A Haarlem Day Trip: Windmills, Canals, and Charming Streets

Brunch and Market Square

My rumbling stomach led me to a charming brunch spot near the Market Square. I opted for French toast—a delicious choice that fueled my exploration. The cafe itself was cozy and inviting, a perfect start to my Haarlem adventure, even with the lingering migraine.

Stepping out, I found the Market Square buzzing with unexpected energy. Instead of the usual calm, a funfair had taken over! Ferris wheels spun, rides whirred, and a festive atmosphere filled the air. It was a delightful surprise, though slightly jarring given my initial expectations of a quieter square. The large church, my intended destination, loomed in the distance, a serene counterpoint to the boisterous funfair.

Navigating the cheerful chaos of the funfair, I finally reached the church. It was impressive, though I'll admit, I was a bit disappointed by the somewhat gloomy, overcast weather. The bright sunshine promised in the forecast hadn’t materialized, casting a slightly muted light over the scene. Still, the grandeur of the church couldn’t be denied. It stood as a testament to Haarlem's rich history, a silent observer of centuries of festivities and daily life.

Weather and Viewpoint

I'll be honest, the weather wasn't exactly cooperating. The forecast had promised sunshine, but instead, we got a rather gloomy, overcast day. A bit disappointing, especially since I'd even postponed my visit from the previous week hoping for better conditions. You really never know what to expect with Dutch weather; always be prepared for anything!

Despite the less-than-ideal weather, I did manage to find a few silver linings. One of my favorite viewpoints in Haarlem features these adorable houses that almost look like gingerbread cottages. They’re situated next to a charming little bridge, making for a truly picturesque scene. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a great photo opportunity—even on a slightly cloudy day!

Windmill Visit

My next stop was the Molen de Adriaan, Haarlem’s most famous windmill. I’d often photographed it from afar, but a proper visit was long overdue. It turned out I arrived a little early; the windmill opened at one, and it was only a quarter to. No problem! I found a lovely bench by the water and enjoyed the unexpected sunshine while I waited.

The tour itself was a delightful surprise. I hadn’t realized it would be a guided tour, but it was fascinating to learn about windmills in general, and the specific history of this one—a replica of a windmill that burned down in 1932 and was rebuilt 70 years later. The miller’s work, scaling the structure without modern safety equipment, was particularly compelling.

The tour guide was knowledgeable and enthusiastic, making the whole experience both informative and enjoyable. I learned so much more than I'd anticipated—a testament to the power of a good guide and the rich history contained within these seemingly simple structures. It was a highlight of my day, despite the less-than-perfect weather.

Former Prison Exploration

My next stop was a fascinating repurposing of history: a former prison. I learned about it during my windmill tour, apparently its circular design allowed a single guard to oversee all the cells. Now, it's a vibrant mix of cafes, a cinema, and office spaces—a testament to adaptive reuse.

Exploring the grounds, I peered into what were once prison cells, now converted into surprisingly modern office spaces. The contrast was striking, a silent narrative of Haarlem's evolution. Even a university campus now occupies part of this complex, a fitting modern touch in this historical setting.

The whole thing felt like a unique blend of the past and the present, a captivating example of how a city can preserve its history while adapting to modern needs. I can easily imagine a future visit, perhaps to catch a movie in that former prison cinema! The juxtaposition of modern life within these historic walls was remarkably intriguing.

Boat Tour and Food

After exploring Haarlem's historical gems, I decided to experience the city from a different perspective—a boat tour! I opted for an open-air boat, despite the less-than-ideal weather. They offered blankets and umbrellas, thankfully unnecessary, and the 50-minute cruise across the Spaarne river was a delightful way to relax and absorb the city's charm. The tour guide shared fascinating facts about Haarlem's history, adding another layer to my appreciation of this place.

By the end of the tour, my stomach was rumbling again. Luckily, Haarlem has no shortage of delicious treats! I recommend checking out a specific fries stand in the city center if you're ever craving a truly satisfying snack. Later, feeling peckish after a day of exploring, I stumbled upon a charming local shop and grabbed a caprese bread—the perfect light meal to end my Haarlem adventure.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! My Haarlem adventure, a whirlwind of funfair chaos, historical grandeur, and unexpectedly sunny moments. Despite my initial headache, the day unfolded into a delightful exploration of this charming Dutch city. From the surprisingly festive Market Square to the fascinating repurposing of a former prison, Haarlem offered a unique blend of the old and new.

The windmill tour was a highlight, offering a surprisingly in-depth look at Dutch history and engineering. And the boat trip? A perfect way to relax and soak in the city's beauty from a different perspective. It's clear that Haarlem is a place that deserves more than a single visit; I'm already dreaming of my return, perhaps to catch a movie in that former prison cinema!

I hope this vlog has inspired you to explore Haarlem for yourselves. It's easily accessible from Amsterdam, and offers a wonderful mix of history, culture, and unexpected surprises. Let me know in the comments if you have any questions, or if you’ve visited Haarlem—I'd love to hear about your experiences! Until next time, fellow travelers!

What is the best time of year to visit Haarlem?

While the author's spring visit was lovely (with blooming tulips!), the weather is unpredictable in the Netherlands. Be prepared for anything and consider that a less crowded time might be preferable to the peak season.

What are some must-see attractions in Haarlem?

Haarlem offers a variety of attractions including the Grote Kerk (St. Bavo Church), the Molen de Adriaan windmill (a replica of the original), and the repurposed former prison, now featuring cafes, a cinema, and office spaces. A boat tour on the Spaarne river is also highly recommended.