Historical Haarlem: Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide
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About This Tour in Haarlem
Why Visit Haarlem?
Haarlem, Netherlands offers a wealth of attractions, cultural experiences, and activities for visitors. From historic landmarks to modern attractions, Haarlem provides an unforgettable travel experience with something to discover around every corner. Explore local cuisine, discover unique culture, and create lasting memories in this remarkable destination.
Getting to Haarlem
You can reach Haarlem, Netherlands by air, train, or road depending on your starting location. The city is well-connected by public transportation, including trains, buses, and metro systems. Taxis and rideshare services are also readily available. Train connections from major European cities make Haarlem easily accessible by rail as well.
What's Included
- All fees and taxes
- Local private guide
What's Not Included
- Gratuities
Cancellation Policy
Additional Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photo Gallery
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting Point
We start in front of the most beautiful train station of The NetherlandsYour guide will be waiting for you next to the statue of Laurens Janszoon Coster, on the Big Market.
End Point
Your guide will be waiting for you next to the statue of Laurens Janszoon Coster, on the Big Market.
Pickup Information
Pickup Option: Pickup available or meet at start point
Pickup Time: 5 minutes before departure
Custom pickup locations may be available. Please contact the supplier for details.
Itinerary
Tour Itinerary
We start in front of the most beautiful train station of The Netherlands 20 minutes
We start in front of the most beautiful train station of The Netherlands. The railways made a significant contribution to the revival of Haarlem after 1850, as improved infrastructure allowed small businesses to grow into important industrial complexes. Examples include the Figee machine factory, Droste chocolate factory, Conrad shipyard (all located on the Spaarne), and the Beijnes railway carriage factory at Stationsplein.
Of course we will walk over the Grote Markt 10 minutes
Of course we will walk over the Grote Markt. The Grote Markt has traditionally been the heart of Haarlem. Before the Middle Ages, when the square was not yet paved, it was called 't Sant. Justice was administered on 't Sand at that time. However, the gallows were located on the outskirts of the city to deter people. Tournaments were held on the square, as well as markets. In the 13th and 14th centuries, the square was even larger than it is now because there was no building on the south side (right). The appearance and character of this place were and are largely determined by the historical buildings surrounding it.
On the Grote Markt, we find the Grote Kerk 10 minutes
On the Grote Markt, we find the Grote Kerk. Here once stood a smaller church that was damaged during a city fire. Subsequently, the Grote or St. Bavo was built here. The floor plan is based on the cruciform shape. Construction began in 1390 with the choir built around the old Romanesque church, followed by the transept. The nave followed from the mid-15th century. The tower is an oak construction covered with lead and was added to the church in 1520. In 1559, St. Bavo was elevated to a cathedral. On May 19, 1578, the 'Haarlemse noon' took place, a delayed iconoclastic event. During a Catholic sacrament procession in the St. Bavo Church, Geuzen soldiers stormed the church. The soldiers killed the priest and destroyed everything. Afterward, the church came into the possession of the Reformed Community. In the church, in addition to the world-famous Müller organ, there are the graves of painters Frans Hals, Pieter Saendam, linen merchant Pieter Teyler van der Hulst, and many others.
We cannot skip the Botermarkt 20 minutes
We cannot skip the Botermarkt. In 2012, during the installation of underground waste containers on the Botermarkt, skeletons from the Middle Ages were discovered. These were found on an old cemetery belonging to the medieval St. Gangolf's Chapel. The excavation of these skeletons has provided more insight into the men, women, and children who lived in Haarlem around 1450. The combination of forensic science, archaeology, anatomy, and sculptural art can give a lifelike face to an excavated individual. For the reconstruction, a skeleton with a skull was selected from a 35-year-old man with a remarkable face. Since his name was unknown, the name Cornelis was chosen. Cornelis was a common name in Haarlem in the 15th and 16th centuries.
Another church 20 minutes
Another church! For centuries, Haarlem was one of the largest beer brewing cities in the Netherlands. Beer brewing dates back to the medieval period in Haarlem, with many breweries located along the Spaarne River and Bakenessergracht. The proximity to water was convenient for both beer production and the transportation of beer barrels. The beer barrels, with a capacity of 112 liters, were called 'Jopen.'
We pass by the beautiful Frans Hals Museum 20 minutes
We pass by the beautiful Frans Hals Museum. Frans Hals was born in Antwerp in 1582 or 1583, the son of a linen merchant. Like many South Netherlanders at that time, the family moved to Haarlem around 1586. Frans Hals was a pupil of Carel van Mander until 1603 and became a member of the Saint Luke's Guild. In 1616, he painted his first civic guard pieces. In 1639, he created his last civic guard pieces, considered the pinnacle of Hals' oeuvre due to the great variety of facial expressions, shining uniforms, and nuanced colors. In the 18th century, he fell out of favor but was rediscovered by the Impressionists in the 19th century, who appreciated his so-called rough style. His style was characterized by independent, sweeping, and loose brushwork, as well as intimate and enigmatic drama. He had the ability to capture subtle human emotions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cancellation policy?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
How do I book this tour?
Click the "Book Now" button on this page to complete your reservation through Viator's secure booking platform. You'll receive instant confirmation via email.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Please check the age requirements and physical fitness level requirements listed in the tour details above. Some tours may have age restrictions or require a certain level of physical fitness.
