City Trip to Haarlem: How Long Should You Stay?

Why a city trip to Haarlem?

A city trip to Haarlem is an absolute must; this charming city offers an irresistible mix of history, culture, and beauty. Although it’s close to the bustling Amsterdam, Haarlem has a character all its own, expressed through its historic charm, picturesque canals, beautiful buildings, and fascinating museums. Stroll through the atmospheric streets, admire the old architecture, and visit the diverse museums to discover the rich history and culture of this city.

How long do you need for a city trip to Haarlem?

The length of a city trip to Haarlem depends on the preferences and interests of the traveller. Fortunately, Haarlem offers plenty of things to explore and enjoy, whether you’re coming for a day trip or a weekend away.

For a day trip, you can explore the main sights and highlights of Haarlem, such as the Grote Markt, the Sint-Bavokerk, Teylers Museum, and a walk along the canals. You can enjoy a local lunch or a bite to eat at one of the cosy cafés before heading back.

If you have more time, a weekend in Haarlem is ideal. This gives you the opportunity to wander through the city at a leisurely pace, visit multiple museums, shop in the charming streets, and experience the local culture more fully. You can also enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the city, dine at various restaurants, and discover even more of Haarlem’s hidden gems.

What to do during a city trip to Haarlem?

Discover Haarlem, an atmospheric Dutch city with a rich history and an abundance of cultural treasures. During your city trip, you can enjoy beautiful canals, historic buildings, museums, lively squares, and much more! We’ll tell you what to do during your city trip to this charming city.

1. Sail along the Spaarne and the canals of Haarlem

Enjoy a lovely boat trip along the picturesque Spaarne and the canals of Haarlem, where you can admire the city from a unique perspective. During the cruise, you can take in the breathtaking views of historic buildings and atmospheric bridges that adorn the canals. A boat trip is a wonderful way to relax and enjoy the surroundings, experiencing the charm of Haarlem from the water.

2. Take a look inside the Grote Kerk

Visit the impressive Grote Kerk, also known as the Sint-Bavokerk, and be enchanted by the Gothic architecture and the grandeur of this historic monument. Inside, you’ll find a wealth of artworks, stunning stained glass windows, and the famous Müller organ, which is one of the largest organs in the world. You can also climb the tower for a fantastic view over Haarlem and the surrounding areas.

3. Enjoy a drink on the Grote Markt

The Grote Markt is the vibrant heart of Haarlem and one of the liveliest squares in the Netherlands. Surrounded by beautiful historic buildings and cosy terraces, this is the ideal place to relax and enjoy a refreshing drink. Whether it’s a local beer, a delicious cup of coffee, or a glass of wine, there are plenty of cafés and restaurants where you can soak up the local atmosphere and enjoy an incredible view of the market square.

4. Visit the Verwey Museum Haarlem

The Verwey Museum is dedicated to the life and work of Albert Verwey, a prominent Dutch poet, writer, and art critic from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum is housed in a historic building and contains a rich collection of artworks, literature, and personal belongings of Verwey. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the art and literary history of the Netherlands, with works by Verwey himself and other artists of his time.

5. Dinner on a luxury sloop and sail past Molen De Adriaan

Add a touch of luxury to your city trip in Haarlem by enjoying a dinner on an atmospheric sloop while sailing past the iconic Molen De Adriaan. Various boat companies offer beautiful evening cruises, where you can enjoy a delicious dinner and drinks while gliding past the canals and landmarks of Haarlem.

6. Visit the hidden Hofjes

Haarlem is famous for its beautiful hofjes (courtyards), hidden behind the historic facades of the old city centre. These oases of peace and greenery offer a tranquil escape from the bustle of the city. Walk through the atmospheric inner courtyards and admire the beautiful flower gardens and charming architecture. Discover the rich history of these hidden treasures and let yourself be enchanted by the serene atmosphere they exude.

7. Visit Teylers Museum

Step back in time and enter the oldest museum in the Netherlands, Teylers Museum, which is housed in a beautiful 18th-century building. Admire the extensive collection of art and scientific objects, including fossils, minerals, old books, and drawings. The unique atmosphere of the museum gives you the feeling of travelling through time.

8. Shopping in the Gouden Straatjes

Let the shopper in you loose and browse through the charming Gouden Straatjes (Golden Streets) of Haarlem. These narrow streets are home to a variety of lovely boutiques, antique shops, and artisan stores. Here you can find unique souvenirs, fashion items, antiques, and local delicacies. We love the “Gouden Straatjes”.

9. Discover the Frans Hals Museum

Immerse yourself in the vibrant art scene of the Dutch Golden Age at the Frans Hals Museum. Admire masterpieces by the famous Haarlem painter Frans Hals and other renowned artists of that period. The museum offers an extensive collection of paintings and art objects that transport you to the glory of the Golden Age.

