Rijksmuseum Boerhaave
Museum covering five centuries of science and medicine in a historic former hospital.
At a glance
Prices
The official visitor page recommends buying online and mentions an online discount. The standard rates shown here were checked on 23 July 2026 against Leiden’s current venue listing. ICOM card holders also enter free. Always bring a valid discount or student card.
Plan ahead
Opening hours
- Monday – Sunday
- 10:00–17:00
Why visit?
Science with a story
Rijksmuseum Boerhaave shows how Dutch researchers, doctors and inventors changed the world. Historic instruments are placed in context, making the museum accessible without a science background.
Our editorial assessment
How does Rijksmuseum Boerhaave score?
Excellent for curious adults and older children; compact enough for half a day without feeling superficial.
Leiden
Score breakdown
Collection
9.1/10Storytelling
8.9/10Interactivity
8.5/10Family appeal
8.4/10✓ 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 Rijksmuseum Boerhaave?
On 23 July 2026, standard adult admission is €16.50. Children aged 4–17 pay €6 and ages 0–3 enter free. Students with valid ID and Museumkaart holders enter free; CJP admission is €8.
How long do you need at Rijksmuseum Boerhaave?
Allow two to three hours. A focused route through the highlights and main hands-on exhibits takes about 90 minutes; children or a temporary exhibition can extend the visit.
Is Rijksmuseum Boerhaave good for children?
Yes, especially from around age six. There are experiments, tasks, Playing with Mathematics and holiday activities. Some medical objects and text-led galleries may not suit young or sensitive children.
Is Boerhaave open every day?
Current museum information lists daily opening from 10:00 to 17:00. Some older websites still mention Monday closure; that information is outdated. Always check the official site around public holidays.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes. All floors are reached by lift or platform lift and there is an accessible toilet. Loan wheelchairs are available for mobility-scooter users; reserve by phone because large scooters do not fit throughout.
Where can you park near Rijksmuseum Boerhaave?
Lammermarkt car park is about a three-minute walk away. Haagweg is useful for visitors with limited mobility because free shuttle buses serve the centre. Leiden Central is roughly an eight-minute walk.
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