Hortus botanicus Leiden
Historic botanical garden with glasshouses, unusual plants and quiet spots by the canal.
At a glance
Prices
Advance booking is not required. Buying online saves adults €0.50 and speeds up entry. ICOM and Friends of Leiden Hortus enter free. One essential companion may enter free. The ticket desk and shop accept card payments only.
Plan ahead
Opening hours
- Monday – Sunday
- 09:00–18:00 (21 Mar–20 Sep); 10:00–17:00 (21 Sep–20 Mar)
Why visit?
Green space in the historic centre
The Hortus combines gardens, glasshouses and scientific history. Its slower pace provides a welcome contrast during a busy city day.
Our editorial assessment
How does Hortus botanicus Leiden score?
A strong mix of calm, history and plants; best in fair weather, though the glasshouses reduce weather dependence.
Leiden
Score breakdown
Gardens
9.1/10Atmosphere
9.3/10Educational Value
8.5/10Weather Proofing
7.8/10✓ How we assessed it
The score is weighted using factors relevant to this type of place. It is our editorial assessment, not an average of visitor ratings.
Assessment based on checked sources; an on-site visit is only stated when one actually took place.Sources checked
View the score calculation
Frequently asked questions
How much is admission to Hortus botanicus Leiden?
On 23 July 2026, adult admission is €13.50 online or €14 at the ticket desk. Ages 4–18, students and CJP holders pay €6; ages 0–3 enter free. Museumkaart, ICOM and a valid LU-card for Leiden University students provide free admission.
When is Hortus botanicus Leiden open?
It opens daily 09:00–18:00 from 21 March through 20 September and 10:00–17:00 from 21 September through 20 March. The Hortus closes on 3 October and from 25 December through 1 January.
How long do you need at the Leiden Hortus?
Allow about two hours for the gardens and glasshouses. With extensive photography, a seasonal walk, café stop or Plants & Planets visit, two and a half hours is more realistic.
Is Hortus botanicus Leiden good for children?
Yes, especially for children curious about nature, unusual plants and glasshouses. Trails and holiday activities run regularly. Without a programme it is less interactive than Naturalis or Boerhaave. Children under twelve must remain with an adult.
Is the Leiden Hortus wheelchair accessible?
Largely. Loan wheelchairs and an accessible toilet are available, and one essential companion enters free. The Tropical Terrace, several elevated walkways, the Victoria Glasshouse and some soft-surface paths are inaccessible, although those gardens can be viewed from paved routes.
Where can you park near Hortus botanicus Leiden?
Parking directly on Rapenburg is difficult. The Hortus recommends Haagweg car park, around a ten-minute walk away, with a free shuttle into the centre. There is no accessible parking space at the entrance; the nearest are at Cleveringaplaats 1 and Rapenburg 28.
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