Sights of Haarlem: the 21 Best

All about the sights of Haarlem

Are you curious about the best sights in Haarlem? From breathtaking historic buildings and surprising museums to the picturesque banks of the Spaarne – Haarlem has it all. Whether you are fascinated by the rich history, want to admire the beautiful architecture or simply want to enjoy discovering a new city, Haarlem is absolutely worth a visit. In this article we take you on a journey of discovery along 21 of the most special sights in Haarlem, so you can easily plan your next city trip.

1. See the windmills of Haarlem

The beautiful old windmills of Haarlem have dominated the city’s skyline for centuries. And the great thing is: they are still turning. So for those who love windmills, Haarlem is a real treat. The windmills in Haarlem have played an important role in the city’s history and prosperity. Most are still in their original state and are carefully kept turning by enthusiastic volunteers.

One of the most famous windmills is De Adriaan, an old tower mill overlooking the Spaarne which, thanks to its picturesque location, is one of the most photographed hotspots in Haarlem. Climb to the top and admire the beautiful view over the historic center and the Spaarne at your feet.

Tip: View the Adriaan Mill from the water. Only then can you truly appreciate what we mean by picturesque location.

2. Rent a boat and admire the Haarlem canals

Did you know that the Haarlem canals are older than those of Amsterdam? Since the 12th century it has been bustling on the water here. That is something you simply must see with your own eyes. During an afternoon on the canals you truly get to see Haarlem properly and discover what treasures Haarlem has been hiding from you all this time. From stately mansions to beautiful warehouses and other sights. Come aboard one of our comfortable sloops, set course through the canals and sail one of our beautiful routes through historic Haarlem while learning about the city along the way (we have a number of great packages ready for you). Good times guaranteed!

3. Amsterdamse Poort

The Amsterdamse Poort is one of the city gates that has been protecting the city from enemy invasions since the fourteenth century. Fortunately, that is no longer necessary today. Now the Amsterdamse Poort is the last of the 12 city gates still standing proudly after 7 centuries. You can visit the gate yourself and feel what it was like to walk through the gate into the medieval old city.

To experience the Amsterdamse Poort at its best, it is recommended to go on foot or by bike. The gate is located on the edge of the historic city center, and you can easily walk or cycle there.

4. Pay a visit to the Grote of Sint Bavokerk

The Grote of Sint Bavokerk is a beautiful church, located on the Grote Markt in Haarlem and is one of the oldest and most iconic buildings in the city. The Grote of Sint Bavokerk was built in late Gothic style and is remarkably richly decorated with beautiful mosaics, artworks and stained glass windows. You cannot miss it, because this beautiful medieval cruciform basilica towers high above the buildings around the square. Inside the church you can also find the famous Müller organ, which is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

The name of the Grote of Sint Bavokerk comes from the patron Saint Bavo: a nobleman who lived around 600 AD. After his death he was declared a saint. In 1274 he helped the inhabitants of Haarlem when the city was attacked. He did this by appearing in the clouds and chasing the enemy away. Since then, Saint Bavo has been very popular with the people of Haarlem, who named their largest church after him and made him the patron saint of the city.

5. Take a look at the inner courtyards

The city center of Haarlem has a rich history. Everywhere you look, you are reminded of the enormous wealth of the Golden Age. But the city center is also known for its various hofjes (courtyards) where the poor, sick and widows were given free shelter. There are 23 in total. And each courtyard has its own character. The oldest courtyard even dates back to 1395. They are true oases of tranquility in the bustling city center. Usually the courtyards are open and you can take a peek at the flower-rich inner gardens and admire the small dwellings with the beautifully decorated family crests of the wealthy families who founded these courtyards on their facades.

6. See De Waag

De Waag is a historic building in Haarlem located on the Grote Markt. It was built in the 16th century and originally served as a weighing house where farmers and traders from outside the city could weigh their products. Today the building is a museum and offers visitors a glimpse into the history of Haarlem. De Waag is a beautiful building to admire because of its unique architecture. It was built in the Dutch Renaissance style and richly adorned with beautiful details such as ornate statues and sculpted lion heads.

7. Sail on the Spaarne

If you have never seen Haarlem from the water, you have not truly seen the city. From the water, the centuries-old city center looks completely different and you see the city from a different perspective. You sail past buildings you would never have noticed otherwise and see far more details than during a city walk.

Book a private boat and sail with a skipper past national monuments, under historic bridges, through the medieval canals and along quays that once bustled with activity. As if you are sailing through a painting by one of the old masters. Along the way you naturally enjoy the necessary snacks and drinks. You will want for nothing during a cruise on the river Spaarne.

8. Frans Hals Museum

In Haarlem you will find many different museums and galleries. The Frans Hals Museum is perhaps one of the most famous. This beautiful museum is dedicated to the famous painter Frans Hals and offers visitors the chance to admire his most renowned paintings and learn everything about his life and work.

