We began our spring journey through Holland with a visit to a charming town called Haarlem (not to be confused with the Harlem neighborhood in Manhattan, although the American Harlem has direct ties to the Dutch one, as it was established by Dutch settlers who arrived in America). Haarlem was the first city we visited right after arriving at Schiphol Airport. Today, I’m sharing a post about my trip to one of the most beautiful and enchanting cities in Holland. I’ll tell you what to see in Haarlem in spring, how to get there, and provide a list of the coziest places to stay.
I encourage you to visit this town if you can, and I hope this post helps ignite your imagination with all the refreshing colors and peaceful fragments of life that this city offers.
Such a flowery Harlem in Holland.
Springtime Haarlem is beautiful. There’s no need to rush anywhere, and there aren’t many major attractions. You can just stroll around, take in the sights, and enjoy the warm weather.
In spring, the atmosphere here is especially unique; the streets are bathed in soft light, the air filled with birdsong, and cherry blossoms, roses, hydrangeas, rhododendrons, daffodils, and tulips—all bursting with color. Haarlem was once considered a city of artists, but now it’s a city of flowers.
Just a little outside the town, you’ll find yourself surrounded by fields of tulips—yellow, red, delicate pink—a kaleidoscope of scents and colors that seem to have captivated me completely.
What to see in Haarlem in Spring? The beauty of Holland starts revealing itself as soon as you look out of the plane window. Make sure to keep an eye out for the changing colors below. It’s something you need to see!
And you should definitely visit Holland in spring when life is just beginning to bloom after a long winter’s sleep. When the sun starts to warm the air, and you can walk the streets without a jacket, it’s wonderful. And it is delightful when the feeling of nature’s revitalized youthfulness all around erases all traces of fatigue, laziness and frustration. Isn’t that magic?
Here, you should find the coziest restaurant, preferably with a veranda, and order a glass of rosé or a cup of cappuccino with tiramisu. Or you could simply sit on a bench tucked away from everyone, after buying a fresh baguette. Share it not only with yourself but also with the local seagulls, who will surely beg for some.
Just wander through the narrow, fairy-tale-like streets, admiring the beauty of the local houses, and marvel at the residents’ ability to live openly and on display. It’s hard to believe that ordinary people live in these doll-like houses and not elves.
The locals go to great lengths to decorate their homes with greenery, flowers, figurines, and, of course, bicycles. Almost every entrance has a bicycle, sometimes even more than one.
In Haarlem, you often find yourself thinking that Lady Euphoria has suddenly paid you a visit. You look at the flower-filled streets, inhale the scent of apple blossoms, and the warm breeze gently lifts your wavy red hair, making you feel so good…
You lose yourself when you catch scents that take you back to the past. Someone’s wearing a perfume that smells like your mother’s old one, which is no longer made; somewhere else, it smells like flowers, just like in the countryside; and on the streets, you smell that distinct scent of spring. You start to greedily soak in these fragrances.
The values here are entirely different; there’s no goal to build a career or earn all the money. No one measures their wealth. People freely leave work at 5 p.m., paint on the streets, ride bicycles, have picnics, or simply drink wine in pubs. The main goal is to live life easily and carefree.
Haarlem, like any other city in Holland, is woven into a web of canals, which can be compared to Venice. Canals are nature, culture, and even a way of life for the Dutch. If you look closely, many houses extend right up to the water; ships and boats are moored just as easily as cars are parked. Locals even have their own private docks. For the Dutch, boats are not a luxury but a means of transportation, and some even make their homes on them.
Haarlem, of course, has many boats and canals, but there are even more in Amsterdam. Don’t forget to visit this magnificent beating heart of Holland. Read more about the Dutch capital here.
What to see in Haarlem in spring.
Spring in Haarlem is nothing short of magical. Haarlem in spring is an experience you won’t want to miss. Here’s a list of the most beautiful places to visit:
Grote Markt: The heart of Haarlem, Grote Markt, is especially enchanting in spring. The square buzzes with life as outdoor cafés fill with people enjoying the sunshine. The vibrant market stalls overflow with fresh flowers, local produce, and artisanal goods, making it the perfect spot to soak up the city’s atmosphere. What else to see in Haarlem in spring:
Molen De Adriaan: Overlooking the River Spaarne, Molen De Adriaan is a picturesque windmill that offers panoramic views of Haarlem. In spring, the surrounding area is particularly beautiful, with flowers in bloom and the gentle breeze carrying the scent of fresh blossoms. Climb to the top of the windmill for an unforgettable view of the city.
