The 5 best cafés in Leiden in 2022

Great news! The Dutch lockdown is over and we can finally take in the beautiful Dutch weather and go out to our favourite terraces and cafés once again. But which cafés have the most gezellig vibes in Leiden? Well, that’s where I come in — and yes, I’m indeed writing this article from a Leiden café as we speak.

I’m by no means a coffee expert, so all of this is just my own opinion and based on what tasted good to me.

1. Darras Coffee Roasters

Location: Haarlemmerstraat 181, 2312 DP Leiden

Darras Coffee Roasters has to be my absolute favourite café! With freshly roasted beans coming from six different countries and a student-friendly price, what’s not to love? They also have cheap lunch options if you’re looking for a quick bite to eat.

Now that the weather is getting warmer, I highly recommend their iced cappuccino with vanilla — it was absolutely divine for a warm day.

If you’re more of a tea person, they also offer delicious chai and Royal English tea. Lekker!

2. Guitars & Beans

Location: Botermarkt 21, 2311 EN Leiden

Just as the name suggests, this place has two things: guitars and coffee. Not only is this the COOLEST-looking café you’ve ever seen but also make a damn good cup of ‘jo! Their coffees are also very affordable and they have decaf and vegetarian milk options. That rocks!

3. Borgman & Borgman

Location: Nieuwe Rijn 41, 2312 JG Leiden

Although small, Borgman & Borgman is a lovely father and son-owned café on the Nieuwe Rijn. It may not be the biggest, but they do make a delicious cup of coffee! If you go while it’s not so busy, it can also be a nice spot to study. They get very crowded on Wednesday and Saturday because of the market though so be warned!

4. Lavendi Coffee

Location: Steenstraat 12, 2312 BW Leiden

Conveniently located near the Central Station, Lavendi Coffee is an amazing spot for a chill and relaxed coffee date or study sesh. They offer delicious breakfast options (Dutch pancakes and waffles) and a chai latte that is out of this world! They also offer a yummy croissant for only €2.

You can even order a selfie coffee here — where they put a picture of your face in your coffee. Go for the ‘gram opportunity!

5. Madame Marie

Location: Kloksteeg 2, 2311 SL Leiden

Madame Marie is a quaint café located within walking distance of Lipsius and the Law Faculty. Did you know that the café started out in the owner’s living room? We love a local, female business owner!

I went here once and the owner, Madame Marie herself, was very nice and accomodating! Not only is the cappuccino excellent, but she also makes delicious apple pie from scratch in a small bakery in the basement. A true Leiden Gem.

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So that was the list of the best cafés in Leiden (according to me!). I’m sure there are plenty more that I’m missing that are also worth mentioning, but that’s for another article.

What’s your favourite café in Leiden? Or which one do you plan to visit? Tell me your thoughts in the comments below!