The Best Things to Do in Haarlem

Just 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam lies Haarlem, a picturesque Dutch city brimming with historic architecture, world-class museums, and authentic local experiences. Often overlooked by international tourists, Haarlem offers all the charm of the Netherlands without the crowds. From exploring medieval churches and hidden courtyards to sampling local brews in a converted church, this guide covers the best things to do in Haarlem for an unforgettable Dutch adventure.

Haarlem delivers everything travelers love about the Netherlands in one compact, walkable package. With its well-preserved medieval architecture, scenic canals, and rich cultural heritage, Haarlem offers an authentic Dutch experience that even Amsterdam locals appreciate. The city’s proximity to Amsterdam (just 15-20 minutes by train) makes it perfect for day-trippers, though its charm might convince you to stay longer.

Unlike busier tourist destinations, Haarlem maintains a relaxed atmosphere where you can wander cobblestone streets, discover hidden courtyards, and interact with locals. The city also serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions, including the beautiful beaches of Zandvoort and Bloemendaal (just 30 minutes by bike) and the colorful tulip fields of Keukenhof Gardens in spring.

The heart of Haarlem beats at Grote Markt, the city’s stunning main square. This pedestrianized central plaza is flanked by some of Haarlem’s most important landmarks, including the towering Gothic Grote Kerk (St. Bavo Church) and the 14th-century Town Hall. The square is lined with outdoor cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy a coffee or meal while people-watching.

Don’t miss the impressive Vleeshal (Meat Hall), a striking example of Flemish Renaissance architecture that once served as the city’s meat market. Today, it houses exhibitions of modern art. Another highlight is the statue of Laurens Janszoon Coster, who Haarlemers proudly claim invented the printing press (though history generally credits Gutenberg).

If you visit on Monday or Saturday, you’ll find the square transformed by a bustling market selling everything from fresh produce and flowers to clothing and souvenirs. This centuries-old tradition offers a glimpse into everyday Dutch life and the perfect opportunity to sample local specialties.

The magnificent St. Bavo Church (Grote Kerk) dominates Haarlem’s skyline with its 78-meter tower. Completed in 1520, this Gothic cross-basilica is a masterpiece of medieval architecture and an essential stop on any Haarlem itinerary. The church’s soaring vaulted ceilings and large windows create an unusually bright interior compared to most medieval churches.

The church’s most famous feature is the monumental Müller organ from 1738, featuring approximately 5,000 pipes and ornate decorative elements. This impressive instrument was played by both Mozart (at age 10) and Handel during their visits to Haarlem. The church floor consists entirely of gravestones—about 1,500 in total—including those of famous painter Frans Hals and other notable Haarlem citizens.

Other highlights include the beautiful choir with its intricate wooden carvings, the brass choir screen with the curious “pillar biters” (carvings representing hypocrites who appeared devout in church but behaved differently at home), and the unique Dog Whipper’s Chapel, named for a medieval official who kept unruly dogs in order during services.

Haarlem’s favorite son, Frans Hals (1582-1666), was one of the most important portrait painters of the Dutch Golden Age. The Frans Hals Museum houses the world’s largest collection of his works, offering an intimate look at 17th-century Dutch society through his remarkably lifelike portraits of merchants, clergy, militia officers, and everyday citizens.

The museum is divided between two locations: Hof (housed in a former almshouse where Hals himself once lived) and Hal (located near Grote Markt). Both venues are included in a single ticket and are just a 7-minute walk apart through a beautiful section of the old town. The Hof location focuses on Golden Age art, while Hal presents a stimulating mix of contemporary works alongside historical pieces.

Don’t miss Hals’ famous civic guard paintings, which revolutionized group portraiture with their dynamic compositions and psychological insight. The museum also features works by other Dutch masters and offers an excellent 15-minute introductory film about Hals and his significance in art history.

As the oldest museum in the Netherlands (founded in 1778), Teylers Museum offers a fascinating journey through the worlds of art and science. This unique institution has remained largely unchanged since the 18th century, preserving not just its collections but also its original exhibition spaces and display cases.

