Haarlem: A Budget-Friendly City Adventure

Affordable adventure in Haarlem: exploring Dutch culture without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Haarlem is a charming and picturesque city located in the Netherlands known for its rich cultural heritage and beautiful architecture. For those on a limited budget, there are plenty of affordable accommodations available in the city, such as budget hotels and hostels. Visitors can explore the city's many museums, galleries, and historic buildings for free, and sample the local cuisine at the city's many affordable cafes and restaurants.

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Day trip plan

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Day

Discovering Haarlem's Charms

  • Start your day with a stroll through the picturesque Grote Markt square, admiring the towering St. Bavo Church and the colorful buildings lining the cobblestone streets.
  • Head to the Teylers Museum, a fascinating repository of art, natural history and science artifacts, housed in a stunning 18th-century building.
  • Take a break for a snack at the cozy and affordable Café Brinkmann, known for its delicious Dutch bitterballen and croquettes.
  • Visit the Frans Hals Museum, showcasing the works of the legendary Dutch painter and other masterpieces from the Golden Age.
  • Take a detour to the stunning gardens of the Hofje van Bakenes, a hidden oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city.
  • End your day with a hearty and affordable dinner at Café Colette, a French bistro-style eatery with a cozy atmosphere and scrumptious specialties like steak frites and onion soup.
  • Haarlem is a gem of a city, brimming with culture, history and charm. With this itinerary, you can experience some of its best highlights without breaking the bank. Enjoy!

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

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.

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.

Haarlem Havens: 3 Days of Family-Friendly Fun!

Haarlem, located just a short distance from Amsterdam, offers a delightful family-friendly trip with its charming canals and historic architecture. Explore the beautiful Grote Markt square, visit the interactive Teylers Museum, and take a relaxing boat tour along the picturesque canals. Enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere, cycle through the scenic countryside, and savor delicious Dutch treats while creating wonderful memories with your family.

Haarlem on a budget: a 4-day adventure!

Haarlem, a charming Dutch city, offers a delightful experience on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the quaint streets and the lively market square, Grote Markt, for free. There are also many affordable accommodation and food options available in the city, making it an ideal destination for budget travelers.