Shopping in Leiden

In the mood for a day of shopping? Then Leiden is a wonderful city to explore! Compact, historic, and surprisingly diverse. On the main shopping streets, you’ll find all the well-known chains, but the really fun shops are tucked away in the narrow alleys along the canals. Think charming concept stores, vintage boutiques, and home decor shops where you’ll want to linger for a while. We’ve found them for you.

The Main Shopping Streets

Haarlemmerstraat

Anyone who goes shopping in Leiden will end up on Haarlemmerstraat sooner or later. This is the city’s busiest shopping street, with major chains alongside small shops and places to grab a quick bite. Are you crazy about sneakers? Then pop into The Golden Bean at number 15.

Breestraat

One street over is Breestraat, which runs right through the historic center. As you stroll past the shops, you’ll be treated to stunning views of historic facades and City Hall, and the Pieterskerk is just a few minutes’ walk away. Here you’ll find Hartendief, among other shops—more on that later. And be sure to stop by Antraciet Living & Fashion, the go-to spot for sustainably made clothing and accessories from Scandinavian, Dutch, and French brands.

For those looking for something special

De Winkel in Leiden is tucked away in a narrow alley behind the Pieterskerk. It’s a home goods store filled with pillows, tableware, candles, and charming little trinkets—perfect if you’re looking for a gift (or want to treat yourself). Where the Hooglandse Kerkgracht meets the Oude Rijn, you’ll find Eduard. This concept store, housed in a beautiful historic building, consciously selects sustainable, handmade, and upcycled products. It’s the place to go for something you won’t find anywhere else.

Studio Alter is located along the banks of the Nieuwe Rijn. The store exudes tranquility and simplicity: think stylish basics for your wardrobe and home, complemented by work from local artisans. Always wanted to have the most beautifully set table? At Tafelwerk Leiden on Hogewoerd, you’ll find everything you need to take your dinner parties to the next level. It’s also a great spot if you’re looking for a gift for someone who loves to cook.

In the Gangetje, just a stone’s throw from the market, you’ll find the fashion boutique Own & Club. Here, you can shop for quality clothing that will last for years, including brands like Samsøe Samsøe and Ateljé. Do you love natural materials and ethically sourced products? Then Pluum by San is the store for you. You’ll find fair-trade home goods and sustainable clothing there, with an online store in case you want to keep shopping from home.

Vintage and Secondhand

Leiden has a vibrant vintage scene. Definitely worth checking out if you’re looking for something original with a story!

Hartendief on Breestraat is a household name among lovers of designer vintage. Here you’ll find carefully curated secondhand pieces from major fashion houses. Chanel fan? Then keep an eye out for their special Chanel events, which take place a few times a year. On Botermarkt, VNTG lets you dive into the fashion of yesteryear, from the swinging ’60s to the early ’90s. This is also the place to go for a vintage bag or piece of jewelry. Time for coffee? Lunchcafé Roos is right next door. At Vintage Island, secondhand clothing gets a second chance. Everything hangs fresh and well-maintained on the racks. Fun fact: you’ll also find authentic cowboy boots there.

Market in Leiden

On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the center of Leiden comes alive with the market. From 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., the stalls line the Nieuwe Rijn, the Botermarkt, the Vismarkt, and the Aalmarkt. You can find just about anything there: from a piece of farmhouse cheese to a new scarf. On Wednesdays, there’s also an organic market. For more info, check out Visit Leiden.

Practical tips for a successful day of shopping in Leiden

• Leiden is compact and easy to explore on foot. Coming by car? Park at the Haagweg parking lot on the outskirts of downtown.
• On Wednesdays and Saturdays, the market makes for a particularly lively atmosphere. Prefer a quieter shopping experience? Then choose another day.
• Check the opening hours of the smaller boutiques in advance—they aren’t always open every day.
• Venture off the main streets: the real gems are hidden in the side streets.
• Make it a full day out with a museum visit or a canal cruise. Find inspiration in our blog about a day trip to Leiden.

Whether you spend the day strolling down Haarlemmerstraat or hunting for that one vintage find in a side alley, shopping in Leiden is always a treat. The historic canals and centuries-old facades make it extra special. So round up your friend, mom, or sister and head out!

Photo credits: OpstapmetLisa