Haarlemse Hofjes: Haarlem is famous for its hofjes—hidden courtyards surrounded by historic houses. In spring, these peaceful retreats burst into bloom, offering a quiet escape from the bustling city. Don’t miss the Hofje van Oorschot and the Proveniershof, where you can wander among blossoming trees and quaint garden beds.
Bakenesserkerk: This historic church is a hidden gem, especially beautiful in spring when the surrounding trees are in full bloom. The Bakenesserkerk’s Gothic architecture is striking against the backdrop of the season’s greenery, making it a must-visit for those who appreciate history and nature.
Frans Hals Museum: Step into the world of Dutch Golden Age art at the Frans Hals Museum. Springtime brings a special light that illuminates the masterpieces differently, making the experience all the more captivating. The museum’s gardens, blooming with tulips and other spring flowers, provide a serene spot for reflection.
Haarlemmerhout: As the oldest public park in the Netherlands, Haarlemmerhout is a verdant oasis in the heart of the city. In spring, the park’s vast lawns are dotted with blooming flowers, and the trees come alive with birdsong. It’s the perfect place for a leisurely picnic or a peaceful walk.
Hofje van Staats: Another one of Haarlem’s charming hofjes, the Hofje van Staats is a tranquil haven in spring. The well-kept garden is a riot of color, with flowers in full bloom and lush greenery all around. It’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet.
Bloemendaalseweg: This picturesque road leads from Haarlem to the coastal town of Bloemendaal, and in spring, it’s lined with blooming trees and fields of flowers. Rent a bike and take a leisurely ride, enjoying the beauty of the Dutch countryside as you go.
If you have some free time, take a trip to the magnificent Keukenhof Tulip Park and the medieval town of Delft. Holland is a small country, and many attractions are relatively close to each other. Take advantage of this during your stay.
You can also check out the list of the most beautiful places in Holland to plan your ideal route!
How to get to Haarlem from Amsterdam and Schiphol?
Getting from Amsterdam is very easy: you can take a train. Trains depart every 8 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal station. The journey takes 15 minutes. If you buy your ticket at the counter, it will be more expensive.
From Schiphol Airport, you can take a train, but you’ll need to transfer at Amsterdam Centraal. Alternatively, you can take bus No. 300 without any transfers. The bus ride takes 42 minutes.Check Aviasales to find the cheapest flights to Amsterdam if you’re traveling from another country.
But I highly recommend traveling by car, as it’s the most convenient and direct option. If you don’t have a car, you can rent one at very reasonable prices here.
Be sure to inspect the car for any scratches or damage that are marked in the contract before leaving the parking lot, and return to the office to report anything you think isn’t mentioned.
The coziest hotels in Haarlem: What to see in Haarlem in spring.
If you’re planning to visit this enchanting Dutch city during spring, finding the perfect place to stay is key to making your experience truly memorable. Here are some of the coziest hotels in Haarlem that will wrap you in comfort as you explore the city’s springtime beauty.
Hotel Malts: Nestled in the heart of Haarlem, Hotel Malts feels like a warm embrace from the moment you step inside. The rooms are charming and full of light, with large windows that let in the gentle spring sunshine. Imagine waking up to the soft light of dawn, with a view of the city’s rooftops just starting to come alive with the new day. Breakfast at Malts is a delight, with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that give you a true taste of Haarlem. The hotel’s friendly owners make you feel right at home, offering insider tips on the best places to visit in spring.
Boutiquehotel Staats: If you’re looking for a blend of style and coziness, Boutiquehotel Staats is the place to be. Each room is uniquely designed, with thoughtful details that make your stay feel special. The soft, plush bedding invites you to snuggle up after a day of exploring the tulip fields and canals. The hotel’s cozy lounge areas are perfect for relaxing with a good book or enjoying a quiet evening with a glass of wine. Located just a short walk from the city center, Boutiquehotel Staats is an ideal base for your springtime adventures in Haarlem.
Bed & Breakfast Hotel ML: Tucked away in a quiet corner of Haarlem, Bed & Breakfast Hotel ML is the epitome of cozy charm. This boutique hotel offers beautifully designed rooms that feel like a home away from home. The warm, inviting décor and comfortable beds make it the perfect place to relax after a day of exploring the city’s springtime wonders. The hotel’s lovely garden is a hidden gem, where you can enjoy a peaceful morning coffee surrounded by blooming flowers. The friendly hosts go out of their way to make your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, with personalized recommendations on the best places to visit in Haarlem.
Haarlem in spring is a city of beauty, history, and nature. Whether you’re exploring its hidden hofjes or marveling at the colorful tulip fields, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your camera, take a deep breath of fresh spring air, and immerse yourself in the charm of this Dutch gem.
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