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Leiden feels like stepping into a storybook where history and everyday life blend effortlessly. As you wander along its narrow canals,the gentle ripple of water mirrors centuries-old facades,each brick whispering tales of scholars,artists,and explorers. The air carries a subtle mix of fresh bread from cozy bakeries and the earthy scent of nearby gardens,inviting you to slow down and savor the moment. It’s a city that hums quietly with curiosity and warmth,where bicycles glide past quaint cafes and the chatter of locals spills onto cobblestone streets. What’s truly captivating about Leiden is its vibrant intellectual spirit—home to the oldest university in the Netherlands,the city buzzes with youthful energy and a deep respect for knowledge. You’ll find yourself drawn into lively bookshops,tucked-away museums,and lively markets where fresh flowers and local cheeses tempt your senses. The architecture is a charming patchwork of Renaissance buildings and modern touches,giving the city a timeless yet fresh feel. Evenings in Leiden have their own magic. Picture sitting by the canal with a glass of Dutch beer or a cup of rich coffee,watching the golden light dance on the water as the city softens into a peaceful glow. It’s a place that invites you to explore slowly,to listen closely,and to feel connected—not just to the city’s past,but to its warm,welcoming pulse today.
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Eng word: Hello
Eng pronunciation: hah-loh
Local language: Hallo
Eng word: Goodbye
Eng pronunciation: toht zeens
Local language: Tot ziens
Eng word: Thank you
Eng pronunciation: dahnk yuh
Local language: Dank je
Eng word: How much
Eng pronunciation: hoo-veel
Local language: Hoeveel
Eng word: Toilet
Eng pronunciation: twah-let
Local language: Toilet
Eng word: Help me
Eng pronunciation: help may
Local language: Help me
Eng word: Yes
Eng pronunciation: yah
Local language: Ja
Eng word: No
Eng pronunciation: nay
Local language: Nee
Eng word: Excuse me
Eng pronunciation: par-don
Local language: Pardon
Leiden is famous for the Siege of Leiden which occurred during the Eighty Years' War against the Spanish. The city was under siege from October 1573 to October 1574. The resilience of the citizens led to the liberation of the city and is celebrated every year on October 3rd as Leiden's Ontzet.
Founded in 1575 by William I of Orange as a reward to the city for its resistance against Spanish siege, Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands. It has been a center of education and research for centuries, attracting scholars from around the world.
Leiden is proud to be the birthplace of Rembrandt van Rijn, one of the greatest painters and printmakers in European art history. Born in 1606, his early life and work in the city are commemorated in several locations.
Established in 1590, the Hortus Botanicus Leiden is one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world. It was originally created as a garden for medicinal herbs. Over the centuries, it has evolved into a beautiful and diverse collection of plants from all over the globe.
In the 17th and 18th centuries, Leiden was a major textile producer in Europe, known especially for its woolen cloth. The city's wealth during this period funded many of its historic buildings and institutions.
Before sailing to the New World, a group of English Puritans, known as the Pilgrim Fathers, lived and worked in Leiden from 1609 to 1620. Leiden provided them with the freedom to practice their religion and influenced the eventual culture of the United States.
This museum is dedicated to the story of the Pilgrims' stay in Leiden before their voyage on the Mayflower. It offers insights into their lives, the impact of their time in the city, and their significance in American history.
Much like Amsterdam, Leiden is characterized by its beautiful canal system. The city’s historic center is encircled by canals and has been designated a protected cityscape, offering picturesque views and a unique historical atmosphere.
Museum De Lakenhal is Leiden's premier art museum, housing a collection that includes works by old masters such as Lucas van Leyden, Rembrandt, and Jan Steen. The museum itself is located in a beautifully restored 17th-century building that was originally a cloth hall.
