It's been almost 3 years since I have been staying in the Netherlands so I think this period isn't considered a temporary or short-term period. I had to meet someone in Leiden, one of the cities in the Netherlands this weekend. I have never been to Leiden before so I thought to use this opportunity as a weekend getaway. It was a short, 1 hour meeting; in a cafe near Leiden central station so I had plenty of time to stroll around the city. Before going to Leiden, I did some research about the city and found out about the Christmas/ Winter market in Leiden. So, today I am going to give you a tour of that winter market as well as a glimpse of a magical night in Leiden.
Leiden City is known as a student city among dutch society because a lot of leading and well-known universities are located in Leiden. Located in the province of South Holland, this city has offered beautiful old centuries of architecture to tourists. One of the oldest universities in the Netherlands is located here. If you open the map of Leiden, you will see the locations of several museums (around 13 museums) and sculptures. Also, you can take an unforgettable canal cruise trip or stroll along the canals while discovering romantic alleys and beautiful sculptures.
Leiden, Netherlands
From Amsterdam, direct trains are available to Leiden and it takes around 40-50 minutes to reach Leiden Central Station depending on the destination. So, after my appointment, I had plenty of time to explore the city. Well, I didn't choose to visit any kind of museum. To be honest, I am not really a fan of exploring the museums so instead of seeing specific locations, I decided to visit the winter Christmas market. Here is the worst part. Leiden is a large city and I was walking following the Christmas market location. On my way, I spent some time near the canal and explored some shops. Meanwhile, rain started and instead of waiting, I decided to continue my walk in the rain. Because in the Netherlands, rain and windy weather is normal. I didn't notice that my Google Maps was not working properly and instead of showing a shortcut route, it was malfunctioning. Why!! Because my phone is not waterproof and my display was not working and at one point, my phone completely stopped working...🤣
The rain was pouring heavily and my phone was not working properly so what can be done? To make my unstable situation stable, I took shelter in front of a shop and started smoking. I am a chain smoker and when this kind of situation happens, my brain stops working unless I smoke...
I didn't want to spoil my mood even though my intrusive thoughts were saying a lot of things to me because I figured out I was already lost. Instead of taking this situation negatively, I decided to walk around more after the rain stopped. I saw the port area, city gates, and bridges and sat near the port area. It was a nice experience...
Finally, after 2 hours, finally, I had found the Christmas market location.
Kerstmarkt - Leiden, Netherlands
The Netherlands is not famous or known for its Christmas Market like Germany. Most of the markets here are for the locals and they maintain a very specific schedule for the opening hour. Weekends are perfect for visiting these markets. I was not expecting such extraordinary Christmas markets because I knew, they were not going to be like Christmas Markets in Germany and Belgium.
The location is called Hooglandse Kerkgracht where this market is located. The theme of this market was winter village so from far away I saw beautiful small wooden cottages more looked like chalets. Hooglandse Kerkgracht is basically a street and this market is called Nostalgische kerstmarkt. Beautiful Hooglandse Kerk Church and Lutherse Kerk Leiden are located on this street.
The street itself was beautiful. Most of the Dutch cities' street layouts are the same, they have a specific character and represent Dutch architecture prominently. Even though I have been to similar streets many times, I still enjoy walking on such streets. There is always something new to discover.
The winter village was cute, with only a few shops and a very small market. It's not actually a Christmas Market, it was more like a Winter Market. To me, the wooden chalets stood out the most and I found them cute and attractive. It felt like I was in a small village.
I support small businesses and there were a few shops that were quite interesting to me. The first shop was the Chinese Tea Shop. This shop was selling handcrafted Chinese tea. I learned about Chinese tea from a YouTuber; she is a famous Chinese content creator from Yunan Province, China. She was the one who showcased hand-crafted Chinese tea and that's how I know about Chinese Tea. So, when I went to the shop my curiosity increased, and found some familiar tea like wild white and Snow chrysanthemum tea. If you have never tried this Chinese tea, I suggest you try this tea, they are soothing and very relaxing...
 |  |  |
|---|
The second shop that caught my eye was called Tuinkadootjes. These animals are all metal handmade decorations. At first, I was very curious and then realized that these beautiful handmade animal decors are for outdoor, garden decorations. Not many people were interested in such decorations because they were specific niche decors and if you don't have an appropriate place to keep them, they won't look good. The decors were gorgeous though...
 |  |
|---|
The cafe area was really crowded, I couldn't even stand there because it was so loud and noisy. It was Saturday evening so people were there with their friends and family. A loner like me didn't find a corner to fit in there.
 |  |  |
|---|
 |  |  |
|---|
Another shop I discovered was this pet shop. It was selling handmade pet collars and harnesses. Perfect gift for a furry friend in this Christmas season and they were actually beautiful. I have their business card so I will order a dog collar for my dog Gigi.
 |  |  |
|---|
 |  |  |
|---|
 |  |  |
|---|
There was nothing much to see because it was a small winter market but I discovered a lot. I have been to Christmas markets in Germany Belgium and this market was nothing compared to that but I saw a few unique things that I have never seen before.
