Discover Leiden: From Pilgrims to Painters in Historic Key City

5.0 (31 reviews) 1 h 30 min Free cancellation

out of 5

31 reviews

5.0

Discover Leiden: From Pilgrims to Painters in Historic Key City — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Discover Leiden: From Pilgrims to Painters in Historic Key City, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

We delve into the rich history and vibrant culture of Leiden's Golden Age on this ±90-minute free, tip-based, walking tour. Explore the picturesque canals, majestic mansions, and hidden courtyards while uncovering stories of the Pilgrims and the Dutch Masters. Your guide will lead you through 12+ significant stops, including the iconic Molen de Valk and the stunning Hortus Botanicus, where tulip mania began. Whether you're a local or a traveler, this tip-based tour offers a unique perspective of the city’s past and present.

This walking tour will cover 2-3 km in 90 minutes throughout the city's historic center, highlighting areas for your continued exploration.
Explore historic sites like the Molen de Valk and the Hortus Botanicus
Insightful narratives on Leiden's role in art, history, and culture
Available in English and Spanish with knowledgeable local guides
Suitable for all individuals comfortable with the walking distance, uneven cobblestone streets, and some stairs

Private and Luxury Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Small Group Top Product Short term availability Weather Dependent - Moderate

At a glance

Duration: 1 h 30 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 12 people
People per booking: 1–8
Guide: English, Spanish
Operated by: Leiden Walks

Ages: Children (0–17 years) · Adults (18–100 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Official Guide

Not included

Not included: Gratuities

Itinerary

Molenmuseum de Valk

Passing by

Starting outside the Molen de Valk, we'll talk about the last surviving windmill that would have graced the city walls. (we do not go into the Museum)
Singelpark

Passing by

The green jewel of the city, we'll travel along this path that outlines the city's natural fortifications.
Stop 3

Passing by

One of two of the remaining city gates
Molen de Put

Passing by

A 600 year old mill that is still operational.
Hortus Botanicus Leiden

Passing by

The oldest botanical gardens in the country, and one of the finest examples of medical garden anywhere in the world. It's home to rare specimens gathered during the height of the Dutch East Indian Trading Company, and the place the Tulip craze originated.
Leiden University Academic Building

Passing by

Learn about the famous and brilliant who called Leiden University home. Find out how the the early buildings were repurposed after the Siege of Leiden.
Pieterskerk Leiden

Passing by

The historic gothic cathedral for the Patron of the city. learn about the Pilgrims who called Leiden home
Gravensteen

Passing by

Early 13th century building and former prison for the City of Leiden. From that moment on, death sentences were carried out on the square in front of the Gravensteen (the Court of Justice). In 1556, the Gravensteen was expanded with a cell block that is still intact. In 1598 the prison was provided with a disciplinary house and in 1655 a spider and rasp house. Finally, a new four-scissor (the place where the court was held) was built in 1672. At the end of the nineteenth century, the building fell increasingly into disuse. The last death penalty was carried out here in 1856.
Leiden

3 min

A historic, atmospheric street in the heart of Leiden, located in the Pieterskwartier. It is known for its unique, authentic shops, studios and catering establishments, right next to the famous Pieterskerk. The street is characterized by old buildings (average year of construction 1735) and is part of the atmospheric, academic city center.

Known for specialty stores and restaurants, such as the Moers tea shop, silver workshops and various boutiques.
Leiden Street Market

Passing by

The home of a weekly street market that's more than 600 years old
Hooglandse Kerk

Passing by

Stunning, massive Cathedral in the heart of Leiden's oldest quarter.
Burcht van Leiden

Passing by

A Burcht dating back from 1100.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

We will meet at the base of the Molen de Valk, between the Canal and the Fietspad (Bike Path).

End point

Stop and take in the views of a 1000+ year old fortress.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.