Haarlem: 2 Days of History, Quirks, and Charm

Experience the charm of Haarlem without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Haarlem, Netherlands is a charming city that offers plenty of affordable options for budget travelers. Visitors can explore the picturesque Dutch architecture on foot or by bike, and enjoy the local cuisine at bakeries and cafes on a budget. A visit to the Frans Hals Museum and the Grote Kerk can provide a glimpse into the city's rich history and art scene without breaking the bank.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Haarlem's History

  • Start the day with a visit to the Grote Markt, the central square of Haarlem where you can marvel at the stunning architecture of the St. Bavo Church.
  • Take a stroll through the cobbled streets of the old town, and visit the Frans Hals Museum to admire the works of this Dutch Master.
  • Stop for a quick bite at the nearby Grote Markt square's numerous cafes and restaurants, which serve everything from traditional Dutch cuisine to international favourites.
  • Head to the Teylers Museum, the oldest museum in the Netherlands, where you will be stunned by the extensive collection of art and science.
  • End the day with a leisurely evening walk along the canals of Haarlem, and perhaps stop at one of the cosy bars for a drink.
  • Hotel recommendation: Stayokay Haarlem a clean and comfortable hostel with affordable rooms and a central location.
Day 2

Experiencing the Quirky Side of Haarlem

  • Begin the day with a visit to the Houtmarkt flea market where you can find unique vintage treasures and antiques.
  • Take a leisurely stroll through the stunning Haarlemmerhout park with its serene ponds, fountains and gardens.
  • Head to the Dolhuys Museum, the national museum of psychiatry and discover the fascinating, yet sometimes creepy history of mental health care.
  • Grab a quick bite at the Brinkmann's Cafe, which boasts a history dating back to 1879.
  • End the day with a visit to the Jopenkerk brewery, housed in an old church where you can tour the brewery, sample their beers and enjoy a delicious meal at their restaurant.
  • Haarlem is a fantastic destination for visitors on a budget and offers a lot to see and experience. So, get packing!

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

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