INTERVIEW WITH RESEARCHER FROM NATURALIS
SHOPPING TIPS
REGIONAL PRODUCTS
MARKETS
TASTY TIPS
STAY THE NIGHT
TIPS FROM BLOGGERS
450 YEARS OF LEIDEN UNIVERSITY
38 EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
42
Katwijk
Oegstgeest
N44
A4 Voorschoten
Wassenaar
Cyclingthrough the region
8.8 km Vuurbaakplein, Katwijk aan Zee
Tourist Office Wassenaar, Langstraat 40 5.2 km Voorschoten Centre, Schoolstraat
Tourist Office Voorschoten, Voorstraat 17
Oegstgeest Centre, De Kempenaerstraat
Tourist Office Leiden, Stationsweg 26
Beach Wassenaarseslag
6.5 km Leiden Centre, bicycle parking Waagstalling
3.2 km Tourist Office Warmond, Gemeentehaven 3
2.2 km Castle Oud-Poelgeest, Poelgeesterweg 1
6.6 km Tourist Office Katwijk, Zwaaikom / Prins Hendrikkade
Tip : Rent a bike at EasyFiets in Leiden, Sidney Tweewielers in Wassenaar or Lemonbike in Katwijk. Choose your route at streekvanverrassingen.nl/en/routes.
13 museums in Leiden, Key to Discovery
With 28 fantastic museums in the region, it can be difficult to choose which one to visit. Plus there are loads of great exhibitions again this season. So hop on your bike and admire the art and culture on offer in your region!
It is said that Leiden’s 13 museums stem from the passion for collecting of the various scientists and academics who have taught at Leiden University over the centuries. Founded in 1575, the university is the oldest in the Netherlands and is celebrating its 450th anniversary this year.
Japanmuseum
SieboldHuis houses the finest pieces from Japan behind a historical Dutch facade.
Visit the exhibition ‘Anaïs López –the Turtle and the Monk’, a larger-than-life story here (until 7 December).
Nice tip!
Walk the Science Route, a tribute to science in Leiden. Available in English at Tourist Office Leiden, this route takes you along 28 scientific and historic discoveries.
Stimulate your senses: feel, experience and enjoy! The ‘Journey Through the Human Body’ experience at CORPUS takes you on a spectacular journey of discovery through the human body. It’s a great day out for the entire family!
Naturalis presents an exhibition on an entire herd of Triceratops. After more than a decade of excavation, preparation and research, the five dinosaurs are now on display together for the first time. Unique! On view until 31 August.
Gold plays a unique role in almost every culture, where it’s usually considered a symbol of wealth, power and spirituality. Enchanted by GOLD is on display at Wereldmuseum Leiden until 26 October.
Museum Voorlinden in Wassenaar is the place to go for fans of modern art. ‘The Life of Things’ exhibition is a collection by artists about everyday things, which will be shown here until early November.
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Hello, Auke-Florian!
Hi there. Tell us a bit about yourself. My name is Auke-Florian Hiemstra and I’m an animal construction researcher at Naturalis. I research animal nests made of artificial materials, i.e. materials created by humans.
How do man-made materials affect animals?
Animals adapt to human behaviour. Some birds, such as coots, use litter in their nests. While a plastic bag is typically only used by a person for a few minutes on average, a coot can nest on it for months.
What was the craziest nest material you’ve ever seen? A magpie made a nest out of anti-bird spikes. Isn’t that bizarre? It was the ultimate adaptation to city life! The nest was found and brought to my attention through a citizen science project.
What
is citizen
science?
It’s about involving residents in your research. The reach and support of an entire region are hugely valuable for science.
What’s coming up on your calendar? We celebrate World Biodiversity Day every year, where we discuss the state of biodiversity and what people can do to give nature a helping hand. World Biodiversity Day falls on 22 May and we’re organising an open evening called Naturalis Nights on that day.
Did you know... the museum is just the tip of the iceberg at Naturalis? The large tower next to the museum is home to most of the collection of 43 million (!) objects that form the basis for scientific research. You can visit the LiveScience hall free of charge and get up close and personal with science. Put your questions to researchers!
Photo: Alexander Schippers
Pioneers of art
The famous Dutch painter Jan Steen was from the same period as Rembrandt and grew up in Leiden. He also lived and worked in nearby Warmond for several years. Go on the Jan Steen Walk in Warmond to follow in his footsteps and discover his humorous and ironic outlook on life. The walk is available online and at VVV Warmond.
Did you know that Rembrandt was a Leiden native?
The 17th-century premises of the Young Rembrandt Studio on the Langebrug in Leiden is where he learned to draw, paint and etch as a child. Get a glimpse of his life here through an impressive 3D video experience.
Local culture
From international and national luminaries to local makers, discover art and history from the region.
Museum Voorschoten is the museum of, for and about Voorschoten with a particular emphasis on the village’s history. Exhibitions, lectures and a collection of local art, photos and more allow you to explore the history of the village’s historic centre. The exhibition ’80 jaar vrij! Bevrijding, herdenken en vieren in Voorschoten’ (80 years free! Liberation, remembrance and celebration in Voorschoten) is on display at the museum until 6 July.