The museum’s centerpiece is the spectacular Oval Room, an elegant neoclassical hall built for scientific demonstrations and intellectual gatherings. Here, you’ll find an eclectic collection of fossils, minerals, scientific instruments, coins, medals, and prints displayed in antique wooden cabinets with handwritten labels.

Don’t miss the enormous electrostatic generator built by Martinus van Marum in the 1780s—the largest of its kind in the world—which was used for groundbreaking experiments with electricity. The museum also houses an impressive art collection featuring works by Michelangelo, Raphael, and Rembrandt, along with a magnificent 19th-century library that can be visited during guided tours.

One of the most relaxing things to do in Haarlem is to explore the city from its waterways. A canal cruise offers unique perspectives of Haarlem’s historic architecture, allowing you to glide under ancient bridges and past centuries-old gabled houses while learning about the city’s rich history from knowledgeable guides.

Most cruises last about 50-75 minutes and navigate the Spaarne River (Haarlem’s oldest open canal), the picturesque Bakenessergracht, the city moats (Singels), and the Nieuwe Gracht (New Canal). Along the way, you’ll see landmarks like De Adriaan windmill, St. Bavo Church, and numerous historic buildings from angles impossible to appreciate on foot.

Several companies offer regular departures from April through October, with boats typically setting off from docks along the Spaarne. For a more personalized experience, you can also rent a small electric boat and be your own captain, exploring at your own pace and perhaps stopping at one of the waterside cafés for refreshments.

Haarlem is famous for its hofjes—secluded courtyard gardens surrounded by historic almshouses. These peaceful oases were originally built by wealthy citizens to provide housing for poor, unmarried, or widowed women. Today, 21 of these hofjes remain accessible to the public, offering glimpses into Haarlem’s social history and architectural heritage.

The oldest hofje in Haarlem (and the Netherlands) is the Hofje van Bakenes, established in 1395. Other notable examples include the Teylers Hofje, founded by the same patron as Teylers Museum, and the beautifully maintained Hofje van Noblet with its ornate entrance gate. Each hofje has its own character, history, and architectural details waiting to be discovered.

Most hofjes are open to visitors between 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM, though they close earlier in winter. As these courtyards are still residential spaces, visitors should respect the privacy and tranquility of the residents. Speak quietly, don’t peer into windows, and appreciate these special places as the living historical treasures they are.

For a truly unique Haarlem experience, visit Jopenkerk—a craft brewery housed in a former church. This innovative repurposing of a sacred space pays homage to Haarlem’s brewing heritage; in the 16th century, the city was one of the Netherlands’ main beer-producing centers with over 100 breweries, thanks to the clean water of the Spaarne River.

The Jopen brewery revives historical beer recipes from Haarlem’s brewing heyday, offering a range of traditional and innovative craft beers. The spectacular interior preserves many original church features, including vaulted ceilings and stained glass windows, creating a dramatic backdrop for enjoying a drink or meal.

The brewery serves 20 different beers on tap, displayed on giant menu screens. Choose your brew and size (15cl, 25cl, or 50cl), then relax and soak in the unique atmosphere. The kitchen offers excellent food pairings, from casual bar snacks to full meals that complement the beer selection. For the full experience, try the beer tasting flight with small samples of different Jopen brews.

No visit to the Netherlands would be complete without seeing a traditional Dutch windmill, and Haarlem’s De Adriaan windmill is one of the most picturesque. Perched on the banks of the Spaarne River, this tower mill has been an iconic part of the Haarlem skyline for centuries, though the current structure is actually a 2002 reconstruction of the original 1779 mill that was destroyed by fire in 1932.

Visitors can tour the interior of the windmill, learning about the history and mechanics of these ingenious structures that played such a vital role in Dutch industry and water management. The original De Adriaan mill was used to produce cement, paint, tan, and tobacco, showcasing the versatility of windmill technology.

The highlight of any visit is climbing to the viewing platform, which offers panoramic views of Haarlem’s historic center and, on clear days, even glimpses of Amsterdam in the distance. The site also houses a small museum with models and visual displays explaining the importance of windmills in Dutch history and culture.

