Quirky Haarlem: The Ultimate 2-Day Adventure on a Budget!

Discover the charm of Haarlem together, where family fun meets Dutch culture!

19 July 2023

Haarlem, Netherlands is a charming and family-friendly destination that offers a perfect balance between historical and modern attractions. Explore the city's stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage by visiting the iconic Grote Kerk and the world-famous Frans Hals Museum. Enjoy peaceful walks along the picturesque canals and indulge in delicious Dutch treats at the local markets, making it a memorable trip for the whole family.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Welcome to Quirky Haarlem!

  • Check into our family-friendly hotel, the colorful "Hotel 'T Hoekje," nestled in Haarlem's charming cobblestone streets.
  • Start the day with a delicious breakfast at "Stroopwafel Heaven," where you'll taste the heavenly marriage of caramel and dough.
  • Embark on a magical boat tour along Haarlem's canals, witnessing the city's charming houses and picturesque bridges.
  • Visit the Teylers Museum, Europe's oldest museum, to revel in eccentric collections ranging from fossilized feathers to ancient scientific instruments.
  • Indulge in a cozy family lunch at "D'Oude Waegh," a historic restaurant serving traditional Dutch dishes like pannekoeken and bitterballen.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant Grote Markt square, admiring the stunning medieval architecture and enjoying lively street performances.
Day 2

Art, Bicycles, and Local Delights!

  • Begin your day with a scrumptious breakfast at "Meneer Frans," a trendy café where classic Dutch flavors meet Instagram-worthy presentation.
  • Discover the world of Dutch art at the Frans Hals Museum, housing masterpieces by the eponymous painter and other celebrated artists.
  • Rent bicycles from "Tweewielercentrum Haarlem" and embark on a family-friendly cycling adventure through the lush landscapes of the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park.
  • Stop for a picnic lunch amidst the blooming flowers of the Keukenhof Gardens, where colors come alive in a symphony of tulips.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to "Chocolaterie Pierre" and sample their delectable handmade chocolates, created with love and craftsmanship.
  • End your trip with a farewell dinner at "Jopenkerk," a former church turned brewery and restaurant, offering delicious brews and inventive local dishes.

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

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