Leiden
City in Netherlands
Leiden is a city in the Netherlands with a population of 124,093. Located 35 km from Amsterdam, it is known for its museums and historic architecture.
What to see
The city features several cultural and historical sites. Visitors can explore collections at the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden and Museum Boerhaave. Religious architecture is represented by the Pieterskerk, Leiden, while other notable sites include the Hooglandse Kerk, Museum De Lakenhal, and the Wereldmuseum Leiden.
When to go
Temperatures are mildest from May to September, with daily highs ranging from 16 °C to 20 °C. The period from April to June sees fewer rainy days, averaging between 10 and 12 days per month. Rainfall is more consistent throughout the year, with the highest precipitation occurring in October and November, when it rains on 15 to 17 days.
Getting there
The nearest airport is Rotterdam The Hague Airport in Rotterdam, located 23 km from the city. Leiden is also situated 35 km from Amsterdam.
Top sights in Leiden
Weather by month
The warmest month is August, with an average high of 20 °C. Rain is spread fairly evenly through the year.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average high, °C | 6 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 16 | 18 | 20 | 20 | 18 | 14 | 10 | 6 |
| Average low, °C | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 15 | 15 | 13 | 9 | 6 | 3 |
| Rainfall, mm | 79 | 60 | 68 | 45 | 62 | 70 | 81 | 93 | 94 | 100 | 98 | 88 |
| Rainy days | 16 | 13 | 13 | 10 | 12 | 11 | 14 | 13 | 13 | 15 | 17 | 16 |
Temperatures and rainfall: 1981–2010 averages for Leiden (4 km grid), from CHELSA. Rainy days: 2015–2024, NASA POWER.
Also worth a look
- Hooglandse Kerk
- Museum De Lakenhal
- Wereldmuseum Leiden