Just a short train ride from Amsterdam, Haarlem is a charming city steeped in Dutch Golden Age history, art, and quiet elegance. On this private walking tour, you’ll step back in time with a local guide who will bring centuries of stories to life.
The tour begins in the historic Grote Markt, where your guide will introduce you to the stunning St. Bavo Church. Inside, you’ll discover the grand Müller organ — once played by Mozart himself. From there, wander through Haarlem’s cobbled streets, where gabled houses, old almshouses (hofjes), and hidden gardens tell stories of wealth, religion, and community.
One highlight is the Frans Hals Museum, dedicated to the celebrated portrait painter of the Dutch Golden Age. Your guide can help you skip the line and provide deeper context on the lives of the people in Hals’ vivid paintings — many of whom once lived in Haarlem’s very streets.
As you explore, you’ll also learn about Haarlem’s brewing history, the city’s fight against Spanish rule, and its strong ties to the Dutch resistance in WWII. If you’re a fan of Dutch tulips, your guide can explain Haarlem’s role in the original “tulip mania.”
To top off the tour, enjoy a coffee or beer at a centuries-old café — one your guide handpicks just for you. Whether you’re a history lover, art fan, or just someone who enjoys a more relaxed pace than Amsterdam offers, Haarlem is a treasure — especially when explored with a local guide who loves to share it.