TrainThe train is a cost-effective and efficient way to travel from the airport to the main area in Leiden. There is a train station located at the airport where you can catch a train to Leiden Central Station, which is located in the main area of the city.TaxiTaking a taxi is the most convenient and quickest way to get from the airport to the main area in Leiden. Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminal and can take you directly to your destination.Ride ShareUsing a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft is another convenient option for getting from the airport to the main area in Leiden. Simply request a ride through the app and wait for your driver to pick you up at the designated location.Airport Shuttle BusSome airports offer shuttle bus services that can take passengers from the airport to various locations in the city, including the main area in Leiden. Check with the airport information desk for more details on shuttle bus schedules and fares.
In Leiden, the most common Power Adaptor is Type C, Type F.
NS Stations
the train station
€5 for 24 hours
No additional informationVarious shops and hotels offer luggage storage services for touristsLocation not specifiedPrice not specifiedNo additional informationSelf-service lockers available for students and visitorsthe library entrancePrice not specifiedOpening hours: for students and visitors,located at the library entrance,pricing varies based on size and duration
A popular Dutch snack consisting of deep-fried balls filled with a mixture of beef or veal ragout, often served with mustard.
Small, fluffy pancakes that are slightly sweet and typically served with powdered sugar and butter.
Raw herring fish, typically served with onions and pickles, often eaten by holding the fish by the tail and taking a bite.
A traditional Dutch treat made of two thin waffles filled with a caramel-like syrup, best enjoyed warm.
A deep-fried roll filled with meat ragout, similar to bitterballen but shaped like a cylinder, often enjoyed as a snack or light meal.
Leiden is known for its cheese, particularly Gouda and Edam, which can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a cheese platter.
Leiden is known for its cheese, particularly Gouda and Edam, which can be enjoyed on its own or as part of a cheese platter.
Thick-cut fries topped with a combination of peanut sauce, mayonnaise, and onions, creating a unique flavor experience.
Leiden-themed Delftware potteryRembrandt-inspired souvenirs (e.g., prints, books, or art kits)Leiden University merchandise (e.g., hoodies, mugs, or notebooks)Traditional Dutch stroopwafels from a local Leiden bakeryLeiden keychains or magnets featuring the city's landmarksMuseum souvenirs (e.g., Naturalis Biodiversity Center or Rijksmuseum Boerhaave items)Leiden canal boat tour postcards or photo booksLocally brewed craft beer or gin (jenever) from Leiden breweriesHandmade Dutch cheese from a Leiden cheese shopLeiden windmill-themed gifts (e.g., miniature models or artwork)
Imagine stepping into a city where every corner feels like a story waiting to unfold. Amsterdam has this effortlessly charming vibe—laid-back yet buzzing with life. As you wander along its iconic canals,you’ll hear the gentle splash of bike tires on cobblestones and the soft murmur of conversations spilling out from cozy cafés. The air carries a mix of fresh bread from nearby bakeries,the faint aroma of blooming tulips,and sometimes,the earthy scent of rain on old bricks. It’s a place that invites you to slow down and soak in the moment.
The city’s character is a beautiful blend of old-world charm and modern creativity. You’ll find centuries-old canal houses leaning slightly,their tall,narrow facades telling tales of merchants and artists from long ago. Yet,just around the corner,vibrant street art and innovative galleries pulse with contemporary energy. Amsterdam’s culture feels open and welcoming—people here cycle with a relaxed confidence,and there’s a genuine warmth in the way locals share their city.
Don’t miss sitting at a waterside café with a steaming cup of rich Dutch coffee and a slice of stroopwafel,watching boats drift lazily by. The city’s rhythm is unhurried but never dull,inviting you to explore its museums,markets,and hidden courtyards at your own pace. Amsterdam isn’t just a place to see—it’s a place to feel,taste,and live for a little while.
If you wander into Rotterdam,you’ll immediately notice its bold,unapologetic energy—a city that’s constantly reinventing itself with a fresh,modern pulse. Unlike the quaint,storybook charm of other Dutch cities,Rotterdam feels like a vibrant canvas splashed with daring architecture and buzzing creativity. The skyline is a jagged dance of glass and steel,with the iconic Cube Houses tilting playfully and the Erasmus Bridge stretching like a sleek swan over the water. It’s a place where old harbor grit meets futuristic design,and that contrast gives the city a unique heartbeat.