Frans Hals was one of the famous masters of the Golden Age. He is famous for his lively and exuberant painting style, which was different from that of many fellow painters of the time. He often painted portraits of important figures from the city (such as mayors and wealthy merchants), but he also made group portraits of ordinary people.

Inside the museum you can enjoy an impressive collection of paintings by Frans Hals. In addition, the museum also has contemporary art and works by other Dutch masters, such as Rembrandt and Jan Steen, in its collection. Furthermore, many exhibitions and changing exhibitions are regularly organized about the history of Haarlem and the important role that Haarlem has played in the Dutch art world. Visiting this museum is a must for art lovers of all ages!

9. Teylers Museum

The Teylers Museum in Haarlem invites you to go on a journey of discovery through the world of art, science and the history of Haarlem. The oldest museum in the Netherlands, housed in an 18th-century listed building, has a versatile collection. You will find scientific objects, fossils and minerals as well as work by famous artists. In addition, there is an extensive 18th and 19th century library with rare books and magazines. A wing has also just been added to the historic building: the renovated home of Pieter Teylers himself. The benefactor after whom the oldest museum in Haarlem is named.

10. The Jopenkerk

The Jopenkerk, formerly a church, is now a restaurant and brewery where visitors can enjoy music, history but above all beer. In the brewery, only beers are made according to historical recipes from the city. Haarlem has a rich beer history. Whether you prefer a fruity and summery wheat beer, dark and robust bock beer, or a crisp bitter IPA: in this Haarlem beer temple they are sure to have a beer on tap that you will enjoy.

If you are visiting Haarlem soon and are a fan of craft beer, then the Jopenkerk is the place for a unique beer experience in a beautiful building. Put it high on your list of must-see sights in Haarlem.

11. The Koepelgevangenis

The Koepelgevangenis (Dome Prison) was once one of the three dome prisons in the Netherlands. After a major renovation it has been transformed into a vibrant and impressive place where you can catch a movie at the cinema, do flexible work in an old cell and enjoy cool, new hospitality concepts.

12. Shopping in the Golden Streets of Haarlem

Looking for something nice to wear? Or do you simply feel like an afternoon of shopping? That is perfectly possible in Haarlem. For example in the Golden Streets. Seven cozy streets located around the Grote Markt. A paradise for shoppers who love shops that are just that little bit different.

Here you will not find large chains and standard shops, but a unique selection of charming shops, cozy boutiques and trendy concept stores that you will not find anywhere else in the Netherlands. The shops are filled with all kinds of unique and handmade products. From the latest clothing, jewelry and delicacies to art, antiques and everything for your interior. After shopping you can sit down and relax on one of the many cozy terraces. It is therefore no surprise that Haarlem has been voted the best shopping city in the Netherlands three times.

13. Museum Haarlem

The Verwey Museum Haarlem is a museum where the rich and eventful history of Haarlem takes center stage. Here 1000 years of city history comes to life and you meet remarkable people from Haarlem’s past and present who were (and are) important to the city.

Inside Museum Haarlem you can view countless historical objects, such as old coins, weapons and paintings. There are also lifelike reconstructions of important moments in the history of Haarlem. Think for example of the conquest of Haarlem by the Spanish in 1573.

In addition to the permanent collection, Museum Haarlem also regularly organizes changing exhibitions on various topics. For example, you can learn about the history of the textile industry in Haarlem or discover the role of Haarlem in the Golden Age.

14. The Grote Markt

The Grote Markt is the historic heart of Haarlem. An impressive square where you can feel the energy of the vibrant city flowing. On the square you can leisurely browse the Saturday market, shop in one of the many stores and enjoy the tastiest hospitality hotspots in the city. There are also plenty of sights on and around the Grote Markt. In addition, all kinds of events take place on the Grote Markt throughout the year, such as the annual fair, the popular food festival Haarlem Culinair and the music festival Haarlem Jazz & More.

15. The Haarlem Railway Station

The railway between Amsterdam and Haarlem was the first train connection ever in the Netherlands. That is why the architects really went all out and made the station in Haarlem one of the most remarkable stations in the Netherlands. The Art Nouveau building is full of beautiful details such as the stained glass, the exceptional woodcarving and the historic tile tableaux that are worth seeing. The building has also undergone quite a few renovations and changes over the years. From historic trams and steam trains to modern intercity and sprinter trains: the station building has seen them all pass by since its opening in 1839.

Fun fact: You have (without knowing it) probably seen the station in a movie or series. Parts of movies such as New Kids Turbo, Zwartboek and Ocean’s Twelve were filmed in Haarlem. More film shoots are already scheduled for the coming years.

16. Haarlem by bike

The Netherlands is a cycling country. And we cycle through the polders just as easily as straight through the city center. So just like all other Dutch cities, Haarlem is a paradise for cycling enthusiasts. Do your feet need a rest from all the strolling through the city? Then grab a bike and head out for a journey of discovery through Haarlem and its surroundings. With an extensive network of cycle paths and cycling routes you can literally go in all directions. Choose a short trip and cycle past a number of special Haarlem gems from Haarlem’s history. You can also spend an entire afternoon heading to other cities near Haarlem. For example, cycle to Zandvoort or pedal all the way to the Amsterdamse Bos.