Learn about the history of Katwijk Artists’ Village at the Katwijks Museum. The museum displays an extraordinary collection of paintings by well-known Dutch and international painters who were inspired by the daily life of the fishing community around 1900 and the impressive colours and views over the sea. At the time, Katwijk was the second-largest artists’ colony in Europe! The museum will open two new exhibitions in May: ‘ Sailing for Freedom’ starts on 4 May and the exhibition ‘German Grobe, the Donation’ starts on 18 May. Both will be on show until 7 September.
The artists painted ‘en plein air’, i.e. outdoors. Kunstvereeniging Katwijk honours this Dutch painting tradition by organising Katwijk En Plein Air. Afterwards, the works will be exhibited in the DUNAatelier, which is free to visit on the promenade.
Tourist Office Leiden has many great walking routes for just €6.95 per route. Favourites include the Leiden Loop for when you really want to get to know Leiden and, of course, the Rembrandt Route.
Culture is brought to life in the... theatre!
Did you know that Leiden is home to the oldest theatre in the Netherlands? The Leiden Schouwburg has been around for 320 years and is still the place to go for an entertaining evening of music, theatre or cabaret. Find the entire programme in the event calendar on streekvanverrassingen.nl/en, where you can also see which performances are ‘language no problem’.
Café Caat opened this year next to the Stadsgehoorzaal concert hall in Breestraat. It’s a vibrant, accessible place to gather before and after concerts.
Skipper Ahoy!
Who? Job Wolfslag, skipper at Leidse Rederij. I started sailing at the age of six and have worked at the Leidse Rederij for two years. So water really is my thing.
How did you become a skipper? I saw a tour boat sail by with a ‘skippers wanted’ notice. My various books about Leiden are great resources for the stories I pass on to the guests, and I learn a lot from the stories of fellow skippers.
“Sailing along the region’s Limes waterways is a great experience!”
What are some of the beautiful unknown places along the route?
The memorial stone with five riddles at the Sint Jeroensbrug in Leiden immediately comes to mind. Also impressive is the Uitwateringsluis drainage lock in Katwijk. It is the terminus of the Limes - the ancient border of the Roman Empire.
Where do you often sail as a skipper? From Leiden to Katwijk and back. But I can also moor at Oud Poelgeest Castle and sail on the Kagerplassen lakes and Het Joppe lake. Not to mention Leiden’s 28 kilometres of canals! We offer a fantastic variety of options.
Fun fact! The sloops ‘Sodejuh’ and ‘Nondejuh’ were originally lifeboats belonging to a Royal Naval frigate but they are now part of the Leidse Rederij fleet.
Cruises and boat rental
Did you know that Leiden has has more than 28 kilometres of canals and surrounding moats? And that all municipalities in the region are connected by waterways and lakes? Head out on the water, hire a boat or book a cruise.
Sailing tour
Rederij van Hulst offers numerous theme cruises through the region. ‘Sail the Limes’ around Leiden, take the ‘Mills and Lakes Tour’ from Katwijk, or enjoy the ‘Mills Cruise’ from the Gemeentehaven marina in Warmond.
Book a scenic 50-minute boat tour around Leiden’s canals with Bootjes en Broodjes and the skipper will tell you all about the city’s rich history. Or rent an electric sloop and explore the region on your own.
Columbus Watersport offers boat tours with a skipper through both Leiden and Voorschoten. Or rent an electric sloop, suitable for up to 8 or 12 people.
Interested in a BBQ boat, drinks boat, pizza boat or a sailing and walking tour? You can book various packages at Rondvaart Leiden. Join the city sailing tour or put together your own. You can even paddleboard on the canals here!
Sailing route through the city and region
For this sailing route, follow the Sloepennetwerk route numbers that are easily visible both online and along the water. You will see and enjoy even more with a leisurely sail around the city and region.
This route starts at the Zijlpoort in Leiden, route number 39. Built in 1667, did you know that this is one of the two remaining city gates? It’s now home to Brasserie de Poort, where you can share a table full of dishes. You can moor here as a visitor or spend the night at the passenger port.
Sail along the surrounding city moats to number 54, the junction between the Witte Singel and De Vliet. This is where the Geuzen (members of the Dutch rebellion) sailed into the city in 1574 to free Leiden from the Spanish siege. The following year, Leiden was gifted a university as thanks for its brave resistance. Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands and is celebrating its 450th anniversary this year!
Continue to number 55 and then turn right to number 1. Once there, you will see Restaurant Allemansgeest at the corner of the T-junction. This historic white farmhouse in Voorschoten is tucked away on the Vliet and offers fine dining with traditional and modern French cuisine.
Sail on to number 45 via numbers 44 and 6. This part of the trip takes you over the Rhine. It used to be the border of the Roman Empire, known as the Limes (Latin for border). The Limes ends in the sea near Katwijk and is the Netherlands’ largest archaeological monument and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Torenmuseum Valkenburg is located along the sailing route. It’s home to numerous archaeological finds from Roman times when a fort known as a castellum stood here. The museum is open on Saturdays.
Via numbers 23 and 43, you sail through Oegstgeest to number 75 in Warmond. Moor here and enjoy a drink at Theekoepel Park Groot Leerust.
