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Last Updated on 25 February 2026 by Vanessa

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Leiden beyond canals and museums, make sure your first stop is Begraafplaats Groenesteeg.

I stumbled across this 19th-century cemetery while researching historic sites and unusual attractions in the Netherlands, and it ended up being one of the most beautiful nature walks in the city. If you enjoy history, photography, architecture, and lesser-known travel spots, this guide will help you plan your visit. It covers:

Why this historic cemetery is worth visiting
How to get there
Where to stay
Day trip logistics
Other great attractions in Leiden
Practical travel tips

Let’s get into it.

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Your complete guide to visiting Begraafplaats Groenesteeg, one of the most unique things to do in Leiden

Why is Begraafplaats Groenesteeg worth visiting?

An oasis of peace

Begraafplaats Groenesteeg (which translates to “Cemetery Green Lane”) is a quiet, green haven. Stately beech trees line peaceful paths, creating a calm atmosphere that encourages reflection and rest.

Along the water’s edge, you’ll spot plants like wolf’s foot, marsh thorn, three-petalled grouse, and yellow lisp. In drier areas, there’s spearweed, finger hellebore, forsythia, and elder. Flutewort grows almost everywhere. This rich mix of plants, combined with gravestones covered in moss and lichen, makes the cemetery a truly special “green lung” in the heart of Leiden.

It’s the perfect place to step away from the city’s busy pace and enjoy a moment of stillness.

A stroll through history

Founded in 1813, Begraafplaats Groenesteeg offered a solution to the overcrowded churchyards after the 1635 plague. Today, it holds 1,149 graves and nearly 5,000 people.

As you wander the grounds, you’ll come across striking gravestones, elegant monuments, and ornate mausoleums. Styles range from Gothic to neoclassical to art nouveau—each telling its own story and showcasing the craftsmanship of the time.

Many prominent figures rest here, including scientists, artists, and writers who helped shape Leiden’s cultural and intellectual legacy. Their graves invite you to explore their stories and lasting impact on the city.

Want to learn more? Guided tours are available for anyone curious about the cemetery’s history and its remarkable residents. You can find more information about tours on the cemetery’s website (only available in Dutch).

Cemetery cats

Don’t be surprised if one or more cats suddenly appear among the gravestones.

In fact, they have become a beloved part of Begraafplaats Groenesteeg, with regular visitors stopping by just to see them. Some even bring them treats, which they never turn down.

You’ll often spot them weaving through the graves, rubbing against visitors’ legs, and quietly tagging along as they walk. Every now and then, they dart off to chase geese.

By the way, Begraafplaats Groenesteeg isn’t the only graveyard where cats feel at home. In fact, cats have been living in cemeteries for centuries—and for good reason.

Historically, people welcomed cats into graveyards to help with pest control. Cemeteries, with their open spaces, greenery, and occasional food scraps, can attract rodents like mice and rats. These pests can damage graves by chewing on flowers, wood, or cloth, and even burrowing near headstones. Cats are natural hunters, so just their presence helps keep rodent populations in check.

In other words: The graves are in good paws. 🐾

P.S. Want more cemeteries? Check out these 12 cemeteries with more cats than people.

Monumental family tombs with hidden symbolism

Some of the larger graves are genuinely impressive. Wealthy families built elaborate structures complete with columns, statues, and decorative fencing. The craftsmanship is fascinating if you enjoy architectural details.

One of my favorite parts of visiting historic cemeteries such as Begraafplaats Groenesteeg, is the hidden symbolism:

Broken columns (a life cut short)
Draped urns (mourning)
Ivy (eternity)
Angels (protection)

It’s subtle, but once you start noticing it, you’ll see it everywhere.

Practical visitor information about Begraafplaats Groenesteeg

Address

Groenesteeg 126, 2312 SR Leiden, Netherlands

How to get there

The cemetery is located in the walkable heart of Leiden, so you don’t need a car or public transportation to get there. It’s about 10 to 15 minutes from the train station.

However, if you’re traveling from another Dutch city or plan to use public transport a lot, it’s worth buying a travel pass. It gives you unlimited rides on all GVB trams, buses, and metros for the number of days you choose.

If you want to rent a car, we recommend DiscoverCars for the best deals.

Opening times

Visits are available year-round from 08:00 am to 05:30 pm.

Entrance fee

Visiting Begraafplaats Groenesteeg is free.

Time needed

45 minutes

Where to stay

Steenhof Suites: A highly-rated boutique stay right in the heart of Leiden. Best for: Couples, design-minded travelers, longer stays. (Check prices and availability!)
Huys van Leiden: A charming canal-side boutique hotel with a high guest rating and classic Dutch charm. Best for: Travelers who want comfort + local character. (Check prices and availability!)
Ibis Leiden Centre: A solid choice for budget travellers right near Leiden Centraal station and within easy walking distance of the historic centre and attractions. (Check prices and availability!)

Other things to do in Leiden

If you’re coming from afar, you might want to explore the city a little more. Here are other things to do in Leiden that you can easily add to your itinerary. Because Leiden is compact and walkable, you can easily combine several of these into one relaxed day.

A cruise along the canals of the historic center (with guide)
Burcht van Leiden (for great city views)
Molen De Valk (a traditional Dutch windmill)
Hortus Botanicus Leiden (If you want to skip the line, you can book your ticket in advance here.)
Rijksmuseum van Oudheden (National Museum of Antiquities)
Naturalis Biodiversity Center
Coffee break at the cat café of Leiden

Final thoughts

Are you thinking about adding Leiden and Begraafplaats Groenesteeg to your travel itinerary? You absolutely should! Visiting Leiden is super easy from other major Dutch cities. There are regular trains and buses departing from Amsterdam, The Hague, Rotterdam, and even Schiphol Airport, so hopping over for a day trip is a breeze.

Your complete guide to visiting Begraafplaats Groenesteeg, one of the most unique things to do in Leiden