Nestled just 20 minutes from Amsterdam, the historic city of Haarlem captivates visitors with its medieval charm and rich cultural heritage along the Spaarne River. The stunning skyline, dominated by the Saint Bavo Cathedral and its famous Müller organ, has graced this Dutch gem since the 15th century, while the cobblestone streets of the city center lead to the bustling Grote Markt, the historic heart of Haarlem.
🏠 Where to Stay in Haarlem
- ✨ 5-Star: Brasss Hotel Suites
- 🏨 4-Star: Lion d'Or
- 🛏️ 3-Star: Ibis Styles Haarlem City
- 💸 Cheap: Hello I'm Local
- 🏢 Apartament: Five Churches View Apartments
- 👨👩👧👦 For Families: De Zoete Inval
- 🏩 For Couples: Grand Frans Hals
Art enthusiasts and culture seekers will find paradise in the oldest museum in the Netherlands, the Frans Hals Museum, showcasing Dutch masters across two locations in the city. The picturesque canals, traditional gabled houses, and hidden hofjes like the Hofje van Oorschot offer a quintessential Dutch experience, while craft beer enthusiasts can unwind at the iconic Grand Café Brinkmann after exploring the boutique-lined Grote Houtstraat and Kleine Houtstraat.
💁 Best Guided Tours
- Haarlem 50 Minutes Boat Cruise from € 20 (⭐4.8/5)
- Haarlem 50 Minutes Open Canal Tour with Live Guide from € 20 (⭐5/5)
- Haarlem Party Boat Tour from € 380 (⭐5/5)
- Haarlem Walking Tour from € 40 (⭐5/5)
Best Things to Do in Haarlem
1. 🏛️ Frans Hals Museum
Artistic Legacy: The Frans Hals Museum, one of the oldest museums in the Netherlands, showcases a remarkable collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings. Split between two locations—Hof and Hal—the museum houses masterpieces by Frans Hals and other famous painters like Pieter Saenredam. Visitors can explore Renaissance artworks and contemporary art in this unique setting.
Cultural Heritage: The museum’s Hof location is set in a 17th-century building that was once an almshouse, reflecting Haarlem’s rich history. The Hal building, located in a former meat market, focuses on modern art exhibitions that engage with the city’s historical past.
Time Saver: Buy your tickets online and visit early in the day to avoid crowds at both locations. A combined ticket allows entry to both sites.
⭐ Best Activities
Haarlem Walk Through the Old Town: Explore the rich history and stunning architecture of Haarlem on this Haarlem Walk Through the Old Town. This guided walking tour takes you through the cobblestone streets of Haarlem’s city center, where you’ll discover landmarks like the Grote Markt, Amsterdamse Poort, and St. Bavo Church.
2. ⛪ Saint Bavo Cathedral
Gothic Wonder: The Saint Bavo Cathedral, built between 1370 and 1520, is an architectural masterpiece that dominates Haarlem’s skyline. Its renowned Müller organ, standing over 30 meters tall with 5,000 pipes, has been played by legendary musicians like Mozart and Handel. The cathedral also contains beautiful stained glass windows and vaulted ceilings that date back to the 15th century.
Historical Significance: The cathedral is not just a place of worship but also a symbol of Haarlem’s rich history. It houses the tombs of famous Dutch artists such as Frans Hals and Pieter Saenredam, making it a must-visit for art lovers.
Insider Tip: Attend the free organ concerts held every Tuesday afternoon from May to October for an unforgettable experience.
3. 🏰 Grote Markt
Market Square Life: The Grote Markt is the historic heart of Haarlem and one of the most beautiful squares in the Netherlands. Surrounded by medieval buildings like the Town Hall and Grote Kerk (St. Bavo Church), it’s a lively spot with weekly markets selling local produce and crafts. The square has been a gathering place since the 14th century.