10. Visit the Jopenkerk

Treat yourself to a unique culinary experience in the former Jopenkerk, which has been converted into a bustling brewery and restaurant. Enjoy local craft beers brewed right here and taste delicious dishes inspired by traditional and modern flavours. The Jopenkerk is a lively meeting place where you can savour the unique atmosphere of Haarlem and enjoy the local hospitality.

11. A day at the beach

Escape the city and enjoy a relaxing day at the beach at Bloemendaal aan Zee or Zandvoort. Both beaches are easily accessible from Haarlem and offer kilometres of sand dunes and crystal-clear sea. Relax on the beach, take a refreshing dip, walk along the coastline, and enjoy the lively beach bars and restaurants for a wonderful day in nature.

12. Visit the South Kennemerland National Park

For nature lovers, the South Kennemerland National Park offers a beautiful landscape of dunes, forests, and meadows. Take a relaxing walk or bike ride through the park and enjoy the diverse flora and fauna. The park is an ideal place for rest and recreation, and you may even spot wild animals such as deer, rabbits, and Highland cattle.

13. Admire historic buildings

During a walk through Haarlem, you’ll encounter countless historic buildings, such as the Waag, the town hall, old city gates, and beautiful mansions. Admire the unique architecture and the rich history reflected in the facades and streets of the city. Haarlem has a wealth of historic buildings that make your city trip a special cultural experience.

14. See Haarlem Station

Haarlem Station is an impressive example of 19th-century architecture. Admire the characteristic facade and stately design of this historic train station. The station is not only an important transport hub, but also a monumental building in its own right that welcomes travellers to the beautiful city of Haarlem.

15. Walk through the Amsterdamse Poort

Admire the Amsterdamse Poort, one of the last remaining city gates of Haarlem. This medieval gate is an iconic piece of heritage and a reminder of the city’s past. A walk past the gate offers an interesting look at the fortification history of Haarlem and is a must-see for lovers of history and architecture.

Tips for one day in Haarlem

Discover the charm of Haarlem in one day with a varied programme full of cultural discoveries and relaxation. Visit one of the many museums, sail along the picturesque canals, explore the lively centre, and enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the cosy restaurants or aboard a special boat.

Visit one of the museums in Haarlem

Start your day in Haarlem with a visit to one of the fascinating museums. Dive into the world of art and history at the Frans Hals Museum, Teylers Museum with its unique collection of art and scientific objects, or discover literary treasures at the Verwey Museum Haarlem.

Discover the canals of Haarlem during your boat trip

Continue your day with a relaxing private cruise along the picturesque canals of Haarlem. Enjoy the beautiful views of historic buildings, bridges, and the quaint canal houses as you sail along the Spaarne and through the city centre. Discover our sailing routes in Haarlem.

Explore the centre of Haarlem

After sailing, it’s time to explore the vibrant centre of Haarlem. Stroll through the cosy streets, admire the historic architecture, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Visit the Grote Markt with its imposing Grote Kerk and enjoy a nice cup of coffee at one of the many cafés.

Dining at one of the lovely restaurants in Haarlem

End your day with a delicious dinner at one of the cosy restaurants in Haarlem. Taste the local dishes and enjoy the hospitality of this charming city. Choose a culinary experience aboard a special boat, such as a BBQ boat, Pizza boat, or Sushi & Pokébowl boat, for a unique and unforgettable meal.

A weekend in Haarlem

A weekend in Haarlem is an ideal choice for those who find one day too short to experience all the charm and sights of this beautiful city. Enjoy the museums, such as the Frans Hals Museum and Teylers Museum, take a relaxing cruise along the canals, explore the cosy centre with its shops and restaurants, and discover the surrounding nature and beaches. Haarlem offers a varied and enriching weekend away, in which you can experience all the highlights and enjoy the unique atmosphere of this historic city.

The sights during your city trip to Haarlem

During your city trip to Haarlem, there are plenty of sights that you shouldn’t miss. Discover the rich art collections in museums such as the Frans Hals Museum, Teylers Museum, and the Verwey Museum Haarlem. Admire the beautiful architecture of the Grote Kerk, the Amsterdamse Poort, and the town hall on the Grote Markt. Explore the beautiful hidden hofjes, take a relaxing cruise along the Spaarne and the canals, and enjoy the cosy atmosphere in the historic centre.

Discovering the history of Haarlem

The history of Haarlem is rich and fascinating. The city was reportedly founded in the 10th century and has a long tradition of craftsmanship, trade, and culture. Haarlem received city rights in 1245 and quickly grew into an important trading centre during the Golden Age. The inhabitants of Haarlem, also known as “Haarlemmers”, have contributed to the prosperity and flourishing of the city throughout the centuries.

The city has a number of iconic canals and waterways dating from the Middle Ages, including the Spaarne and the canals in the centre. Many historic buildings, churches, and mansions still bear witness to Haarlem’s rich past. The different neighbourhoods of Haarlem each have their own character, from the bustling centre with the Grote Markt to the green neighbourhoods in the east and south.