Romantic Weekend Getaway: Haarlem, Netherlands

Experience quaint charm and romantic allure in Haarlem.

22 April 2023

Haarlem is a charming, historic city just a short train ride away from Amsterdam, making it the perfect location for a romantic getaway. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets and enjoy the beautiful architecture, visit the stunning St. Bavo church, and indulge in delicious Dutch cuisine at one of the many cozy restaurants. For an unforgettable experience, take a boat tour along the canals and admire the city from the water.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Slow Start in Haarlem

  • Check-in at Hotel ML, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of the city
  • Stroll around the Grote Markt, the central square where the iconic St. Bavo Church stands tall
  • Visit the Frans Hals Museum, where you can admire the works of the famous Dutch Golden Age painter and his contemporaries
  • Relax at the Jopenkerk, an old church converted into a brewery and tasting room
  • End the day with a candlelit dinner at Restaurant Frisk aan het Spaarne, a cozy spot with a menu full of seasonal and locally sourced ingredients
Day 2

Nature and Art in Haarlem

  • Rent a bike and cycle to the nearby dunes and beach of Bloemendaal for a picnic lunch
  • Afternoon visit to the Teylers Museum, a stunning 18th-century building featuring a collection of art and scientific instruments
  • Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens of the Houten Huis estate
  • Enjoy an aperitif at Het Veerkwartier, a unique lakeside bar and restaurant housed in a greenhouse
  • Dinner at Homegrown, a hip eatery catering to vegetarians and vegans, with dishes made from fresh, organic produce
Day 3

Hidden Gems in Haarlem

  • Start the day with a delicious breakfast at By Lima, a vegan cafe with a cozy, eclectic atmosphere
  • Explore the narrow streets and hidden alleyways of the city's historic district, where you can admire beautiful architecture and discover unexpected shops and cafes
  • Visit the Corrie ten Boom House, a museum dedicated to the life of the Ten Boom family and their resistance against the Nazi occupation
  • Relax with a drink at Jopen Proeflokaal Waarderpolder, a brewery and tasting room located in a former industrial area
  • End your trip with a fancy dinner at ML Winebar & Bistro, the Michelin-starred restaurant of your hotel, showcasing modern cuisine with a touch of Dutch flair.
  • Haarlem offers romantic charm and a slower pace compared to bigger Dutch cities. Get lost in hidden alleys or find respite at one of the city's excellent restaurants. Warm hospitality is the hallmark trait of a stay in Haarlem. Come visit and get enchanted.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Haarlem by plane is to fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which is located approximately 15 kilometers from Haarlem. From the airport, you can take a direct train to Haarlem Central Station, which usually takes around 15 minutes.

Car

To reach Haarlem by car, you can take the A4 highway from Amsterdam. The journey usually takes around 20 minutes, depending on the traffic conditions.

Train

To get to Haarlem by train, you can take a train from Amsterdam Central Station. Trains run frequently, and the journey takes about 15 minutes.

Boat

There is no direct boat route to Haarlem, as it is located inland. However, you can enjoy a boat tour on the nearby Spaarne River in Haarlem, providing a unique perspective of the city.

Bus

If you prefer to travel by bus, you can take bus number 346 from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The bus journey to Haarlem takes approximately 40 minutes.

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