Attractions and Places to See Around Haarlem
Imagine walking through the charming streets of Haarlem, a city that seems to have sprung straight from a painting. Timber-framed houses line the winding canals, while the fresh morning air brushes your face. Haarlem, one of the Netherlands’ hidden gems, is a place that surprises you at every turn with its perfect balance of history, art, and culture.
If you’ve decided to visit, there’s one thing you absolutely must do: get lost among its historic landmarks. Every corner tells a story, every street has its own beauty waiting to be discovered. And the best part is, you don’t have to do it alone—on our City Tours, you’ll explore the city with an expert guide who’ll take you on an unforgettable journey through Haarlem’s past and present.
Your adventure begins right in the heart of the city, where the majestic Grote Kerk (Great Church) stands tall. This stunning example of Gothic architecture, with its bell tower soaring above the central square, is impossible to miss. As you enter, you feel as though you’ve been transported back in time—the soaring nave, the frescoes adorning the walls, and the massive organ built in 1738, all leave you breathless. This isn’t just a place of worship; it’s a symbol of power and spirituality that has stood the test of centuries. As you walk through, imagine yourself there centuries ago, when the people of Haarlem gathered to pray and celebrate. And if you’re lucky, you may even catch an organ concert—an experience that makes the Grote Kerk even more special.
As you continue through the cobblestone streets, you head toward the Teylers Museum, a place that feels like it came straight out of the dreams of scientists and artists. Founded in 1784, it’s the oldest museum in the Netherlands and houses a collection that spans natural history, art, and scientific instruments from bygone eras. Each room tells a different story: of discovery, human curiosity, and the beauty that lies in every corner of the world. Walking through its elegant halls, it feels as though your part of a journey through time, where each object and painting whispers secrets of a long-gone era. If you’re passionate about art and science, Teylers is a place that will captivate you.
However Haarlem isn’t just about majestic buildings and museums. A short stroll away, the Hofje van Bakenes welcomes you with its tranquility. The hofjes, small courtyards tucked away between the city’s streets, are an important part of Haarlem’s social history. These gardens, once home to widows and elderly women, are now peaceful oases, perfect for a quiet stroll amid flowers and the ancient houses that surround them. Time seems to slow down here, and you’ll feel like you’ve discovered a hidden secret.
And who could forget Molen de Adriaan, the windmill standing proudly along the Spaarne River? This windmill is a symbol of Dutch tradition, and its story is fascinating. Rebuilt in 2002 after being destroyed by fire in 1932, the mill represents the city’s resilience and its deep connection to nature and industry. Climbing to the top, you’ll be treated to a breathtaking view of Haarlem and the surrounding countryside, a panorama that makes you feel like you’ve scaled a piece of history.
In the heart of the city, you’ll also find the statue of Laurens Janszoon Coster, a tribute to the inventor of printing. Although his figure has often been overshadowed by Gutenberg, Coster deserves a place of honor in Haarlem’s history. His statue stands tall in the main square, inviting you to reflect on the city’s contribution to the spread of culture and knowledge across Europe.
Every monument you encounter, every street you walk, tells a part of Haarlem’s story. It’s a city that knows how to blend the past and the present, art and culture, and it never fails to surprise you. And if you want to experience all this fully, join us on our City Tour and Food Tour. It’s an experience that will not only help you discover the monuments but also let you savor local specialties while exploring the city.
Haarlem is a place that deserves to be lived, and we’re here to help you experience it to the fullest.