Holidaymakers, day-trippers and tourists can book a university tour with a student as their guide in summer 2025.

A unique peek behind the scenes

Always wanted to visit the ‘Sweat Room’ in the Academy Building? Intrigued by the story of the Old Observatory? In summer 2025 you will have the chance to do just that! To mark its 450th anniversary, Leiden University is offering exclusive guided tours. One of our students will take you through our historic buildings, which are normally not open to the public.

Please note: unfortunately, due to narrow spaces and many stairs, the tour is not suitable for people with physical disabilities. Additionally, the tours are less suitable for children under the age of 10.

Dates

The tours will be on weekdays from 21 July to 8 August. There will be four tours per day, two in the morning and two in the afternoon. On Monday and Tuesday, the tour includes the Academy Building (duration: 1 hour). On Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, the tour also passes by the Old Observatory (duration: 1.5 hours). Some of the tours will be in English. A tour costs €4.50 per person, which includes a cup of coffee or tea afterwards.