Or sail across ‘t Joppe to Waterlust de Kaagsociëteit on the other side. A restaurant where everyone is welcome!
To complete the route, sail back to the Zijlpoort in Leiden via numbers 20 and 19.
Be sporty ON THE WATER
Both beginner and advanced kitesurfers are welcome at Windhoek Kitesurfing School Wassenaar. Take introductory kitesurfing lessons or even sign up for a Kite Foil Clinic. It’s a great way to have fun on the water!
GearFreak opened at Valkenburgse Meer in Katwijk in 2024 and is the place to go for water sports gear. The GearFreak Surfcenter also offers lessons for various water sports.
Kids tip: For years now, Surfschool Katwijk has successfully run surf camps for kids and young people aged 7-12 and 12-16. The surf camp is a day camp, with no overnight stay, and it’s incredibly popular. Kids become acquainted with all kinds of beach and water activities that focus on surfing.
Unique: Join the Grachtwacht (Canal Watch) clean-up. Every week, they canoe along Leiden’s canals to remove plastic from the water. More than 1,000 people have already sailed with this initiative and the best finds are presented in the bridge keeper’s house on the Marebrug. You can register via degrachtwacht.nl/en.
Scan for all tips
Photo: Peter de Graaff
Photo: Jacob Kaptein
Rogier’s green thumb
Who? Rogier van Vugt, head of horticulture at the Hortus botanicus Leiden. I am involved in the Hortus’ policy regarding the care of troublesome plants. So my work is quite varied! I teach people about plants because there is a lot of plant blindness.
What is plant blindness? People see plants as decoration or food but often don’t know the story behind them. Plants become a lot more interesting once you know more about their backgrounds. For example, did you know that the Aztecs grew dahlias as vegetables?
What are your 3 tips in the Hortus?
The Victoria: the giant water lily. This one could even support the weight of a small child.
The new Mediterranean Garden: you get a real Mediterranean feel when walking through it!
The Tropical greenhouses: a veritable jungle in the middle of Leiden! It’s an ecosystem in a glass dome.
What surprising facts do you know about nature in the region?
The Meijendel dune area in Wassenaar is home to an unusual orchid. It’s the epicentre of one of only two regions in the world where this flower grows. Truly unique!
The rare dodder plant grows in the dunes of Katwijk. This parasitic plant is a kind of Dracula of the plant kingdom.
Photo: Hielco Kuipers
Enjoy the outdoors!
Hortus botanicus Leiden is located in the middle of Leiden and is the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands. It grew Europe’s first large tulip collection, the basis for the worldfamous Bulb Region. Beautiful plants bloom here year-round. Rogier (see page 17) works in this garden.
The Ginkgo biloba in the Hortus botanicus Leiden was voted The Tree of the Year 2024 in the Netherlands.
TIP! Want to enjoy nature with the kids? Hire a DikkeStep (Fat Tire) e-scooter from Fietsverhuur Voorschoten and whiz through nature!
Nature
Castles in the region
La France? Mais non! You don’t need to go abroad to see castles.
Feel like you have stepped back into the 17th century during a visit to Oud Poelgeest Castle, the former home of Professor Boerhaave. Entry to the estate is free and, with 10 hectares of greenery, it is a great place for a walk! Take a seat on the terrace overlooking the castle and enjoy delicious seasonal dishes.
Duivenvoorde Castle celebrates its 800th anniversary in 2026 and has been passed down within the same family for generations, which means eight centuries of tangible family history.
New! Paviljoen Duivenvoorde is located in the Leidsche Tuin. The menu is seasonally inspired and offers a selection of fresh, artisanal dishes prepared with ingredients from local suppliers. Look closely and you might see the peacocks that like to roam around here.
Huys te Warmont is one of Warmond’s gems. The oldest part of the castle was built around 1300 by the Van der Woude family, the lords of Warmond. In the late 16th century, this was the residence of Johan Duivenvoorde, the admiral of the Watergeuzen rebel forces during the Siege of Leiden. The castle is located in the Bos van Krantz park forest, a beautiful area for walking and hiking.
You would be forgiven for thinking that the romantic Wittenburg Castle in Wassenaar is home to a fairytale princess. It has a beautiful long drive and you can enjoy lunch and dinner at Restaurant Sophie.
Strolling throughKatwijk’s dunes...…
Katwijk is in the middle of Hollandse Duinen National Park. The special, unique landscape was created by rising sea levels more than 5,000 years ago. Katwijk is also home to Vlaggeduin. At 37 metres, it’s the highest natural point in South Holland! The Duinroos walking route takes you past the Vlaggeduin and the lush nature and special animals that live there, such as Scottish Highlanders. You can also cycle the ‘Dune and Sea Route’ from city to beach (or vice versa).
Stop at one of Katwijk’s award-winning beach pavilions along the way. ‘Het Strand’ is celebrating its 30th anniversary! Last year they were named the ‘Best Beach Pavilion of South Holland’, a title also won by ‘Zee en Zon’ and ‘Surf en Beach’ in the previous three years.
…to Wassenaar!