Leiden city looks magical in the evening. A large Christmas tree was located near the canal, the center of the city. There was an ice skating area and food stalls also. I enjoyed the view from the bridge of the canal...
 |  |  |
|---|
I wasn't expecting anything nice but in the end, the evening turned out to be Magical... I will go back to Leiden again for more...
Love
Priyan...
I am @priyanarc.... An architect, a dreamer, and a passionate writer who loves to write about life. I try to present my own perspective and experiences. Please leave your feedback and criticism because it's the only way I can know and reach your mind and thoughts easily...
Find me on:
The author captures all images used...
Really great pictures. The town is beautiful and they have excellent lighting to highlight the architecture. The restaurant spheres were also cool.
Also, a perfect time to visit Christmas Market. De Nostalgische Kerstmarkt and other thing written in Dutch sound a bit like German which I studied at Kharkiv Karazin University.
Yes, this city has a lively atmosphere. It was nice to walk following the canals. That Sphere restaurant was so crowded and I had no reservation. Basically, I should have reserved a spot before going there but I had no idea about such a restaurant in Leiden. I think it gives a floating feeling...
German and Dutch have a lot of similarities and that's why Dutch people understand the German language. I have been to Karazin a lot of times because my friends used to study in Karazin, it's a good university...I was a student in Хдут (Kharkiv State University of Food Technology and Trade), and completed my masters from there...But I used to spend a lot of time at Derzhprom 😂. I miss those moments... Do you know the German language?
It would be a stretch to say that I know the German language :) I studied English for 10 years at First Ukrainian Gymnasium (basically high school) that is located on Rimarskaya Street (right in the center of Kharkiv) and the next street over from Symskaya street. Then I went as a high school exchange student to California for almost a year then I came back to study at the university and that is where I decided to study German which I did for two years and during that time I also visited Germany and Austria, so I learned a little bit of German.
I used to go to Rimarskaya Street a lot and it was always a nightmare because the immigration office was located there. It was close to Khatob. I used to love Symskaya Street (near Muzei), and there were a lot of restaurants... 😂 On hive, I have a lot of videos about those locations, I guess they are still on my YouTube channel... Need to refresh those memories...
That's so cool...Were you a medical student at Karazin or just studied language? Even though you didn't visit Kharkiv for a long time, you really have a vivid memory...
Beautiful captures 😎 You captured the spirit of “Dutchyland” well. Especially in the first photos.
Up north it is indeed not that well known for Christmas markets, you need to go to Limburg for that. Especially Maasstricht or Valkenburg.
Thanks for sharing your 1 day exploring the city.
Have a great day!
Yes, someone suggested me to visit Maastricht or Valkenburg during Christmas time if I really want to see Christmas markets in NL but because it's far from my city, I am not sure if I can manage time to go there this year. I was checking the time schedule and seems like it's nice to be there before the new year. I guess it's called Maastricht Vrijthof, not so sure though. I will try to manage my time...
Thank you so much, I also love the first picture a lot, it showcases the beauty of Leiden...
Nothing is really far in the Netherlands, public transport does get you anywhere in a day haha
But joking aside.
It is wonderful to visit Maasstricht during that time and het Vrijthof a large square with nice bars.
The Christmas market in Valkenburg is very unique. It is held inside the CAVES in the highest mountain where they used to mine and some stalls you find in the centre of the town. They also still do tours through the mines.
I lived in the province of Limburg in several towns and cities for about 24 years… been there a few times. 😉
You are welcome 🤗 it sure does.
Enjoy your evening!
Yea, that's true; the public transport system in NL is really good. Can't complain about it though.
I just checked Christmas Market Municipal Cave, Valkenburg, it's amazing and worth seeing. Thanks for the suggestion, I will try to make a plan before New Year...I think for the cave tour, I have to buy tickets online...24 years!! OMG...You know everything... I must admit it's a beautiful town...
The public transport is good.
Great you checked it out. It was always awesome the caves.
I haven’t been there in the last 10 + years but it should be still amazing. I left the Netherlands in 2015.
Ask if you want to know things, I might be able to help. (Dutchy here 👋🏻)
Valkenburg is stunning, very beautiful with great views.
Definitely, I will and I will plan my trip accordingly...
I was about to ask you... But you said already Dutchy here so definitely I am gonna ask for your recommendation about the Netherlands. I don't think much changed here except the cost of living 🤣. I am trying to adjust to NL life because I still have no idea when I will be able to go back to Kharkiv. NL is beautiful and I received a lot of help from the people so far. So, I am always grateful for the life I am living now and for staying alive...
It would be nice if you could suggest some lovely locations in NL next time...
Thanks once again...
Wow! I would like to visit this lovely city one day :)
It is a beautiful city indeed, will go back there again in spring or summer...
