Things To Do
in Leidschendam

Leidschendam is a picturesque town located in the province of South Holland, Netherlands, known for its scenic canals and green spaces. It serves as a gateway to the larger city of The Hague, offering a tranquil atmosphere with a blend of modern amenities and historical charm. The town is characterized by beautiful parks, shopping areas, and a vibrant community that embraces both nature and culture.

Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, local cuisine, and cultural events throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Leidschendam
morning
:

Start your day with a walk in the beautiful Vlietland Park, enjoying the serene views of the lakes and greenery.

afternoon
:

Visit the Leidschendam Shopping Center for some retail therapy and have lunch at a local café.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Dutch restaurant and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the canals as the sun sets.

day 2
Day 2: Day Trip to The Hague
morning
:

Take a short tram ride to The Hague and explore the famous Mauritshuis museum, home to classic Dutch paintings.

afternoon
:

Walk through the historic city center and have lunch at the Binnenhof, the seat of Dutch politics.

evening
:

Return to Leidschendam and experience the local nightlife by visiting a cozy bar or pub.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Beer$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$3
🏨Hotel Night$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and parks
  • Close proximity to The Hague for cultural experiences
  • Friendly and welcoming local community
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Public transport can be infrequent
  • Less touristy, which may lack some amenities
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Tot ziens" - Goodbye
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Leidschendam

Visit one of these nice places.

Vlietland Park

A beautiful park featuring lakes, walking trails, and scenic picnic spots, ideal for nature photography.

The Canal Views

Capture stunning sunset views along the canals, where you can see traditional Dutch houses reflecting in the water.

Historical Buildings

Photograph the charming architecture of Leidschendam's old town, showcasing traditional Dutch styles.

Culinary Guide

Food in Leidschendam

Leidschendam offers a delightful culinary experience, blending traditional Dutch flavors with contemporary cuisine. Must-try local dishes include stroopwafels and herring, which are staples of Dutch gastronomy. The town features various food markets and street food vendors that showcase local produce and snacks. For those with dietary restrictions, many restaurants are accommodating and offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options.

Leidschendam Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stroopwafels

A sweet treat made of two thin waffles filled with caramel syrup, perfect with coffee or tea.

Must-Try!

Haring

Raw herring fish, typically served with onions and pickles, eaten by holding the fish by the tail.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Leidschendam Market

A vibrant market held weekly, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food stalls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Leidschendam experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around 0°C (32°F). Rain is common throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Dutch culture, so always try to arrive at meetings and events promptly.

Direct Communication

Dutch people appreciate honesty and directness in conversation, so be straightforward in your discussions.

Personal Space

Respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others when talking.

Safety Guide

Safety

Leidschendam is generally a safe town with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping personal belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 in case of any incidents.

Tipping in Leidschendam

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory in the Netherlands, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and many places prefer card payments over cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, making it perfect for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Warm temperatures invite visitors to enjoy water sports and outdoor dining at cafes along the canals.

Autumn

Experience beautiful fall foliage in the parks and cooler temperatures ideal for cozy indoor activities.

Winter

Cold weather may bring festive decorations and holiday markets, along with opportunities for ice skating.

Nightlife Guide

Leidschendam at Night

Leidschendam offers a laid-back nightlife scene, primarily focused on cozy bars and cafés. While there are no large clubs, you can find pubs hosting live music and themed nights. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it easy to socialize with locals and fellow travelers over drinks and light snacks.

Hiking in Leidschendam

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

The Vlietland Nature Reserve

Offers scenic trails through wetlands and forests, ideal for birdwatching and enjoying nature.

The Haagse Bos

A large wooded area near The Hague, providing well-marked trails for hiking and outdoor activities.

Airports

How to reach Leidschendam by plane.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport

Located approximately 20 km from Leidschendam, this airport offers international and domestic flights, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Leidschendam is highly walkable, with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. The town is compact, allowing visitors to easily explore its attractions on foot, particularly around the shopping center and parks. Biking is also popular, providing an alternative way to navigate the town and enjoy its scenic routes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Leidschendam, often working in nearby The Hague, contributing to the local economy.

Families

Many families reside in Leidschendam, attracted by its green spaces, schools, and community-oriented atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Field Hockey

Field hockey is a popular sport in the Netherlands, with local clubs providing opportunities for players of all ages.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime and mode of transportation, with numerous cycling paths throughout Leidschendam and the surrounding areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Leidschendam is generally light, with easy access to main roads and public transportation. Buses and trams connect the town to nearby cities, and cycling is a common and efficient way to get around. The town's compact nature helps ease congestion, making it a pleasant place for walking and biking.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Leidschendam.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including hearty salads and vegetable-based meals.

Gluten-Free Options

Some eateries provide gluten-free alternatives, particularly in baked goods and pasta.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Leidschendam is accessible, with several general practitioners and clinics available for minor health issues. For more serious medical emergencies, residents can reach hospitals in nearby cities like The Hague. The healthcare system is efficient, with most services covered by health insurance.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide