Haarlem

An historic, quirky gem that you'll love

We're not talking New York's Harlem but rather Haarlem in the Netherlands. It may be Amsterdam's lesser known cousin, but it's just as charming and situated just 20km west of the capital city.

Once an North Sea trading port, it still has its medieval character with canals, gabled houses and cobblestone streets. It's also well known for art museums, shopping and hidden leafy courtyards called hofjes.

One of the world's largest flower gardens, Keukenhof, is just 18km away. Opening from March to May, it's well worth a visit to see explosions of colourful tulips.

Why we love it?

• Take a guided tour of the Molen de Adriaan Windmill 

• Learn about the history of the buildings at ABC Architectuurcentrum

• Discover quirky vintage shops that line the Gouden Straatjes

• Take to the canals and see the city's sights from a guided boat tour

• Visit in August and catch the annual food festival, Haarlem Culinair, in the market square

  
  

What the kids will love?

• A beach day at Bloemendaal aan Zee (28 minutes drive away)

• Go fossil hunting at Teylers Museum

• Discover all the hidden Hofjes (enclosed courtyard gardens)

• Play in the giant dunes of Kraantje Lek 

• Visit in April and catch the world famous Flower Parade

  
  

How to get there

By air

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is the nearest airport with flights from multiple UK airports.

By road

The Hook of Holland port is the nearest to Haarlem. Alternatively, it's a 4 hour drive from Calais.

By rail

Take the Eurostar from London Pancras to Amsterdam. Approximately 4 hours if direct. Via Brussels the time is 4 hours 40.