Leiden

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Bars and Pubs

Sections

Popular Bars and Pubs in Leiden

  1. Café de Keyzer

    • Location: Breestraat 1
    • Atmosphere: A cozy, traditional Dutch café with a warm ambiance.
    • Drinks/Food: Offers a wide selection of local beers, wines, and spirits. Light snacks like bitterballen (Dutch meatballs) and cheese platters are popular.
    • Price Range: €3-€5 for beers; snacks around €5-€10.
    • Opening Hours: Daily from 3 PM to 1 AM.

  2. Café de Bonte Koe

    • Location: Kloksteeg 1
    • Atmosphere: A lively pub with a mix of locals and students.
    • Drinks/Food: Known for its extensive beer menu, including local craft beers. They also serve pub food like burgers and fries.
    • Price Range: Beers €3-€6; meals €10-€15.
    • Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 4 PM to 1 AM; Friday and Saturday 4 PM to 2 AM; Sunday 4 PM to midnight.

  3. Café de Vrienden

    • Location: Witte Singel 1
    • Atmosphere: A friendly, casual spot popular with students.
    • Drinks/Food: Offers a variety of beers, cocktails, and light bites. Try their famous nachos!
    • Price Range: Beers €3-€5; cocktails €6-€10; snacks €5-€8.
    • Opening Hours: Daily from 4 PM to 1 AM.

  4. Café de Zwarte Ruiter

    • Location: Haarlemmerstraat 75
    • Atmosphere: A trendy bar with a relaxed vibe, often featuring live music.
    • Drinks/Food: A good selection of craft beers and cocktails, along with tapas-style dishes.
    • Price Range: Beers €4-€7; tapas €6-€12.
    • Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday 5 PM to 1 AM; Friday and Saturday 5 PM to 2 AM; Sunday 5 PM to midnight.

  5. Café de Burcht

    • Location: Burcht 1
    • Atmosphere: Located on a hill with a beautiful view of the city, this café has a unique setting.
    • Drinks/Food: Offers a selection of wines, beers, and light snacks.
    • Price Range: Beers €4-€6; wines €5-€8.
    • Opening Hours: Daily from 2 PM to 11 PM.

Local Customs and Tips for Enjoying Nightlife

  • Age Restrictions: The legal drinking age in the Netherlands is 18. Be prepared to show ID if you look underage.
  • Payment Methods: Most bars accept cash and card payments (Visa, Mastercard, and local debit cards). However, some smaller venues may prefer cash, so it’s good to have some on hand.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill or leaving small change is appreciated for good service.
  • Social Etiquette: It’s common to greet the bartender when ordering. If you’re with a group, it’s polite to buy rounds of drinks.
  • Smoking: Many bars have designated smoking areas, but smoking indoors is generally prohibited.
  • Last Call: There is no official last call, but bars typically close between midnight and 2 AM, depending on the day.

Navigating the Local Scene

  • Public Transport: Leiden is well-connected by public transport. Buses and trains can take you to and from the city center. Check the local schedules for late-night services.
  • Biking: Renting a bike is a popular way to explore the city and can be a fun way to get to different bars.
  • Safety: Leiden is generally safe, but like any city, be mindful of your belongings and avoid overly intoxicated situations.

Cultural and Legal Considerations

  • Alcohol Consumption: Drinking in public spaces is generally frowned upon, so it’s best to enjoy your drinks within the bar or pub.
  • Noise Regulations: Be respectful of noise levels, especially late at night, as there are residential areas nearby.

With this guide, you should feel well-prepared to explore the bars and pubs of Leiden. Enjoy your time in this beautiful city!