Cafe Culture: Grand Café Brinkmann offers prime views of the square, perfect for people-watching while enjoying traditional Dutch dishes or craft beers. Seasonal festivals like Haarlem Culinair bring additional vibrancy to this historic location.
Money Saver: Visit on Saturdays when local markets are held for affordable souvenirs and fresh Dutch treats.
⭐ Best Activities
Haarlem Walking Tour: Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Haarlem on this Haarlem Walking Tour. This guided tour takes you through the cobblestone streets of Haarlem’s city center,
4. 🎭 Teylers Museum
Oldest Museum in the Netherlands: Established in 1784, Teylers Museum is the oldest museum in the Netherlands and a treasure trove of art, science, and natural history. Located along the Spaarne River, it houses an impressive collection of fossils, minerals, scientific instruments, coins, and paintings by masters like Rembrandt and Michelangelo. The museum’s neoclassical Oval Room is a highlight, showcasing 18th-century scientific instruments.
Art Meets Science: The museum’s diverse collection includes everything from dinosaur fossils to Renaissance artworks, making it a unique blend of art and science. Visitors can also explore temporary exhibitions featuring contemporary art.
Insider Tip: Visit on a sunny day to fully appreciate the daylight-lit exhibits in this historical museum.
5. 🏺 Het Dolhuys (Museum of Psychiatry)
Unique Museum Experience: Housed in a former mental institution dating back to 1559, Het Dolhuys explores the history of psychiatry through interactive exhibits that challenge perceptions about mental health. Visitors can learn about treatments used throughout history and hear personal stories from people living with mental illness today.
Thought-Provoking Exhibits: This museum offers an immersive experience that encourages visitors to reflect on societal attitudes toward mental health across time periods.
Top Tip: Plan your visit ahead as some exhibits may require reservations due to limited space inside this intimate museum setting.
Things to Do with Kids
1. 🚣♂️ Smidtje Canal Cruises
Water Adventure: A family-friendly way to explore Haarlem is through a canal cruise with Smidtje Canal Cruises. These 50-minute boat tours take you through Haarlem’s historic canals while providing entertaining commentary about its rich history and architecture.
Educational Fun: Kids will love learning about how Dutch engineers manage water levels through an intricate system of canals and locks while spotting famous landmarks from a unique perspective on the water.
Money Saver: Book your family tickets online in advance for discounted rates, and opt for morning departures when boats are less crowded.
⭐ Best Activities
Haarlem 50-Minutes Boat Cruise: Experience Haarlem from a unique perspective with this 50-minute boat cruise along the scenic Spaarne River. As you glide through the city’s picturesque canals, you’ll pass by some of Haarlem’s most iconic landmarks, including Windmill De Adriaan, Frans Hals Museum, and the historic Amsterdamse Poort.
2. 🎨 Museum Haarlem
Interactive History: Museum Haarlem offers engaging exhibits that bring local history to life through hands-on displays perfect for children. Exhibits cover everything from scientific instruments used in early Dutch research to stories about notable Haarlemmers like the Boom family.
Cultural Learning: Special workshops designed for kids make learning about Haarlem’s past both fun and educational. Children can participate in interactive activities that teach them about life during different periods of Dutch history.
Time Saver: Visit during weekday afternoons when school groups are less frequent for a more relaxed experience.
3. 🌿 Haarlemmer Kweektuin
Sustainable Oasis: Set on the historic foundations of Haarlem’s former City Nursery Garden, dating back to 1909, Haarlemmer Kweektuin is now a vibrant park blending recreation with sustainability. It features botanical gardens, playgrounds for kids, educational exhibits about nature conservation, and even a café set inside a greenhouse.
Family-Friendly Fun: This park offers something for everyone—whether you’re looking to relax among flowers or let your kids enjoy nature-based play areas. It’s also home to events like bio-markets promoting sustainability.
Top Tip: Visit during weekdays for a quieter experience if you want to enjoy nature walks or relax at the café without crowds.
