Leiden University has contributed to the city’s unique atmosphere for almost 450 years. This historical city became home to the first Dutch university in 1575, and many of the university buildings are still located in the picturesque city centre. The medieval centre of Leiden is full of students, student accommodation and university buildings. Enjoy the myriad of lovely restaurants and cafés, the venues for theatre, music and film, or the first-class museums. If you want some time off after your academic efforts, you could also take a boat trip on the canals, or spend some time in one of the city’s parks. And don’t forget the many trendy festivals and other cultural events that are organised in Leiden from January through December, such as the Relief of Leiden on 3 October. It’s the biggest event of the year!

Leiden is a winning combination of small and fun, yet big in character as a student city. Thanks to its compact layout it’s never more than a short bike ride from your accommodation to your faculty, and you’re more or less guaranteed to meet someone you know along the way. What’s more, it’s also centrally located between the Netherlands’ main cities. With a little effort, you can cycle to the beach in 30 minutes, while Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht can all be reached within 45 minutes by train. Our second location in The Hague is only a 10-minute train ride away as well!