Meijendel is the largest contiguous dune area in South Holland. Make De Tapuit visitor centre the base for your walk and a source of inspiration. Children will love climbing and clambering around at Monkeybos playground located near De Tapuit. Tip: replenish your energy in no time with a pancake at Boerderij Meyendel. Delicious!
Kijfhoek & Bierlap is a grazing area and part of the Meijendel dune region. Who knows, you just might see one of the Galloway cattle or Konik horses.
Lentevreugd covers just under 100 hectares and is a former bulb field from the 1920s. A herd of around 45 Scottish Highland cattle now graze here.
To the beach
Explore the dunes with Danny!
Please introduce yourself
My name is Danny Stam and I have been working as a dune ranger for Dunea since 2020. I monitor the Meijendel and Berkheide (in Wassenaar and Katwijk) dune areas, provide information to visitors and contribute to nature monitoring. No day is ever the same!
What made you want to become a dune ranger?
Thanks to various training courses, I discovered the profession of dune ranger. The more you learn about nature, the more interesting it becomes. You become more conscious of it and increasingly aware of the details.
What makes Berkheide and Meijendel so special?
These dune areas are an indispensable habitat for thousands of plants and animals, while simultaneously offering space for people to enjoy nature during a nice walk. There is a unique balance between nature, recreation and water extraction.
Did you know that...
Dunea purifies drinking water in three dune areas. The drinking water in this area comes from the Berkheide dunes!
Danny’s tip
The view is amazing from the Meijendelseberg. You really experience peace and a sense of space. If you pay close attention to what is around you in the dunes, you will see the extreme beauty of nature!
Discover the highlights
Shop till you
Get some fish from Nicoline in Katwijk!
Please introduce yourself.
My name is Nicoline Schuitemaker and I work in the family business Schuitemaker’s Vishandel in Katwijk. I am responsible for human resources management and external contacts.
Can you tell us a bit about the history of your family’s fish business? My grandfather founded Schuitemaker more than 100 years ago. He passed through Wassenaar with the fish cart in 1920 and later went out to sea himself on the cutters. Nine family members currently still work in the company.
Books on the Bree
Enjoy reading during your holidays? Then a visit to the Mayflower international bookshop on Leiden’s Breestraat is a must. You’ll not only find the latest books but also second-hand ones at low prices.
Fun fact! Apart from the fishing itself, Schuitemaker also has the entire fish chain in-house: from auction to customer sales. They also smoke their own salmon.
Do you have a tasty recipe?
Of course! Fry both sides of a nice piece of cod or haddock (keep an eye on the timing!) and then stirfry samphire with a little oil and a knob of butter. That’s it. A good piece of fish doesn’t need much embellishment. Fresh fish combined with the saltiness of samphire: a match made in heaven!
When not in Katwijk, where do you like to go? I love visiting vibrant Leiden because there is so much to see and do. From shopping to courtyard gardens. The nearby park-like town of Oegstgeest also has its own special feel.
Lifestyle and gifts
Depot 258 in Voorschoten is the shop to go to for home decor, gifts, lifestyle and more. The cheerful proprietresses are happy to help you in their shop on Schoolstraat.
drop!
WO/MAN
Head to the new WO/MAN concept store in Katwijk aan Zee for clothing, home accessories and vintage finds.
For the little ones
Harlem Kids is a cheerful children’s shop on Haarlemmerstraat, Leiden. You will find children’s clothes, stuffed animals, toys, jewellery and accessories for children’s rooms.
Roest Conceptstore in Katwijk aan Zee sells the finest brands in fashion, interiors and children’s items. You’ll be pleasantly surprised!
Gifts for him and her, for yourself, your kids, or your bestie. That’s KLAAR Conceptstore in Oegstgeest. A shop with a wonderful vibe, where you can take your time to browse and explore.
At the beginning of the Kerkstraat in Wassenaar, in a charming little boutique, is Atelier Soof - the kids store. They make bespoke, personalised products under their own label ‘Atelier Soof’. Stop by the studio and have a look!
Treat yourself in Leiden
Leiden never fails to surprise. The city oozes history, creativity and charm, all of which are reflected in its shopping and culinary hotspots. From hidden gems to new favourites, find great places to shop, dine and enjoy.
3 cool shops
Scandinavian design paradise
Søstrene Grene on Haarlemmerstraat is the place to go for fans of Scandinavian design. You’ll find minimalist furniture, fine home accessories and creative DIY products. Everything exudes simplicity and functionality. Ideal for giving your interior a stylish update. Will we see you there?
Vintage per kilo
Find unique second-hand vintage items at Kilo Kilo Leiden. Instead of paying a fixed price per item, you pay based on how much your shopping weighs. How cool is that! Whether you’re looking for retro jackets, denim classics or colourful prints, this shop offers a carefully curated collection that will help you make a lasting statement.
Forever toys
Sazo Kids & Co sells toys that last for generations. From handmade soft toys to beautiful wooden trains, it’s all about quality and imaginative play here. All products are carefully selected and made in Europe, so you are assured of durable, safe and creative toys for children of all ages.
3 delicious discoveries
Relax and enjoy
Café de Gaper is a culinary hotspot along one of the most beautiful canals in the Netherlands. Its menu is packed with tasty dishes and fine wines that you can enjoy in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re interested in multiple courses or just want to share snacks and drinks with friends, it’s all possible here.
