Haarlem,
Haarlem is a picturesque city located in the Netherlands, just west of Amsterdam. Known for its historic architecture, Haarlem is filled with charming cobblestone streets, beautiful canals, and colorful buildings. The city is home to several museums, including the Frans Hals Museum, showcasing Dutch Golden Age art.
Haarlem also boasts a lively culinary scene, with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and markets to explore.
Places to visit
Key Phrases
Speak like a local
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Bedankt" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Goedenavond" - Good evening
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Exploring Haarlem
morning:Start your day at the Grote Markt, a historic market square with beautiful architecture. Visit the Teylers Museum to admire its art and natural history collections. Have a delightful breakfast at Native Haarlem cafe.
afternoon:Stroll through the charming streets of the Jordaan district and visit the Frans Hals Museum to see an impressive collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Jetties Lunchroom.
evening:Experience the vibrant nightlife of Haarlem at the Oerkap bar with its great selection of drinks and lively atmosphere. 🍻
Nature and History
morning:Explore the tranquil surroundings of Haarlem by visiting the Haarlemmerhout park. Take a guided tour of the Corrie ten Boom House, a hidden house where Jewish refugees were sheltered during WWII. Enjoy a scrumptious brunch at Anne & Max.
afternoon:Discover the rich history of the region at the Amsterdamse Poort, a medieval city gate. Take a pleasant walk along the Spaarne river and visit the De Adriaan Windmill. Indulge in traditional Dutch pancakes at Kraantje Lek.
evening:Savor dinner at Specktakel, a restaurant known for its delicious international cuisine and vibrant ambiance. 🍽️
Art and Culture
morning:Immerse yourself in the works of Dutch master artists at the Frans Hals Museum. Visit the Corrie ten Boom Museum to learn about the brave actions of the ten Boom family during the Nazi occupation. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at Blender.
afternoon:Wander through the picturesque streets of the Old Town and discover hidden gems like the Hofje van Oorschot courtyard. Explore the impressive collection of contemporary art at the De Hallen Haarlem museum. Have a light lunch at Thuyskamer.
evening:End the day with a stroll around the historic De Waag square, then head to Jopenkerk for a tasting of locally brewed craft beer. 🍺
Culinary Delights
morning:Start with a visit to the weekly market at Botermarkt to pick up some local specialties. Take a guided tour of the Jopenkerk brewery and learn about the art of beer making. Grab a quick bite at By Lima for a healthy and delicious brunch.
afternoon:Discover the flavors of Haarlem with a food tour, tasting different Dutch specialties and treats. Explore the chocolate museum and indulge in some decadent samples. Enjoy a late lunch at Diga.
evening:Satisfy your taste buds with a sumptuous dinner at Ratatouille Food & Wine, known for its creative and flavorsome dishes. 🍷
Haarlem Famous Food
Must-Try local dishes
Stamppot
A comforting Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes and vegetables, often served with a juicy sausage. Try it at De Zeeuwse Meisjes or Jopenkerk.
Must-Try!
Hollandse Nieuwe Haring
For seafood enthusiasts, tasting this raw herring with onions and pickles is a must. Look for it at Vishandel Roos and the Haarlemse Visboer.
Haarlemse Halletjes
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these traditional Haarlem candies, available at the local confectionery shops like Tum Tum or Van Velze's.
Food Markets & Street Food
A food market and street food guide
Grote Markt
Explore the Grote Markt where you can savor a variety of street food offerings, from freshly made stroopwafels to kibbeling (fried fish) at the market stalls.
Vijfhoek Food Market
Visit the Vijfhoek district's food market to indulge in artisanal cheeses, organic produce, and delectable snacks.
Things to do in Haarlem
Unique local experiences...
Pet sitters in Haarlem
Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!