Visiting Haarlem
Haarlem is a city in the northern Netherlands and the capital of North Holland, positioned between Amsterdam and the North Sea beach resorts of Zandvoort or Bloemendaal. During the 17th century, it ranked among the most influential cities of the Dutch Golden Age. Following a period of religious persecution, invasion, and a Spanish siege in 1573, Haarlem proved its resilience and eventually became a haven for immigrants of all backgrounds. Today, the city is defined by its floral heritage, its thousand-plus landmark buildings lining the Spaarne river that flows through the center, and a collection of shops and cafes that make it an easy place to spend time.
Haarlem's Golden Age
Founded in the 9th century, Haarlem grew quickly. It gained its status as a free city about 750 years ago. Once fully integrated into the Dutch East India Company (VOC), Haarlem saw massive economic and cultural expansion, fueled by the textile and shipbuilding industries, local breweries, and the trade of flowers like tulips, hyacinths, and narcissi.
After a devastating fire in 1351, the city was extensively rebuilt and redesigned during the 17th century in a classic Renaissance style under the direction of architect Lieven de Key. He designed several of the city's iconic monuments, including the meat market or Vleeshall, which has since been converted into an exhibition space.
A lively city steps from Amsterdam
Stroll through the Grote Markt, which serves as the city's historic center and is home to Saint Bavo Church, converted to Protestantism in 1578 following the city's siege. One of the most recognizable views in Haarlem is the Molen de Adriaan windmill, which overlooks the river.
Haarlem has a deep cultural footprint, having long hosted impressionist painters who were drawn to the portrait galleries of artist Frans Hals, whose major works are now housed in a museum dedicated to his name. Haarlem also contains the oldest museum in the Netherlands, the Teylers Museum, built in 1778 in the spirit of the Enlightenment and focused on the advancement of science and the arts. Its collection even includes works by Rembrandt and Michelangelo.
Haarlem is a regional shopping destination filled with boutiques and antique stores. Don't miss the Gouden Straatjes (Golden Streets) for a bit of window-shopping.
When to go
Haarlem is at its best during the warmer months, from May through September, or during the flower season starting in mid-March. As a major hub for flower cultivation and trade, the city is a primary stop on the Bloemen Route (Flower Route).
How to get there
Haarlem is an easy 15-minute train ride from Amsterdam. Once in Haarlem, you can hop on a bus to reach the sandy beaches of Bloemendaal aan Zee (line 81) or Zandvoort (line 81 or 84).
Located not far from Amsterdam, I recommend taking a detour to the city of Haarlem during your trip to the Netherlands. It is a very charming city. The city center is very pleasant to visit on foot. The architecture is truly typical of the Netherlands. The city is lively and has many shops, boutiques, and restaurants. You will not be disappointed.