Rijksmuseum Boerhaave Leiden
Explore centuries of scientific discovery with interactive exhibits and historical artifacts, from ancient medicine to the cosmos.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Rijksmuseum Boerhaave Leiden
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more space to explore
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore centuries of scientific discovery with interactive exhibits and historical artifacts, from ancient medicine to the cosmos.
"This space museum is out of this world! Perfect for families, it’s packed with exciting exhibits."
Download the Museum App
Enhance your visit with the Rijksmuseum app for guided tours and exhibit information. :iphone:
Check for Special Shows
Don't miss unique presentations like the 'Black Hole' show; book tickets in advance! :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 'Black Hole' Show
Special Exhibition Area
An immersive and visually stunning presentation on black holes, with limited entry for an intimate experience.
Historical Scientific Instruments
Various Galleries
Explore centuries of scientific discovery through a vast collection of antique telescopes, microscopes, and anatomical models.
Interactive Science Exhibits
Children's Floor & Math Exhibition
Engage with hands-on experiments and puzzles designed for all ages, making complex scientific concepts fun and accessible.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Special Exhibits
Museum Card for Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Download the Museum App
Enhance your visit with the Rijksmuseum app for guided tours and exhibit information. :iphone:
Check for Special Shows
Don't miss unique presentations like the 'Black Hole' show; book tickets in advance! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Kid-Friendly Workshops
Engage children with hands-on activities and creative workshops. :child:
Tips
from all over the internet
Download the Museum App
Enhance your visit with the Rijksmuseum app for guided tours and exhibit information. :iphone:
Check for Special Shows
Don't miss unique presentations like the 'Black Hole' show; book tickets in advance! :ticket:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Kid-Friendly Workshops
Engage children with hands-on activities and creative workshops. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Rijksmuseum Boerhaave is widely praised as an engaging and educational science museum, particularly for families. Visitors highlight its interactive exhibits, historical collections, and the captivating 'Black Hole' show. While parking can be a challenge, the overall experience is consistently rated as excellent, with friendly staff enhancing the visit.
"Great museum!!
It is now two times that we have been there and it is always something that surprise us.
Good for small children and also teenagers. They can be all day long having fun.
With a museum card is ideal.
Food have accessible prices."
Lluvia Morales
"This space museum is out of this world! Perfect for families, it’s packed with exciting exhibits that make you feel like you’re rocketing through the galaxy. The kids’ workshops are pure magic—hands-on, creative, and guaranteed to have them talking about planets and stars for days! And the staff? Absolutely stellar! They’re super friendly, full of cool space facts, and amazing with kids.You can tell they love what they do, and they make the whole experience unforgettable. If you’re looking for a fun, inspiring day trip, this museum is a must-visit!"
Shweta T
"Very interesting science museum. Somenhands on experiment and puzzles fir kids and some very historical important objects."
Alex K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rijksmuseum Boerhaave is conveniently located near the city center of Leiden and is easily accessible. If you're arriving by train, it's a short walk from Leiden Centraal station. Parking directly at the museum is not possible, so public transport or walking is recommended. +1
Yes, Leiden is well-connected by train, and the museum is within walking distance of Leiden Centraal station. Buses also serve the city center frequently. 
Parking directly at the museum is not available. Visitors are advised to use public parking garages in the city center, such as the Lammermarkt parking garage, and then walk to the museum.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission prices can vary, and it's always best to check the official Rijksmuseum Boerhaave website for the most current pricing. The museum accepts the Museumkaart, which offers free entry for frequent visitors.
For general admission, booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak times. However, for special exhibitions like the 'Black Hole' show, advance booking is usually mandatory due to limited capacity.
Yes, the Museumkaart is widely accepted for free entry. Check the museum's website for any other potential discounts for students, seniors, or groups.
Opening hours can vary seasonally and may differ on public holidays. It's essential to consult the official Rijksmuseum Boerhaave website for the most up-to-date information on opening times before your visit.
🎫 🔬 Onsite Experience
Highlights include the 'Black Hole' show for its visual storytelling, the extensive collection of historical scientific instruments, and the interactive exhibits on the ground floor, particularly for children.
Absolutely! The museum is highly praised for being family-friendly, with interactive experiments, hands-on activities, and dedicated children's areas that make learning fun.
Yes, guided tours are often available, and the museum's app can provide additional information and self-guided tour options. Some special presentations, like the 'Black Hole' show, are guided.
Generally, photography for personal use is allowed in most areas, but flash photography might be restricted to protect the artifacts. Always check for specific signage within the museum.
This exhibition offers a visually stunning and immersive experience about black holes, with limited group sizes for a more impactful presentation. It's highly recommended to book tickets in advance.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum typically has a cafe or restaurant offering refreshments and snacks. Reviews suggest that food prices are accessible.
While specific policies can vary, it's generally best to consume outside food and drinks in designated areas or before entering the exhibition halls to maintain the museum's environment.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is usually permitted, but it's wise to avoid flash photography, especially around delicate exhibits. Look for any specific restrictions posted within the museum.
The historical scientific instruments, the interactive exhibits, and the unique architecture of the building itself offer great photographic opportunities. The 'Black Hole' show, while visually impressive, may have restrictions on recording.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The staff are also frequently praised for being friendly and excellent with children, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. The museum's approach to science education is visual and storytelling-based, making it easier for younger minds to grasp complex concepts. It's a place where kids can learn, play, and spark their curiosity about the world around them.
🤓 Science Enthusiasts
The museum doesn't shy away from the 'big questions' in science, presenting current research and open inquiries alongside historical context. This makes it a stimulating environment for adults looking to deepen their knowledge and appreciate the ongoing journey of scientific discovery. The 'Black Hole' exhibition is a particular draw for those interested in astrophysics.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Science History
+1One of the standout aspects is the museum's commitment to interactive learning. Beyond static displays, you'll find numerous hands-on experiments and puzzles designed to illustrate scientific principles. This approach is particularly effective for younger visitors, transforming abstract concepts into tangible experiences. The museum also delves into the 'big questions' in science, encouraging contemplation and curiosity about the unknown.
The museum's dedication to showcasing scientific advancements is evident throughout. From early telescopes that mapped the stars to microscopes that revealed the unseen world, each exhibit tells a story of human ingenuity and discovery. The 'De kracht van plasma' (The Power of Plasma) exhibition, for instance, blends informative explanations with interactive elements to explore blood plasma.
This blend of historical significance and interactive engagement makes Rijksmuseum Boerhaave a truly unique and educational destination.Experiencing the 'Black Hole' Show
Due to its popularity and limited space, this show operates with strict capacity controls, typically allowing only about six people at a time. This ensures a more intimate and impactful viewing experience for each visitor. The show is presented in Dutch, with English explanations offered at specific times, making it accessible to a wider audience. Many visitors have described it as a 'must-see' and have even watched it multiple times due to its stunning visuals and educational value.
Given the limited spots and high demand, it is highly recommended to book tickets for the 'Black Hole' show in advance through the museum's official website. This will guarantee your entry and allow you to plan your visit accordingly, ensuring you don't miss out on this extraordinary astronomical journey.
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