Top things to do in Haarlem
Attractions, tours, and activities in Haarlem
Recommended museums in Haarlem
Where to find art and culture in Haarlem
About Haarlem
Including tips for the best time to visit Haarlem
Easily accessible from Amsterdam, Haarlem is a historic city in the Netherlands. Its iconic monuments, bustling markets and rich heritage add to the touristic charm of this beautiful city.
Haarlem’s historic character is on full display at its city centre, with gabled houses, cobblestone streets and a massive cathedral towering overhead. Located in the central square, the Grote of St.-Bavokerk has an imposing presence highlighted by its wooden tower and Gothic facade. Inside, you’ll find impressive stained glass windows and the Müller Organ, where a young Mozart is said to have played once. If you’re keen on learning about the history of Haarlem, the waterfront Teylers Museum will satisfy your curiosity. It showcases all manner of exhibits related to the city – from paintings and books to fossils and instruments. A break at Lunchcafé Teylers Museum is highly recommended too.
Haarlem is renowned for its shopping options – from themed markets to atmospheric streets lined with artisanal stores. There’s also seasonal bazaars, like the one during Christmas, where you’ll find stalls selling beautiful, occasion-specific items. The Golden Streets is a popular place to indulge in some retail therapy, with its fashion boutiques, trendy concept shops and more. During your Haarlem trip, make time to visit the famous Grote Markt and Botermarkt, which offer an abundance of local items like baked goods, fresh produce, souvenirs and antiques. Exploring the fantastic clothing stores and lively eateries housed in heritage buildings of Kleine Houtstraat and Grote Houtstraat is a satisfactory experience too.
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| Most popular time to visit | October-December |
| Cheapest time to visit | January-March |
| Local currency | € 1 = $1.09 |
| Language | Dutch |
| Average weekend price | $200 per night |
| Average weekday price | $193 per night |
| Average stay | 1 night |
Points of interest in Haarlem
Stay near the top sightseeing spots in Haarlem
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Amsterdamse Poort
0.4 miles from downtown
Haarlem reviews
What other travelers say about Haarlem
Quieter and cleaner than Amsterdam.
July 25, 2024
Quieter and cleaner than Amsterdam. Loved the Teylor museum and the Grote Kerk. Quick access to Amsterdam museums and to a sandy beach, using the Amsterdam area travel card. Bus 300 goes to Shipol airport from Haarlem--no need to transfer, as with the train.
This is a beautiful gem of a town with gorgeous buildings...
July 13, 2024
This is a beautiful gem of a town with gorgeous buildings and watererways, great shopping and eating. Amsterdam in miniature without the crowds. Easily walkable and something interesting to see at every turn.
Although if going to Amsterdam for the first time,...
July 9, 2024
Although if going to Amsterdam for the first time, that's where I would stay--Haarlem is GREAT for a 2nd experience or for those used to taking the train into and out of city for attractions. It also offers charming beauty and more of a home-town feel then a bigger city. Wonderful people, and beautiful streets!
This town is a gem.
July 7, 2024
This town is a gem. Only 20 min or so by train to Amsterdam. We enjoyed the big city for a day and were really happy to return to cute Haarlem for dinner and sleep. Take a canal tour! We booked a 90 min canal tour through the tourism info centre. We loved the cathedral and the Saturday market. Our 3 nights in Haarlem were at the end of our trip - it was the perfect place to wind down. Good grocery store nearby hotel as well - we stocked up on fruit and yogurt.
Haarlem has a small city centre so we could easily walk to...
July 7, 2024
Haarlem has a small city centre so we could easily walk to all the main sights. It is steeped in history, with interesting architecture and several museums and churches, including the very impressive Great Church of St Bavo. It also has a lot of great restaurants and bars. The restaurant, Moustique, was a highlight of our stay. We also enjoyed lunch and a drink at Jooenkerk, a local craft brewery, housed in an old church. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay of two days which was long enough to enjoy the area at a very leisurely pace.
Haarlem is a great alternative for a base to Amsterdam.
July 1, 2024
Haarlem is a great alternative for a base to Amsterdam. It has excellent bus and tram service whether you are going to Schiphol airport, Delft, or Scheveningen Beach. There is a full range of restaurants and bars with excellent options for any meal.
Popular places to stay in Haarlem
Stay in some of the best accommodations Haarlem has to offer
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RiverSide Suite - Haarlem City Centre Haarlem, Netherlands
From $206 per night
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Appartement Downtown Haarlem, Netherlands
From $195 per night
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Vijfhoek Haarlem Studio Vlaming Haarlem, Netherlands
From $167 per night
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Coolest Apartment in Haarlem City - close to Beach and Amsterdam Haarlem, Netherlands
From $205 per night
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