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Visitors queuing outside a Leiden cinema during the film festival

Leiden International Film Festival — world cinema in the City of Keys

Each autumn LIFF brings hundreds of films to Leiden: festival hits, debuts and documentaries from around the world, spread across cinemas and historic venues in the old centre.

What the festival offers

  • An international competition with many Dutch premieres.
  • Documentaries, shorts and programmes for emerging filmmakers.
  • Q&As and masterclasses with directors and actors.
  • Everything within walking distance across the historic centre.

Practical information

  • When: every autumn, usually around late October and early November.
  • Tickets: single tickets and passes via the festival site; popular films sell out fast.
  • Most films are in English or shown with English subtitles.
  • Combine with a museum visit or a canal cruise on the same street.

Frequently asked questions

Is LIFF suitable for non-Dutch speakers?
Yes. Much of the programme is international, in English or with English subtitles.
When is the Leiden International Film Festival?
Every autumn, usually ten days spanning the end of October and the start of November.