How to Explore Haarlem with a 50 Minute Sightseeing Canal Cruise

If you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands, Haarlem should definitely be on your list of places to visit. This charming city is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and picturesque canals. One of the best ways to see all that Haarlem has to offer is to take a 50-minute sightseeing canal cruise. In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know to plan your Haarlem canal cruise and make the most of your experience.

Experience

The Haarlem 50 Minute Sightseeing Canal Cruise is an excellent way to discover the city’s hidden gems and iconic sights. As you cruise through the historic Haarlem Canal Belt, you’ll be treated to unique views of the city from the water. With an experienced skipper at the helm and a crew that’s been navigating Haarlem’s waterways for years, you can sit back and relax as you take in the sights.

Highlights

On this 50-minute Haarlem canal cruise, you’ll get to see some of the city’s most famous attractions such as Molen de Adriaan, Teylers hofje, Frans Hals Museum, and the Jopenkerk. These landmarks are rich in history and culture, and you’ll learn all about them from your knowledgeable skipper.

Cruise through the Historic Haarlem Canal Belt

One of the highlights of the Haarlem 50 Minute Sightseeing Canal Cruise is the chance to cruise through the city’s historic Canal Belt. Haarlem’s canals date back to the 14th century when they were used for transportation and trade. Today, they’re a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and a must-see attraction when visiting the city.

Relax Onboard a Heated Luxury Canal Cruise Boat

The 50 Minute Sightseeing Canal Cruise takes place on a heated luxury canal cruise boat, so you can sit back and relax in comfort. The boat is equipped with comfortable seating, large windows, and an open deck that provides stunning views of Haarlem. Enjoy complimentary snacks and drinks as you cruise through the city’s canals and soak up the atmosphere.

Admire Unique Views of the City Directly From the Water

Cruising along Haarlem’s canals provides you with a unique perspective of the city. You can admire picturesque architecture and stunning views that you wouldn’t be able to see from the streets. This is a great opportunity to take photos and capture lasting memories of your time in Haarlem.

Full Description

The 50 Minute Sightseeing Canal Cruise is the perfect way to discover Haarlem’s historic city center from a unique perspective. The tour begins in the city center, where you’ll meet your professional skipper and board the luxury canal cruise boat. As you cruise through the historic Haarlem Canal Belt, you’ll see some of the city’s most famous landmarks such as Molen de Adriaan and the Frans Hals Museum. Your skipper will provide commentary on the sights, giving you insights into their history and significance. The boat is heated for your comfort, so you can sit back and relax as you take in the sights. You’ll be treated to complimentary drinks and snacks, so you can enjoy a little taste of Haarlem while you cruise.

Includes

The 50 Minute Sightseeing Canal Cruise includes a 50-minute tour of Haarlem’s historic Canal Belt, with commentary from a professional skipper. You’ll also enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks onboard the heated luxury canal cruise boat.

Book the Tour

Ready to experience Haarlem from a unique perspective? Book the Haarlem 50 Minute Sightseeing Canal Cruise here: book the tour here. Don’t miss this opportunity to see Haarlem’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks from the comfort of a luxury canal cruise boat.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Haarlem

1. What is Haarlem?

Haarlem is a city and municipality located in the province of North Holland in the Netherlands. It is situated on the banks of the Spaarne river, and is known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and cultural attractions. Haarlem is often referred to as the “little sister of Amsterdam” due to its proximity to the Dutch capital.

2. How do I get to Haarlem?

Haarlem is easily accessible by train, bus, car, and bike. If you are coming from Amsterdam, take the train from Amsterdam Central Station to Haarlem Station – it’s a quick and easy journey that takes less than 20 minutes. If you are driving, take the A9 motorway and follow the signs to Haarlem. You can also cycle to Haarlem from Amsterdam along the picturesque Haarlemmerweg.

3. What are some of the top things to do in Haarlem?

There are plenty of things to see and do in Haarlem, including:

• Visit the Grote Markt square and admire the impressive St. Bavo Church
• Explore the Frans Hals Museum and see works by the famous Dutch painter
• Take a stroll through the charming streets of the Jordaan neighborhood
• Visit the Teylers Museum of science and natural history
• Discover the history of the city at the Haarlem Museum
• Take a boat tour along the Spaarne river

4. When is the best time to visit Haarlem?

The best time to visit Haarlem depends on your preferences. The city is beautiful all year round, but some of the best times to visit are in the spring, when the tulips are in bloom, and in the summer, when the weather is warm and there are plenty of outdoor events and festivals. Winter can also be a good time to visit, as the city is lit up with Christmas lights and there are often various winter markets.

5. What is the local cuisine in Haarlem?

Haarlem has a rich culinary scene, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and bars serving up a range of traditional Dutch and international dishes. Some local delicacies to try include stroopwafels (thin Dutch waffles filled with caramel syrup), raw herring with onions, and bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs). You can also find plenty of good cheese shops where you can sample some of the famous Dutch cheeses.

