Lisse(Netherlands) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Leiden, top choices for families include Hotel de Gouden Leeuw, a historic boutique hotel located steps from Leiden City Hall and Beekmanpark. It offers spacious family rooms, child-friendly amenities, and is near Leiden University and the National Museum of the Netherlands branch—perfect for educational outings. Another excellent option is B&B Hotel Leiden, known for its budget-friendly rates, modern rooms, and proximity to campus. Both properties provide free breakfast and convenient parking, ensuring a stress-free stay for travelers with children.

The city center of Leiden is the most ideal district for tourists. Located just minutes from Leiden Cathedral, City Hall Square, and Beekmanpark, it offers seamless access to major attractions. Stay on streets like Grote Houtstraat or Kloveniersburgwal—home to charming cafes, antique shops, and elegant historic architecture. Hotel de Kromme Rijn is a standout choice here, offering a prime location, authentic Dutch ambiance, and views of the old town. The area is walkable, safe, and brimming with local flavor, making it perfect for immersive travel experiences.

Visitors to Leiden shouldn’t miss: the weekly Saturday market at City Hall Square, where you can taste fresh poffertjes and handmade cheese; exhibitions at Leiden University’s Art Academy showcasing emerging talent; and evening strolls through Beekmanpark, a beautifully landscaped garden designed by renowned Dutch garden masters. Don’t miss the annual Leiden Light Festival in autumn, when the entire city glows with artistic light installations—ideal for photography and unforgettable memories.

Must-try dishes in Leiden include poffertjes—light, fluffy Dutch pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and served with butter; stroopwafels, the caramel-filled waffle cookies available at century-old shops like De Gouden Kooi on Kleine Houtstraat; and Leidse Kruiderbol, a spiced meatball stew traditionally served with mashed potatoes. For a true local experience, book a chef’s tasting menu at De Gouden Kooi, which features seasonal ingredients sourced directly from regional farms, blending traditional Dutch flavors with modern culinary artistry.

For couples seeking romance, Hotel De Loo is a top pick—a hidden gem nestled beside Beekmanpark, featuring private gardens, vintage-style rooms, and rooftop terraces overlooking the tranquil landscape. Some suites include candlelit dinners and champagne welcome packages. The hotel also offers a "Secret City Tour" with guided walks through historic alleys, a visit to a rare bookshop, and a private canal boat ride. Alternatively, B&B De Witte Molen, housed in a restored 17th-century windmill, provides an intimate, rustic-chic atmosphere with original wooden beams and morning bird songs—perfect for quiet getaways.

Yes, Leiden boasts excellent public transport for tourists. Trains from Amsterdam Central Station take just 25 minutes to reach Leiden Centraal, with direct access to the city center. Local trams (lines 11 and 14) connect key sites like Leiden University, Beekmanpark, and City Hall Square. As a cycling hub, Leiden has extensive bike lanes—rent electric bikes for as low as €1.5/hour. Most hotels are within walking distance of major attractions, making car-free travel safe, eco-friendly, and highly recommended.

Solo travelers will appreciate Casa De Vries B&B, a peaceful retreat in a 18th-century farmhouse on Kasteelweg, surrounded by greenery and far from noise. Each room features a private bathroom and cozy reading nook, with views of the garden. The hosts offer personalized travel tips and even organize events like poetry readings or gallery visits. Another great choice is Hotel De Eendracht, whose shared lounge includes a fireplace, bookshelves, and complimentary tea—ideal for meeting fellow travelers or enjoying quiet solitude.

While Leiden isn’t a nightlife hotspot, it offers unique evening experiences. Visit De Rode Hoorn, a hidden bar in a narrow alleyway known for craft beers and live jazz, often hosting poetry nights. For something serene, join a nighttime light tour of Beekmanpark, guided by experts who reveal stories behind the illuminated landmarks. During summer, enjoy open-air film screenings at City Hall Square, complete with blankets and hot cocoa. Some hotels, like Hotel de Gouden Leeuw, even offer stargazing packages using Leiden’s low-light pollution for clear night skies.

Key seasonal events in Leiden include the Cherry Blossom Festival in spring at Beekmanpark, featuring Japanese-inspired art, cherry-themed food stalls, and traditional performances. The Studentenfeest in June is a vibrant celebration led by Leiden University students, transforming streets into stages for music, street theater, and spontaneous dance. In autumn, the Leiden Light Festival turns the city into a luminous art installation, while winter brings a cozy Christmas Market at City Hall Square, selling handmade crafts, mulled wine, and gingerbread—perfect for festive vibes.

Top photo spots in Leiden include Leiden Cathedral’s Gothic spire and stained-glass windows, especially striking at golden hour; Beekmanpark’s mirror fountain and cobblestone pathways, ideal for vintage-style shots; and City Hall Square’s central statue surrounded by ancient trees—classic Dutch scenes. The Leiden University Library’s Baroque facade and domed interior are architectural gems. For panoramic views, head to the rooftop terrace of Hotel de Loo, offering sweeping vistas of the historic district—perfect for storytelling images with depth and character.