Leiden is a city that charms visitors with its charming canals, historic windmills, and vibrant cultural scene. It’s a place where every corner seems to tell a story—whether it’s the birthplace of Rembrandt or the site of centuries-old university buildings. Exploring Leiden by tour offers a perfect way to experience its authentic character, especially since many options combine scenic views, fascinating history, and fun activities. We love the Leiden: Guided City Canal Cruise for a relaxing water-based introduction to the city’s highlights, like the City Hall and Hortus Botanicus, with a knowledgeable local captain. If you prefer being your own captain, the Leiden: Electric Boat Rental lets you navigate at your own pace, creating a personal adventure on the waterways. For a deeper dive into local stories, the Leiden: Secret Stories Guided Walking Tour reveals hidden tales and colorful characters that make Leiden so memorable.
Leiden’s tours are perfect for history lovers, families, and those seeking active or interactive experiences. Whether you have just an hour or a full day, these options cater to different interests and travel styles, making it easy to find the right fit.
1. Leiden: Guided City Canal Cruise
Discover Leiden from the water with this guided canal cruise. For just $14 per person, you’ll enjoy a one-hour trip led by a local captain who shares stories about the city’s past and present. The cruise takes you through Leiden’s cozy canals, passing by notable sights like the City Hall and Hortus Botanicus, giving you a fresh perspective on the city’s layout and architecture. This tour is ideal for anyone wanting a relaxed, scenic introduction to Leiden, especially since you can purchase drinks or snacks aboard. The reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude, with one calling it a “pleasant boat trip” worth doing. The cruise runs regularly, so check availability for the most convenient time.
Bottom Line: This is a perfect way to unwind, enjoy beautiful views, and learn quick snippets of Leiden’s history—all without breaking the bank.
2. Leiden: Electric Boat Rental
At number 2, the Electric Boat Rental offers a chance to be your own captain on Leiden’s calm waters. For about $108, your group of up to 8 can explore the waterways for two hours. The boats are easy to maneuver—no license required—and provide an intimate way to see Leiden’s historic neighborhoods and green parks. Guests love how straightforward the electric boat is to operate, with reviews mentioning how it’s “great” for family outings and enjoyable in good weather. You can craft your own itinerary, stop where you like, and take your time soaking in the scenery. Since it’s a private rental, it’s ideal for groups seeking flexibility and privacy.
Bottom Line: If you’re comfortable steering a small boat and want a personalized experience, this rental makes for a memorable day on Leiden’s canals.
3. Leiden: Cruise through the Historic City Center with Guide
This guided canal cruise offers a 50-minute scenic tour with insightful commentary from your skipper. The tour, priced at $14 per person, takes you past Leiden’s scenic parks, the observatory, and the Hortus Botanicus. The boat is electrically powered, ensuring a silent, eco-friendly glide through the city’s canals. Passengers rave about the knowledgeable guides and beautiful sights—one reviewer appreciated how the trip “gave me more ideas for where I wanted to walk.” The boat is covered and heated for bad weather, making it a reliable choice year-round.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a short, informative overview of Leiden’s top sights, with a peaceful ride and engaging narration.
4. Leiden City Tour with Live guide in Netherlands
For those who prefer walking, the Leiden City Tour with a live guide is an excellent way to see the city’s highlights in about 1.5 hours. At $42.69, it offers a small-group experience led by a local expert who takes you from Morspoort to the Pieterskerk, sharing stories about Leiden’s past and its connection to the university, Rembrandt, and Dutch innovation. The tour covers important sites like Molen de Put and Rembrandtplaats, giving you a well-rounded picture of the city’s history and culture. Reviewers praise guide PJ for his knowledge and approachable manner, highlighting how he makes Leiden’s stories come alive.
Bottom Line: This is a great choice for first-time visitors wanting a guided, immersive introduction to Leiden’s most iconic landmarks.
5. Discover Leiden with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!
If you love a good puzzle, the self-guided city game offers a fun, interactive way to explore Leiden. For around $30, up to six players can navigate the city at their own pace, solving riddles that lead you past landmarks like Molen de Put and Rembrandtplaats. The game is suitable for ages 15 and up and is played on your smartphone. Travelers enjoy the mix of sightseeing and problem-solving, with some calling it a “very good activity” that reveals hidden parts of the city most travelers never see.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or friends who want an engaging, independent adventure that combines sightseeing with a little mental challenge.
6. Leiden: historical and entertaining city tour in German
This German-language city tour offers a 2-hour walk through Leiden’s most beautiful spots, including the canals, courtyards, and the birthplace of Rembrandt. At $24, it’s an affordable way to learn about Leiden’s scientific discoveries and its role in Dutch history, including the story of the tulip. The guide shares stories about notable scientists and artists, making it both educational and entertaining for German-speaking travelers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for German speakers interested in an in-depth, friendly tour that mixes history with local lore.
7. Genuine Leather Tote Bag Workshop in Leiden
Looking for a hands-on experience? The Leather Tote Bag Workshop invites you into a local’s home to craft your own unique leather bag. For $142.90, you get about three hours of personalized instruction, with no prior skills needed. You’ll choose your design, inscribe your name, and leave with a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Reviewers rave about how fun and rewarding it is, highlighting the friendly host Emma and the beautiful craftsmanship.
Bottom Line: Great for creative travelers wanting a meaningful souvenir and a taste of local craftsmanship.