Haarlem has been voted the Netherlands’ best shopping destination multiple times, and for good reason. The city’s shopping district, known as de Gouden Straatjes (the Golden Streets), offers a delightful mix of boutique shops, concept stores, vintage boutiques, and specialty retailers housed in historic buildings with beautifully preserved facades.

The main shopping streets include Grote Houtstraat, Barteljorisstraat, and Zijlstraat, but don’t miss the smaller, more characterful streets like Kleine Houtstraat, Schagchelstraat, Anegang, Warmoesstraat, Koningstraat, and Gierstraat. These charming lanes are home to independent retailers selling everything from Dutch design items and handmade jewelry to vintage clothing and artisanal foods.

Unlike the chain-dominated shopping areas of larger cities, Haarlem’s retail scene maintains a personal touch, with shop owners often on hand to share stories about their products. The compact nature of the historic center means you can easily explore the entire shopping district on foot, perhaps stopping at one of the many cafés for refreshments between purchases.

For an authentic glimpse of Dutch daily life, visit one of Haarlem’s traditional markets. The largest and most popular is held on Mondays and Saturdays at Grote Markt, transforming the historic square into a vibrant marketplace where locals and visitors mingle among colorful stalls selling everything from fresh produce and flowers to clothing, cheese, bread, and souvenirs.

The Saturday market is particularly lively, with vendors calling out their wares and the scent of fresh stroopwafels (Dutch caramel waffle cookies) wafting through the air. This is the perfect place to sample Dutch specialties like aged Gouda cheese, herring, or freshly made poffertjes (mini pancakes dusted with powdered sugar).

Smaller markets are held throughout the week at Botermarkt, each with a different focus. Monday and Saturday feature general goods, Wednesday hosts a second-hand market, and Friday is dedicated to organic products. These markets have been a part of Haarlem’s social fabric for centuries and continue to play an important role in community life.

Not to be confused with the Gothic St. Bavo Church on Grote Markt, the St. Bavo Cathedral (Koepelkathedraal) is a magnificent domed basilica located just outside Haarlem’s historic center. Built between 1895 and 1930, this impressive structure is considered one of the most important churches constructed worldwide between 1850 and 1950.

Designed by Dutch architect Joseph Cuypers, the cathedral features an eclectic mix of architectural styles, including neo-Gothic, neo-Romanesque, Art Nouveau, and even Moorish elements. The most striking feature is the massive 65-meter-high dome, which dominates Haarlem’s eastern skyline.

Inside, the cathedral dazzles with its colorful stained glass windows, intricate mosaics, and ornate chapels. The north side features stained glass in cool blue tones, while the south side glows with warm oranges and yellows—a deliberate design choice reflecting the cathedral’s orientation. Don’t miss the opportunity to climb the tower for panoramic views of Haarlem and its surroundings.

One of Haarlem’s greatest advantages is its proximity to the North Sea coast. The popular beach resorts of Zandvoort and Bloemendaal aan Zee are just a 30-minute bike ride from the city center, making for a perfect day trip that combines urban exploration with seaside relaxation.

The journey itself is part of the experience, as the cycle route takes you through the beautiful Zuid-Kennemerland National Park with its rolling dunes, forests, and wildlife. Rental bikes are readily available in Haarlem, and the flat terrain makes for easy cycling even for occasional riders.

Once at the coast, you can enjoy wide sandy beaches, refreshing swims (in summer), and numerous beach pavilions serving food and drinks. Zandvoort offers a more developed beach experience with many facilities, while Bloemendaal aan Zee is known for its trendy beach clubs and more relaxed atmosphere. In winter, the beaches take on a wild, windswept beauty perfect for bracing walks followed by hot chocolate in a cozy café.

For a moving glimpse into World War II history, visit the Corrie ten Boom House, where a courageous Dutch family hid Jews and resistance fighters from Nazi persecution. The ten Boom family, devout Christians who ran a watch shop, created a secret room behind a false wall in Corrie’s bedroom where refugees could hide during raids.

