Search hotels in Haarlem

We are really glad we decided to stay in Haarlem instead of in Amsterdam. Everything was quiet, pretty, quaint and easy to walk to (in the medieval city centre), there were lots of fantastic restaurants, and we were only a 20min train ride away from Amsterdam as well as a within cycling distance of the national park and the beach. We even did a 60km cycle trip to the Zaanse Schans along the canals which we thoroughly enjoyed. In Haarlem our favourite thing we did was the extremely fascinating and informative tour of the old windmill (Molen De Adrian). We also enjoyed Teylers Museum and the organ concert at the Bavo cathedral.

Haarlem is great - it has the city beauty of Amsterdam without the bustling crowds or sounds of luggage wheels over cobblestones! The historical value is endless, and simply walking around the city is fascinating. ALWAYS a must in a Dutch city is a boat tour - hire one yourself for the most natural and relaxing experience. Afternoon drinks while dangling your legs over a canal, strolling through the streets with an ice-cream, eating at the many cafes and restaurants - perfect.

Love it. Cute. Charming. Not too crowded. Great shops and restaurants and pedestrian area. Eay to get to public transport and back and forth to Amsterdam. I could live here. One of my favorite trips. And it felt safe- and friendly.

My wife and I have visited Haarlem many times ( we have family there ) and we love the character and atmosphere of this beautiful city. We appreciate the narrow Dutch houses and shops, the canals and the unhurried pace of life. You can walk through the uncrowded Churches, museums and markets and enjoy the history of this city. The meandering cobblestone streets and the mixture of ancient and more recent architecture offers an enjoyable sightseeing experience. Sitting at an outdoor table at a sidewalk café overlooking the river with a local beverage in hand is a true delight.

Haarlem has plenty of places to visit, in and outdoors, easy to get to on foot or by bike :) - it has its own canal trip (no need to go to Amsterdam). Great for anyone enjoying a variety of architectures amongst buildings. Plenty of coffee houses, restaurants and shopping - day and night. Excellent transport. Recommend their version of London's Oyster card - swipe on and off trains and buses.

Haarlem is much nicer and less busy than amsterdam city centre. Easy to get to from the airport by bus or train. Lots of historic attractions. Not into churches but bavo church was amazing inside and only 2.50 euro to go in. Adriaan windmill was good. Lots of nice boutique shops and mainstream shops, lots of nice cafes and restaurants. Lots of local people not full of tourists. Felt safe would stay in haarlem and not amsterdam again.