Free Things to Do in Haarlem
1. 🌳 Hidden Hofjes
Secret Gardens: Haarlem is home to over 20 hofjes (hidden courtyards), with some dating back to the 14th century. These peaceful oases were originally built as almshouses for elderly women and are now open to visitors looking for a quiet retreat from the bustling city streets.
Historical Value: Hofje van Oorschot is one of the most famous hofjes in Haarlem, offering visitors a glimpse into traditional Dutch architecture and social history. Each hofje has its own unique story tied to Haarlem’s charitable past.
Top Tip: Most hofjes are free to visit during daylight hours but are closed on Sundays. Grab a free map from the tourist office for a self-guided tour.
2. 🌬️ Windmill De Adriaan
Historic Windmill: Built in 1778 on the foundations of an old defense tower along the Spaarne River, Windmill De Adriaan is one of Haarlem’s most iconic landmarks. Originally used to grind tufa, tobacco, and later corn, the windmill was tragically destroyed by fire in 1932 but was rebuilt and reopened in 2002. Today, it serves as a museum where visitors can learn about the history of Dutch windmills and enjoy panoramic views of the city from its observation deck.
Educational Experience: Inside, you’ll find exhibits detailing the windmill’s history and its role in Haarlem’s economy. The guided tour offers fascinating insights into how windmills functioned and their importance in Dutch society.
Top Tip: Visit during weekdays for fewer crowds and bring your camera to capture the stunning views from the top.
3. 🚶♂️ Walking Tour Route
Architectural Journey: Stroll through Grote Houtstraat and Kleine Houtstraat, where you’ll find beautifully preserved gabled houses dating back to Haarlem’s golden age. These streets are perfect for exploring on foot, offering picturesque views of historic buildings at every turn.
Cultural Experience: Walking along the Spaarne River gives visitors stunning views of traditional Dutch houses and landmarks like De Adriaan Windmill, which has stood proudly along the river since 1779.
Insider Tip: Download a free walking tour app for detailed information on each landmark and hidden gems along your route.
4. 🏰 Amsterdamse Poort
Medieval City Gate: The Amsterdamse Poort, built in 1355, is Haarlem’s last remaining city gate from its medieval fortifications. Originally known as the Spaarnwouderpoort, it served as the main entrance for travelers coming from Amsterdam. The gate’s Gothic architecture reflects Haarlem’s rich history as a fortified city during the Middle Ages.
A Gateway to History: This national monument offers visitors a glimpse into Haarlem’s past when it was a walled city with 12 gates. Stroll around the area to admire this well-preserved structure and imagine what life was like during Haarlem’s medieval era.
Top Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for peaceful photo opportunities without crowds.
5. 🕰️ Ten Boom Museum
A Story of Courage: The Ten Boom Museum, located at Barteljorisstraat 19, tells the story of Corrie ten Boom and her family who hid Jews during World War II in their home above their watch shop. This small but powerful museum offers guided tours recounting how the Ten Booms saved lives through their brave resistance efforts against Nazi occupation.
The Hiding Place: Visitors can see “The Hiding Place,” a secret room behind a false wall where Jews were hidden during raids. The museum provides an intimate look at how ordinary citizens risked everything to fight injustice during one of history’s darkest periods.
Money Saver: Admission is free but donations are encouraged to support this important historical site.
6. 🌳 De Bolwerken
Historic Green Space: Once part of Haarlem’s defensive fortifications, De Bolwerken is now a peaceful park perfect for walking or cycling along its scenic paths. Located near Amsterdamse Poort, this green space offers beautiful views of historic Haarlem while providing an escape from city life.
Nature Meets History: The park features remnants of old city walls and canals that once protected Haarlem from invaders. It’s also home to various species of birds and wildlife.
Insider Tip: Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch with views of both natural beauty and historic architecture.
