Haarlem: a charming town near Amsterdam

Haarlem is a small town close to Amsterdam.

With its cobbled streets, Gothic cathedrals and lively main square, Haarlem is a pleasure to visit.

If you're looking for the ideal destination for a day trip from Amsterdam, it's hard to beat Haarlem.

Today, I'm going to tell you all about it.

Haarlem: article summary

Getting to Haarlem from Amsterdam is easy

A short train journey links Amsterdam and Haarlem. From the Amsterdam Central StationYou can take a 15-minute train to Haarlem.

Once you've arrived in Haarlem, it's a 10-minute walk to Grote Markt and the city center.

The perfect way to escape the Amsterdam crowds

If you need to escape the crowds and tourists, Haarlem is perfect. Here, you can relax in the typical Dutch alleyways. You can also explore the many sites to visit, such as the windmill.

After your visit, you can stop off at a charming little café and sit out on the terrace to enjoy local specialities accompanied by the drink of your choice.

Don't miss the Haarlem windmill near Amsterdam

Molen De Adriaan is a windmill that was built in the 18ᵉ century and then burnt down in 1932. It was rebuilt in 2002 and now serves as a museum. You can visit the windmill and learn more about Haarlem's history.

You can only visit the windmill on a guided tour. Tours last around 45 to 60 minutes. I recommend that you visit the official website for opening hours and online ticket reservations.

Take a trip to Grote Markt

Grote Markt is the main square in the center of Haarlem. On warm days, cafés spill out onto the square and tables are filled with visitors enjoying a drink, a meal and the good weather.

On Saturdays, there's an open-air market where you can buy food, produce and flowers. Everything you need to find tasty local products to bring back from your trip.

Visit the home of Corrie Ten Boom

If you're interested in the history of the Second World War, this is a museum not to be missed. During the Second World War, the Ten Boom family home became a a hiding place for Dutch Jews and illegal immigrants.

It is estimated that this family saved 800 Jews and refugees. The house, its original furnishings and the secret room can be visited.

You can see the premises from Tuesday to Saturday and the visit lasts about an hour.

Haarlem in Amsterdam: explore medieval streets and buildings

The center of Haarlem is a maze of cobbled streets and medieval architecture. St. Bavo's church, with its Gothic architecture, is the centerpiece of Haarlem. It dominates Grote Markt and has stood here for centuries.

You can also explore the hofjes, small hidden courtyards surrounded by houses. Because they're hidden, they can be hard to find. Don't hesitate to ask around where these wonderful little places are.

How long was he staying in Haarlem near Amsterdam?

I recommend spending an afternoon in Haarlem. It will give you just enough time to visit Molen de Adriaan, explore the city center and have dinner. It was just enough time to get a taste of the city.

If you have more time to spare, one day is perfect. You can visit the house of Corrie ten Boom and the Molen De Adriaan, as well as some of Haarlem's other museums.

This also gives you plenty of time to explore the hofjes and relax at Grote Markt. There's plenty to discover in and around the city.

Haarlem, near Amsterdam, is a charming little town full of wonders. During your visit to the Netherlands, I recommend you make a short detour in the space ofan afternoon or a full day to recharge your batteries in the streets of Haarlem.

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