Pilgrims and Painters of Leiden: A Self Guided Walking Tour
About this experience
In the 1600s, a single tulip bulb sold for the price of a canal house - and the flower that started the famous tulip mania was planted right here in Leiden. This walking tour follows a trail that takes you to that spot at the Hortus Botanicus and through the streets where Rembrandt grew up, sketched his earliest works, and became the painter who would define the Dutch Golden Age. Along the way, you will hear how Leiden's canals were built as moats to stop invaders, why poems cover the city walls instead of graffiti, and how a group of English refugees, called the pilgrims, sheltered here before sailing - with nine future US Presidents among their descendants. Your local guide walks you through 12 stops, from the atmospheric Galgewater canal to the panoramic fortress of De Burcht. Along the way, you can get a Rembrandt-style portrait sketched and explore one of the city's hidden hofjes. Available in 9 languages. Works offline. No schedule, no group - just you and the city.
Check availability
Pick a date to see start times and book.
What's included
- 100% Satisfaction Guarantee: If you don’t love the tour, write to us for a full refund.
- Audio and written guide included
- Offline access to the tour (no internet connection needed) once tour is downloaded
- Images to identify stops and in app interactive map for navigation
- 1-year access on iOS & Android. Listen to the tour anytime, as many times as you like
- Check or search your inbox for an email from “Tourific” with tour access instructions.
Not included
- Any physical devices or headphones
- Human tour guide at location
- Entry to any attractions
Itinerary
- 1
Pass byDiscover a reconstructed 17th-century windmill that reveals why these icons dot the Dutch landscape - and what Rembrandt's father did for a living.
- 2
Pass byThe first tulip in the Netherlands was planted in this garden. What happened next nearly bankrupted the country.
- 3
Pass byAdmire Rapenberg and find out about the famous alumni like Descartes, Rembrandt, and multiple members of the Dutch royal family.
- 4
Discover the place where Rembrandt learnt art!
- 5
Pass byHere, you'll learn about the church's connection to the Pilgrims, who lived in Leiden before their journey to America. Nine US Presidents descend from them.
- 6
A 9th-century hilltop fortress with panoramic views of the city - the perfect place to end your walk through Leiden.
- 7
This canal's name translates to "Gallows Water". Find out why. Today it is one of Leiden's most scenic spots.
- 8
Spot the clues that connect it to Rembrandt's most famous painting.
Good to know
- · Service animals allowed
- · Public transportation options are available nearby
- · Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- · The total tour duration includes the time spent listening to information at the stop and time required to walk through all the stops.
Where it starts
Leiden
This is a self-guided audio tour on the "Tourific self-guided tours" app. To activate the tour, check your email for instructions from Tourific or your booking platform sent right after booking. Can’t find it? Search for “Tourific” in your email inbox and spam folder. OR contact us via support.
Map shows the general area. You'll get the exact meeting point and directions with your confirmation.
You might also like
2 hPrivate Walking Tour of Delft: Dive into the Dutch Golden Age
From €199
3 hDiscover Rotterdam: Classic Highlights Bike Tour with a Local
From €55
2.5 hHighlights Rotterdam PRIVE bicycle tour
From €99.50
1.5 hDiscover Leiden: From Pilgrims to Painters in Historic Key City
From €6
From €5.65
Check availability & book →