Experience the city like a local
Haarlem is one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands. No, I'm not biased - it really is! No wonder that's why many people from other parts of the Netherlands travel to our city to enjoy its characteristic streets, unique stores, excellent restaurants and, of course, coziness.
"I, Rianne, will show you Haarlem like a local within a midweek."
There is always something going on in Haarlem. The city is bustling and the people of Haarlem themselves are busy bees. During your visit, would you like to find out why almost every Haarlemmer is still in love with their own city after all these years?
Preparation
Before you come to Haarlem, it is always wise to arrange a few things in advance. For example, where you are going to stay. Would you like to stay in the middle of the city, then I recommend for example Boutiquehotel Staats, Hotel ML or Hôtel Frenchie to. Really Haarlem hotspots from owners who can tell you a lot about the city, and I always like that the most. Also good to check out: many hotels have great deals in the fall, such as three nights for the price of two. More tips for Haarlem and surroundings you will find here >
What the city is even more famous for is its extensive culinary offerings. I am not exaggerating when I say that Haarlem has almost 500 catering establishments. Yes, we love (good) food. So eating out should definitely not be missing from your midweek. However, the most popular establishments and top restaurants fill up quickly. So my tip is to make a reservation at one of these restaurants while planning your midweek, if you want to. Need inspiration? There are a number of restaurants in Haarlem with a Michelin star and/or a listing in the Lekker 500.
If you plan to go boating in Haarlem (highly recommended!), make a reservation for this as well. Many boat rental companies offer a rain guarantee. So you know that if it really comes pouring down from the sky, you will get your money back.
Haarlemmers do a lot by bike. We live in an old city with many small streets, so it is often simply super inefficient to go anywhere by car. Some hotels allow you to use bicycles, sometimes for a fee. If not, you can also get a bike or maybe even rent an E-chopper sometime. That way you'll be everywhere in no time!
Day 1 - Welcome to Haarlem
There we are! Beautiful Haarlem. A delightful mix between city and village, with the best features of both. A vibrant city with lots of history, lots of culture and something for everyone. For anyone who has never been there, there is still much to discover, but also for ourselves. Every now and then, for example, I run into someone who has never been to the Grote or St. Bavo Church.
You're not going to be such a (temporary) Haarlemmer. After you've scored a good cup of coffee-to-go at one of the best coffee shops, it's time for a little sightseeing. The Grote or St. Bavo Church is the literal centerpiece of the city. For only €3 you can buy a ticket and admire the inside, but of course you can also walk around it. Well worth it, because it is a beautiful structure that has become the hallmark of the city. If you like walking, there is on our blog a walking route that takes you past a number of other beautiful places, including a few Haarlem courtyards. If it's lunchtime, you can walk the route with a nice sandwich in your hand. For that, we have a nice list of the most delicious sandwiches to go.
"Every gift is beautifully wrapped and is a treat to give or receive."
Score a tasty cup of coffee, if the weather is nice on the terrace, and have a nice piece of cake with it, for example at Mogador. I put the most delicious cakes and pastries in the center of Haarlem for you.
In the evening you can check for a fun movie playing in the Barn (formerly the Filmschuur) or if there is a nice show at the Stadsschouwburg is playing. Need a bite to eat beforehand? Then of course go to an approachable, real Haarlem restaurant such as Dijkers or Coster 52°.
Day 2 - A different perspective
A new day, perfect for further exploring Haarlem. If you don't have breakfast at your hotel, there are plenty of great places in the city to start your day. You can find a tasty breakfast at all-day hotspot Frenchie , for example, one of my favorites.
It almost sounds cliché, but it's true: you really see the city differently from the water. That is why today you get on a boat. You can choose whether you go for an informative tour, possibly with a covered boat, with Smidtje Canal Cruisesor maybe a cruise with dinner on board at Haarlem Boat. Don't let the weather deter you, because even on a cloudy day a cruise is top notch. I always bring an extra cardigan or scarf and I'm good to go all afternoon. And that glass of rosé helps too.
If you have some time left in the evening, be sure to visit the popular Beautiful Boules. The idea: jeu-de-boules, karaoke, board games, great food and drinks, and most of all lots of fun. Personally, I am extremely happy with a playful, loose location like this. Truly an addition to the city!
Day 3 - The best of both worlds
Today you will discover two important parts of Haarlem: the shopping streets and the refined cuisine. One of the busiest days of your midweek in Haarlem, so you can't start this day without a good breakfast either. One of our favorites, where you can also go for lunch and dinner by the way, is Pip Deli. Here you are still in the center, but just outside the hustle and bustle. Besides, Pip and her team are just really good at cooking and there is always a good atmosphere in the restaurant.
After dinner, it's time for an afternoon of shopping. You've probably already discovered Amsterdam's Nine Streets, but today you'll find out that the Golden Streets of Haarlem are at least as much fun. You won't want to miss those during your midweek. What makes Haarlem's stores so unique are the original concepts, the artisan products and the enthusiastic entrepreneurs who put their heart and soul into their business. In addition, it is just wonderful to stroll through the old streets and enjoy all of Haarlem's charm.
"Every gift is beautifully wrapped and is a treat to give or receive."
In town, you'll find everything from clothing boutiques such as At Saar's Home to tea shop The Art of..., and from wine stores like Okhuysen to the tastiest delicatessens. Visit Haarlem made a handy overview of the best hotspots in the Golden Streets. You can find different shopping routes here.
Need a snack or drink in between to catch your breath? Then there are plenty of cozy establishments or (heated) terraces where you can drink coffee or have lunch. Just do not eat too much, because tonight it is time for a culinary masterpiece. If all goes well, you have a reservation at one of Haarlem's top restaurants. Maybe one from the list of restaurants from the Lekker500or maybe one of my other favorites Brick, Cafe Colette or Fishbar Monk. Either way, it is guaranteed to be a feast. Haarlem is the gastronomic capital of the Netherlands for a reason!
If you want to end your midweek festively, have a nightcap or two before heading back to your hotel. At Bar Wigbolt you will find delicious cocktails, at the new NIP special champagnes, at South-North (natural) wines and at bar Local you will find the tastiest beers. So I am really not exaggerating when I say that Haarlem is home to all markets.
Day 4 - Saying goodbye does not exist
I know you don't really want to leave Haarlem, but fun things unfortunately come to an end. One advantage is that you can come back whenever you want, because there is always plenty to do here. If you don't want to say goodbye right away, you can drive along the beach on your way back for a refreshing walk and a stop at one of the cozy beach bars. Afterwards, enjoy a wonderful midweek at home, perhaps over a drink from one of Haarlem's delicatessens or a glass of wine from the Haarlem liquor store. And will I see you again soon?
X Rianne
This blog was written by Rianne Lourens, Haarlem City Blog.
