Leiden is a city that rewards curiosity. Its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and lively streets make it a perfect place to explore on foot, by boat, or even through a fun self-guided game. If you want a true feel for the city, taking a guided canal cruise offers a relaxing way to see landmarks like the City Hall and Hortus Botanicus garden while soaking up local stories. For those who prefer walking, a city tour with a live guide reveals hidden corners and stories you’d miss on your own. And if you’re feeling creative, the leather workshops let you craft a personal souvenir.
From scenic boat rides to lively city walks, Leiden’s tours cater to a variety of interests and energy levels. Whether you’re into history, art, or hands-on experiences, this list will help you choose the best way to enjoy this charming Dutch city.
Brief overview of the types of tours in Leiden
Our list includes guided boat rides, offering unique perspectives from the water, like the Leiden: Guided City Canal Cruise, and walking city tours with local guides who bring the city’s stories to life, such as the Leiden City Tour with Live Guide. For an interactive twist, there’s a self-guided city game, perfect for families and tech-savvy travelers. Art lovers can try a leather tote bag workshop (Genuine Leather Tote Bag Workshop), or explore the Dutch windmills and landscapes with a scenic walking tour (Dutch Windmills & Polder Walking Tour). For those seeking a private, in-depth experience, a private tour of Delft and Leiden mixes history and personal attention.
Now, let’s explore each of these excellent options in detail.
1. Leiden: Guided City Canal Cruise
For around $14 per person, this guided canal cruise is a lovely way to see Leiden from the water. The 1-hour trip meanders through cozy canals, passing under historic bridges, and offers views of landmarks like the City Hall and Hortus Botanicus. What makes this cruise special is the local guide who acts as your captain, sharing stories about Leiden’s past while navigating the waterways. Passengers rave about the friendly service and the interesting information about the city’s history, making it a relaxing intro or a wonderful break from walking.
The boat is equipped to serve drinks and snacks, so you can enjoy a beverage during your trip. The cruise is especially good for first-timers or those wanting a gentle overview of Leiden’s highlights. Keep in mind, it’s a 1-hour trip with flexible starting times, so check availability ahead of your visit.
Bottom line: A budget-friendly, leisurely way to see Leiden’s scenic canals and learn local stories in a comfortable setting.
2. Leiden: Cruise through the Historic City Center with Guide
At number 2, this 50-minute guided boat tour offers a peaceful exploration of Leiden’s most scenic sights. The electric boat operates quietly, letting you soak in views of the city’s bridges, parks, and landmarks like the observatory and university. The guide, often bilingual in Dutch and English, shares fascinating stories about the city’s past, adding depth to your water-level perspective.
Guests highlight the expert navigation and the silent ride, which makes for a calm, immersive experience. The covered and heated options make it suitable for bad weather days. You can purchase a drink before boarding, making this an easy and enjoyable activity for couples and small groups.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who enjoy learning about Leiden’s history without noise and distraction, and the electric boat provides a smooth, eco-friendly ride.
3. Leiden City Tour with Live guide in Netherlands
If you prefer a more personal and in-depth experience, this small-group walking tour is ideal. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, it covers key sights like Morspoort, Molen de Put, and Rembrandtplaats over 1.5 hours. The guide takes care of the itinerary, so you can focus on absorbing stories about Leiden’s past, architecture, and famous residents like Rembrandt.
Guests praise the entertaining narration and the efficient way of seeing many sights in a short time. The tour is well-suited for travelers who want a deeper understanding of the city’s history and culture, with stops at iconic landmarks. It’s also family-friendly and pet-friendly, welcoming service animals.
Bottom line: A comprehensive, guided introduction to Leiden for travelers who want to learn the stories behind the sights.
4. Leiden: Historical and Fun City Tour in German, English, or Dutch
This 2-hour tour offers a lively mix of Leiden’s most beautiful canals, courtyards, and historical corners. It’s perfect for those interested in Rembrandt’s roots, scientific discoveries, and the tulip’s story. The guide shares stories about notable figures like Albert Einstein and the city’s role in Dutch history, all in your chosen language.
What distinguishes this tour is its focus on curious facts and lesser-known stories that make Leiden come alive beyond its picturesque facades. The guide carefully balances sightseeing with storytelling, making it engaging for history buffs and curious travelers alike.
