Discover Leiden: From Pilgrims to Painters in Historic Key City

Overview

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

Itinerary

1. Molenmuseum de Valk

   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)

   · Non-stop passage

2. Singelpark

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

   · Non-stop passage

3. One of two of the remaining city gates

   · Non-stop passage

4. Molen de Put

   A 600 year old mill that is still operational.

   · Non-stop passage

5. Hortus Botanicus Leiden

   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.

   · Non-stop passage

6. Leiden University Academic Building

   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.

   · Non-stop passage

7. Pieterskerk Leiden

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

   · Non-stop passage

8. Gravensteen

   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.

   · Non-stop passage

9. Leiden

   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.

   · 3 min

10. Leiden Street Market

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

    · Non-stop passage

11. Hooglandse Kerk

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

    · Non-stop passage

12. Burcht van Leiden

    A Burcht dating back from 1100.

    · Non-stop passage

How to use your ticket

Meeting and end point

What to know before you go

• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Travelers

Cancellation policy

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

• From 1 days before : 100% refunded
• From 0 days before : 0% refunded

This activity can be canceled in case of bad weather or if there aren't enough participants.

Reviews

Product code: 5653357P1

Activity offered by Leiden Walks via Viator.