Holidaymakers, day-trippers and tourists could 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 had the chance to do just that! To mark its 450th anniversary, Leiden University offered exclusive guided tours. One of our students took 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 were on weekdays from 21 July to 8 August. There were four tours per day, two in the morning and two in the afternoon. On Monday and Tuesday, the tour included the Academy Building (duration: 1 hour). On Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, the tour also passed by the Old Observatory (duration: 1.5 hours). Some of the tours were in English. A tour costs €4.50 per person, which includes a cup of coffee or tea afterwards.