Haarlem in 3: Eat, Explore, Enjoy

Discover the charm of Haarlem - a vibrant city with a rich history.

03 May 2023

Haarlem is a charming city located in the Netherlands, just a short train ride from Amsterdam. While there, tourists can visit the iconic Grote Markt, explore the stunning architecture of the Grote Kerk, and take a leisurely stroll through the city's picturesque streets lined with quaint cafes and boutique shops. With its rich history and laid-back atmosphere, Haarlem is a must-visit destination for any traveler to the Netherlands.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Heart of Haarlem

  • Hotel: Stay at the charming Hotel ML, located in the heart of Haarlem.
  • Begin your day with a traditional Dutch breakfast at Cafe Winkel, famous for its apple pie.
  • Wander through the bustling Grote Markt, admiring the impressive St. Bavo Church and historic town hall.
  • Visit the Teylers Museum, the oldest museum in the Netherlands, to see exquisite paintings and natural history exhibitions.
  • Take a stroll through the tranquil Haarlemmerhout park, the perfect spot for a relaxing picnic.
  • Finish your day with a hearty dinner at cozy restaurant De Wandelaar, known for its innovative cuisine and charming atmosphere.
Day 2

Discovering Haarlem's Creative Side

  • Start your day by grabbing a coffee at MICA Coffeebar and admiring the artwork displayed on the walls.
  • Take in some contemporary art at the Frans Hals Museum, housed in a stunning 17th-century building.
  • Visit the Teylers Hofje, a hidden courtyard with picturesque almshouse homes.
  • Explore the trendy Kunsthal museum, dedicated to showcasing modern and contemporary art.
  • End your day with a delicious meal at Jopenkerk Haarlem, a converted church turned brewery and restaurant, serving delicious local brews and snacks.
Day 3

Savouring the Flavours of Haarlem

  • Start your day by visiting the local farmer's market, where you can find fresh produce and local delicacies.
  • Take a bike tour to the beautiful dunes and beach, stopping for a picnic with fresh local ingredients.
  • Visit De Adriaan Windmill, one of the last remaining windmills in Haarlem with a fascinating history.
  • Take a tour of the bustling Jopen Brewery, where you can sample unique beers and learn about the brewing process.
  • End your day by savoring some delicious Dutch snacks at Bar Wigbolt, known for its local beers and small bites.

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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