8. Dutch Windmills & Polder Walking Tour
This walking tour combines scenic nature with history, focusing on the windmills that drained the Dutch polders. For $34.57, you’ll visit windmills from outside like Broekdijk and Boterhuis Windmill, learning how they protected Holland from flooding. The tour also features a walk along the quiet river Zijl and the surrounding countryside, offering a peaceful escape from the city bustle. Reviewers note how easy it is to learn about traditional milling techniques and appreciate the rural views.
Bottom Line: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts interested in Dutch engineering and landscape, with a manageable walking pace.
9. Leiden: Secret Stories Guided Walking Tour
Uncover Leiden’s lesser-known stories on this hidden history walk. For $31, you’ll explore secret spots like the Oude Molen and the Pieterskerkhof, hearing tales that aren’t on the usual tourist route. Led by a local guide, the two-hour tour reveals eccentric characters and quirky facts that make Leiden so intriguing. Reviewers highlight how the guide’s storytelling brings the city’s secrets to life, making it a favorite for those who prefer offbeat experiences.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers who want to see a different side of Leiden, beyond the standard sights.
10. Leiden: Hortus Botanicus Entry Ticket
Explore the world’s oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands with this entry ticket. For $13, you’ll wander through the lush collections from Southeast Asia, tropical plants, and endangered species. The garden also features trees over a century old and a fascinating collection of carnivorous plants. It’s a tranquil spot for plant lovers and those interested in botanical history, especially since it’s linked to the Dutch horticultural tradition.
Bottom Line: Best suited for nature enthusiasts or anyone wanting a quiet reprieve from city sightseeing.
11. Private Tour of Delft and Leiden including Transfer
This half-day private tour combines Leiden and Delft, offering a personalized look at these historic cities for around $256 per person. It includes hotel pickup and a knowledgeable guide who shares stories of both cities’ roles in Dutch history, from Rembrandt to the Pilgrim Fathers. You’ll visit landmarks like Morspoort, Molen de Put, and Rembrandtplaats, all tailored to your interests. Guests appreciate the flexibility and the expert narration, making it ideal for travelers seeking a curated experience.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting an in-depth, private exploration of two Dutch treasures in one day.
12. Historical Leiden: Private Tour with Local Guide
For a fully custom experience, this private tour offers a 2-hour walk with a local guide who shares insights about Leiden’s Golden Age, its university, and Rembrandt’s early life. Costing about $348 for up to 15 people, it’s perfect for groups looking for a personalized, flexible exploration. Reviewers mention the guide’s deep knowledge and engaging storytelling, making it a memorable way to learn about Leiden’s pivotal role in Dutch history.
Bottom Line: Excellent for groups or families wanting tailored insights and a relaxed pace.
13. e-Scavenger hunt Leiden: Explore the city at your own pace
This interactive smartphone scavenger hunt combines sightseeing with puzzle-solving. For $35, up to six players explore Leiden’s highlights like the Put windmill and Rembrandtplaats while completing riddles. It’s designed to be flexible, with no time limit, allowing you to enjoy at your own speed. Reviewers enjoy discovering parts of the city they might miss on a traditional tour and appreciate the fun, game-like format.
Bottom Line: Ideal for tech-savvy families or small groups seeking a playful, self-paced way to see Leiden.
14. Country of Tulips Tour
This six-day tour is the ultimate Dutch experience, combining biking, sightseeing, and luxury stays. For $2,990 per person, you visit Leiden, Noordwijk, Delft, and more, staying in boutique hotels near tulip fields and historic towns. It includes visits to the St. Peters Church where the Pilgrims prayed before sailing to America and offers insider access to blooming fields. Guests love the well-organized itinerary and the chance to experience Holland’s iconic flower culture firsthand.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting an immersive, multi-day adventure with comfort and cultural depth.
$2,990.00 per person
15. Self Guided Walking Tour at Leiden
For a budget-friendly, flexible option, this self-guided walking tour costs only $7.20 per person. Designed by a local, it introduces you to Leiden’s canals, windmills, and historic sites like the Rapenberg and De Burcht fortress. Using an app available in multiple languages, you explore at your own pace, making it ideal for independent travelers or those on a tight schedule. Reviewers praise its straightforward guidance and the opportunity to discover hidden corners of Leiden.
Bottom Line: Perfect for independent explorers wanting an affordable way to learn about Leiden at their own pace.
$7.20 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour in Leiden
When selecting the best tour, consider your budget, interests, and time available. For a relaxed introduction, the Leiden: Guided City Canal Cruise or the Guided City Tour are excellent. If you’re more adventurous, the Electric Boat Rental or self-guided options like the Outside Escape or self-guided walking tour give you flexibility. History buffs may prefer the private delft and Leiden tour or the Secret Stories walk, which reveal lesser-known tales. Budget travelers will appreciate the self-guided tours, while those looking for a special souvenir should try the Leather Tote Workshop.
Booking early is advised, especially for private or multi-day tours, to ensure availability during peak seasons from spring to early autumn.
Leiden offers a variety of ways to experience its historic charm, lively streets, and scenic canals. Whether you’re after a peaceful boat ride, an interactive adventure, or a private guided walk, this city has something for every curiosity. We recommend mixing and matching tours—perhaps starting with a canal cruise, then exploring on your own with a self-guided game or walking tour. For the truly dedicated, the multi-day tulip tour provides a memorable deep dive into Dutch culture. Whatever you choose, booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these authentic Leiden experiences.