Leiden

1. Leiden is home to the oldest university in the Netherlands, Leiden University, which was founded in 1575. It has a rich history of academic excellence and has produced several notable scholars and scientists, including the famous physicist Albert Einstein. 2. The city is known for its beautiful canals, which were built in the 17th century and are often less crowded than those in Amsterdam. These picturesque waterways are lined with historic buildings and provide a charming backdrop for leisurely walks or boat tours. 3. Leiden hosts the oldest botanical garden in the country, the Hortus Botanicus, which was established in 1590. The garden features a diverse collection of plants and serves as a center for research and education, attracting visitors interested in botany and horticulture.