17. The Saturday market in Haarlem

Haggling, negotiating or bargaining. Whatever you want to call it, when you visit the market it can be handy to have some negotiation skills. Because even though many things are getting more expensive, talking about the price is always possible. Especially at the market where you can always get a good deal!

The Saturday market on the Grote Markt of Haarlem has been voted the best market in the Netherlands. And how could it be otherwise, because at this extensive Saturday market with stalls you can get just about anything. From traditional Dutch stroopwafels and fresh, organic ingredients to regional products and the tastiest local delicacies. Enjoyment guaranteed!

18. Theater Stadsschouwburg

Soaking up culture is what you do at the Stadsschouwburg: one of the oldest theaters in the Netherlands. Here you can enjoy classic operas, ballets, theater, cabaret, music and festivals. From small and intimate to grand and exuberant. But it is not only the program that sets the Stadsschouwburg apart. The building itself is also very much worth seeing. It was built in the 19th century in the neoclassical style and has beautiful ornaments and details. In short: a must-see on the list of every culture lover visiting Haarlem.

19. The Koepel Cathedral in Haarlem

The Koepel Cathedral in Haarlem is a beautiful example of neo-Gothic architecture in the Netherlands. It was built in the 19th century and is one of the most important religious buildings in the city. The cathedral is named after the enormous dome that towers above the church. It gives the building a unique and striking appearance. Inside, the cathedral is remarkably richly decorated with beautiful mosaics and magnificent stained glass windows. It is definitely worth a visit when you are in Haarlem.

20. Have a drink at the Dakkas

Lunch, dinner or a drink at a unique location? Head to the rooftop at the Dakkas. On the edge of the city center, on top of the Kamp parking garage, is a unique green city pavilion where sustainability is central. After an afternoon of wandering through the city, you can come here for a plant-based culinary highlight or a spontaneous cozy drink. Take a seat on the terrace or in the greenhouse itself and enjoy an extensive selection of beers or non-alcoholic drinks. Or grab a cup of coffee, sit back and enjoy perhaps the most beautiful view of the city.

21. The Kweektuin in Haarlem

A stone’s throw from the city center you can wander around the grounds of the former municipal nursery garden of the City of Haarlem: a sustainable little paradise. Here you can easily entertain yourself for an afternoon. Little ones can play for hours in the toad pool, while you do a yoga class in a historic listed building, shop for sustainable gifts or get your hair done at the hairdresser. Afterwards you can sit down for a lunch or cozy drink at the Kweekcafé where exhibitions, workshops and other events are also regularly organized. As long as it is sustainable.

The best sights in Haarlem for children

Haarlem has several fun sights that are suitable for children. A popular hotspot is the Teylers Museum, where children can enjoy interactive exhibitions and scientific discoveries. The Frans Hals Museum also offers a special program for children, where they can participate in fun workshops and creative activities. In addition, Linnaeushof, the largest playground park in Europe, is an absolute must. You will find countless play equipment and attractions. Have fun!

The best sights for seniors

There are also several sights that are great fun for seniors. One of the highlights is the Frans Hals Museum, where beautiful artworks from the Golden Age can be admired. In addition, a walk through the historic city center of Haarlem – with its charming streets, small courtyards and historic buildings – is a wonderful experience for seniors. For those who love nature, a visit to the beautiful city park Haarlemmerhout is recommended. Here you can enjoy green oases and peaceful walking paths.

Good to know: Most sights in Haarlem are easily accessible for seniors and offer facilities such as elevators and wheelchair-friendly paths.

How can you explore Haarlem?

Haarlem is ready to be discovered! This beautiful city offers various ways to explore at your own pace. You can relax and rent a boat and sail through the canals, experience the freedom of a bicycle or stroll through the city center at your leisure. Haarlem has something for everyone.

Explore Haarlem on a luxury sloop

Step aboard a luxury sloop and let yourself be pampered while sailing along the picturesque canals of Haarlem. Enjoy the view of historic buildings, bridges and quaint spots while you relax on the water.

Explore Haarlem by bike

Experience the freedom of a bike ride through Haarlem and discover the city at your own pace. Rent a bike and explore the streets, parks and historic sights. Cycle along the beautiful canals, stop at cozy cafés and enjoy the lively atmosphere of this bike-friendly city.

Walk through beautiful Haarlem

Discover the hidden treasures of Haarlem during a relaxing walk through the city. Stroll through the winding streets, admire the beautiful architecture and discover the many courtyards that make Haarlem so unique.

What else can you do in Haarlem?

If you want to discover what else Haarlem has to offer, you can read our extensive article ‘What to do in Haarlem’. Here you will find a collection of the best activities. You can also experience a weekend in Haarlem or even go on a city trip to Haarlem.