Travel around Haarlem with Bobby
Day 1 Stepping Back in Time at Grote Markt
Arriving in Haarlem feels like stepping into a postcard—charming streets, classic Dutch architecture, and a calm atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the buzz of nearby Amsterdam. After checking into my cozy boutique hotel, right near the city center, I couldn’t wait to explore. My first stop was the iconic Grote Markt—the heart of Haarlem. The square is surrounded by stunning 17th-century buildings, including the towering St. Bavo Cathedral. As I stepped inside the cathedral, I was immediately taken by its grandeur, especially the world-famous organ that once played for both Mozart and Handel.
For lunch, I wandered into Restaurant Brinkmann, a charming brasserie with views of the square. I opted for a traditional Dutch dish, bitterballen, paired with a local Haarlem beer. The crunchy exterior and savory filling of the bitterballen was the perfect introduction to Dutch cuisine.
In the afternoon, I visited the Frans Hals Museum, dedicated to the famous Dutch Golden Age painter. The museum is not just about art but also the rich history of Haarlem itself. Strolling through its halls, I could feel the city’s past come to life.
After a full day, I decided to slow down with a canal-side walk as the sun set over the water. Haarlem’s canals, less crowded than those in Amsterdam, offer a tranquil vibe that’s perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
"Start your day at Grote Markt and take your time absorbing the beauty of St. Bavo Cathedral. Grab lunch at one of the nearby cafes for an authentic taste of the city. It's the perfect way to ease into the city’s rhythm."
Day 2Art and Blooms in the City of Flowers
Haarlem is known as the “City of Flowers,” so naturally, I set out for the surrounding flower fields early in the morning. I hopped on a bike—because what’s a Dutch adventure without a cycling experience?—and headed out of the city to enjoy the vibrant tulip fields. Even though it wasn’t peak season, the colorful stretches of flowers were breathtaking.
After a refreshing morning of cycling, I returned to Haarlem to explore the Teylers Museum, the oldest museum in the Netherlands. This place is a treasure trove of art, science, and history, with everything from fossils to paintings on display. The collection is so eclectic that it feels like you’re walking through a time capsule.
Lunch brought me to DeDAKKAS, a rooftop restaurant with panoramic views of the city. The fresh, locally sourced food paired with the view made it the perfect midday break. I tried stamppot, a traditional Dutch mash-up of potatoes and vegetables, which was surprisingly hearty and delicious.
In the afternoon, I strolled through Haarlem’s hidden hofjes—small courtyard gardens surrounded by historic almshouses. These secret spots are like little oases of calm tucked away behind unassuming doors. It was amazing to see how much green space exists within the city.
As the evening approached, I was ready to experience a bit of Haarlem’s nightlife. While the city isn’t known for wild parties, it has a cozy pub culture. I stopped by Jopenkerk, a former church turned brewery. The stained-glass windows and high ceilings made it a unique spot for enjoying a craft beer.
I had lunch at DeDAKKAS, a rooftop restaurant offering locally sourced dishes. The view of Haarlem from the rooftop was stunning, and I tried stamppot, which was hearty and flavorful. While the food was delicious, it was a bit pricier than expected.
Food
My hotel continued to be a comfortable retreat after a day of exploring. Although the amenities were good, the compact size of the room felt slightly limiting after two days. The proximity to local attractions was still a major plus.
Accomodation
Cycling through Haarlem's nearby flower fields was the most peaceful part of the day. The ride was easy and offered beautiful views of the tulips. Later, the visit to Teylers Museum was fascinating, showcasing a mix of art and science.
Activity
"Rent a bike and explore the surrounding flower fields in the morning. It’s a peaceful way to start your day before diving into Haarlem’s museums. And definitely end your day at Jopenkerk for a truly unique Haarlem nightlife experience."
Day 3Hidden Gems and Local Flavors
On my final day in Haarlem, I decided to focus on some of the lesser-known spots. I started with a visit to De Adriaan Windmill, an iconic windmill that offers beautiful views over the river and a glimpse into Haarlem’s industrial past. Inside, I learned about the city’s history with the milling industry and climbed to the top for stunning panoramic views.
For lunch, I went to Spaarne 66, a waterfront cafe known for its relaxed atmosphere and delicious sandwiches. The view over the Spaarne River made it a perfect spot to soak in the city’s laid-back charm. I tried their cheese and ham tosti, a simple but satisfying Dutch staple.
In the afternoon, I indulged my curiosity for history with a visit to the Corrie ten Boom House, a hidden gem in Haarlem. This unassuming house was used to hide Jews during World War II, and the tour was both moving and educational. It’s a small museum but filled with powerful stories of courage.
Before heading back to my hotel, I decided to do some last-minute shopping. Haarlem is full of boutique stores, and I found myself wandering down the Grote Houtstraat, the city’s main shopping street. From local delicacies to unique clothing stores, it’s a shopper’s paradise.
My final evening in Haarlem ended with a peaceful walk through the Haarlemmerhout Park, a beautiful green space perfect for reflecting on the last few days. I grabbed a snack from a local food truck, enjoying the last bit of the city’s charm.
Lunch at Spaarne 66, right by the river, was a relaxing break in the middle of the day. The cheese and ham tosti was simple but flavorful, and the river view added to the laid-back atmosphere. It felt like the perfect casual meal for a day of exploration.
Food
On my last night, the hotel felt comfortable and familiar, offering a quiet night’s rest before departure. Though the small size of the room was a recurring issue, the convenience of being near the center of Haarlem was undeniable.
Accomodation
Visiting De Adriaan Windmill and the Corrie ten Boom House was a deep dive into Haarlem’s rich history. The windmill offered fantastic views of the city, while the Ten Boom House was a touching, educational experience. The perfect mix of culture and reflection to end the trip.
Activity
"If you have time, make sure to visit the Corrie ten Boom House for a humbling historical experience. And don’t skip a leisurely walk through the Haarlemmerhout Park—it’s the perfect way to end your trip on a calm note."
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Haarlem offered an unforgettable travel experience with its charming historical vibe, peaceful atmosphere, and vibrant cultural richness. The city’s compact layout makes it easy to explore, combining relaxation with the joy of discovery. Overall, Haarlem impressed me as a destination that beautifully blends culture, nature, and tranquility.
I had lunch at Restaurant Brinkmann, located right by Grote Markt, where I tried bitterballen and a local Haarlem beer. The crispy, savory taste of the bitterballen made it a great introduction to Dutch cuisine, and the lively square added to the experience. The portion size was perfect, and the service was fast and friendly.
Food
I stayed in a boutique hotel near the city center, which offered a cozy, quiet atmosphere with modern amenities. The location was ideal for exploring Haarlem on foot, and the staff was helpful in recommending local spots. However, the room size was smaller than expected.
Accomodation
Visiting Grote Markt and St. Bavo Cathedral was an absolute highlight of the day. The cathedral’s massive organ and stunning architecture left a lasting impression. Wandering around the square afterward was a great way to get a feel for Haarlem’s historical ambiance.
Activity