Bottom line: An educational and entertaining walking tour that uncovers Leiden’s scientific and artistic contributions.
5. Discover Leiden with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!
For those who love combining technology with exploration, this self-guided city game is a hit. For around $29.65, your group (up to 6 people) follows a story involving a police officer taking sensitive files, solving riddles at iconic spots like Molen de Put and Rembrandtplaats. It’s suitable for ages 15 and up and works on any smartphone with internet.
Reviewers like that it’s flexible, allowing you to start anytime and go at your own pace. It’s especially good for families or groups wanting a more interactive experience. The puzzles make you peek behind the usual tourist spots and see hidden corners of Leiden.
Bottom line: Fun, interactive way to explore Leiden independently, perfect for tech-savvy travelers or families.
6. Genuine Leather Tote Bag Workshop in Leiden
For about $142.90 per person, this hands-on workshop offers a creative experience. Set in a charming 19th-century home, you’ll learn to craft your own genuine leather tote bag with personalized inscription. No prior skills are needed—just a willingness to try something new. The instructor provides step-by-step guidance, and you can enjoy coffee or tea during the session.
Guests love the personalized experience and the chance to walk away with a custom-made leather piece, making it a meaningful souvenir. Limited to 10 travelers, the class offers a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
Bottom line: Perfect for creative travelers who want a memorable, artisanal experience in Leiden.
7. Dutch Windmills & Polder Walking Tour
This scenic walking tour explores the Dutch landscape with visits to windmills like Broekdijk and Boterhuis, used historically for land reclamation. Priced at about $34.57, it’s ideal for those interested in Dutch engineering and natural beauty, as the tour passes through quiet neighborhoods and near golf courses. It can also be combined with visits to flower fields, making it a flexible day trip.
Guests appreciate the insightful commentary about how windmills pump water and produce grain, with the opportunity to see iconic structures from outside. The tour lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours, making it a light yet informative outing.
Bottom line: Great for travelers interested in Dutch landscapes and windmill history, with optional extensions to flower fields.
8. Leiden: Electric boat rental (6 pers.)
If you prefer to steer your own ship, this electric boat rental offers a 2-hour private experience. Suitable for up to six people, you’ll receive instructions, route maps, and an app with GPS and audio info. No boat license is needed, just a driver aged 21+ with valid ID.
This activity is perfect for groups who enjoy a bit of freedom and want to explore Leiden at their own pace. The electric boats are quiet and eco-friendly, providing a smooth, intimate way to see the city’s canals. The review mentions the ease of navigation and the customizable routes, making it a flexible choice.
Bottom line: An excellent self-led option for small groups seeking independence and a personal adventure.
9. Leiden: Secret Stories Guided Walking Tour
This 2-hour tour is for travelers eager to uncover Leiden’s lesser-known stories and eccentric characters. Led by a passionate local, you’ll explore hidden spots away from tourist crowds, such as the Japan Museum SieboldHuis and Van der Werf Park. It’s a great way to learn quirky facts and local legends.
Reviewers mention the engaging storytelling and the insight into Leiden’s secret past, making it ideal for history lovers tired of the usual sights. The tour finishes at the lively Beestenmarkt, perfect for continuing your day.
Bottom line: A captivating way to see the hidden side of Leiden with a knowledgeable guide.
10. Private Tour of Delft, The Hague, and Leiden including Transfer
For more serious travelers, this full-day private tour packs in Leiden, Delft, and The Hague, with transportation included. Priced at $255.98 per person, it covers highlights like Leiden’s canals and Delft’s charming streets, with personalized attention from a dedicated guide.
Guests appreciate the comprehensive itinerary and the convenience of a seamless transfer. It’s a great choice for those wanting to see multiple cities in one day while avoiding hassle. The tour includes visits to landmarks like Morspoort and Rembrandtplaats, offering a well-rounded experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want an efficient, personalized tour covering several Dutch highlights.
11. Leiden: Hortus Botanicus Leiden Entry Ticket
If you’re into plants, this entry ticket grants access to the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands. Wander through themed gardens featuring rare and endangered species, including tropical and carnivorous plants. The gardens showcase trees over a century old and highlight global plant collections, especially from South-East Asia.
