Things To Do
in Haarlem
Haarlem is a compact, historic city in the Netherlands just west of Amsterdam. It sparkles with medieval architecture, cobbled streets, and tranquil canals. The Grote Kerk dominates the central square, while museums like Frans Hals and Teylers offer world-class collections.
Its relaxed vibe, riverine setting, and easy train access make it a perfect base for culture lovers and day-trippers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Haarlem and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the historical city center and enjoy the architecture of its charming buildings. Visit the iconic Grote Kerk, a stunning church that dominates the skyline.
Lunchtime offers a chance to relax at one of Haarlem's cozy cafes while tasting local specialties. Spend the afternoon exploring the Teylers Museum, the oldest museum in the Netherlands, showcasing art, science, and natural history. Don't forget to take photos of the beautiful fountains and flowers in the nearby Hammuseum garden.
As the sun sets, head towards the Spaarne River for a scenic evening walk. Dine at a traditional Dutch restaurant and indulge in local dishes. Finish the day with a visit to one of Haarlem's quaint pubs for a taste of local beer.
Start your day with a visit to the Frans Hals Museum, which houses masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age. Participate in a guided tour to enhance your understanding of the artists and their techniques. Take time to enjoy the serene park surrounding the museum.
After lunch at a nearby café, spend the afternoon at the Dolhuys Museum, dedicated to the history of psychiatry in the Netherlands. Its interactive exhibits will give you a deeper insight into mental health awareness. Stroll through the charming streets and explore local art galleries showcasing contemporary art.
For dinner, experience a culinary delight at one of Haarlem's top-rated restaurants. Follow this with an evening performance at the Philharmonie, where you can enjoy classical music in a stunning setting. Wind down with a nighttime canal walk, where the city lights reflect beautifully on the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🚌Public transport 1-day pass | $8-12 |
| ☕️Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🍷Wine bottle (mid-range) | $15-30 |
| 🏨Hotel per night (mid-range) | $120-180 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with rich history
- High-quality museums and canal scenery
- Can be pricey compared to other Dutch towns
- Tourist crowds on weekends around Grote Markt
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreek je Engels?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Haarlem
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic Gothic church towering over the historic square, with frequent events and seasonal lighting.
Picturesque canal scene with reflected architecture, swans, and boats along the water.
Elegant 17th-century architecture and a charming courtyard ideal for portraits and cityscapes.
Neoclassical exterior and intriguing interior spaces offering unique photography angles.
Historic windmill by the river with classic water-side views and photo opportunities at dusk.
Food in Haarlem
Haarlem Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty mash of potatoes with greens (such as kale or sauerkraut), typically served with sausage or smoked bacon.
Must-Try!
A traditional mix of mashed potatoes, carrots, and onions, often served with sausage or brisket.
Crispy deep-fried balls filled with a rich beef ragout, a popular snack with a beer.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekend market on the central square offering fresh produce, cheeses, seafood, and street snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch people value directness; be polite, say please and thank you, and speak clearly.
Respect bike lanes and bells; greet people with a quick nod or hello; don’t block traffic when stopping.
A handshake is common on first meetings; first-name basis may develop after familiarity.
Safety
Tipping in Haarlem
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is still used but gradually less so.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming gardens; carry a light jacket and an umbrella for showers.
Long days and lively outdoor terraces; occasional afternoon showers—stay hydrated.
Cooler air and colorful canal-side foliage; weekend markets and harvest events.
Cold but manageable with indoors-focused museum days; Christmas markets and festive lights.
Haarlem at Night
Hiking in Haarlem
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal dunes and forests just outside Haarlem; great for hiking and biking with scenic views.
Airports
How to reach Haarlem by plane.
Major international hub; quick train connections to Haarlem, roughly 15-20 minutes to Amsterdam and 20-25 minutes to Haarlem.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of students from nearby universities, young professionals, and families; international residents due to proximity to Amsterdam.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular; local clubs and pickup matches; cycling and inline skating are common recreational pursuits.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haarlem.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; look for seasonal vegetables, dairy, and plant-based sauces, and ask about egg or dairy-free preparations.