Haarlem in 5: The Ultimate Family Adventure on a Budget

Discover the charm of Haarlem: A family-friendly adventure in the heart of the Netherlands!

19 July 2023

Haarlem, located just a short train ride away from Amsterdam, is the perfect destination for a family-friendly trip in the Netherlands. Known for its beautiful canals, charming cobblestone streets, and historic architecture, Haarlem offers a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere. Families can enjoy exploring the city's many museums, wandering through its parks and gardens, and indulging in delicious Dutch treats at local bakeries and cafes.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Haarlem's Historic Highlights:

  • Check into the cozy and family-friendly Hotel Malts, just a stone's throw away from the city center.
  • Wander through the charming Grote Markt square and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Embark on a self-guided walking tour of Haarlem's historic center, admiring the stunning architecture.
  • Visit the iconic St. Bavo's Church, home to the magnificent Müller organ played by the likes of Mozart.
  • Dive into the rich art scene at the Frans Hals Museum, housing an impressive collection of 17th-century Dutch paintings.
  • Indulge in a delicious dinner at Jansje, a trendy restaurant serving up both traditional and modern Dutch cuisine.
Day 2

Delighting in Nature and Culture:

  • Start the day with a visit to the colorful Keukenhof Gardens, just a short bus ride away from Haarlem.
  • Immerse yourself in the beauty of millions of blooming flowers and enchanting themed gardens.
  • Explore Haarlem's hidden gem, the Teylers Museum, the oldest museum in the Netherlands and a treasure trove of art and science.
  • Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the picturesque canals, stopping for a picnic in the serene Haarlemmerhout Park.
  • Savor a mouthwatering Dutch pancake dinner at De Vijfhoek, a cozy restaurant with a laid-back atmosphere.
Day 3

Canal Cruise and Culinary Delights:

  • Embark on a scenic canal cruise, gliding along Haarlem's canals and learning about the city's history from knowledgeable guides.
  • Wander through the fascinating Corrie ten Boom House, a museum dedicated to the courageous family who sheltered Jews during WWII.
  • Treat the kids to a hands-on chocolate-making workshop at Chocoase, where they can create their own sweet masterpieces.
  • Enjoy a lazy lunch at Café Colette, a charming French-style bistro known for its delicious brunch offerings.
  • Explore the delightful De Adriaan windmill, offering panoramic views of Haarlem and a glimpse into its milling history.
  • Sample traditional Dutch street food at Haarlem's Saturday market, including stroopwafels and herring.
Day 4

Family Fun at the Beach:

  • Take a short train ride to Zandvoort, a lively seaside town with a beautiful sandy beach.
  • Spend the day building sandcastles, swimming in the sea, and soaking up the sun.
  • Visit the Zandvoorts Museum, tracing the town's history as a fishing village and popular beach resort.
  • Treat the family to an exciting dune buggy ride through the stunning Zuid-Kennemerland National Park.
  • Relish a delicious seafood dinner at Mango's Beach Bar, with its relaxed beachfront atmosphere and panoramic views.
Day 5

Hidden Gems and Farewell:

  • Discover the quiet and quaint Hofjes, hidden courtyard complexes with beautiful gardens, providing a peaceful escape from the bustling city.
  • Uncover the secrets of Dutch gin at the historic Jopenkerk, a former church turned craft brewery and distillery.
  • Stroll along the charming shopping streets of Haarlem, browsing unique boutiques and picking up souvenirs.
  • Enjoy a delightful lunch at Native, a vegetarian and vegan restaurant showcasing local, organic ingredients.
  • Bid farewell to beautiful Haarlem with a memorable canal-side dinner at Spaarne66, indulging in regional specialties while reflecting on an unforgettable family adventure.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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.

Destination

Haarlem

If you thought Harlem was all about hip-hop and soul food, think again! Haarlem is a charming Dutch city that combines stunning architecture with windmills, canals, and cheese – lots of delicious cheese.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

A Romantic Day Trip to Haarlem, Netherlands

Haarlem, Netherlands is a perfect destination for a romantic trip. The charming canal lined cobbled streets, picturesque windmills, and beautiful gardens provide a romantic ambiance. From exploring the famous Frans Hals Museum to enjoying a romantic boat ride on the Spaarne river, Haarlem has plenty to offer for a romantic getaway.

Unforgettable Weekend in Haarlem, Netherlands

As a tourist in Haarlem, one can expect to be awestruck by the city's rich culture and history. From the beautiful architecture of the Grote Markt, the vibrant tulip fields at the Keukenhof Gardens, to the art-filled spaces such as the Teylers Museum and Frans Hals Museum. One can discover the Dutch culture by sampling the local cuisine and exploring the museums and art galleries.

Haarlem Unleashed: A Fun-Filled 4-Day Family Adventure!

Haarlem, located just a short distance from Amsterdam, offers a picturesque setting for a family-friendly trip in the Netherlands. With its charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and vibrant markets, Haarlem is perfect for leisurely strolls and exploring. Families can also enjoy visiting kid-friendly museums, such as the Teylers Museum and the Frans Hals Museum, or rent bikes to explore the city's beautiful parks and surrounding tulip fields.

Haarlem, Netherlands: A Day of Charming Delights

Haarlem, Netherlands is a charming destination for a family-friendly trip. With its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Families can explore the famous Frans Hals Museum, roam around the beautiful Grote Markt square, and relax in the stunning parks and gardens scattered throughout the city.