This ticket offers a quiet, contemplative experience, perfect for botanical enthusiasts or those seeking a peaceful break. Open for a full day, it’s a flexible option for afternoon visits or leisurely exploration.
Bottom line: A must-visit for nature lovers wanting to see historic and exotic plant collections.
12. e-Scavenger hunt Leiden: Explore the city at your own pace
This interactive smartphone game is perfect for families or groups who want to combine sightseeing with challenges. You’ll follow clues and solve riddles around Leiden, visiting landmarks like Pieterskerkhof and Vrouwenkerksteeg, all while working towards a high score.
Priced at about $35.54 per group, it’s flexible and can be played in any weather. Reviewers commend its fun and educational approach, making it a lively alternative to traditional tours.
Bottom line: A modern, engaging way to discover Leiden’s main sights and secret spots with friends or family.
13. Private Tour of Delft, The Hague and Leiden with Lunch
This full-day private experience covers three iconic Dutch cities, including Leiden. Priced at $571.83 per person, it’s suited for travelers wanting a personalized, all-inclusive day with a guide. It includes lunch and transfers, and visits to landmarks like Beestenmarkt and Morspoort.
Guests love the tailored itinerary and the chance to see the cities without the hassle of planning. It’s especially good for groups or couples seeking an immersive experience with a private guide.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day covering multiple cities.
14. Genuine Leather Craft by Choice Workshop in Leiden
For about $52.97, this artisanal workshop lets you create your own leather item, personalized with engraving. Led by an experienced professional in a dedicated workshop, you’ll learn the basics of leather crafting and walk away with a unique, handmade piece.
Reviews highlight the personalized attention and the fun learning environment, making this a great choice for crafters or those wanting a memorable souvenir. The workshop lasts about 1.5 hours and is capped at small groups.
Bottom line: A practical, creative experience suitable for all skill levels, perfect for those wanting to learn a new craft.
15. Genuine Leather Tote Bag Workshop in Leiden
Similar to the previous, this workshop offers a 3-hour session where you’ll craft a genuine leather tote. It’s a more extensive class, ideal for those wanting to invest more time in leather work. The atmosphere is cozy, and the instructor provides one-on-one guidance. Participants appreciate the personalized approach and the chance to create a lasting keepsake.
It’s perfect for craft lovers or anyone eager to try real leather making in a relaxed setting. The experience is highly rated for its friendly instructor and the quality of the final product.
Bottom line: A detailed, hands-on workshop for those serious about leather craft and wanting a personalized souvenir.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Leiden
When selecting a tour, consider your interests and how you prefer to experience Leiden. If a scenic, relaxing overview appeals, the canal cruises (Leiden: Guided City Canal Cruise) or the electric boat rental (Leiden: Electric boat rental (6 pers.)) are excellent. For history buffs, the guided city tour (Leiden City Tour with Live Guide) or the secret stories walk (Leiden: Secret Stories Guided Walking Tour) provide immersive insights.
If you want a creative, tactile experience, the leather workshops (Genuine Leather Tote Bag Workshop) and the craft workshop (Genuine Leather Craft by Choice) are ideal. For families or tech enthusiasts, the city game (Discover Leiden with a self-guided outside escape) offers fun at your own pace.
Consider your schedule, budget, and interests—whether it’s a scenic water tour, a deep dive into local stories, or a hands-on craft. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot in popular tours.
Final thoughts
Leiden offers a diverse range of tours that suit every curiosity—from peaceful canal cruises to interactive city games and artisanal workshops. For a relaxed overview, the guided canal cruise (Leiden: Guided City Canal Cruise) is unbeatable. If you prefer storytelling and local insights, the guided city tour (Leiden City Tour with Live Guide) is perfect.
Travelers eager for a creative experience should consider the leather workshops, which produce memorable souvenirs. Family groups or those who love tech can find joy in the self-guided city game (Discover Leiden with a self-guided outside escape), making exploring fun and interactive.
Whatever your preference, Leiden’s tours promise authentic, engaging experiences. Booking in advance is recommended to ensure you secure the best times and avoid missing out. Dive into Leiden’s story—there’s a tour for every traveler.
