journey through the human body, making it a perfect end to your exciting trip in the Netherlands.

5 tips to find a great Leiden hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Leiden is during January, February, and November when hotel rates are more affordable. For international travelers, it’s advisable to book flights at least four months in advance to secure lower prices. To truly experience the city's highlights, plan for at least a 2-3 day stay, which offers great value for money. Key attractions worth exploring include the city’s renowned museums and historic monuments.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals to Leiden, Hotels.com is a great place to start. You could find discounted rates by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on the site, particularly as your travel date approaches. To stay informed about potential savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com for flash sales and exclusive promotions. This way, you're more likely to catch fantastic prices on Leiden hotels, including options that offer flexibility with refunds.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. So, if you can be flexible with your travel dates, you may save on hotel expenses in Leiden.
4. Consider your location: Staying in the city center and close to local attractions in Leiden is usually more expensive. If you opt for accommodations further away from the center, you can take advantage of transportation options like biking or walking to explore the area while saving on costs.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Book your next stay in Leiden and join Hotels.com’s One Key programme which allows members to earn and redeem rewards points for hotel bookings. Move through blue, silver, gold and platinum tiers and unlock benefits such as earning free nights, room upgrades, special discounts, and exclusive deals for members. Sign up now.

What to eat in Leiden

Here are a few popular dishes in Leiden, South Holland, Netherlands:

• Stroopwafels: These delicious Dutch treats consist of two thin waffle cookies filled with a rich and gooey caramel syrup. Often enjoyed warm, they're a popular snack found at local markets and street vendors in Leiden. Try them fresh off the griddle for an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Dutch sweetness.
• Bitterballen: A classic Dutch snack, these crispy, deep-fried balls are filled with a savory mixture of beef or veal ragout. They are typically served with mustard for dipping and are perfect for enjoying at local pubs or during social gatherings, making them a staple of Dutch conviviality.
• Haring: This iconic Dutch dish features raw herring fish, traditionally served with finely chopped onions and pickles. Locals often enjoy it by holding the fish by the tail and taking a bite. It's a delightful way to experience authentic Dutch flavors and a must-try when visiting Leiden.

Best time to go to Leiden

Leiden experiences its lowest average temperature in February, at 40.5°F (4.7°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 65.3°F (18.5°C). October tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Leiden are April, July, and September, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by dry to light rainfall. In contrast, May, November, and December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.