As you stroll along the Maas River,the salty breeze mingles with the aroma of fresh stroopwafels from a nearby market stall,and the hum of bicycles weaving through the streets blends with the distant clang of cranes working the port—the largest in Europe. The city’s cultural scene is alive and kicking,from edgy street art splashed across warehouse walls to cozy cafés where you can sip rich Dutch coffee while watching locals debate passionately about football or art.
What really sticks with you about Rotterdam is its spirit of resilience and innovation. It’s a city that rose from the ashes of World War II bombings,and that history is woven into its character—bold,open-minded,and welcoming. Whether you’re exploring the vibrant food markets,catching a live jazz show,or simply people-watching in a sunlit square,Rotterdam invites you to experience a fresh,dynamic side of the Netherlands that’s as warm as it is exciting.
If you wander into The Hague,you’ll immediately notice a unique blend of stately calm and vibrant life humming beneath the surface. It’s a city where grand government buildings and international courts stand shoulder to shoulder with cozy cafés and leafy parks. The air often carries a faint salty breeze from the nearby North Sea,mingling with the rich aroma of fresh stroopwafels and strong Dutch coffee wafting from street vendors. Walking along the canals,you’ll hear the gentle clatter of bicycles and the soft murmur of locals chatting in a mix of Dutch,English,and other languages,giving the city a wonderfully cosmopolitan yet approachable feel.
What really makes The Hague special is its balance between history and modernity. You can spend your morning exploring the impressive Mauritshuis museum,where Vermeer’s "Girl with a Pearl Earring" seems to watch you back,then stroll over to the buzzing Plein square for a lively lunch surrounded by locals and diplomats alike. The city’s parks,like the sprawling Haagse Bos,offer peaceful green escapes where you can hear birdsong and feel the crunch of leaves underfoot.
Evenings in The Hague have their own charm—whether it’s savoring fresh seafood at a harbor-side restaurant or catching a live jazz set in a tucked-away bar. The city doesn’t shout for attention but invites you to slow down,soak in its layers,and discover a place that feels both worldly and warmly familiar. Trust me,once you’ve experienced The Hague’s understated elegance and friendly pulse,you’ll want to come back for more.
If you wander into Utrecht,you’ll immediately feel this lively,cozy buzz that’s hard to pin down but impossible to ignore. The city’s heart beats along its canals,where old wharfs have been transformed into quirky cafés and boutique shops,their terraces spilling out with people sipping coffee or local craft beers. The scent of fresh bread from nearby bakeries mingles with the crisp air,inviting you to slow down and soak it all in. It’s a place where history and modern life dance effortlessly together—medieval towers stand tall against a backdrop of vibrant street art and bustling markets.
Walking through Utrecht’s narrow streets,you’ll hear the gentle clatter of bicycles weaving past,the chatter of students from the university,and the occasional street musician adding a soundtrack to your stroll. The city’s charm lies in its intimate scale; you can explore the entire center on foot or bike,discovering tucked-away courtyards,cozy bookshops,and lively squares where locals gather. Don’t miss climbing the Dom Tower—the view from the top is breathtaking,revealing a patchwork of red rooftops and green parks stretching out in every direction.
What really makes Utrecht special is its warmth and authenticity. It’s not just a place to see but a place to feel part of. Whether you’re savoring a stroopwafel fresh off the griddle or chatting with a friendly barista,you’ll find a genuine,welcoming spirit here that stays with you long after you leave.
If you’re craving a place where the rhythm of life slows down just enough to savor every moment,Gemeente Texel is your kind of spot. Imagine stepping off the ferry and being greeted by endless stretches of sandy beaches,the salty breeze teasing your hair,and the distant call of seabirds weaving through the air. Texel isn’t just an island; it’s a breath of fresh,salty air that instantly makes you feel grounded and alive. The landscape is a patchwork of dunes,quaint villages,and wide-open skies that stretch so far you almost forget the world beyond.
