Just 15–20 minutes by train from Amsterdam, Haarlem is one of the prettiest cities in the Netherlands.
It’s often described as a smaller and calmer alternative to Amsterdam — with beautiful canals, historic brick buildings, cozy cafés, and local boutiques.
Fun fact: the famous Harlem in New York was actually named after Haarlem.
Compared to busy Amsterdam, Haarlem feels much more relaxed.
Instead of rushing between major attractions, this is the kind of city where you simply wander around and enjoy the atmosphere.
Whether you visit for half a day or stay overnight, Haarlem is one of the best easy day trips in the Netherlands.
More Day Trips in the Netherlands
What Is Haarlem Like?
Haarlem is a historic Dutch city located west of Amsterdam.
Today, it’s one of the most popular local day trips from the capital.
Unlike Amsterdam, Haarlem doesn’t feel overwhelmingly touristy.
The city has a slower pace, making it perfect for:
- Walking along canals
- Shopping at small boutiques
- Visiting cafés
- Exploring museums and churches
Personally, Amsterdam feels like a big busy city, while Haarlem feels more like a relaxed weekend town.
Best Things to Do in Haarlem
Grote Kerk (St. Bavokerk)
Grote Kerk is the landmark of Haarlem.
This huge Gothic church stands in the center of the city at Grote Markt square.
Inside, you’ll find a famous pipe organ once played by Mozart and Handel.
Outside, the square is lined with cafés and terraces, especially lively on sunny days and market days.
Spaarne River & Drawbridges
Walking along the Spaarne River is one of the nicest things to do in Haarlem.
The area around the white drawbridges is especially photogenic.
Compared to Amsterdam, the canals here feel quieter and more local, making it easier to relax and take photos without huge crowds.
Molen De Adriaan Windmill
Molen De Adriaan is Haarlem’s iconic windmill.
Originally built in 1779, it was destroyed by fire in 1932 and later rebuilt in 2002.
Today, it stands beautifully along the river and has become one of Haarlem’s most recognizable views.
You can also join a tour inside the windmill.
De Koepel (Former Prison)
De Koepel is one of Haarlem’s most unique buildings.
This huge dome-shaped structure used to be a prison, but has now been transformed into:
- Event spaces
- Cafés
- Coworking areas
It’s a great example of Dutch-style renovation architecture.
Teylers Museum
Teylers Museum is considered the oldest museum in the Netherlands.
The museum combines:
- Art
- Science
- Natural history
The interior itself is stunning and still feels very 18th century.
If you enjoy classical museum spaces, this place is absolutely worth visiting.
Frans Hals Museum
Frans Hals Museum focuses on Dutch Golden Age paintings, especially works by Haarlem-born painter Frans Hals.
Compared to Amsterdam’s major museums, this one feels quieter and more relaxed.
Jippies Cat Café
If you love cats, don’t miss Jippies Cat Café.
You can enjoy coffee, cake, and Dutch apple pie while relaxing with cats wandering freely around the café.
It’s a cute little break spot during your Haarlem walk.
Saint Bavo Cathedral
Not to be confused with Grote Kerk, Cathedral Basilica of St. Bavo is another impressive church in Haarlem.
This massive neo-Gothic cathedral features huge domes and dramatic architecture.
During winter, Christmas-themed miniature exhibitions are sometimes held inside.
Walking Around Haarlem
Honestly, the best thing to do in Haarlem is simply wander around.
The city is full of:
- Brick houses
- Quiet canals
- Small boutiques
- Stylish cafés
It’s less about “checking attractions” and more about enjoying the atmosphere.
Haarlem Canal Cruises
Haarlem also has canal cruises — and they’re much quieter than Amsterdam’s.
Cruising through the canals while passing historic buildings and bridges feels incredibly relaxing.
Especially in spring and summer, it’s a great way to enjoy the city.
Stroopwafel Workshop in Haarlem
Want a more hands-on Dutch experience?
You can also join a stroopwafel-making workshop in Haarlem.
Freshly made stroopwafels taste completely different from store-bought ones.
▶︎ Search for stroopwafel workshops >>
Visiting Haarlem in Spring & Winter
Haarlem is also known for seasonal events.
In spring, the famous Dutch flower parade (Bloemencorso) passes through the city.
In winter, Haarlem transforms into a cozy Christmas market destination with lights, food stalls, and festive decorations.
The Grote Markt area looks especially beautiful at night.
How to Get to Haarlem from Amsterdam
Getting to Haarlem is very easy.
Direct trains from Amsterdam Centraal take about 15–20 minutes, with frequent departures throughout the day.
The old town is also within walking distance from Haarlem Station.
▶︎ Search trains from Amsterdam to Haarlem >>
Staying Overnight in Haarlem
Although Haarlem works perfectly as a day trip, staying overnight lets you experience the city after the crowds leave.
At night, the canals and squares become much quieter and beautifully lit.
Hotels around the station are convenient, and prices can sometimes be cheaper than Amsterdam.
▶︎ Search hotels in Haarlem >>
Final Thoughts
Haarlem is one of those cities that feels instantly comfortable.
With historic churches, canals, museums, cafés, and relaxed local vibes, it’s perfect for travelers who want a slower and more authentic Dutch experience.
If you’re visiting Amsterdam, definitely consider adding Haarlem to your itinerary — even just for a few hours.