Cty Books Hotel - Leiden

Historical boutique hotel with digital keyless entry and canal views in Leiden

Rooms & Thematic Decor

CTY Books occupies a restored bookstore building in Leiden, with rooms themed after authors like Roald Dahl and Virginia Woolf. Each room offers a mix of historic charm and contemporary decor, with some units featuring two-level duplex layouts and spiral staircases to the bedroom. Select rooms include fully equipped kitchenettes with induction stoves, a microwave, and a refrigerator for self-catering.

Keyless Entry & Convenience

The hotel operates without a front desk, using a digital entry process where guests receive a web link to unlock the main door and their room. Daily housekeeping is provided, and express check-in and check-out are available through the same online system. An intercom connects guests to management for quick assistance, and the building is equipped with smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and CCTV in common areas.

Location & Surroundings

Cty Books sits directly on a canal in Leiden's city center, opposite the Town Hall and within walking distance of the Rijksmuseum voor Volkenkunde and Naturalis Biodiversity Center. A Wednesday and Saturday market sets up right outside the building, and the bus stop to Leiden Central Station is a two-minute walk. Nearby activities include water sports, boating, kayaking, and canoeing on the canals.

Family & Business Amenities

The hotel offers family rooms with air conditioning, a seating area, and a work desk, making it suitable for both leisure and business travelers. Some rooms include a sofa bed and soundproofing, while the kitchenette allows families to prepare simple meals. Guests can access free WiFi throughout the property, and the central location places restaurants and shops within a short walk.

Guest Experience & Ratings

CTY Books receives high ratings for its central location, with many guests noting the spacious rooms and canal views. The property is praised for its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities, as well as the responsive management that answers queries promptly. Travelers should be aware that the building has steep spiral staircases and no elevator, which is typical for a 400-year-old structure.

• Location: Prime canalside in Leiden's historic center, opposite Town Hall
• Rooms: Author-themed duplex apartments with kitchenettes and canal views
• Technology: Keyless digital entry via web link, no physical keys
• Services: Daily housekeeping, express check-in/check-out, intercom support
• Nearby: Wednesday/Saturday market, bus stop 2 min, Albert Heijn supermarket 3 min
• Attractions: Rijksmuseum van Oudheden, Naturalis, Rijksmuseum Boerhaave within walking distance