Haarlem

Travel Guide

A historic church with a tall spire and a clock tower, surrounded by a bustling square with cafes and pedestrians.
A river with boats, a bridge, and historic buildings along the banks.
A canal with a windmill, traditional buildings, and a bridge.
A canal with boats docked, historic buildings, and a statue.
A historic church with a clock tower and a reflection in the water.

Travel to Haarlem for its central square, historical museums, nearby beaches, and a range of family-friendly activities.

Haarlem is an ideal destination for outdoor, family travelers. You can visit the Grote Markt, a central square known for its vibrant atmosphere, and explore the Corrie Ten Boom House, a museum that tells the story of the famous Dutch woman. Additionally, the Cathedral of Saint Bavo offers a glimpse into the city's architectural heritage. For activities, consider catching a performance at Toneelschuur, navigating the maze at Doolhof Poelbroek, or enjoying some motor racing at Circuit Park Zandvoort, which is nearby.

You can also explore Haarlem's nearby areas, each with its own distinct offerings. Bloemendaal and Zandvoort are known for their beaches and outdoor experiences, with Zandvoort Beach and various water sports available. Another nearby area, Overveen, is recognized for outdoor and family experiences, featuring the Nationaal Park Zuid-Kennemerland and the Zandwaaier Visitor Centre. These areas provide a variety of recreational opportunities just a short distance from Haarlem.

The best time to visit Haarlem is from June to September, when the weather is mild, mostly dry, and often sunny. During these months, you can enjoy the city's outdoor activities comfortably. Demand for accommodations and attractions remains fairly steady throughout the year, but if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting from November to January when tourism dips slightly.

Where to stay in Haarlem

Find the best Haarlem areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Haarlem
Learn more about Haarlem

Centrum

If you're spending some time in Centrum, Grote Markt and Corrie Ten Boom House are top sights worth seeing.

Oude Stad

While visiting Oude Stad, you might make a stop by sights like Corrie Ten Boom House and Grote Markt.

Stationsbuurt

While visiting Stationsbuurt, you might make a stop by sights like Hofje van Staats and Kenaupark.

Rozenprieel

Rozenprieel might not have many top sights, but Frans Hals Museum and Grote Markt are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Kleine Hout

While Kleine Hout might not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Frans Hals Museum and Cathedral of Saint Bavo.

citizenM Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

citizenM Amsterdam Airport Schiphol

4 out of 5
Jan Plezierweg 2 Schiphol
$106 nightly
The price is $135 total per night from Nov 22 to Nov 23
$135 total
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Schiphol. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the breakfast and ...
9/10 Wonderful! (3,738 reviews)
"Good, efficient, but i like a hotel room. Shower, bed, toilet all in same small space."

Reviewed on Nov 15, 2026

citizenM Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
OZO Hotels Antares Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

OZO Hotels Antares Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

Antareslaan 10 Hoofddorp
$43 nightly
The price is $55 total per night from Nov 22 to Nov 23
$55 total
Nov 22 - Nov 23
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Hoofddorp. Enjoy free parking, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Popular attractions Winkelcentrum Vier Meren and Rijksmuseum ...
OZO Hotels Antares Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
ibis Amsterdam Centre

ibis Amsterdam Centre

3 out of 5
Stationsplein 49 Amsterdam
$105 nightly
The price is $140 total per night from Dec 15 to Dec 16
$140 total
Dec 15 - Dec 16
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Amsterdam. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful staff in our ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (2,288 reviews)
"Hotel is well located near the main train station and price was good. The bathroom needs more shelf space by the sink and where the safe and shelves were needed to be more easily accessible since it was a strange set up"

Reviewed on Nov 15, 2026

ibis Amsterdam Centre
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Haarlem Apart Hotel

Haarlem Apart Hotel

24 Grote Houtstraat Haarlem NH
Stay at this aparthotel in Haarlem. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and parking (surcharge). Popular attractions Circuit Park Zandvoort and Zandvoort ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (43 reviews)
"Nice spot in freak location"

Reviewed on Sep 13, 2026

Haarlem Apart Hotel
Leonardo Eden Hotel Amsterdam City Center

Leonardo Eden Hotel Amsterdam City Center

Amstel 144A Amsterdam NH
Stay at this aparthotel in Amsterdam. Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast (surcharge), and a 24-hour front desk. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
Leonardo Eden Hotel Amsterdam City Center
Wittenberg by Cove

Wittenberg by Cove

Nieuwe Kerkstraat 159 Amsterdam North Holland
Stay at this apartment in Amsterdam. Enjoy free WiFi, a fitness center, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (431 reviews)
"Really great hotel, very spacious, and in a nice quiet spot, yet still really close to city center"

Reviewed on Nov 14, 2026

Wittenberg by Cove
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Haarlem attractions

Things to do

Frequently asked questions

Is Haarlem worth visiting?
Haarlem is worth visiting for its standout attractions, including the historic Grote Markt and the poignant Corrie Ten Boom House. Travelers can also enjoy diverse dining options, with both Asian and European cuisine available, and explore distinct neighborhoods like Centrum and Stationsbuurt.
When is the best time to visit Haarlem?
The best time to visit Haarlem is from May through September, when travelers can enjoy generally mild and pleasant weather. For fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of December through March are a good option, offering a cooler experience for exploring the city.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Haarlem?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Haarlem depend on what you want to see:

  • Centrum is home to key attractions like St. Bavo Church, Grote Markt, and the Frans Hals Museum.
  • Stationsbuurt features the Tmall History Museum, Hofje van Staats, and Kenaupark.

What is Haarlem known for?
Haarlem is known for its historic Grote Markt, along with landmarks such as the Corrie Ten Boom House and the Cathedral of Saint Bavo. Travelers can also find a strong Asian food presence in this riverside city on the Spaarne.
What is a good itinerary length for Haarlem?
A good itinerary length for Haarlem is two to three days to explore key highlights like Grote Markt, the Corrie Ten Boom House, and Cathedral of Saint Bavo, plus the Centrum neighborhood. An extended stay of four to five days allows for a Highlight Haarlem Bike Tour with a local guide and more time to discover areas like Stationsbuurt. See Haarlem Activities.
How do you get around Haarlem?
Haarlem offers convenient train travel for getting around. Travelers can easily access various points using Haarlem Station and Haarlem Spaarnwoude Station. These train services provide a practical way to explore the city and its surroundings, connecting key areas for your journey.
What are the top things to do in and around Haarlem?
Haarlem offers historic landmarks, cultural insights, and active ways to explore its charming streets:


How do I plan a trip to Haarlem?
To plan your trip to Haarlem, book flights and hotels in advance, especially during peak times. Explore areas like Centrum and Stationsbuurt, and book activities such as a Highlight Haarlem Bike Tour or visits to Grote Markt and Corrie Ten Boom House. Remember to pair outdoor plans with indoor backups for weather flexibility. Travelers can get around by train or rental car.
What cuisines can you find in Haarlem?
In Haarlem, travelers can find French cuisine, offering dishes like coq au vin, boeuf bourguignon, and crêpes. There are also European options such as Mediterranean, Dutch, and Spanish, plus Italian, Middle Eastern, and various Asian flavors including Japanese, Chinese, Indian, and Indonesian. Seafood is also available.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Haarlem?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Haarlem by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Haarlem with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Haarlem trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Haarlem?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Haarlem can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Haarlem trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Haarlem trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Haarlem trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Haarlem trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Haarlem?
If it's your first trip to Haarlem, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Haarlem hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Haarlem hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

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