population: 0.123 million

extension: 23.27 square kilometers

Museums

If you're interested in visiting museums, there are several great options in Leiden, including the Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, which houses artifacts from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, and the Museum Volkenkunde, which showcases cultural artifacts from around the world.

For similar types of museums near Leiden, you might consider checking out the Mauritshuis in The Hague, which is known for its collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, or the Kröller-Müller Museum in Otterlo, which features an extensive collection of modern art, including works by Van Gogh and Mondrian.

Food

Some of the most recommended and popular dishes to try in Leiden are:

1. Stamppot: A traditional Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes and a variety of vegetables, such as kale or carrots.

2. Haring (herring): The Netherlands is famous for its herring, which is often served raw with onions and pickles.

3. Poffertjes: Small, fluffy pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar.

4. Bitterballen: Deep-fried, crispy balls filled with a mixture of beef ragout and spices, often served as a snack with mustard.

5. Oliebollen: Sweet, deep-fried doughnuts that are typically eaten during the winter months and especially around New Year's Eve. They are often dusted with powdered sugar.

6. Kroketten: Similar to bitterballen, but oblong in shape, kroketten are also deep-fried and filled with a mixture of meat ragout and spices.

7. Goudse kaas (Gouda cheese): Leiden is close to the town of Gouda, which is famous for its cheese. Gouda cheese can be found in many varieties and is often served on bread or crackers as a snack or appetizer.

Activities

Sure, here are some fun activities that locals in Leiden enjoy:

1. Visit the Saturday market: The weekly market in Leiden (held on Saturdays) is a popular activity among locals. You can find fresh produce, flowers, clothing, and other goods.

2. Take a canal tour: Leiden has many beautiful canals, and taking a boat tour is a great way to see the city from a unique perspective.

3. Explore the historic center: Leiden's historic center is filled with beautiful architecture, museums, and charming cafes and restaurants. It's a great place to wander around and explore.

4. Bike ride through the countryside: The countryside surrounding Leiden is beautiful and easily accessible by bike. You can rent a bike and explore the nearby nature reserves or visit neighboring towns.

5. Enjoy a drink at a local pub: Leiden has a lively pub scene, and there are many cozy bars where you can enjoy a drink with friends or meet new people.