Seasonal Activities
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Tulip Season in Haarlem: Spring in Haarlem is a vibrant time when the city and its surroundings come alive with blooming tulips. The nearby Keukenhof Gardens (March 21 – May 12) are a must-visit, showcasing over 7 million flower bulbs in spectacular displays. Another highlight is the Bloemencorso Bollenstreek (April 20), an annual flower parade that travels from Noordwijk to Haarlem, featuring stunning floral floats.
Cultural Awakening: Spring also marks the start of Haarlem’s cultural calendar with events like Haarlemse Lente (March 22-24), an art festival celebrating contemporary art at galleries and museums across the city. The Haarlem Jazz Festival, held annually in May, brings together local and international jazz musicians for performances throughout the city center.
Top Tip: Visit Keukenhof early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best photos of tulip fields. Don’t forget to explore Grote Houtstraat and Kleine Houtstraat for a scenic walk through Haarlem’s historic streets.
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Summer Festivals: Summer in Haarlem is filled with lively festivals. One of the most popular is Haarlem Culinair, held annually in early August at the Grote Markt, where local restaurants serve up Dutch and international dishes. Another exciting event is the Haarlemse Stripdagen, a comic book festival that takes place every two years in late June or early July, attracting comic enthusiasts from all over Europe.
Outdoor Fun: Summer is perfect for exploring Haarlem’s green spaces, such as Kenaupark, or taking a relaxing boat ride along the Spaarne River with Smidtje Canal Cruises. For beach lovers, a short train ride takes you to Zandvoort, where you can enjoy the North Sea coastline.
Time Saver: Book your tickets for canal cruises online to avoid long queues during peak summer days. Also, visit Zandvoort on weekdays to avoid weekend crowds.
🍂 Autumn (September – November)
Cultural Events: Autumn brings cooler weather but plenty of cultural activities to Haarlem. The annual Haarlem Film Festival, held in late September or early October, showcases both Dutch and international films across multiple venues in the city center. Another autumn highlight is the Jopen Festival, which celebrates craft beer at the famous Jopenkerk brewery in mid-October.
Historical Walks: This season is ideal for exploring Haarlem’s historic streets like Grote Houtstraat and Kleine Houtstraat, where you can admire gabled houses and cobblestone streets. The cooler temperatures also make it perfect for visiting indoor attractions like the Frans Hals Museum, which houses works by famous Dutch painters such as Frans Hals and Pieter Saenredam.
Insider Tip: Visit during weekdays to explore museums like the Frans Hals Museum when they are less crowded, especially during school hours.
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Christmas Magic: Winter transforms Haarlem into a festive wonderland with its annual Christmas Market, one of the largest in the Netherlands, held on the second weekend of December at the Grote Markt. Visitors can enjoy holiday shopping, festive food stalls, and live performances while surrounded by twinkling lights and historic buildings.
New Year Celebrations: Ring in the New Year with fireworks and celebrations around Haarlem’s city center. Cozy up at local cafes like Grand Café Brinkmann, which offer special New Year’s Eve menus while providing views of Haarlem’s historic skyline.
Money Saver: Many Christmas market stalls offer discounts on their last day, making it a great time to pick up unique gifts at lower prices. Also, take advantage of free walking tours around Haarlem’s town center to explore hidden gems like hofjes.
Day Trips from Haarlem
1. 🌷 Keukenhof Gardens
Tulip Paradise: Just a short drive from Haarlem, the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens is a must-visit during spring. Known as the “Garden of Europe,” Keukenhof features over 7 million tulip bulbs in bloom, creating stunning floral displays that change every year. The gardens are open annually from March 21 to May 12, making it an ideal springtime destination for flower lovers.
More Than Just Tulips: In addition to its breathtaking flowerbeds, the gardens also feature themed pavilions, beautiful sculptures, and even a traditional Dutch windmill that offers panoramic views of the surrounding tulip fields. You can also take a whisper boat tour around the tulip fields for a unique perspective.
Insider Tip: Arrive early in the morning (before 10:30 AM) or after 4:00 PM to avoid crowds and capture the best photos of the vibrant tulip fields. Consider renting a bike to explore the surrounding flower fields in Lisse.
