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.

Day trip plan

Getting latest place information
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!

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.

More travel plans

4-Day Haarlem Adventure: City, Beach, & Culture

Haarlem is a picturesque and historic city in the Netherlands, just a short train ride from Amsterdam. Visitors can spend their time exploring charming streets lined with boutique shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as enjoying a range of cultural attractions such as museums and historic landmarks. Highlights include the picturesque Grote Markt, St. Bavo's Church, and the Frans Hals Museum.

Romantic Weekend Getaway: Haarlem, Netherlands

Haarlem is a charming, historic city just a short train ride away from Amsterdam, making it the perfect location for a romantic getaway. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets and enjoy the beautiful architecture, visit the stunning St. Bavo church, and indulge in delicious Dutch cuisine at one of the many cozy restaurants. For an unforgettable experience, take a boat tour along the canals and admire the city from the water.

Haarlem in 3: Eat, Explore, Enjoy

Haarlem is a charming city located in the Netherlands, just a short train ride from Amsterdam. While there, tourists can visit the iconic Grote Markt, explore the stunning architecture of the Grote Kerk, and take a leisurely stroll through the city's picturesque streets lined with quaint cafes and boutique shops. With its rich history and laid-back atmosphere, Haarlem is a must-visit destination for any traveler to the Netherlands.

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.