Things To Do
in Oegstgeest
Oegstgeest is a tranquil municipality in South Holland just north of Leiden. It is known for its green landscapes, scenic canals, and charming village center. The town offers a peaceful base with easy access to Leiden’s museums and the coastal dunes of Katwijk.
Bicycles are a common sight here, making it easy to explore on two wheels and connect to larger Dutch cities within minutes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by renting a sturdy Dutch bike in the heart of Oegstgeest and pedaling along the serene Leidsevaart canal. Feel the crisp morning breeze as you pass charming boathouses, willow trees, and grazing sheep in the meadows. Capture the beauty of traditional Dutch windmills dotting the horizon and pause for a coffee break by the water’s edge.
Cycle towards the Prinses Beatrixpark, where shady paths and floral beds invite you to relax under ancient oak trees. Savor a picnic of local cheese, fresh bread, and strawberries from the farmers’ market before continuing along scenic country lanes. Discover hidden canals and historic farmhouses that enrich your understanding of the region’s agricultural heritage.
Return your bike at the rental shop as golden hour light shimmers on the canal. Dine at a cozy canal-side café where you can sample savory poffertjes and a pint of local craft beer. As night falls, stroll along the water under the glow of streetlamps, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
Start your day at the 17th-century Oud Poelgeest estate, designed by Jacob van Campen. Wander through the ornate facades and manicured gardens where Dutch Golden Age aristocrats once strolled. Learn about the estate’s transformation from a private residence into a cultural heritage site with a local guide.
Enjoy a light lunch at a quaint café overlooking the castle moat, sampling fresh quiches and salads. Stroll along winding pathways in the adjacent arboretum, spotting rare trees imported from Asia. Visit the nearby Rokokopaviljoen, an intimate pavilion showcasing period art and elegant stucco work.
Return to the estate grounds for a wine tasting featuring vintages from local vineyards, paired with artisanal cheese. Dine al fresco under twinkling lights in a rustic barn conversion, savoring seasonal dishes prepared with regional ingredients. End the evening with live chamber music performed in the castle’s intimate concert hall.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧀Groceries (basic groceries) | $60-90 per week |
| 🚆Local transit pass (monthly) | $70-110 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $90-140 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful, green town with easy access to Leiden and the coast
- Very bike-friendly and safe; efficient public transport nearby
- Rich culture and history within a short ride to museums and canals
- Strong value as a base for day trips to The Hague, Katwijk, and Nieuwkoopse Plassen
- Small town feel, nightlife mainly centered in Leiden
- Limited options for high-end dining in Oegstgeest
- Weather can be unpredictable; plan for rain
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Alstublieft" - Please
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de trein naar Leiden?" - Where is the train to Leiden?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ik ben vegetarier" - I am vegetarian
- "Kunt u mij helpen?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Oegstgeest
Visit one of these nice places.
A classic Dutch windmill beside a calm canal—ideal for sunrise reflections.
Historic square with church and canal-side gabled houses for atmospheric shots.
Leiden’s hilltop fortress offering sweeping views of the city and canals.
Serene water lanes lined with old merchant houses and bridges.
Waterfront scenes with moored boats and swans, especially dramatic at sunset.
Food in Oegstgeest
Oegstgeest Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thin caramel-filled waffle best enjoyed fresh at a local bakery or market.
Must-Try!
Raw herring served with onions; a classic market snack and a regional specialty.
Dutch pancakes that can be savory or sweet, served at cafes and pancake houses.
Mashed potatoes with kale or sauerkraut and smoked sausage, a hearty winter staple.
Local cheeses such as Gouda or Leidse kaas available at markets and shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market near the cathedral with fresh produce, cheese, and street snacks.
Seasonal stalls by the canals offering cheeses, fish, and baked goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch people value directness and punctuality; say what you mean clearly.
Greet with 'hallo' or 'goedemiddag'; use 'u' for strangers and 'Dank u wel' to show appreciation.
Join queues calmly and arrive on time for appointments.
Share the road with cyclists; yield on bike paths and use lights after dark.
Safety
Tipping in Oegstgeest
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in the Netherlands; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common, but many places include service charges.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash accepted but used less in some venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Blooming trees and longer days; great for canal-side walks and outdoor terraces.
Warm, long days; ideal for boat trips, beach visits at Katwijk, and extensive cycling.
Mildly cool with colorful foliage; fewer crowds and cozy cafés to explore.
Cool and wet with occasional frost; festive markets in Leiden and indoor attractions shine.
Oegstgeest at Night
Hiking in Oegstgeest
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic loop around lake complexes near Warmond with birdlife and water vistas.
Mature forest with ponds and nature trails near Leiden.
Wetland trails around the Nieuwkoop lakes area offering birdwatching and boardwalks.
Airports
How to reach Oegstgeest by plane.
Amsterdam’s main international airport; trains run frequently to Leiden and Oegstgeest, typically under an hour from arrival.
Regional airport near Rotterdam; connections to Leiden area via rail or bus networks.
Major Dutch airport in the south; longer transfer to Leiden area, typically 1.5-2 hours by train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large student presence from Leiden University and campus life nearby; many bars and cultural events nearby.
Residential neighborhoods with parks, schools, and safe cycling routes.
Diverse community with broad English proficiency and international events.
Active community with clubs and social activities in quieter neighborhoods.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport with community clubs and weekend matches.
Primary transport and recreation; extensive bike lanes and scenic routes.
Active scene around Leiden’s rivers and lakes.
Local clubs offer courts and community leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Oegstgeest.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; ask for vegetarisch or groentengerecht, or request substitutions like mushrooms or lentils.
Vegan options are increasingly available; look for vegan specials or request plant-based dishes.
Many places can accommodate gluten-free; communicate dietary needs and check bread/sauces ingredients.