Bistro Bar with character
With an impressive bar, sunny terrace and stylish interior, Grenare Urban Bistro Bar is a versatile culinary hotspot on the canal. The menu features a mix of classic bistro favourites and contemporary dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. Whether visiting for a drink, a quick lunch or a sumptuous dinner, you’re guaranteed a tasteful experience at Grenare.
A bit of Spain in Leiden
Los Cosmos brings the flavours of Spain to Leiden. From crispy patatas bravas to the best Iberico ham, each dish is a journey in itself. Perfect for a cosy dinner, a relaxed lunch or a variety of snacks and drinks.
Shopping in Leiden
Cookbook author Susan Aretz’s regional favourites
Living in Leiden, the region is like an extensive treasure trove full of fantastic shops and places to eat. Join me on a little tour of my favourites!
Foto’s: Joorkitchen.
Photo: JoorKitchen
Wassenaar
Stal den Hollander Farm is where I get fresh Beemster cheese made with milk from their own cows. They also sell other local produce.
Voorschoten
Mona Lisa Delicatessen is perfect for when you have a craving for Italian food. The owners make everything fresh daily and you can eat in or grab a takeaway. Delizioso!
Katwijk
Located on the Voorstraat, fish restaurant Schuitemaker serves the tastiest seafood dishes.
Leiden
No list of favourites would be complete without including my home town of Leiden. If you’re looking for me this summer, try Café Visscher’s terracemy home away from home!
Discover more hotspots from Susan
Olga’s tips
“I love sharing my passion for local produce with people.”
Hi, what’s your name? I’m Olga Sprangers, founder of Farms Around, an online platform for local produce.
What is Farms Around? Farms Around was created to make local food accessible for everyone. The ambition is for Farms Around to become the local guide for regional produce in Europe.
What are your tips for a tasty regional breakfast, Olga?
• Leiden cheese from Sweylanthoeve in Warmond
• Dairy from Boterhuys Farm
• Eggs from Nellesteijn Farm in Wassenaar
Any more tips? Hop on a bakfiets (cargo bike) and head to the Kagerplassen lakes or walk through the dunes of Wassenaar. Fun activity: stroll through WIJdehorst Garden Farm and see how vegetables grow.
Regional products
Delicious, local and healthy, this region has it all in abundance! Landgoedwinkel Oogst in Leiden is run by farmer Joost van Schie from Eenzaamheid farm in Warmond. At Oogst, they are working with a growing group of farmers, makers and connoisseurs to build a greener, more enjoyable food system. They call it a new farm shop and it’s stocked with loads of local treats!
A cup of coffee with...
a delicious biscuit from the local bakery. Oerbakker Oegstgeest is the only bakery that makes the ‘Oegstgeester Dakpan’, a delicious crumbly shortbread biscuit.
Banketbakkerij Krijn Verdoes pastry shop in Katwijk bakes the ‘Kattukse Knip’. Local fishermen often took this biscuit with them when heading out to sea. This sweet treat is known as ‘Jan Hagel’ in the rest of the Netherlands.
Stadsbakkerij Water & Bloem is located in a historical building in Leiden. Tip! Try the croissant with pistachio frangipane. On Saturdays, you will also find Mattijs’ rolls from the bakery at Landgoedwinkel Oogst.
Mamie Gourmande is a traditional French bakery in Leiden. They bake fabulous French bread and other delicacies in their own oven, six days a week.
Enjoy the regional treats!
Taste the region... at the market!
The Leiden market has been around for over 900 years. Head to the New Rhine on Wednesdays and Saturdays for fresh fish, vegetables, nuts and other delicacies. The Saturday market is a regional icon that attracts a pleasant liveliness to the city.
In Wassenaar, the PUUR Natuur Market takes place every last Saturday of the month through November. Stroll past stalls full of organic and local produce, where producers will happily tell you all about the ingredients, origins and production process.
Regional Markets
Tuesday Oegstgeest, Rijnsburg, Wassenaar
Wednesday Leiden city centre
Friday Katwijk, Voorschoten
Saturday Leiden city centre, Warmond
Sun, sea & markets! In addition to the weekly Tuesday and Friday markets, Katwijk is also home to charming seaside markets every summer. The famous Tourist Market has been around for over 50 years and will once again be held on Princestraat and Voorstraat from 24 June - 26 August. Besides the market stalls, there will be demonstrations, workshops and performances for visitors of all ages. A market with changing themes is held on Andreasplein every week. How fun!
Warmond is bursting with charming markets! The Book Market on 29 May is a paradise for bookworms. Or visit the Paper Art Market on 9 June and find origami, old postcards, prints and more. The Textile Market on Dorpsstraat will be held just under a week later, on 15 June. What a selection!
To the Sea – It Works 8 tips for
Breakfast on the Beach
Did you know that 10 beach pavilions in Katwijk are open all year round? A trip to the beach is always relaxing, whether you’re soaking up the sun or enjoying the fresh sea breeze. Start your day at Strandpaviljoen SandCBar or Strandpaviljoen De Watering with a delicious breakfast. De Watering is named after the “Uitwatering,” where the Old Rhine flows into the sea.
