A charming university town in South Holland, Leiden is just 20 minutes’ drive from Amsterdam’s Schiphol International Airport. Built around a series of picturesque canals and able to trace its roots back to at least the 11th century, the city is nothing short of stunning. It’s also great fun; the university population ensures a lively buzz, with arts and music-focused events held throughout the year. Like the city, the best places to stay in Leiden tend to be small, friendly and characterful — what more could you ask for?

Proudly founded in 1575, Leiden’s university is the oldest in the Netherlands. Take excellent student-led tours of the institution’s heritage buildings, admire the exceptional collections of the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden and the Naturalis Biodiversity Center, or amble around the beautifully maintained Hortus Botanicus gardens. Built at the confluence of the Old Rhine and the New Rhine, the 11th-century Burcht Fortress is unmissable. Market day offers a brilliant excuse to fill your bags with fresh produce, meeting makers and growers from across the region and tucking into delicious local specialities.

Venture slightly further afield to see the Keukenhof Gardens in full bloom during the spring, or to soak up the sunshine on the beaches of Noordwijk and Katwijk. Head to Delft to marvel at classic blue and white porcelain, take day trips to Amsterdam, The Hague and Rotterdam, or simply join the crowds at one of Leiden’s bustling bars and eateries before catching a performance at the acclaimed Leidse Schouwburg. Expect the best places to stay in Leiden to fill up fast during the city’s series of annual festivals. Book your room well in advance!

The Best Places to Stay in Leiden

For Boutique Charm

• Huys Van Leyden is a boutique bolthole with just 13 guest rooms on the edge of the Oude Singel canal. A small, well-priced choice for a city stay, the hotel has atmospheric rooms and suites, some with exposed wooden beams, others with rich tapestry fabrics draped behind cosy beds. Savour hearty breakfasts and delicious afternoon teas in between exploring the city. 
• Steenhof Suites fuses the centuries-old charm of a well-preserved red brick residence, with more contemporary interiors. Spacious guest rooms promise polished wooden floors, exposed beams, bold patterned armchairs and attractive canal views. Continental breakfasts are served onsite and there are countless eateries nearby. A 14-bedroom spot in a 15th-century canal house.

For Contemporary Chic

• Breathe Boutique Hotel has a calm, understated feel with pale herringbone floors, brass accents on wooden furnishings, and beds topped with crisp white linens. An adult-only spot with well-equipped kitchenettes and smart bathrooms, it's a great choice for those seeking a little bit more independence in the heart of Leiden. 
• D'Oude Morsch promises contemporary interiors with Crittall doors, industrial-style hanging lights, big bathtubs and brown leather sofas. Gather at the buzzy Pipa Streetfood Bar or Spanish and Italian-inspired Restaurant Scarlatti after fun-filled days of exploring.  
• ExLibris Boutique Hotel is another modern choice, with just eight guest rooms featuring soothing blue-grey tones, soft yellow accents and cosy fireplaces. The moody wine bar has an appealingly intimate feel, and the historic Pieters district is full of quirky spots to discover on foot. 

For an apartment or holiday house

• For a self-catering spot, we recommend visiting our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, just 20 minutes' drive from Leiden. Most hotels will be happy to organise an airport or train station pickup in advance. 
• South Holland is great for exploring with the freedom of your own transport! If you would like to hire a car, we suggest that you contact our online partner Rentalcars.
• Travel during the summer for temperatures ranging between 11 and 23ºC, although this is the busiest time of year. Spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) are ideal for those seeking fewer crowds and great hotel offers.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to explore our list of the best places to stay in South Holland. 
• Alternatively, see our pick of all the best places to stay in the Netherlands. 
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.