Although always in the shadow of its big, cosmopolitan brother, Haarlem is perhaps more authentically “Hollands” than Amsterdam. Here too there are canals, windmills and big narrow houses from the 17th century with huge windows, but without the overwhelming mass tourism and crowdedness. As Haarlem is way smaller and cooler due to its closeness to the sea, it is a very attractive city to visit. Come for a few hours on your way to the beach, or feel like you are walking through 17th century Holland for a whole day!

On our two-hour tour, we tell you both about the city’s history as well as how locals experience Haarlem today. We aim to give you a glimpse of Haarlem life in Holland’s Golden Age (17th century), when Haarlem was a busy city with a thriving industrious economy and a vibrant cultural and artistic scene, with Frans Hals as its most famous painter. Textile manufacturing, printing press, and of course tulip production were among the most booming industries of this city. The Dutch waterways connected other Dutch trading cities with Haarlem’s canals, which are still easy on the eyes today.

But the tour is also relaxed and easy to follow, as our guides like to give the tour their own touch with personal stories and urban myths. Don’t forget to ask them about the best place to get dinner or a drink, impressive museums or other must-see’s that this beautiful city has to offer. Book here and enjoy your walk!