I've raved about the Botanical Gardens in Leiden . But I forgot to mention something: you can eat there, too! The Grand Café Clusius is located right inside the entrance to the gardens. They offer a delicious selection of drinks (fair trade coffee and tea!), lunch items, treats and a comfortable seating area inside. But the real treat is the outdoor seating. On a beautiful summer day it's a wonderful place to pass the time - at the beginning or end of your visit to the Botanical Gardens, or all on its own, as the café is open to the public.

Keep in it mind - but also be sure to plan a visit to the oldest botanical gardens in the Netherlands sometime this summer. I guarantee you'll have a fun and restful experience.