Private Tour of Leiden, Delft and Gouda with Lunch
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore Delft, Rotterdam and Gouda on a full-day private tour. You will get to know three very different, beautiful cities that all played a major role in Dutch history.
First up, you will see Leiden, known its stunning canals and classy streets. Step back in time as you explore its old center. The city that heroically survived a Spanish siege in 1574 is full of stories: it was the home of Dutch Master Rembrandt, the oldest university of the country, and the Pilgrim Fathers.
Next up is Delft, a picturesque town full of centuries-old facades, squares, churches and canals. Discover the city of Johannes Vermeer, known for its blue pottery, the final resting place of the Orange family, and its top-rated Technical University. You'll have lunch here.
Lastly, you'll go to Gouda, with its charming town hall, fascinating weighing house and impressive church. You will explore the old city center, and your guide will tell you all about it. You end the day with a little cheese tasting there.
Available options
Spanish. With pick-up/drop-off
Including pick-up and drop-off: Up to 1 hour before the start time, you will be picked up from the location you select. You are dropped off again afterwards.<br/>Pickup included
Italian. With pick-up/drop-off
Including pick-up and drop-off: Up to 1 hour before the start time, you will be picked up from the location you select. You are dropped off again afterwards.<br/>Pickup included
German guide. Start in Leiden
English guide. Start in Leiden
French guide. Start in Leiden
English. With pick-up/drop-off
Including pick-up and drop-off: Up to 1 hour before the start time, you will be picked up from the location you select. You are dropped off again afterwards.<br/>Pickup included
German. With pick-up/drop-off
Including pick-up and drop-off: Up to 1 hour before the start time, you will be picked up from the location you select. You are dropped off again afterwards.<br/>Pickup included
Dutch. With pick-up/drop-off
Including pick-up and drop-off: Up to 1 hour before the start time, you will be picked up from the location you select. You are dropped off again afterwards.<br/>Pickup included
Italian guide. Start in Leiden
French. With pick-up/drop-off
Including pick-up and drop-off: Up to 1 hour before the start time, you will be picked up from the location you select. You are dropped off again afterwards.<br/>Pickup included
Spanish guide. Start in Leiden
Dutch guide. Start in Leiden
What's included
Lunch in Delft is included
Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off by car (if the option is booked)
All Fees and Taxes
The short transfer between the cities is done either by train or by car.
3 Private City Tours
Cheese tasting in Gouda included (with a drink)
Detailed itinerary
1
Our guide will meet you in front of 'Bruna' on station Leiden Centraal. From here, the tour begins.
2
See the former animal market of Leiden, now a picturesque square not far from the train station.
3
The next thing you will see during the tour is the famous Morspoort, one of the oldest entrances to the city.
4
We will walk past the iconic 17th century windmill Molen de Put. This is the same type of mill that the parents of Rembrandt owned.
5
This square is named after the famous Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn, who used to live in Leiden. Let's find out more about it.
6
We cannot miss the Pieterskerk of course, the most famous church of Leiden. You will learn more about its history (going back to the 12th century!) and current use.
7
The old town hall of Leiden. It is an iconic building that we cannot miss during the tour. Your guide will tell you about it!
8
You will then make your way to Delft, only a 18 minute train ride away.
9
Here in the center of the city, we will find The second-tallest church of The Netherlands! Do you know who's buried underneath? I'll tell you all about it. Also learn about that statue of a man, and the stunning old town hall.
10
You will have lunch on Beestenmarkt square in Delft. This is included in the tour (with a drink).
11
Stop 11
We are now in the old beer brewing quarter of Delft. Where did the brewers go? We will also see the Old Church, perhaps the most recognizable building of the city. How old is it exactly and why is it so skewed? Who knows.
12
Stop 12
This place has played a deciding role in Dutch history. The Father of the Fatherland was assassinated here! Let's find out more about it.
13
On our way down the Oude Delft canal, we will pass by a heavily decorated facade, that of the Gemeenlandshuis. What is this building and why was it so important?