Walking through the charming streets of Den Burg,the island’s main town,you’ll catch the scent of freshly baked bread mingling with the earthy aroma of local cheeses. The markets buzz with friendly chatter,and you can’t help but be drawn into cozy cafés where the locals sip strong coffee and share stories. Texel’s culture feels deeply connected to the sea and the land — from the fishermen’s tales to the farmers’ markets,everything here has a genuine,heartfelt vibe.
What really makes Texel stand out is how it invites you to slow down and truly experience nature. Whether you’re cycling past blooming fields,spotting seals lazing on the shore,or tasting the island’s famous lamb,there’s a comforting sense of belonging. It’s a place where you can lose track of time,breathe deeply,and leave feeling like you’ve found a little piece of peace.
Antwerpen has this effortlessly cool vibe that sneaks up on you the moment you step off the train. It’s a city where old-world charm meets edgy creativity—think grand,gothic cathedrals standing tall beside sleek,modern boutiques. Walking through its streets,you’ll hear the lively chatter of locals blending Dutch,French,and a sprinkle of international accents,while the scent of fresh waffles and rich coffee drifts from cozy cafés. The river Scheldt adds a gentle rhythm to the city’s heartbeat,with boats lazily drifting by and seagulls calling overhead.
What really makes Antwerpen special is its character. It’s a place where diamonds sparkle not just in the famous district but in the eyes of passionate artisans and designers who’ve made the city their playground. The fashion scene pulses with originality,and you can feel the creative energy in every corner—from the colorful street art to the avant-garde galleries tucked away in narrow alleys. And the food! Imagine biting into a perfectly crispy Belgian waffle,savoring a hearty Flemish stew,or sipping a locally brewed beer in a centuries-old tavern where the wooden beams seem to whisper stories.
Antwerpen invites you to slow down and soak it all in—the cobblestones underfoot,the warm glow of street lamps at dusk,the friendly smiles of shopkeepers eager to share their city’s secrets. It’s a place that feels alive,authentic,and just a little bit magical. Trust me,once you wander its streets,you’ll want to come back again and again.
Devices may be installed on ATMs to steal card information when tourists withdraw cash.
Tourists may be sold fake souvenirs, jewelry, or branded items at inflated prices in markets or shops.
Scammers may create fake listings for apartments or hotels, asking for upfront payments and disappearing after receiving the money.
Scammers posing as charity workers may approach tourists asking for donations to fake causes.
Scammers may sell fake tickets for museums, attractions, or public transport, often at a higher price or for non-existent events.
Some restaurants or cafes near tourist hotspots may charge excessive prices or add hidden fees to the bill.
Unlicensed taxi drivers may overcharge tourists or take unnecessarily long routes to increase the fare.
Tourists in crowded areas, such as train stations or markets, may fall victim to pickpockets who target wallets, phones, and other valuables.
Some street performers may demand high fees after tourists take photos or interact with them, despite no prior agreement.
The Netherlands has a tolerant approach to soft drugs, such as cannabis, which can be purchased and consumed in licensed 'coffeeshops.' However, the use of hard drugs is strictly illegal. Tourists should note that while cannabis is tolerated, it is not legal, and there are strict regulations regarding its sale and consumption. It is illegal to possess more than 5 grams of cannabis, and it is prohibited to smoke cannabis in public places, including streets and parks. Always consume cannabis responsibly and within the confines of a licensed establishment.
In Leiden, as in the rest of the Netherlands, smoking is prohibited in all public indoor spaces, including restaurants, bars, and cafes. Smoking is also banned in public transportation and in many outdoor areas such as playgrounds and school grounds. Designated smoking areas may be available in some places. Tourists should look for signs indicating where smoking is allowed and be mindful of local regulations to avoid fines.
Vaping is subject to similar regulations as smoking in Leiden. It is prohibited in indoor public spaces, public transportation, and many outdoor areas where smoking is also banned. Some establishments may have designated areas for vaping. Tourists should be aware of and respect these rules to avoid penalties.
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