The family’s story gained international recognition through Corrie ten Boom’s book “The Hiding Place,” which details their resistance activities and subsequent imprisonment in concentration camps. Today, the house functions as a museum where visitors can see the actual hiding place and learn about the family’s extraordinary courage and faith in the face of oppression.

Visits are only possible through guided tours, which provide detailed accounts of the ten Boom family’s activities and the broader context of the Dutch resistance during the Nazi occupation. The tours are conducted by knowledgeable volunteers who bring this powerful story to life, making for a deeply moving experience.

One of Haarlem’s most photogenic spots is the Bakenessergracht, a serene canal lined with well-preserved historic buildings dating back to the 17th century. This picturesque waterway runs from the Spaarne River to the Nieuwe Gracht, offering a peaceful retreat from the busier parts of the city center.

A leisurely walk along the Bakenessergracht reveals a stunning collection of traditional Dutch architecture, with elegant gabled houses reflected in the calm waters below. The canal is crossed by three charming bridges—the Wildemansbrug, Begijnebrug, and Korte Jansbrug—each offering different vantage points for photography.

Along the way, you’ll pass the medieval Bakenesserkerk, a church dating back to the 13th century that now serves as a cultural venue. The area around Bakenessergracht also houses several hofjes and small, independent shops and cafés, making it perfect for unhurried exploration.

Standing as a proud reminder of Haarlem’s medieval past, the Amsterdamse Poort (Amsterdam Gate) is the only surviving city gate from Haarlem’s ancient defensive walls. Built in the early 15th century, this imposing brick structure once controlled access to the city from the direction of Amsterdam.

The gate features two round towers and an arched passageway that once included a drawbridge over the Spaarne River. Today, it stands as one of the oldest brick structures in Haarlem and offers visitors a tangible connection to the city’s medieval history.

Located slightly outside the current city center, the Amsterdamse Poort is often one of the first landmarks visitors encounter when arriving from Amsterdam. It’s worth taking a short detour to see this well-preserved piece of Dutch architectural heritage up close and imagine the travelers, merchants, and soldiers who passed through its arch over the centuries.

Reaching Haarlem from Amsterdam is quick and straightforward, making it one of the easiest day trips in the Netherlands. Trains run frequently between Amsterdam Central Station and Haarlem Station, with the journey taking just 15-20 minutes. Tickets cost approximately €5.70 one-way and can be purchased from the yellow ticket machines at any train station or online.

If you’re planning to explore multiple destinations around Amsterdam, consider purchasing the Amsterdam & Region Travel Ticket, which offers unlimited travel on trains, buses, trams, and metros in the Amsterdam area, including Haarlem. This ticket is available for 1, 2, or 3 consecutive days and provides excellent value for day-trippers.

From Haarlem Station, it’s an easy 10-minute walk to the historic center. The city itself is compact and best explored on foot, though rental bikes are available if you prefer to cycle. Local buses connect the train station with various parts of the city and surrounding areas, including the beaches at Zandvoort and Bloemendaal.

While many visitors experience Haarlem as a day trip, staying overnight allows you to enjoy the city’s relaxed evening atmosphere and explore at a more leisurely pace. Haarlem offers a range of accommodation options, from boutique hotels in historic buildings to modern chain hotels and cozy bed and breakfasts.

Absolutely! Haarlem offers the perfect blend of Dutch history, culture, and charm without the overwhelming crowds of Amsterdam. Its compact size makes it easy to explore in a day, though you could happily spend several days discovering its museums, hofjes, shops, and restaurants at a more relaxed pace.

Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, foodie, or simply seeking an authentic Dutch experience, Haarlem delivers with its well-preserved medieval architecture, world-class museums, and vibrant local culture. The city’s proximity to Amsterdam, beaches, and national parks also makes it an excellent base for exploring the wider region.

As you wander Haarlem’s cobblestone streets, cruise its peaceful canals, or sip a locally brewed beer in a converted church, you’ll discover why many consider this gem of a city to be one of the Netherlands’ best-kept secrets. So add Haarlem to your Dutch itinerary—it might just become the highlight of your trip to the Netherlands.