2. 🏛️ Zaanse Schans
Historic Dutch Life: For a glimpse into traditional Dutch life, head to Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum featuring historic windmills, wooden houses, and artisanal workshops. This picturesque village transports you back to the 18th and 19th centuries, with working windmills and demonstrations of traditional crafts like cheese-making and wooden shoe carving.
Cultural Experience: In addition to its iconic windmills, Zaanse Schans offers visitors access to museums such as the Zaans Museum and the World of Windmills Museum, where you can learn about Dutch industrial history. The village also has charming cafes where you can enjoy local treats while admiring views of the Zaan River.
Top Tip: Combine your visit with a stop at one of Zaanse Schans’ charming cafes for a taste of Dutch pancakes or local cheeses. Also, consider taking a ferry ride along the Zaan River for a different perspective on this historic area.
3. 🚤 Amsterdam’s Canal Ring
City Sophistication: No trip to the Netherlands is complete without visiting Amsterdam, just a short train ride from Haarlem. Explore Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed Canal Ring, which dates back to the Dutch Golden Age and offers stunning views of historic gabled houses and iconic bridges. A luxury canal cruise is one of the best ways to experience this vibrant city.
Cultural Landmarks: After your canal cruise, visit world-class museums such as the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer, or explore significant historical sites like the Anne Frank House.
Time Saver: Purchase tickets for canal cruises and museums online to skip long lines, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider visiting Amsterdam on weekdays when it’s less crowded.
❓ FAQ
What are the best cultural attractions to visit in Haarlem?
Haarlem is home to several cultural heritage gems, including the Frans Hals Museum, which showcases paintings and drawings from the Dutch Romantics and Renaissance artworks. Another must-visit is the Saint Bavo Cathedral, built between 1370 and 1520, famous for its renowned Müller organ. The Grote Markt, located in the heart of Haarlem, is a historic square surrounded by gabled houses and historic buildings, perfect for exploring the city’s rich history.
What are some family-friendly activities in Haarlem?
For families, a great option is a Smidtje Canal Cruise along the scenic Spaarne River, offering fun and educational commentary about Haarlem’s history. Another excellent choice is a visit to Museum Haarlem, where kids can explore interactive exhibits about the city’s past, including displays on the famous local family, the Boom family. Both activities are within walking distance of each other in the city center.
What free things can I do in Haarlem?
Haarlem offers plenty of free activities, including visiting the beautiful hofjes (hidden courtyards), such as the well-preserved Hofje van Oorschot, which dates back to the 14th century. You can also take a self-guided walking tour through the city’s charming streets like Grote Houtstraat and Kleine Houtstraat, where you’ll find stunning examples of traditional Dutch architecture, including gabled houses and cobblestone streets.
How can I save time and avoid crowds when visiting Haarlem?
To avoid crowds, visit popular attractions like the Frans Hals Museum or the Saint Bavo Cathedral early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Booking tickets online for both locations will save you time at entrances. For a quieter experience, explore lesser-known spots like the peaceful hofjes or take a canal cruise during off-peak hours.
What are some hidden gems in Haarlem?
One of Haarlem’s hidden gems is its collection of hofjes, such as the tranquil Hofje van Oorschot, tucked away from busy streets. Another lesser-known spot is the historic windmill, De Adriaan, located along the Spaarne River, offering stunning views of both modern and historic Haarlem. Don’t miss out on visiting local breweries for craft beers, especially at Jopenkerk, housed in a former church.
How far is Haarlem from Amsterdam, and how do I get there?
Haarlem is just a short 15-20 minute train ride from Amsterdam, making it an easy day trip for visitors exploring North Holland. Trains run frequently between Amsterdam Central Station and Haarlem’s city center, making it convenient to explore Haarlem’s top attractions like the Grote Markt, Frans Hals Museum, and Saint Bavo Cathedral.