6. What are some good day trips from Haarlem?

Haarlem is well-situated for exploring other parts of the Netherlands. Some popular day trips from the city include:

• Amsterdam – just a short train ride away
• The Keukenhof Gardens – a stunning display of tulips and other flowers in the spring
• Zandvoort Beach – a popular beach destination with a lively boardwalk
• Alkmaar – a charming city known for its cheese market

7. What is the nightlife like in Haarlem?

Haarlem has a lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs to choose from. Some popular spots include Cafe Studio, Jopenkerk Brewery, and Stiels. There are also plenty of live music venues and theaters, including the Patronaat and the Philharmonie.

8. Is Haarlem a family-friendly destination?

Yes, Haarlem is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities and attractions that kids will love. Some family-friendly things to do in Haarlem include visiting the De Hout playground, exploring the Molenplas nature reserve, and taking a family bike ride through the surrounding countryside.

9. Where can I stay in Haarlem?

There are plenty of great places to stay in Haarlem, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to high-end hotels. Some popular options include the Amrath Grand Hotel Frans Hals, Carlton Square Hotel, and Hello I’m Local Hostel.

10. How can I get around Haarlem?

Haarlem is a compact city, and most attractions and sights are within walking or cycling distance. There is also an extensive bus and train network that connects Haarlem to other parts of the Netherlands. If you plan on driving, be aware that parking in the city center can be difficult and expensive, so it’s often best to park on the outskirts and use public transport or bike rental to get around.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Haarlem

Haarlem is a charming city located in the Netherlands, known for its historic architecture, beautiful parks, and cultural landmarks. It’s a perfect city to explore on a day trip from Amsterdam, as it’s just a 20-minute train ride away. If you’re planning a visit to Haarlem, here are some of the things you cannot miss.

1. Visit the Grote Markt

Grote Markt is the heart of Haarlem, a historic square surrounded by beautiful buildings with outdoor terraces and cafes. It’s an excellent place to start your tour of the city, especially on a sunny day. Be sure to visit on a Saturday for the weekly market, where locals sell fresh produce, flowers, and other unique items.

2. Admire the Saint Bavo Church and the Organ

The Saint Bavo Church is one of the most impressive landmarks in Haarlem, located on the Grote Markt. The church dates back to the 14th century, and it houses the world-famous Müller organ, which has been played by some of the most renowned organ players in history. You can book a guided tour of the church and organ, or attend a concert to hear the organ in action.

3. Take a Stroll in the Historic City Centre

Haarlem’s historic city centre is a beautiful maze of medieval streets and alleys, packed with independent shops, cafes, and art galleries. Take your time to explore the narrow alleys, admire the old buildings with their intricate facades, and stop for a coffee or a slice of apple pie in one of the traditional Dutch cafes.

4. Visit the Frans Hals Museum

The Frans Hals Museum is an art museum located in a stunning historic building, just a short walk from the Grote Markt. It houses a vast collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including works by the master painter Frans Hals himself. The museum has a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, and it’s perfect for art lovers and families with children.

5. Enjoy the Haarlemmerhout Park

Haarlemmerhout Park is a beautiful green oasis located just outside of the city centre, and it’s perfect for a leisurely afternoon stroll. The park has many walking paths, bike trails, and picnic areas, and it’s an excellent place to relax and enjoy the beautiful natural scenery.

6. Taste Local Dutch Food at the Molen De Adriaan

Molen De Adriaan is a windmill located on the River Spaarne, just a few minutes’ walk from the city centre. The windmill is operational and open to visitors, and it’s a great place to taste some of the local Dutch specialties such as poffertjes and stroopwafels. You can also climb to the top of the windmill for a stunning view of the city.

7. Take a Boat Trip on the River Spaarne

The River Spaarne runs through the heart of the city, and it’s an excellent way to see Haarlem from a different perspective. You can join a guided boat tour, or rent a small boat yourself, and explore the city at your own pace while enjoying the beautiful views of the historic buildings along the river bank.

8. Get a Glimpse of Dutch History at the Teylers Museum

The Teylers Museum is one of the oldest museums in the Netherlands, located in a beautiful 18th-century building just outside the city centre. The museum houses an extensive collection of art, natural history, and science exhibits, including a rare collection of fossils and minerals. It’s an excellent place to learn about Dutch history and culture while enjoying the stunning surroundings.

Book Your Tour Now

Haarlem is a beautiful city, full of history, culture, and natural beauty, it’s perfect for a day trip or a weekend getaway. Be sure to visit the landmarks mentioned in this guide and take your time to explore the city’s charming streets and attractions. We hope this guide has been helpful and that you have a wonderful time in Haarlem.