How beautiful the lights look reflecting in the water. The town is just like built in some lego paradise! Thanks for taking us with you on the market @priyanarc 😍
Hi Liz, so glad to hear from you, I hope you are doing well...Before going to Leiden, I had no idea about the city much, I thought it would be like other typical Dutch cities but I was surprised to see the nightlife. The canal-side view was exclusive, I enjoyed walking there near the canal...Thanks, Liz for stopping by...
I lived in Leiden for a year and a half. It's one of my favourite cities in NL.
Your post made me smile:)))
Wow Milly, so you must be familiar with everything located in Leiden. It's a pity I didn't see much but the city is lively and I loved that. It's way better than Amsterdam's atmosphere, to be honest...Do you have any posts about Leiden? Please share... I would love to read it...
Thanks a lot and take care...
Heya! No, I was in Leiden almost 20 years ago, and I lost the majority of my photos when my camera fell in the canals.🤣
Occasionally I mention Leiden when I find the odd photo.
I agree, you don't need to go to Amsterdam when you're in Leiden because Leiden is such a vibrant city.
I hope to revisit sometime:)))
Enjoy the rest of the day!
Damn, that's actually a long time ago. Back then I am guessing everything was different and much more calmer. Must be a nostalgic moment for you when you recall your stay in Leiden.
I think it's time for you to revisit the city again, it will be nice to meet you in person also if I stay in NL...
Thanks, Milly once again for sharing your story, I wish you a lovely week...
It sounds like everything has changed.
Even Amsterdam used to be pretty relaxed:)
Now Ams is very crowded, especially the old city center, Dam Square area, and some spots are overcrowded and pickpocket issues...Even last 3 years, things changed drastically...I guess after COVID-19, the culture of Amsterdam changed completely... But still, the city is beautiful...
😍
Cool shots! I live close to Leiden, bit didn't visit the city at night yet.
When reading your blog I think I should.
If you are living close to Leiden, I would highly recommend you visit this city before New Year. It might be crowded during the weekend but you will definitely enjoy the beautiful view of the city. It was a little bit crowded on Saturday but a way better experience I had than Amsterdam...
Thank you so much for taking the time to read the post, I really appreciate it...
I don't have to go in the weekends. I will certainly visit it!
Suena muy bien la cultura navideña de ambos países, esos mercados navideños y las fotos muy bonitas; que bueno que haya podido pasar antes y conocer esta cuidad. Saludos desde Colombia
Thank you, yes it is always nice to learn something new. I love to explore culture and architecture and like to appreciate my moments...The winter market was nice, discovered so many unique pieces...Thank you for stopping by, I really appreciate it...Have a lovely week...
Through your pictures (absolutely beautiful pictures) I managed to feel the joy and magic of this place, thank you for sharing this with us.
Have you ever visited this city? If not then I would highly recommend exploring this city because I know you love seeing architecture and visiting museums. It was a good weekend getaway for me...
It is a lovely town, looking at your photos made me feel that I had already been there, maybe through the cinema.
When I get lost that gives me anxiety and nerves, I calm down breathing and ask as a lost person is saying a lot. Hehehe
You made very good use of this tour, you saw unique and nice things. I also liked how they display the clothes.
Greetings friend @priyanarc , Merry Christmas take care of yourself.
I also have an anxiety problem and that's why I need to calm down first before figuring out the solution. So, first I smoke and then I look for a place to sit and then I figure out...I normally don't ask for direction but sometimes I take help when I can't figure out the direction by myself...
Thank you and yes, I also loved the display, especially those fur coats.
Thanks my friend for taking the time to read my post and Merry Christmas. I wish you a lovely New Year...
When I worked in the Netherlands I didn't visit this city such a shame looks like a very cool city and the atmosphere it's magical. ,💓
Really?? Aha then you missed the vibrant atmosphere of Leiden. I was so surprised to see the culture of the city. Tons of restaurants and a lot of things to do... Maybe next time...Definitely it was magical.
By the way, how are you doing dear? I hope you are doing fine... @noemilunastorta
What an excellent post!
Thank you so much, I am glad I could give you a short tour to Leiden, NL...
Hiya, @ybanezkim26 here, just swinging by to let you know that this post made it into our Top 3 in Travel Digest #2413.
Your post has been manually curated by the @worldmappin team. If you like what we're doing, please drop by to check out all the rest of today's great posts and consider supporting other authors like yourself and us so we can keep the project going!
Become part of our travel community:
What an unexpected honor!! Thanks a bunch...
You can check out this post and your own profile on the map. Be part of the Worldmappin Community and join our Discord Channel to get in touch with other travelers, ask questions or just be updated on our latest features.
Oh my, that view over the canal and with those lights indeed looks magical. As you say that there are bigger and more exclusive Christmas markets, but this one is also lovely. Thanks for taking us there, I wish I could visit at least one here in Spain, but I haven't got there yet... and soon they will be over hahaha.