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Leiden Travel
Giant water lilies in the tropical glasshouse of the Hortus botanicus Leiden

Hortus botanicus — where the Dutch tulip story began

The university's botanical garden is the oldest in the country and one of the oldest in the world. This is where Carolus Clusius planted the first tulip bulbs in the Low Countries in the 1590s — the seed of an entire national obsession.

Highlights of the garden

  • The reconstructed Clusiustuin with the tulip varieties of 1594.
  • Tropical glasshouses with orchids, carnivorous plants and a Victoria water lily.
  • The Von Siebold Memorial Garden, a Japanese garden honouring Leiden's link with Japan.
  • A 340-year-old laburnum and one of Europe's oldest wisterias.

Best time to visit

April and May for tulips and blossom, June for the roses and the perennial borders, and any rainy day at all for the warm glasshouses. Winter is quiet and atmospheric, with the tropical houses at their best.

Practical information

  • Entrance at Rapenburg 73, next to the Academy Building.
  • Allow 1.5 hours; there is a garden café with terrace.
  • Main paths are flat and accessible; the Japanese garden has gravel.
  • Tickets online or at the gate; Museumkaart is accepted.

Location, opening hours & tickets

Address

Hortus botanicus Leiden
Rapenburg 73
2311 GJ Leiden

15-minute walk from Leiden Centraal

Get directions Official website

Opening hours

Monday10:00–17:00
Tuesday10:00–17:00
Wednesday10:00–17:00
Thursday10:00–17:00
Friday10:00–17:00
Saturday10:00–17:00
Sunday10:00–17:00

Spring and summer (21 March–20 September): 09:00–18:00. Autumn and winter (21 September–20 March): 10:00–17:00. Closed on 3 October and from 25 December through 1 January.

Admission

€ 14Museumkaart accepted

Opening hours and prices are indicative — check the official website before your visit, especially around public holidays.

Current ticket options

Choose an option. Tiqets confirms the final price, availability and conditions.

External booking via Tiqets

Frequently asked questions

What are the opening hours of Hortus botanicus Leiden?
Hortus botanicus Leiden is open on Mon–Sun 10:00–17:00. Open daily. Spring and summer (21 March–20 September): 09:00–18:00. Autumn and winter (21 September–20 March): 10:00–17:00. Closed on 3 October and from 25 December through 1 January.
How much is a ticket for Hortus botanicus Leiden?
The listed standard adult admission price for Hortus botanicus Leiden is € 14. Check the official website for the current rate and exceptions. Entry is included with a Museumkaart.
Can you buy tickets for Hortus botanicus Leiden online?
A current booking option for Hortus botanicus Leiden is available from our ticket partner on this page. Check the provider's price, availability and terms before paying.
How do I get to Hortus botanicus Leiden?
Hortus botanicus Leiden is a 15-minute walk from Leiden Centraal.

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