Coffee Time!
Lunchroom Goud has a brand-new menu featuring sweet treats, all freshly prepared. You can also grab a coffee or a quick takeaway lunch—perfect for a beach walk.
At Brownies&downieS Katwijk, they believe “Pure is Perfect.” Their special team of employees, or “co-workers,” will make your visit unforgettable. Enjoy their extensive coffee and lunch menu in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Dining in Style
At Madame Rose, you’ll find dishes inspired by cuisines from all continents. This is one of Katwijk’s newest restaurants, featuring a stunning interior. Looking for more than just a meal?
Grand Café Noordeinde in Rijnsburg offers an extensive menu, regularly hosts events, rents out a luxury sloop for boat trips, and even provides the unique experience of staying overnight in a church.
Works Up an Appetite... Katwijk!
A Piece of History – Katwijk, the Fishing Village
Since the Middle Ages, Katwijk’s fishermen launched their boats directly from the beach, as there was no sea harbor. From 1830 onward, they used the “bomschuit,” an iconic flat-bottomed ship. Today, Katwijk’s fishing fleet operates from larger harbors, but fishing remains a core part of this charming coastal town. Get a taste at the many fish shops.
Culinary Delight
At Restaurant Sans Souci, a young Italian-Dutch couple serves generous, classic combinations. In March, they received an 8.5 from the culinary critic of Volkskrant Magazine. The hospitality magazine Entree presented the 25 best restobars in the Netherlands, and Andreas Restobar in Katwijk earned an honorable 8th place! Chef Timo surprises guests with a new menu every two months.
Tip: Climb the second-oldest lighthouse in the Netherlands for a breathtaking view, 30 meters above sea level!
Discover more tips
Voorschoten wine!
Please introduce yourself! I am Dick van Straalen, owner of Chateau Deux Filles vineyard in Voorschoten. I have a winery behind our house and a vineyard on the Tuinderspad. The name Deux Filles means two girls and is named after my two daughters. I make a variety of wines.
What are some of your highlights from 25 years of winemaking? The ‘Golden Corkscrew’ award and the silver medal at the 2023 Wijn Keuring van de Lage Landen (Low Countries Wine Awards) for my ‘Voorschoten wit’. Two top wine awards in the Netherlands!
Do you have a wine tip? Raspberry wine! Due to the raspberry’s accessibility in terms of flavour, aroma and finish.
What if you don’t drink wine? Then I think a beer at the Stadsbrouwhuis in Leiden also goes down a treat.
Take a world tour through the region
Want to enjoy French cuisine with a Mediterranean touch? Then head to Villa Beukenhof in Oegstgeest. This atmospheric restaurant has a Parisian feel. Weather permitting, take a seat on the lovely terrace next to the iconic ‘Oude Beuk’, a 300-year-old beech tree! French Joie de Vivre is also present in Wassenaar at SooFrench, a lunchroom and delicatessen all in one. Their menu offers a great mix of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. SooFrench has been voted the best lunchroom in Wassenaar, so it’s definitely worth a visit!
From France to La Dolce Vita. Taste the passion of Italy at Mona Lisa Delicatessen in Voorschoten, new on Schoolstraat. Authentic dishes made with fresh ingredients and based on traditional recipes. On Leiden’s Breestraat, you can enjoy a variety of Italian snacks at Aperitivo. Or create your own ‘Taste of Aperitivo’ by selecting 5 dishes from the extensive menu. Mamma mia!
The journey from Italy to America may seem far but in this region, it is just around the corner. Hudson Leiden and Hudson Voorschoten take you on a road trip across the US. Enjoy a menu of American food classics, such as the famous Hudson Burgers.
Delicious flavours of Asia!
Vietnamese cuisine is a real treat for the taste buds. Enjoy the perfect balance of fresh ingredients and rich spices. A delicious experience full of passion and quality. Taste the authenticity of Vina’s Noodles in Leiden’s Steenstraat. Besides vegetarian Pho noodle soup, Vina has many other goodies on its menu. Love the spring rolls!
Discover the highlights
There’s always time for a good time
Enjoy summer evenings by the water at Brasserie Buitenhuis on the Valkenburgse Meer or along Leiden’s canals. Take a seat on Einstein’s unique terrace boat and watch other boats sail past.
Floor’s coffee & brunch bar in Leiden’s Doezastraat has a completely gluten-free menu. Now that’s special! Sweet or savoury, meat or vegetarian, they have it all here. For worry-free dining, call the chef in advance for specific dietary requirements relating to intolerances or allergies.
Fancy an evening of fun? Step inside Hotel Rumour (new since 2024) at the foot of historic Leiden Castle (known locally as the Burcht van Leiden). It’s not a hotel, but rather a good place to enjoy yourself! They have a great menu and host various fun events. Take part in Disco Bingo or indulge in a movie night at Cinema Royale.
Try them all!
F IJs van Matthijs, Leiden
F Moments, Voorschoten
F Luciano’s, Wassenaar & Leiden
F Krijn Verdoes, Katwijk aan Zee
F Tante Tokkie, Voorschoten
F IJscafé Danice, Oegstgeest & Leiden
F Pistacchio, Katwijk aan Zee
F Soetenso, Leiden
Culinary hotspots
You can find a complete culinary experience on practically every corner of the region.
