Let me tell you one thing: exploring Leiden by bike was truly the best decision I could have made. The city is compact, charming, and perfect for cycling. It’s active, sustainable, and you see so much more than you would on foot. You can easily reach all the highlights, discover hidden streets you might otherwise miss, and feel completely at one with the city. Leiden has so much to offer. It’s a beautiful city full of culture, history, and numerous attractions. To help you get started, I’ve put together a list of the top 10 attractions in Leiden you shouldn’t miss by bike. This way, you’ll get the most out of your city trip to Leiden!
Top 10 attractions in Leiden by bike
- Molen de Valk – This beautiful windmill from 1743 is a stunning example of Dutch windmill heritage. Climb the mill for a fantastic view over the city.
- Oude Rijn – Cycle along this picturesque river that flows through the heart of Leiden and enjoy the historic bridges and cozy terraces.
- Pieterskerk – This impressive medieval church is an architectural masterpiece and offers a glimpse into Leiden’s rich history.
- Hortus Botanicus Leiden – The oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands, with a vast collection of unique plants and flowers. A green oasis to relax.
- Rijksmuseum van Oudheden – For archaeology enthusiasts, this museum is a must-see, with impressive collections from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome.
- Het Burcht van Leiden – A medieval fortress with a stunning view over the city and its surroundings.
- Leidsche Schouwburg – This historic theater has been the cultural heart of Leiden since 1705.
- De Markt – A bustling square full of restaurants and cafes, perfect for a break and to soak up the atmosphere.
- Leiden Bio Science Park – Innovation and science come together here in a modern setting, a beautiful mix with the historic city center.
- Hofjes van Leiden – Discover the charming and peaceful courtyards hidden between the busy streets of the city.
Below, I provide more details about these amazing attractions and some fun tips and things to do while you’re there!
Molen de Valk
As soon as you cycle out of the station, you’ll see it: that beautiful windmill with its white sails. Molen de Valk is a quintessential piece of Dutch heritage – and if you’re renting bikes in Leiden, this windmill should definitely be on your tour of the city. I climbed to the top (yes, you can!) and the view over the city was truly fantastic. Did you know this windmill has been standing there since 1743 and is still set up as it was in the past? It’s like stepping back in time!
Tip: Go early in the morning when it’s still quiet. You’ll almost have the mill’s gallery to yourself.
The Oude Rijn and canal tour through the historic city center
The river winds through the city and forms the beating heart of Leiden. I loved cycling along here, especially on a sunny day. Along the water, there are terraces, warehouses, and charming houses with flowers on the facade. I stopped at the fish market for a herring with onions – because hey, if you’re going to do it, do it right, right? Wondering where the best view over the water is? My tip: the Blauwpoortsbrug. Definitely a photo moment!
Another great activity during your visit to Leiden is a canal tour through the historic city center with a guide. Book your tickets in advance, as this is a hugely popular activity!
Pieterskerk
When I first saw the Pieterskerk, I was impressed by the massive stone walls and the Gothic design. This medieval church is one of the oldest in Leiden and is located right in the city center. Inside, you can literally smell the history – it sounds strange, but it’s true! You can even take guided tours to learn about the Pilgrims who once lived here before they left for America. Did you know that the American ‘Thanksgiving’ indirectly has roots in Leiden?
Hortus Botanicus Leiden
What an oasis! Right in the city, next to the university’s academic building, lies this botanical garden full of exotic plants, ancient trees, and greenhouses that transport you to the tropics. I enjoyed a quiet coffee on the terrace by the water – so relaxing. My favorite: The Victoria water lily. Absolutely gigantic! You can book your tickets for the Hortus Botanicus here. Highly recommended!
Rijksmuseum van Oudheden
If you have even the slightest interest in history, you really shouldn’t miss this museum. I spent nearly three hours inside! From Egyptian mummies to Roman sarcophagi: I was amazed. And the building itself is also beautiful. You can literally wander through thousands of years of history here. Tip: Don’t forget to take a selfie with the gigantic statue of a pharaoh in the central hall.
The Burcht van Leiden, the Leidsche Schouwburg and the market
I found the Burcht van Leiden so special: right in the city stands a real, round medieval fortress. You climb up via a staircase, and on top of the wall, you have a 360-degree view over Leiden.
As a culture lover, I couldn’t skip the Leidsche Schouwburg. The oldest still-operating theater in the Netherlands – how cool is that? Unfortunately, I wasn’t there during a performance, but the exterior alone is stunning. And did you know that big names like Ramses Shaffy and Youp van ’t Hek have performed here? Check the schedule in advance if you love theater.
And the market… Leiden at its best. What a lively place! I visited on a Saturday, and the market was in full swing. Fresh fruit, flowers, stroopwafels still warm… Tip: Try some Leiden cheese with cumin – a true local specialty.
Leiden Bio Science Park
Okay, this one is a bit outside the center, but the contrast is what makes it cool. Leaving behind the old canals and windmills, you suddenly find yourself among ultra-modern buildings, laboratories, and start-ups. Here, hard work is being done on innovation and health. And yes, you can easily cycle through it all. The Leiden Bio Science Park is the largest life sciences cluster in the Netherlands!
The courtyards of Leiden
Without a doubt, my favorite discovery. Amidst the busy streets and canals, you suddenly find a little gate… and behind it: tranquility, greenery, and centuries-old houses surrounding a courtyard. I’ve visited several, and each time it felt like a little treasure chest. You have to search a bit, but that’s what makes it fun. My favorite: the Jean Pesijnhof, near the Pieterskerk. It’s like stepping into another world.
Discover Leiden with a Baja Bikes tour or bike rental
Do you want to not only see these top attractions but also learn all about them? Then book a Leiden Highlights bike tour with Baja Bikes. Our guides know the best routes and stories and will make your visit unforgettable. Prefer to explore at your own pace? At Baja Bikes bike rental, you’ll always find a suitable, comfortable bike to easily traverse the entire city.
Discover more in Leiden
Want to discover more besides cycling? Be sure to check out our blogs What to do in Leiden and Why a bike tour in Leiden is the best way to discover the city. This way, you can make the most of your visit!