THINGS
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TOP 5 THINGS TO DO
We want you to make the most of your time with us in Leiden and have therefore put together the Top 5 Things To Do.
To discover additional activities and attractions in Leiden, please visit here.
Registration for the TT2026 pre-meeting social event will open soon. We are currently finalizing an exciting program for Tuesday, 15 September, during which participants will explore Leiden and its rich scientific history through two distinct guided experiences.
Midway through the event, all participants will come together in a relaxed setting—an excellent opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and friends from the ISTT and previous TT meetings ahead of TT2026.
The event will take place from 10:00 to 13:00, leaving ample time before the official meeting begins to return to your hotel or further explore the city.
Stay tuned for more details regarding registration and event costs.
1. Visit Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (National Museum of Antiquities)
This museum has collections of Greek, Roman, Egyptian and Etruscan artefacts. One of its highlights is the Temple of Taffeh, which is a rare ancient Egyptian temple rebuilt inside the museum.
2. Pieterskerk & The Historic City Centre
Pieterskerk is a centuries-old church with a very tall steeple — great architecture, history, and it gives you a taste of Leiden’s past. Pair a visit with walking through the adjacent old streets, canals, and churches (like Hooglandse Kerk), soaking up the ambience.
3. Rijksmuseum Boerhaave (Museum of Science and Medicine)
Fascinating if you like the history of science. Exhibits include historical scientific instruments, medicine, physics, and astronomy. They also show things like the apparatus used by scientists in Leiden’s own history (e.g. the Leiden jar).
4. Hortus Botanicus Leiden (Botanical Garden)
One of the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands. It has both indoor (greenhouses) and outdoor gardens, showing a large variety of plants. Perfect for a more relaxed, nature-filled afternoon.
5. Museum De Lakenhal
Originally a cloth hall from 1640, this museum is one of Leiden’s prime art and history institutions. It has works by local artists (including Leiden-born painters) and, after a recent renovation, has become a must-see for its mix of architecture, art, and local history.