Hospitality rules at Suzie’s & Van Aken in the heart of Oegstgeest. The host won 4th place in the competition for the prestigious National Hennessy Hospitality Award 2024.
Enjoy carefree dining at Restaurant Van Veen in Wassenaar. A high-level total culinary experience!
De Moerbei in Warmond is a Michelinstarred restaurant where you can enjoy culinary perfection in an intimate setting.
Restaurant Limes aan den Rijn in Valkenburg is proud to be mentioned in the Michelin guide. Their ‘Chef’s tables’ are centrally located in the restaurant and offer a unique peek into the kitchen.
Located on the Vliet in Voorschoten, Restaurant De Knip has a centuries-long history in the hospitality industry: from ferry café to haute-cuisine restaurant with a listing in the 2025 Lekker500.
Clever clogs
Leiden University is celebrating its 450th anniversary in 2025, making it the oldest university in the Netherlands. This will be celebrated with an outdoor exhibition at the Hortus botanicus Leiden. Let’s be honest, a university is nothing without its students, which is why the outdoor exhibition will reflect on 450 years of studying in Leiden. It will highlight Leiden students through the centuries. How did they study in the past? And now? The outdoor exhibition will be on display from 23 April.
Plants and Planets
The Hortus botanicus Leiden will also host a multi-year exhibition on the history and future of life on Earth. The exhibition will open as part of the celebration.
DUTCH BIO SCIENCE WEEK
Visit Leiden from 28 June to 6 July, when everything will revolve around health. The week will close with the Leiden Bio Science Park Open Day on Saturday 5 July. Several locations within the park will offer a glimpse behind the scenes. It will be a day full of discoveries and suitable for all ages. From interesting laboratory tours to food labs, practical workshops and lectures. Be there on time because space is limited!
Tips! Fun hospitality hotspots that day include the Grand Café de Stal and LAB071, both located at Leiden Bio Science Park.
Discover the Dutch Bio Science Week
Leiden Bio Science Park is home to two great museums, Naturalis and CORPUS ‘Journey through the Human Body’.
Visit Naturalis, count the horns of the Triceratops, meet real researchers and find out what they do every day, marvel at the Netherlands during the Ice Age and stand face to face with an African elephant. Every day provides a new experience.
CORPUS: ‘Journey through the Human Body’ is an interactive museum about the human body. Jump on the tongue, feel the heartbeat and take a peek inside the lungs.
Stay the Staynight the night
Are we there yet?!
You don’t have to travel far for the ideal holiday! The region has loads of options for enjoying your free time. For example, Vakantiepark Koningshof in Rijnsburg has camping pitches with private bathroom facilities, as well as luxury premium lodges with verandas. Did you know that Leiden has a city campsite, Stochemhoeve? And Voorschoten has camping pitches and hiker’s huts by the lake at Vlietland recreational area. You can also rent boats, paddleboards and pedal boats here. A good time is guaranteed!
Wake up on the beach
Who wouldn’t want to wake up to fresh sea air? Strandcamping Zuidduinen in Katwijk aan Zee now has two-person glamping tents. It’s great for a cosy couples’ getaway but even seasoned campers will love this campsite in the dunes. Especially with the renovated bathroom facilities and central building. Enjoy a bit of luxury!
On the other side of the same beach, you can camp or rent a holiday home at Molecaten Park Noordduinen, with
its own entrance to the beach on the North Sea coast where you can enjoy the sand, sea and beach bars.
In Wassenaar, you walk straight in amongst the dunes from your campsite at Vakantiepark Duinrell. Or rent a Duinrell bike and explore the surroundings. Children will love the amusement park, Tiki Pool and entertainment team.
Photo: Duinrell
Photo: Mike Zulo
Prefer a super deluxeoption?
More interested in couples-only outings? Then you’ll appreciate the privacy offered by these nice places!
Adults only! Book this at Steenhof Suites in the middle of Leiden city centre. Why not combine a stay in the presidential suite with a visit to the wine cellar of this fine boutique hotel?
Hotel Noordzee offers a lovely stay on Katwijk’s picturesque coast with stunning views over the North Sea.
Wassenaar’s 4-star Fletcher Boutique Hotel Duinoord is located a stone’s throw from the Wassenaarse Slag, a beach entrance accessible from the Meijendel nature reserve.
Scan for all accomodations
Events
Discover the best events all year round! From festivals to themed markets, and party weeks to sailing regattas.
Find the region’s most complete and up-to-date event calendar at ...
MAY
Join us on a culinary journey of discovery during the exclusive Wine Tour Katwijk on 24 May.
JUNE JULY AUGUST
Museums and cultural institutions will open their doors until late into the night during the 17th edition of Museumnacht Leiden on 14 June. You’ll be pleasantly surprised!
Discover castles and estates during Castle Day from June 6 to 9.
Participate in a wine tasting on a historic estate at Wine & Taste at Oud Poelgeest on 8 and 9 June.
Visit the fourth edition of A Midsummer Night at Oud Poelgeest Castle on 21 June and celebrate the longest day of the year together!
*Events and dates subject to change.
