Discovering Leiden with Walk the City

A city tour where you not only walk past the highlights of a city, but in the meantime actually learn something about its history, special stories and hidden places? That exists! Namely the XL walk of Walk the City in Leiden. With the app in our pocket, we trekked through the historic city center and discovered how versatile this city really is.

Start at the Aalmarkt

Our walk started at the Aalmarkt. A place where Leiden immediately shows its cozy character. Waterfront terraces, attractive canals and beautiful historic buildings immediately provide the real city feeling. Through the app we immediately got all kinds of nice information (to read and tell) about the buildings along the waterfront and the history of this lively place.

From here we were led step by step through the center. The nice thing about the Walk the City app is that you can walk at your own pace. Stop for a photo, a terrace or a store? No problem.

Historical stories on every street corner

As you walk the route, Leiden really comes alive through the stories along the way. Of course you walk past beautiful old buildings and atmospheric bridges, but it is the background stories that make it special.

For example, we learned about the famous gunpowder disaster of 1807, which destroyed a large part of Leiden. We also discovered that Leiden played a role in the movie Soldier of Orange. During the walk you will pass places that were part of scenes from this famous Dutch film.

And of course about Rembrandt van Rijn. The famous painter was born in Leiden and references to him can still be found throughout the city. The app not only shows you where to look, but also tells fun facts that will make you look at the city with different eyes.

The castle of Leiden

One of the most special places during the route we found to be the gateway to the Burcht of Leiden. This medieval fortress sits on a hill in the middle of the city center and is literally and figuratively a highlight of the walk.

Standing at the top, you have a view of the immediate surroundings and you can really see how historic Leiden is built. Narrow streets, canals and old buildings combine to form a beautiful picture.

Past museums, mills and almshouses

During the walk we passed several museums, the beautiful botanical garden and no less than two different mills. Also the famous almshouses of Leiden were not missed. These are always special hidden places where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Discovering Leiden in a surprising way

The XL Walk the City walk is highly recommended if you want to discover Leiden in a different way. Not only do you walk past the well-known sights, but also past places you would normally just walk past.

The combination of history, special stories and beautiful routes gives you the feeling that you really get to know the city. And because you just follow the walk via your phone, you decide for yourself how long you are on the road.

Are you planning a day trip to Leiden? Then this walk is definitely a fun way to explore the city in a relaxed and surprising way.

Credits photos: OpstapmetLisa