A Day in Haarlem: A Walking Tour of Hidden Gems and Local Secrets in the Netherlands

We will meet each other in Haarlem at one of the most beautiful train stations of the country. We are going to find street sculpture, say "hello" to the witch Malle-Balle, the heroic Kenau and other Haarlem residents. We will visit picturesque courtyards (hofjes) and discuss the history of charity, social initiatives and public organizations.

We will visit magnificent mansions, which belonged to the richest merchants. In the modern time these are not only museums, but cute shops and lovely cafes. We will see the old weight chamber, cathedrals and the residence of the Knights Hospitallers. We will talk about their connection to religion, about modern use of religious buildings, about aristocracy and also about modern art. We will tell you how Haarlem became one of the most important cities in the country and why there is "Harlem" in New-York!

Making our way through narrow alleys and the local Red Light District, we will get to the luxurious market square with an incredible town hall building, meat guild and St. Bavo's Cathedral. Once upon a time, Mozart and Mendelssohn played on its organ! If we will be lucky to get there on Saturday, we will then have a walk around the picturesque market, taste delicious cheese and Dutch herring, while listening to the sound of bells. If you wish, we can later visit a windmill or a church where beer masters create great beer for joyful guests!

This is an individual tour, that is why we will be telling you everything that interests you: country's history, Dutch economy, local traditions, innovations, design, traditional cuisine, art, social and ecological projects etc. We guarantee that after all you will have a clear image about the country and local people.

It takes 15 minutes to get to the North Sea from Harlem by train. However the best way is to go there by bike which can be rented after our Harlem tour. The bike route will go through dunes with pine trees, lakes and heather, among which Highland cattles graze and curious little rabbits jump out to stare at you. We can even go together, we have a tour like this!