Haarlem is brimming with culture and history. While on the one hand you can feast your eyes on one of the many museums, on the other hand you can enjoy the beach of Zandvoort or Bloemendaal. Discover the historical buildings from the water or discover the surrounding landscape from a height! What is there to do in Haarlem? You can read about the best activities and sights in this blog.
The Grote Markt in Haarlem is not just a square, it is the vibrant heart of the city. It is a square surrounded by impressive buildings full of history and stories, and lively terraces. A place where every stone tells a story.
The Gothic St. Bavo Church with its spire is a real eye-catcher and also the center of the Grote Markt. The church is also known as the Grote or St. Bavo Church. As soon as you step inside the church, you are flooded with light that falls through the colorful stained glass windows. The smell of old wooden benches and the echo of your footsteps on the stone floor take you back in time.
Don't forget to admire the world-famous Müller organ. This masterpiece was played by none other than Mozart himself. A visit to the Sint-Bavo church is an absolute must for anyone interested in cultural sights in Haarlem.
On the other side of the square, the old city hall of Haarlem is proudly displayed. With its medieval appearance and graceful facades, this building cannot be missed on the Grote Markt.
The Grote Markt in Haarlem is not only a historical setting, but also the social centre of the city. Sit down on one of the many cosy terraces in Haarlem, enjoy a freshly brewed coffee, an extensive lunch or a culinary dinner with a view of the square.
On Saturdays the square transforms into a lively market where you can stroll past stalls full of fresh local produce, colourful flowers, artisanal cheeses and various vegetables.
Events on the Grote Markt
All year round, the Grote Markt is buzzing with events and parties in Haarlem. In the summer, the square swings during Haarlem Jazz & More, while in December it is transformed with the atmospheric Christmas market, complete with lights, mulled wine and stalls full of Christmas gifts. During King's Day, the entire square is colored orange and young and old celebrate.
Are you in town around Easter? Then let yourself be surprised by the Haarlem Flower Market: a colorful spectacle full of flowers and plants in all scents and colors.
A fun day of shopping in Haarlem? You can do that in the atmospheric Gouden Straatjes: the best shopping streets in the Netherlands. These picturesque streets are hidden in the historical city center, where narrow alleys are filled with shops, trendy boutiques and concept stores. Haarlem is the city for shopping lovers.
The Little Wood Street
An absolute favorite among locals and tourists is the Kleine Houtstraat. Did you know that this street has been voted the best shopping street in the Netherlands several times? You will find a mix of vintage shops, stylish fashion boutiques, sustainable concept stores and artisanal bakeries here.
In between shopping, take a seat at one of the cozy cafés in the Golden Streets for a delicious cappuccino and a freshly baked cake.
The Schagchelstraat and Warmoesstraat
Looking for a unique gift or a special souvenir from Haarlem? Stroll a little further to the Schagchelstraat and the Warmoesstraat. These streets are full of antique shops, craft shops and shops with handmade jewelry.
Want to discover all seven Golden Streets? Click here for the map and plan your perfect shopping route through the shopping heart of Haarlem.
Do you prefer shopping at the more well-known brands? Then the Grote Houtstraat is for you. This wide shopping street is the beating heart of the Haarlem shopping area. From H&M, ZARA and HEMA to local favorites with fashion, electronics, books and beauty products.
Here you can shop to your heart's content in the centre of Haarlem and enjoy a wide range of shops.
The Pentagon
Want to escape the hustle and bustle? Walk from the Grote Houtstraat towards the Vijfhoek, a picturesque neighbourhood with an almost village character. The area owes its name to its pentagonal shape, because from the air it really does look like a pentagon.
It feels like a maze of cozy streets, hidden courtyards and small squares where you can get lost and discover new places every time.
From the first cup of coffee in the morning to the last cocktail in the evening, every meal in Haarlem is a party. Haarlem is bursting with culinary hotspots, cozy cafes and atmospheric restaurants, spread throughout the city center. Whether you look out over the Spaarne, settle down on a sunny terrace in Haarlem or dine in a former church, Haarlem is a city where gastronomy, coziness and quality go hand in hand.
Genuine Haarlem Jopen beer in the Jopenkerk
An absolute must during your visit to Haarlem is the iconic Jopenkerk. This former church has been transformed into a modern brewery with grand café and restaurant. Here you can taste the real Jopenbier: a craft brewed Haarlem specialty beer with character.
Create your own beer tasting with a selection of Jopen bottles or opt for a complete package including a beer tasting with matching snacks, while you receive an explanation of the different flavors and brewing methods.
The impressive interior with stained glass windows and copper brewing kettles makes enjoying yourself here extra special. So are you looking for a unique place for a drink or dinner? Then the Jopenkerk in Haarlem is the place where gastronomy and history come together.
On the river Spaarne lies the beautiful building De Waag, a monumental building that once played an important role in Haarlem's trading history. Today De Waag is an atmospheric café-restaurant where you can enjoy delicious dishes, surprising wines and a great view over the Spaarne.
Enjoying the Botermarkt
The Botermarkt is one of the cosiest squares in Haarlem. Surrounded by restaurants, wine bars and terraces, this is the perfect place to settle down after a day of shopping or visiting a museum. Fancy a good glass of wine, French cuisine or a gastronomic experience? Then you've come to the right place!
Every Saturday, the Botermarkt transforms into a bustling fresh produce market full of stalls selling fresh vegetables, fruit, artisanal cheeses, bread and flowers. The ideal place for your weekend shopping or just to stroll around and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
There is no shortage of art and culture in Haarlem. On every street corner, behind every monument and in every museum you will come across a piece of history. Whether you visit a museum in Haarlem or wander through the old streets. For lovers of art, culture and heritage, Haarlem is a true paradise.
