TRAVEL

Getting Around leiden

To get around Leiden, you can primarily walk or cycle, as it’s a compact city with a great cycling infrastructure. For longer distances or to reach the city centre from the station, use the local public transportation by tapping your debit or credit card for payment. You can also get there by train, with Leiden Central Station a short walk from the city centre. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available, and boats offer a unique way to see the canals.

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Getting to Leiden City Centre from Schiphol Airport

Schiphol Airport is the nearest major international airport from Leiden City Centre. Schiphol Airport is located just 25km from the city centre meaning the short transfer time of 15-20 minutes by train which is the fastest route. 

Train – get this if you want to get to the city centre fast!
  • Trains run every 10 minutes between Schiphol and Leiden Centraal.
  • Travel time is about 15‑20 minutes on a direct intercity train.
  • Ticket price for a one‑way 2nd class journey is around €7‑€8 if bought in advance / online here or via the NS app.
  • Platforms/station: Schiphol has an underground rail station directly beneath the airport terminals (Arrivals → Schiphol Plaza → down to platforms) so it’s very easy to access.
Bus – get this to see some beautiful sights on the way to the city centre.
  • There is a bus service (line 365) between Schiphol Airport and Leiden (to Leiden, Kooiplein) with trips taking about 35‑40 minutes.
  • Ticket price is around €5‑€7, which you can purchase here in advance.
Taxi – for a private, quick journey in extra comfort
  • Taxi from Schiphol to Leiden usually takes 25‑40 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • Cost is roughly €90 (but this can vary depending on the service, time of day, luggage, etc.).
  • You can use Taxi Leiden or Uber services.

Getting from the City Centre to Stadsgehoorzaal

By Walking

  • Leiden’s historic centre is compact and walkable. From Leiden Central Station to Stadsgehoorzaal is about 10 minutes on foot. 

  • Route: leave the station, head towards the historic city centre, follow signs to Breestraat.

By Bus

You can take several bus lines from Leiden Central that drop you near the venue.

  • Buses stopping at “Breestraat” — Lines 2, 4, 45, 169, 182, 187, 400. Get off at Breestraat stop.

  • Buses to “Kort Rapenburg”: Lines 1, 3, 5. From there it’s a short walk to Stadsgehoorzaal.

By Cycling
  • Leiden is bike-friendly, like most Dutch cities.
  • Separate bike lanes and parking everywhere.
  • It takes around 5 minutes by bike from the station to Stadsgehoorzaal.
  • You can hire bikes from multiple rental companies: EasyFiets, Bike Rental Leiden, Bison Bike Company.