Best things to do in Haarlem
Find out more about those top places in Haarlem
Haarlem, Netherlands: Amsterdam's Sleepy-Chic Cousin (Think Cobblestone Cuddles, Windmill Selfies, and Dune Buggy Dreams!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to This Dutch Delight!
All aboard for a quick escape! Just a breezy fifteen-minute train ride from the buzzing heart of Amsterdam lies Haarlem, a city that manages to feel like it's in a whole different, wonderfully charming universe. Step off the train and prepare to be transported beyond the capital's frenzy into a classic sleepy Dutch scene, complete with cobbled streets that whisper tales of centuries past, adorable half-timbered houses that look like they belong in a storybook, quirky stepped roofs that add character to every building, and yes, even medieval windmills proudly punctuating the skyline like giant, picturesque lollipops.
Following Haarlem’s big switch to Protestantism back in the 16th century (talk about a historical plot twist!), the city blossomed into a golden age of art and commerce. And guess what? This artistic heyday is still on glorious display for all you culture vultures at the renowned Frans Hals Museum. Prepare to be wowed by masterpieces that prove Haarlem wasn't just about pretty buildings; it was a serious artistic powerhouse! This museum is definitely one of the top attractions and a must-do for your Haarlem sightseeing itinerary.
While the quaint city center is undeniably enchanting, like a warm hug from a bygone era, the adventure doesn't stop at the city limits! Just a hop, skip, and a short bike ride away lies the expansive Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, a natural wonderland boasting some of Europe’s largest sand dunes. Forget your average sandy patch; these dunes are epic, almost lunar in scale! And the best part? The national park is crisscrossed by a network of fantastic cycle pathways (get ready to channel your inner Dutchie!) and even pony trekking trails, making it an exhilarating day trip for people of all ages – from tiny tykes to seasoned adventurers. Imagine galloping through the dunes on a pony, the wind in your hair, feeling like Lawrence of Arabia (minus the whole desert war thing!).
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this Dutch delight. Get ready for some truly unforgettable sightseeing, from exploring charming historical streets and world-class art museums to cycling through dramatic sand dunes and maybe even befriending a Dutch pony, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Haarlem a truly special and hilariously charming destination.
Top Attractions: Art, Windmills, and Epic Dunes!
Haarlem offers a delightful blend of culture, history, and natural beauty:
Frans Hals Museum: Golden Age Masterpieces
Immerse yourself in the art of the Dutch Golden Age at the Frans Hals Museum, home to a renowned collection of works by Frans Hals and other masters. A must-see attraction for your Haarlem sightseeing.
Grote Markt: Historic Heart
Wander through the Grote Markt, Haarlem's central market square, surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, including the impressive St. Bavo Church. A key place to visit for soaking in the city's atmosphere.
Windmills: Iconic Dutch Scenes
Keep an eye out for Haarlem's medieval windmills, picturesque reminders of the Netherlands' iconic landscape. Great photo opportunities for your sightseeing.
Zuid-Kennemerland National Park: Dune Adventures
Explore the expansive Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, offering fantastic cycling and pony trekking opportunities through Europe's largest sand dunes. A top thing to do for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Teylers Museum: Quirky Scientific Treasures
Discover the fascinating Teylers Museum, the oldest museum in the Netherlands, showcasing a quirky collection of art, science, and natural history. A unique place to visit for curious minds.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks (and within this Dutch delight!):
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Haarlem vibe:
- Stroll Along the Spaarne River: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the picturesque river that flows through the city.
- Visit the Corrie ten Boom House: Learn about the inspiring story of this family who sheltered Jews during WWII.
- Browse the Local Shops: Discover unique boutiques and local crafts in Haarlem's charming streets.
- Enjoy a Dutch Beer at a Local "Brown Cafe": Experience the cozy atmosphere of a traditional Dutch pub.
- Take a Day Trip to the Beaches: The Dutch coast is easily accessible from Haarlem.
So, if you're looking for places to visit that offer a charming blend of Dutch history, world-class art, stunning natural landscapes, and a relaxed atmosphere just a stone's throw from Amsterdam, Haarlem is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an unforgettable adventure filled with incredible sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared to fall in love with its cobblestone cuddles and maybe develop a serious craving for stroopwafels! Fijne reis! (Have a nice trip!)
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Frans Hals Museum
For anyone interested in the art of the Dutch Golden Age, a visit to Haarlem’s Frans Hals Museum is a highlight of the Netherlands. Housed in a former poorhouse where the artist Frans Hals spent his final years, the museum has an astonishing collection of works by Hals and other Haarlem based artists, which were produced during the Netherlands gilded 17th century.
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Zuid-Kennemerland National Park
Less than 5 kilometers west of Haarlem lies one of the Netherlands hidden gems: stretching along the North Sea coast are a series of towering dunes that have been formed by the tides and the winds over the past millennia. For the best experience, take a cycling tour of this unique landscape to see Scottish Highland cattle, wild horses and learn about the area’s wartime history.
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Grote Kerk van Saint Bavo
One of the Netherlands finest churches, the Grote Kerk van Saint Bavo is simply a joy to explore. Housing a treasure trove of Renaissance art works, alongside the world’s largest 18th century Müller organ, and topped by a precipitous Gothic spire, the church has a plethora of attractions. If you are interested in its rich history, including a connection with a young Mozart, guided tours are available.
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De Adriaan Windmill
Rising above the Haarlem skyline is the De Adriaan Windmill, one of the finest examples of windmill architecture in the Netherlands. Today the windmill houses a museum exploring their role in Dutch history while you can also take guided tours of its inner-workings.
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Corrie ten Boom House
The Corrie ten Boom House, better known as ‘the hiding place’, is Haarlem’s best and most harrowing World War Two-era attraction. Belonging to the Boom family, the house was used to hide Jews and Dutch resistance fighters from Nazi occupiers during World War Two in a series of secret rooms. The house can be explored as part of a guided tour that reveals its hidden secrets and what life was like under German rule.
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Haarlemmerhout
The Haarlemmerhout is the Netherlands oldest park. Dating from the 16th century, the park is today immaculately landscapes with a collection of beech, chestnut, oak, linden and maple trees lining its many pathways and lakes. What is more, during the summer months Haarlem’s main park transforms into the city’s living room with a host of world-class art exhibitions, concerts and theater performances taking place.
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Boat Tour
Much like its larger neighbor Amsterdam, Haarlem’s streetscape is defined by the constant presence of canals. To see the city from the water, take a romantic boat tour that will take you past all the main attractions including the De Adriaan Windmill and the Grote Kerk van Saint Bavo.
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Grote Markt
On Saturdays Haarlem comes alive thanks to the always-thrilling Grote Markt, where you can buy just about anything. Traders selling fresh fruit, fine cheeses and iconic Dutch snacks, such as stroopwafle, sit side by side with stalls flogging antiques, vintage clothing and vinyl records.
