Things To Do
in 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.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the fascinating Frans Hals Museum to admire Dutch Golden Age paintings. Stroll through the historic streets and get a glimpse of the beautiful architecture.
Enjoy lunch at a local café and then head to the impressive St. Bavo's Church, where you can see its stunning organ. Take a leisurely walk along the Spaarne River.
Dine at a cozy restaurant and try traditional Dutch cuisine. End the day with a relaxing walk through one of Haarlem's gardens.
Start your day in the Grote Markt, the main square surrounded by shops and cafes. Explore the local boutiques and artisan shops for unique finds.
Have lunch at a cafe featuring local food, then continue shopping in the quaint streets of Haarlemmerstraat and Kleine Houtstraat. Don't forget to pick up some Dutch souvenirs.
Enjoy a meal at a trendy eatery and experience Haarlem's vibrant nightlife. Visit a local bar for drinks or a live music performance.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historic architecture and museums.
- Vibrant atmosphere with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
- Close proximity to Amsterdam, making it easy to access the capital city's attractions.
- Beautiful parks and green spaces, ideal for outdoor activities.
- Active arts scene with festivals and events throughout the year.
- Higher cost of living compared to other Dutch cities.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Can be crowded, especially during tourist season.
- Smaller job market compared to Amsterdam, which may limit opportunities.
- Weather can be unpredictable with frequent rain.
Best Activities in Haarlem
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A beautiful park perfect for walking, cycling, picnicking, and enjoying nature.
Explore Haarlem's scenic canals and historic architecture by renting a bike and taking a leisurely ride.
Enjoy a day at the seaside, with sandy beaches, beach clubs, and dunes to explore.
Take a guided walking tour to discover the historic charm and hidden gems of the city.
Tours
Uncover the best of Haarlem with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Haarlem
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Haarlem from its tower
Scenic views of the city and river from this iconic windmill
Charming courtyard with picturesque views
Historic city gate with great photo opportunities
Lush greenery and beautiful landscapes for photography
Food in Haarlem
Haarlem Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
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!
For seafood enthusiasts, tasting this raw herring with onions and pickles is a must. Look for it at Vishandel Roos and the Haarlemse Visboer.
Satisfy your sweet tooth with these traditional Haarlem candies, available at the local confectionery shops like Tum Tum or Van Velze's.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Haarlem better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
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.
Visit the Vijfhoek district's food market to indulge in artisanal cheeses, organic produce, and delectable snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Haarlem, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, especially in formal settings such as business meetings or when meeting someone for the first time.
Dutch people, including those in Haarlem, value their personal space. It is important to maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others, especially in public places.
Being on time is highly valued in Dutch culture, so it is important to be punctual when attending appointments or social gatherings in Haarlem.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Haarlem with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Haarlem
Ensure a smooth experience
In Haarlem, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants, cafes, and for other services such as taxis and hairdressers.
In Haarlem, most places accept credit and debit cards, but it's always good to have some cash on hand, especially for smaller establishments. Contactless payments are becoming increasingly popular, and major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Haarlem.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a beautiful time to visit Haarlem when the city comes alive with blooming flowers, particularly tulips. The famous Keukenhof Gardens are nearby and not to be missed.
Summer in Haarlem brings warm temperatures and festive outdoor events, including music festivals and open-air markets. The beaches are also popular for sunbathing and water activities.
Fall offers pleasant weather and stunning foliage, making it ideal for exploring the city's parks and surrounding countryside. The Teylers Museum and Frans Hals Museum are great indoor attractions.
Winter can be cold in Haarlem, but the city's festive atmosphere, charming Christmas markets, and ice skating rinks make it a magical time to visit. Cozy cafes and pubs provide warmth and cheer.
Haarlem at Night
Hiking in Haarlem
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful national park located just south of Haarlem, offering diverse landscapes including dunes, forests, and beaches, perfect for hiking and nature walks.
A part of the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, known for its sandy hills, heathlands, and rich wildlife. It has well-marked hiking trails.
A small but scenic park with walking paths, beautiful greenery, and a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for short hikes and leisurely strolls.
A large nature reserve situated a bit further from Haarlem, featuring extensive hiking trails through dunes and forests, along with opportunities for wildlife watching.
A recreational area with a variety of trails around a lake, suitable for both hiking and cycling, set in a beautiful landscape.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Haarlem through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Haarlem by plane.
Located approximately 18 kilometers from Haarlem, Schiphol is the main international airport in the Netherlands and one of the busiest in Europe.
Situated around 60 kilometers from Haarlem, this airport serves both Rotterdam and The Hague and offers international flights mainly to European destinations.
Located about 120 kilometers from Haarlem, Eindhoven Airport is the second-largest airport in the Netherlands and operates many low-cost flights.
Approximately 170 kilometers from Haarlem, Brussels Airport is the main international airport in Belgium and serves as a major European hub.
Situated roughly 110 kilometers from Haarlem, Weeze Airport is a low-cost airport in Germany, primarily serving Ryanair flights to various destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Haarlem, comprising a significant percentage of the population.
A notable minority group in Haarlem, reflecting the historical migration patterns to the Netherlands.
Another significant immigrant community, contributing to the multicultural landscape of the city.
A demographic group with historical ties to the former Dutch colony of Suriname.
People from the Caribbean Netherlands, particularly the ABC islands.
Includes residents from various European countries, contributing to Haarlem's diversity.
Represents individuals from different Asian countries, including Indian and Chinese communities.
A catch-all category for various smaller demographic groups not specifically classified.
The Soul of Haarlem
Discover the essence of Haarlem through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Haarlem, with numerous clubs and a strong local league.
Field hockey has a significant following in Haarlem, with several dedicated clubs and a vibrant youth program.
Running is a popular recreational activity in Haarlem, with many parks and scenic routes for runners.
Cycling is a favored mode of transport and sport among residents, supported by extensive bike paths in the city.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in Haarlem, with both indoor and beach volleyball facilities available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Haarlem.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Haarlem embraces vegetarian and vegan lifestyles, with many establishments offering dedicated menus or options to cater to these dietary preferences.
Gluten-free diners can find accommodating dishes in various cafes and restaurants, with gluten-free bread and pasta alternatives readily available.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Haarlem with these cultural adventures.
