Why Haarlem?
Haarlem, the charming capital of North Holland, is just a short drive from Amsterdam and the North Sea coast. Haarlem boasts a picturesque historic center with scenic canals, impressive façades, and lively squares like the Grote Markt. Here, you’ll find sights such as the imposing Grote or St. Bavo Church and the oldest museum in the Netherlands, the Teylers Museum.
In addition to culture and history, Haarlem is known for its vibrant shopping streets, the ‘Gouden Straatjes’, filled with unique boutiques, cozy cafés, and excellent restaurants. The city is also close to the famous flower fields and is the perfect base for experiencing the colorful Bloemencorso flower parade. Whether you’re interested in art, history, nature, or delicious food, Haarlem is a versatile destination and highly recommended for a day trip or a relaxing stopover during your road trip through the Netherlands.
Top things to visit
- St. Bavo Church (Grote Kerk) The St. Bavo Church, in Dutch known as the Grote Kerk, has dominated Haarlem’s skyline for centuries. This late Gothic cross-basilica, built between 1370 and 1520, stands over 78 meters tall. Inside, you’ll find the world-famous Müller organ from 1738, once played by composers like Mozart and Handel. More than just a striking monument, the church remains a vibrant venue for regular concerts and events. It offers visitors a unique blend of history, architecture and culture.
- Grote Markt The Grote Markt is the vibrant heart of Haarlem. This square is surrounded by historic buildings, cafés and terraces where you can soak up the lively atmosphere. On Mondays and Saturdays, the market brings extra color and activity to the square, making it a perfect spot to experience local life.
- Haarlem Courtyards (Haarlemse Hofjes) The hidden courtyards of Haarlem are green oases of tranquility tucked away in the city center. Many of these historic hofjes are open to visitors during the day, offering a unique glimpse into Haarlem’s past and daily life. Exploring these peaceful gardens is a truly special experience, revealing a quieter, more intimate side of the city.
- Teylers Museum Teylers Museum is the oldest museum in the Netherlands and a true treasure trove for lovers of art, science, and history. Its authentic 18th-century interior and unique collections make it an absolute must-see for every visitor, providing a fascinating journey through centuries of discovery and creativity.
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History of Haarlem
Haarlem is a beautiful city in the west of the Netherlands, close to Amsterdam and the North Sea. The city sits by the Spaarne river and people have lived here for a very long time. Haarlem was first mentioned in the 10th century and became a real city in 1245 when it got city rights.
In the Middle Ages, Haarlem was an important place for the counts of Holland. It had strong walls and many busy markets. The city grew rich from trade and later became famous for its art, especially in the 1600s. Artists like Frans Hals lived and worked here, and their paintings can still be seen in the city today.
Haarlem also survived hard times, like a big fire in 1576 and a long siege during the war with Spain. After the war, the city became a safe place for people from other countries and was known for its tulip fields and beautiful old buildings.
Today, Haarlem is known for its lovely streets, old churches, museums and friendly atmosphere. It is a great place to visit and discover Dutch history and culture.