Teylers Museum
Step inside the oldest museum in the Netherlands, the Teylers Museum. Housed in a beautiful 18th century monument on the river Spaarne. The building itself is a work of art! Inside you will find a unique collection of art, science and natural history.
Admire glistening minerals, impressive fossils, scientific instruments and masterpieces by great artists such as Michelangelo and Rembrandt. The Teylers Museum is fun for young and old. The Teylers Museum is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00. Don't forget to reserve a time slot online in advance, even if you have a Museum Card.
Curious about the agenda of the Teylers Museum? Then click here .
For a taste of the Golden Age, visit the Frans Hals Museum. Meet the portraits of the famous painter Frans Hals, who masterfully captured the faces and stories of Haarlem's citizens.
Also discover a rich collection and exhibition of other famous Haarlem artists such as Judith Leyster and Cornelis van Haarlem.
The museum offers a surprising mix of old masters and contemporary art. The place where history and modernity come together.
Tickets can be purchased online with a time slot. You can visit the museum from Tuesday to Sunday from 11:00 to 17:00.
Historical Museum Haarlem
Do you really want to understand how Haarlem became what it is today? Then a visit to the Historical Museum Haarlem is a must. Here you will discover the stories and the development of the city: from medieval trading centre to modern cultural city.
Through interactive exhibitions, photos and authentic objects, the stories of Haarlem come to life. A must for anyone interested in local history and urban development.
Discover how the city has developed over the years and which events have shaped Haarlem into the charming place it is today.
The Adriaan mill
Along the river Spaarne, the iconic Molen de Adriaan towers above the city. Haarlem's showpiece cannot be missed when walking through the city. This historic mill from 1779 is not only one of Haarlem's most famous sights, but also an educational museum.
Learn all about the workings of mills in the Netherlands and the role of De Adriaan in the city's history. Climb the stairs for a panoramic view of Haarlem, from the historic city center to the surrounding landscape.
The Courtyards of Haarlem
Discover the hidden gems of peace during a city walk through Haarlem and end up in small green resting places hidden behind historical facades. Haarlem is full of charming courtyards. These picturesque courtyards with flower gardens and monumental houses were once built for poor or single women.
Today they are quiet oases in the city. Perfect for a courtyard walk in Haarlem. Explore these unique pieces of heritage and discover how each courtyard has its own charm and history.
Corrie ten Boom House
The Corrie ten Boom House is a small museum with a big story. During the Second World War, the Ten Boom family offered shelter to Jewish people in hiding. In the house you can still see the secret hiding place behind the false wall. A silent witness to courage, faith and humanity.
A visit to this museum provides a personal insight into Haarlem's history during the Second World War.
Avid hiker, beach lover or just looking for a quiet place to relax? Haarlem offers plenty of green spaces and natural excursions. From vast dunes to hidden gardens, and from sailing on the Spaarne to sunbathing by the sea. In Haarlem you will find the perfect balance between city and nature.
One of the best ways to discover Haarlem is by boat. During a boat trip on the Spaarne you will see the city from the water. Sail past historic buildings, atmospheric bridges and green banks. Experience Haarlem in peace and quiet at a slow pace. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Tip: in the summer months there are also electric sloop rental companies that allow you to sail the canals and rivers yourself.
The Kennemer Dunes
A stone's throw from Haarlem lies the beautiful Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, also known as the Kennemerduinen. This nature reserve stretches from IJmuiden to Zandvoort.
Walk or cycle along winding paths through dunes, forests, lakes and heathlands. Be surprised by the varied landscape. With a bit of luck you will spot deer, foxes, rabbits or even Scottish highlanders grazing peacefully in the open fields.
A popular starting point is at the visitor centre De Kennemerduinen, near Overveen and entrance Bleek en Berg. From here you can easily explore the numerous walking and cycling routes that meander through the area.
Fancy a day of sun, sea and sand? From the centre of Haarlem you can be on the beach in no time. The beaches of Zandvoort and Bloemendaal aan Zee are a short distance from Haarlem.
Go for a lovely swim on a warm summer day, enjoy a walk on the beach or relax at one of the many beach pavilions for a refreshing drink. In the summer the beaches are bustling, but in the autumn and winter the beaches are also perfect for a walk.
The Nursery
The Kweektuin is a hidden gem in Haarlem. This botanical city park is loved by locals and visitors. Stroll between colorful flowerbeds, fragrant herb and vegetable gardens and along a soothing pond.
For children there is an animal meadow, adventure playground and a small greenhouse to explore. While the little ones are having fun, you can relax in the tea house with a cup of fresh mint tea or organic coffee.
Green fingers? De Kweektuin regularly organizes workshops on gardening and sustainability. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon in the middle of the city, but still in the green.
There is so much to do and discover in Haarlem, and we understand that you can't see everything in one day. Why not turn your day trip into a night away? Bastion Hotel Haarlem is the perfect base to explore the city and its surroundings.
On a nice day you can combine city with beach. The beach of IJmuiden and the beach of Zandvoort are both a 15-minute drive from the hotel. The center of Haarlem can be reached in less than 10 minutes!
Bastion Hotel Haarlem
The hotel in Haarlem has Comfort and Deluxe rooms where you can relax after a day of exploring.
Save on expensive parking fees by parking your car for free at the hotel. From here you can easily continue your journey by public transport.
The hotel is easily accessible by both car and public transport. The hotel is located on the N208, near the A9 and has a direct bus connection to Haarlem Central Station.
