![\"leiden](\"https:\/\/cdn.bajabikes.eu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/28171038\/leiden-nederland-weekend-weg.png\")
<\/p>\n![\"leiden](\"https:\/\/cdn.bajabikes.eu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/28171650\/leiden-fietstour.png\")
Along the way, the local guide, born and raised in the Key City (a commonly used nickname because of the city’s coat of arms, which features keys), shared fun stories and interesting facts, and there’s plenty of time to take great photos. This bike tour is suitable for young and old alike, and families with children can join too. Highly recommended!<\/p>\n![\"pieterskerk](\"https:\/\/cdn.bajabikes.eu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/28172231\/pieterskerk-leiden.png\")
<\/p>\nLeiden isn’t just great for adults, but also a wonderful city to discover with children. From dinosaurs and a journey through the human body to exciting treasure hunts \u2013 there’s plenty to experience for young adventurers. Here I’ve put together a few top activities for a family day out:<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n
- \n
- Naturalis<\/strong>: natural history museum with interactive exhibitions and the skeleton of T. rex Trix.<\/li>\n
- Corpus<\/strong>: ‘journey through the human body’, educational and fun for children from around 8 years old.<\/li>\n
- Leidse Sleutel<\/strong>: treasure hunt through the city in escape room style, suitable for families.<\/li>\n
- Gravensteen park<\/strong>: lovely spot to play or have a picnic between walking and cycling.<\/li>\n
- World Museum<\/strong>: this interesting museum offers an impressive collection of world cultures, from Asia to Africa. Reserve your tickets online<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
You can also book a canal cruise through Leiden’s historic city centre<\/a>. I did this and can definitely recommend it! I do advise you to book tickets<\/a> in advance, so you’re guaranteed a spot.<\/p>\n
![\"park](\"https:\/\/cdn.bajabikes.eu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/28172517\/park-leiden.png\")
<\/p>\nMarkets and shopping in Leiden<\/h2>\n
Leiden has the cosiest markets and surprising boutiques. Perfect for browsing around or picking up a nice souvenir! In the table below you’ll find my favourite markets and shops in this wonderful city.<\/p>\n
\n\n\n\n
\n Category<\/strong><\/th>\n Name<\/strong><\/th>\n Description<\/strong><\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n\n \n Markets<\/strong><\/td>\n Botermarkt<\/strong><\/td>\n Every Wednesday and Saturday, with fresh produce, flowers and cheese.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n <\/td>\n Vismarkt & Aalmarkt<\/strong><\/td>\n Located by the water, with an authentic Leiden atmosphere.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n <\/td>\n Zijlsingel<\/strong><\/td>\n Artisanal products and unique trinkets.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Special shops<\/strong><\/td>\n VNTG<\/strong><\/td>\n Carefully selected vintage clothing.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n <\/td>\n Moers Thee & Meer<\/strong><\/td>\n More than 100 types of organic tea and accessories.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n <\/td>\n PLUUM<\/strong><\/td>\n Gift shop full of design, prints and fun surprises.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n Food and drink in Leiden<\/h2>\n
\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nEating in Leiden is a real treat. Whether you’re after an elaborate dinner, drinks, a cosy lunch or a quick bite, there’s always a spot that fits exactly what you’re craving. Here are my personal recommendations:<\/p>\n
At De Bonte Koe<\/strong> you really taste the seasons on your plate. The kitchen works with fresh, local ingredients and you can tell from the flavour. I had a perfectly cooked venison steak here in autumn and a fresh asparagus salad in spring \u2013 always excellent and never disappoints.<\/p>\n
For a fancy night out, Het Prentenkabinet<\/strong> is my absolute recommendation! This restaurant is housed in a beautiful historic building and serves refined French dishes. Think classic coq au vin or a delicious tournedos with creamy sauce. And with the atmospheric interior, it really feels like a culinary mini-holiday.<\/p>\n
Want something more creative? Caf\u00e9 de Leidse Lente<\/strong> is a lovely spot for lunch or drinks, with surprising dishes and an artistic vibe. Here I discovered, for example, a sandwich with hummus and grilled vegetables that was just a bit different from the usual.<\/p>\n
Going out to eat with the kids in Leiden? No problem! At The Pancake House<\/strong> they can go wild with pancakes in all shapes and sizes, from classic with syrup to fully loaded like a work of art. At Pizzeria Il Padrino<\/strong> they can even make their own pizza, which is not only fun but also guarantees happy faces at the table. And for a quick snack, Friteshuis Vlaamse Friet<\/strong> is the place to be. Here you’ll get crispy fries with a generous dollop of homemade sauce \u2013 and trust me, you don’t want to miss that.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n
Events and culture<\/h2>\n
Leiden is buzzing with culture and good vibes! Whether you love live music, cabaret or art, there’s always something happening. Here are a few cultural highlights you shouldn’t miss:<\/p>\n
- Corpus<\/strong>: ‘journey through the human body’, educational and fun for children from around 8 years old.<\/li>\n
![\"day](\"https:\/\/cdn.bajabikes.eu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/28172817\/dagje-naar-leiden.png\")
Leiden is a city that’s perfect for a varied day out. Whether you come for the museums, the shopping, a lunch by the water or a fun activity with the kids \u2013 there’s something for everyone. My absolute tip is to kick off your city trip properly with a ![\"bike](\"https:\/\/cdn.bajabikes.eu\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/03\/28173101\/Fietstour-in-Leiden.png\")
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