Just 15 minutes west of Amsterdam by train, Haarlem is a fascinating destination in its own right. A medieval trading town with impressive Golden Age architecture lining cobblestone streets and squares, it will dazzle heritage and culture aficionados, as well as delighting romantics. The best places to stay in Haarlem are wide-ranging, with our picks including boutique boltholes and self-catering apartments in converted red-brick residences close to the heart of the old town.
The magnificent Grote Kerk commands Haarlem’s central market square, and is the ideal starting point for a ramble along the city’s winding lanes. Admire gabled houses with flower-filled window boxes, cycle alongside peaceful canals, and pop into independent shops and cafés as you wander. Admire a rare collection of books and artefacts at the Teylers Museum — the oldest in the Netherlands — or delve into the history of the city at Museum Haarlem. The Frans Hals Museum’s vast array of artwork is exceptional, and conveniently located near the Archaeological Museum, which details an incredible 6,000 years of history.
Keen shoppers, on the other hand, need look no further than the pedestrianised Grote Houtstraat and surrounding lanes, whilst fans of great beer can tour to unusual Jopen brewery, housed in a former church. Venture further afield to stroll around the gorgeous Keukenhof Gardens, or to follow scenic cycling and hiking trails through the countryside and towards the coast. Return to one of the best places to stay in Haarlem for an evening tipple before a night out on the town.