14
Stop 14
You will make your way to the south of the city. We will pass by a large former weapons Armory of the V.O.C. Let's find out more about Delft's role in the golden days of the Dutch Republic. Also around here, we can take a look at the exact spot where Vermeer was standing when he made his painting 'View of Delft'.
15
You will then make your way to Gouda.
16
Stop 16
This is the longest (not tallest!) church of the Netherlands, with the first building phase starting in 1272! Learn more about the building, its history and historical significance.
17
Stop 17
You'll see the former St-Catharine's guest house that now houses Museum Gouda.
18
The tour starts at the historical weighing house of Gouda. FFcenturies, this is where farmers from the wide area used to come to get their cheese weighed on market days.
19
You'll see the charming gothic town hall of Gouda and you';; learn more about its history and significance.
20
You will end the tour with a cheese tasting in Gouda (including a drink).
What's not included
Gratuities (optional)
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
IT
FR
NL
ES
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
If you choose to start in Leiden, our guide will be waiting for at Beestenmarkt square in Leiden, in front of the McDonald's. Because that is easy to find.
About Leiden
Leiden is a historic city in the Netherlands known for its beautiful canals, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. It's the birthplace of Rembrandt and home to the oldest university in the Netherlands, making it a hub for art, science, and education.
Top Attractions
Hortus Botanicus Leiden
One of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, featuring a wide variety of plants, greenhouses, and a Japanese garden.
Nature
2-3 hours
€10.50
Rijksmuseum van Oudheden
A national museum of antiquities with collections from the ancient Mediterranean and the Near East.
Museum
1-2 hours
€15
Leiden University
The oldest university in the Netherlands, known for its historic buildings, beautiful courtyards, and significant contributions to science and art.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free to explore the exterior; some buildings may have entry fees
Molen de Valk
A historic windmill that has been restored to its original condition and offers insights into Leiden's milling history.
Historical
1 hour
€5
Leiden American Pilgrim Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of the Pilgrims who lived in Leiden before sailing to America on the Mayflower.
Historical
1 hour
€7.50
Must-Try Local Dishes
Stamppot
A traditional Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes and vegetables, often served with sausage.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Haring
Raw herring fish, typically served with onions and pickles.
Snack
Contains fish
Poffertjes
Miniature pancakes, often served with powdered sugar and butter.
Dessert
Vegetarian
Popular Activities
Biking
Kayaking
Canal tours
Beach visits
Museum visits
Historical tours
Ice skating (if conditions permit)
Visit the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands
Best Time to Visit
May to September
This is the best time to visit Leiden for pleasant weather and outdoor activities. The city is lively with festivals and events.
15°C to 25°C
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Dutch
- Widely spoken: English, German
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Leiden is generally safe with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious with ATMs
Getting there
By air
- Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 35 km (22 miles)
By train
Leiden Centraal
By bus
Leiden Centraal, Rijksuniversiteit Leiden
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the main form of public transport in Leiden. They are reliable and cover most parts of the city and surrounding areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, TaxiApp
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Binnenstad (City Center)
Mors
Rijnsburgerweg
Day trips
The Hague
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
The political capital of the Netherlands, known for its museums, beaches, and historic sites.
Katwijk
15 km (9 miles) • Half day
A charming coastal town with beautiful beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
Keukenhof Gardens
25 km (15 miles) • Half day
One of the world's largest and most beautiful flower gardens, featuring stunning displays of tulips and other flowers.
Festivals
Leiden Ascent • July
Rembrandt Year • 2019 (next occurrence TBD)
Pro tips
- Visit the Hortus Botanicus early in the morning for a peaceful experience.
- Explore the city by bike for a unique and local perspective.
- Check out the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum for a fascinating look at the city's history.
- Try traditional Dutch dishes like stamppot and haring for an authentic culinary experience.
- Consider purchasing a Leiden City Card for discounted entry to attractions and public transport.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
