Haarlem

From world-renowned Dutch Masters to the city's long history, Haarlem is a unique destination where the past comes alive. Want to go to a museum or stroll past historical monuments? Then a visit to the Frans Hals Museum, named after the famous painter Frans Hals, is definitely in order. And don't miss Teylers Museum. Founded in 1778, it’s the oldest museum in the Netherlands. Go for a scenic wander past historical buildings like the City Hall, the Vleeshal, the Grote Kerk (also called the St. Bavokerk) Gothic cathedral on the Grote Markt market square, and the typical Dutch windmill Molen de Adriaan. Each amazing landmark is a special monument that will remind you of days long gone. But there is more, much more to see and do...

Haarlem also has a vibrant cultural scene with theatres, art galleries and many different events, including music festivals such as Bevrijdingspop and Haarlem Jazz&More and art festivals such as Kunstlijn and Open Monumentendagen. With a fresh mix of historical charm and modern amenities, it’s an attractive city for residents and tourists alike. The Grote Markt is the perfect example of this. It’s a historical square with plenty of fresh, trendy new hospitality venues along with old-fashioned pubs for those looking for something more traditional. Interested in a quirky fact? The residents of Haarlem are known as Muggen, which is Dutch for mosquitos.

Haarlem is the ideal destination for a sustainable city trip. There are more and more sustainable initiatives popping up everywhere and the city offers an extensive network of cycling and walking paths that provides visitors with a healthy, safe way to explore the green landscape. For example, take the Local Culinary Cycling Route and cycle past cool spots with local, artisanal products. Or rent a bike via Green Bikes and explore the city. Here’s another good tip: rent an electric sloop at Green Joy's and sail over the Spaarne river in a whisper boat to see Haarlem from a different perspective.

Another outstanding feature of this city is the picturesque Haarlemse Hofjes. These are beautiful courtyards surrounded by small houses, offering a little respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Smack dab in the middle of the city! Exploring these hofjes (courtyards) is like discovering hidden treasures. Some of the best-known hofjes are Proveniershof, Hofje van Staats, Hofje van Oorschot and the oldest: Hofje van Bakenes. Each of these is a remarkable place, often with a long and interesting history. There were once 40 of these little gems, now there are over 20 historical and even some new hofjes in (and just outside) the centre of Haarlem.