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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

Opening hours

Monday10:00–18:00
Tuesday10:00–18:00
Wednesday10:00–18:00
Thursday10:00–18:00
Friday10:00–18:00
Saturday10:00–18:00
Sunday10:00–18:00

Admission

€ 10Museumkaart accepted

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

Book tickets

Pick an option, choose your date and book instantly.

Frequently asked questions

What are the opening hours of Hortus botanicus Leiden?
Hortus botanicus Leiden is open on Mon–Sun 10:00–18:00. Open daily. Hours are indicative; check the official website around public holidays.
How much is a ticket for Hortus botanicus Leiden?
A standard adult ticket for Hortus botanicus Leiden costs around € 10. Children and students usually pay less. Entry is included with a Museumkaart.
Can you buy tickets for Hortus botanicus Leiden online?
Yes. You can book tickets for Hortus botanicus Leiden in advance through our ticket partner on this page — pick a date and time slot and receive an e-ticket on your phone. Booking ahead is recommended in holidays and at weekends.
How do I get to Hortus botanicus Leiden?
Hortus botanicus Leiden is a 15-minute walk from Leiden Centraal. Arriving by car? Use a city-centre car park and walk the last stretch.
When is Hortus botanicus Leiden least busy?
Weekday mornings just after opening and the final hour before closing are the quietest times at Hortus botanicus Leiden. School holidays, Sundays and public holidays are busiest.