Events
With a new theme every week, the Tourist Market takes place in Katwijk aan Zee every Tuesday from 24 June to 26 August.
Visit the Dutch Bio Science Week in Leiden from 28 June to 6 July. It’s a week dedicated to the Future of Health. On Saturday 5 July, the Open Day will offer a rare look behind the scenes.
JUNE JULY AUGUST
Rembrandt’s birthday is on 15 July and is a public holiday in Leiden’s city centre.
On 12 and 13 July, you can walk through a set with hundreds of actors and extras during the Leiden Rembrandt Days. Imagine yourself in Rembrandt’s 17th-century Leiden.
From 31 July to 9 August, Katwijk’s beach will once again be home to the big tent of the North Sea Summer Festival, with various performances and activities.
Visit the Flower Parade Rijnsburg’s mobile flower theatre during the last weekend of the Festival Week on 8, 9 and 10 August.
*Events and dates subject to change.
Events
SEPTEMBER
Enjoy the colourful boat parade during Pride Leiden on 6 September.
During the Weekend of Voorschoten from 12 to 14 September, you can visit the cultural and association market, a car boot sale and the classic car day. This year is the 25th edition!
From 12 to 14 September, Warmond is all about the Schippertjesdagen maritime festival. The Gemeentehaven marina will be full of ships, not to mention the party tent and outdoor terrace.
Various castles, mills and historical sites will be open to the public during Open Monument Day on 13 and 14 September.
On 14 September, enjoy ‘Music around the castle’ at Oud Poelgeest, in collaboration with the Royal Conservatory of The Hague and Big Band concert with world-class singer Lucy Woodward on the pond.
From 15 to 21 September, the Days of Art&Science in Leiden brings together the worlds of art and science.
The Night of Discoveries science festival is on Saturday 20 September in Leiden city centre.
OCTOBER
The Leiden International Film Festival is 11 days of premieres, special film screenings, parties and more. From 9 to 19 October. Also visit the LIFF Summer Special from 5 to 7 June.
NOVEMBER DECEMBER
Leiden is even more magical during the Winter Wonder Weeks from November to January
*Events and dates subject to change.
Routes
Hiking, strolling, or would you rather go cycling? Everything is possible in the region. Cycle through the dunes of Wassenaar and Katwijk, or hike through the centre of the historic city of Leiden. Simply beautiful!
The Dunea & Sea Route,
a 33-kilometer cycling path through Leiden, Wassenaar, and Katwijk, takes you past the most beautiful nature reserves and numerous sights.
Cycle through the Hollandse Duinen National Park, stroll along one of the many beach entrances along the route, enjoy a culinary break at a beach pavilion in Wassenaar or Katwijk, explore the lively boulevard of Katwijk, or visit Rembrandt’s birthplace in Leiden.
The Leiden Loop
offers the perfect starting point for an unforgettable tour along all the highlights of Leiden, the City of Discoveries.
The “Leiden Loop” walking tour is available at the VVV Leiden Tourist Office, Stationsweg 26, for €6.95.
TipsTravander
Lois and Naomi are happy to share their tips in the region with you.
Get lost in the charm of Leiden
Leiden will enchant you with its cosy alleys, beautiful canals and typical Dutch sights. Wandering through hidden streets provided the most wonderful surprises! Along the Groenhazengracht, for instance, we discovered a striking pink house, and the historic area around the Latin School felt like a step back in time. With its authentic buildings and little red shutters, this part of Leiden exudes history. It’s also where the young Rembrandt took his first steps. A walk through this part of the city is a journey through the past, with a villagey feel in the middle of the bustling city.
Nature, beach and delicious discoveries
From vast beaches to lush dunes and artisanal local produce, the Region of Surprises lives up to its name. With its long promenade and cosy beach bars, Katwijk is a great place to not only enjoy the sea and the beach, but also the pure flavours of the region. It is all about local, artisanal and sustainable enjoyment here. Want a sweet treat to take home?
A journey through time at Duivenvoorde Castle
One of the region’s loveliest hidden gems: Duivenvoorde Castle. This castle has been in the same family since the 13th century, so its authentic furnishings and stories have remained almost entirely preserved. This guided audio tour, voiced by the family themselves, takes you back in time. We enjoyed a walk through the Englishstyle park, with stately avenues and a wonderful diversity of flora and fauna.
Leiden International Centre
Looking for information about living in the Leiden region? Leiden International Centre supports international newcomers and their employers in the Leiden region. They provide BSN registration appointments, organise free informative and social events and have a helpdesk for your questions.
More information on leideninternationalcentre.nl
Finished reading?
Pass this mini-magazine on to your neighbors, family, or friends. This way, we share inspiration more sustainably.
Initiative and final editing: Leiden&Partners
Design: Campaigns&Results
In collaboration with: Dorpsmarketing Oegstgeest, Stichting Warmond Promotie, Municipality of Leiden, Municipality of Katwijk, Municipality of Voorschoten, Municipality of Wassenaar, Municipality of Oegstgeest.
Visual material: Simone Both, Dirk van Egmond, Wilke Geurds, Annick Elzenga, Carla Stigter, Duinrell
@streekvanverrassingen @streekvanverrassingen
