Located between the beach and the Spaarne river, Haarlem city is a wonderful place with enchanting historic buildings and beautiful old squares. It is wonderful to stroll through the narrow streets lined by the monumental buildings built by master Lieven de Key. You can also visit extraordinary museums, such as the Frans Hals or Teylers Museum, and explore its countless cafés and restaurants.
FRANS HALS
In the 17th century, citizens wanted to capture their wealth and status on canvas. Portraits became popular and Frans Hals became known as the best portrait painter in the country. The Frans Hals Museum in Haarlem has many artworks of masters from the 16th and 17th century and is home to the world’s biggest Frans Hals collection.
GASTRONOMY
Haarlem is filled with establishments that make the taste buds tingle with delight. Only Maastricht has more cafés and restaurants but Haarlem takes the lead among cities located above the great rivers. Its rich culinary experiences are celebrated during ‘Haarlem Culinair’, an event that is held each year in August. Stop by and enjoy the specialties offered by several restaurants in the city centre. And don't forget our Broodje Haring!
HOFJES
Haarlem is a city of courtyards that boasts more than 20 idyllic ‘hofjes’. Our Hofjesroute or courtyard itinerary will take you to fourteen lovely courtyard gardens and hidden ‘hofjes’. Start on the Grote Markt and turn into the Barteljorisstraat, where you will find the Hofje van Oorschot (please note that this courtyard is no longer accessible to the public).
SHOPPING
Haarlem is a fantastic shopping location. The inner city is reserved for pedestrians and the streets are lined with fashion, jewellery, and antiques shops, as well as exclusive boutiques, international retail chains, and specialty shops. Did you know Haarlem was awarded the title ‘Holland’s Best Shopping City’ multiple times?
NIGHTLIFE
Bars, Grand cafe's, coffeeshops... In Haarlem you can find them in all sizes and flavours. At every corner of the street you can drink a delicious Heineken draft beer in a so called "Bruine kroeg". Even if you're not really a night owl, a must-do-experience ... But if you are? Haarlem is the place to be! Start the night by drinking a cocktail in a Grand cafe and end up in a good bar and enjoy some live music... "Everything for everyone" also applies to the nightlife of Haarlem!
ENTERTAINMENT
You love classical music? Book your tickets for a beautiful concert at the "Philharmonie Haarlem". Would you rather hear some Jazz, Rhytm or blues? Then the place to be is cafe Stiel's. If you prefer a movie, ask for directions to the Pathé cinema because it is one of the biggest cinemas in Holland.
