When talking about Dutch cities, Haarlem cannot be forgotten. Located in the province of North Holland, near Amsterdam; This city holds historical significance and offers picturesque canal views and well-preserved architecture to tourists. This city is small and comparatively quiet compared to Amsterdam and I guess that's why many tourists avoid this city to explore. Some curious people like me who always search for places to explore find this city worthy and beautiful to explore. To explore this city, you don't need a large plan, half a day is enough to explore. Besides if you want to avoid the chaos of Amsterdam city but want to stay near Amsterdam, I would say this city is perfect for vacation as well.
I visited Haarlem last year during the spring season (almost a year now and I was too lazy to write about my trip) and I would say I fell in love with the city instantly because of the city layout, people, culture, and architecture. I wrote a post about a very specific spot of this city called Exploring "Grote Markt and St.-Bavokerk" in Haarlem, Netherlands - Part 1 where I only focused on the popular Market Square. But there are many spots to visit in Haarlem and That's what I did during my journey.
I never make any plans when it comes to visiting cities in the Netherlands except those that are really far from my place. I have a list of cities on my Google map and when I feel like going outside Almere, I just open the map, check nearby cities and travel time, and take trains. I did that often before but now due to my hectic appointment schedule, I can't do that. And during wintertime, it feels very unpleasant, and I can't explore the city comfortably. After leaving the station, I start walking and that's how I explore nearby cities by walking. Most of the Dutch cities are comfortable to explore during spring and summer and safe as well.
From Amsterdam, many people take canal cruises to Haarlem and explore this city through canals. I have met a few people from Haarlem and everybody says that living in Haarlem is a blessing and very comfortable. The city has nightlife, culture, and unique charm and attractions.
Amsterdamse Poort, Haarlem
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While walking in the city, I saw this giant, ancient, historical city gate from far away. This gate is called Amsterdamse Poort located at the end of the old route from Amsterdam to Haarlem from medieval period. This gate was originally constructed in1355 as a part of the defensive fortifications of the city. This is the only remaining gate among other 12 gates of the city. Not many people know about it, not many people visit this spot and I found out when I was there. Nobody was around.
Currently it is now prominent landmark of Haarlem city.
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Because there were no tourists at all, I was able to see this landmark thoroughly in a comfortable way. Solid refined brick structures of the exterior reflects the era of medieval period and it was interesting to see very closely. Back then such kind of solid structure only constructed when it comes to defend a city.
Two towers that almost touched the sky worked as a watch tower. The gate featured a large arched passageway through which traffic would enter and exit the city. The height and width of the arch were allowed for the passage of people, carts, and other vehicles. I don't know for how many times I went into passage and come out through this passage, It was a nice to do that silly things.
Please avoid that small car, someone parked it even though it's not allowed. There is a large city clock hanging on the top of the arch. I find it this medieval period landmark very unique.
After visiting the gate, I straight went near the canal and found a beautiful spot to sit down and enjoy the beautiful buildings. Most of these buildings are residential buildings represents the golden age of dutch architecture and medieval architecture. Very calm and quite spot to sit down.
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I later had walked the street near popular Teyler's Museum. Unfortunately the museum was under renovation but I discovered cultural canter called Stg. Stadssch.burg & Philharm. Many performances and events happen here always. from outside this cultural center seemed like a church because of the structure but it was a cultural center.
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I took some architectural photos focusing on the exterior of the buildings representing dutch and medieval architecture.
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Red light district (brothel) in Haarlem and beautiful Canal side photos...
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In Haarlem near Market Square, you will see such preserved dutch buildings. They mostly used for museums or significant government offices. In Haarlem there are several museums. What surprised me the most was to see handmade watches. Many renowned families who are in handmade antique watch businesses live here and do business here. Also, Corrie ten Boom House located here above the watch shop.
The building you are seeing in the photos called Vleeshal (meat hall). Originally this structure was built as a market hall for trading meat and other food products. The architecture style is called Dutch Renaissance. Very unique and decorative style. Currently this building is used as an art gallery.
I spent a blissful day within history of haarlem city and I cherish every moment of my trip.
Love
Priyan...
I am @priyanarc.... An architect, a dreamer, and a passionate writer who loves to write about life. I try to present my own perspective and experiences. Please leave your feedback and criticism because it's the only way I can know and reach your mind and thoughts easily...
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Beautiful city ❤ The Netherlands is a place I would love to visit someday, I can imagine myself sailing all excited about its canals. Thanks for this recommendation, I like the tranquility.
Yes, the Netherlands is a nice country where you can explore Dutch culture, architecture, and history. Every city in the Netherlands has its uniqueness and history. I wanna say if you ever travel to the Netherlands, consider exploring such cities which will give you knowledge and pleasure both...
I really appreciate your feedback and support. Thanks for reading my post, have a great weekend...
The city of Harleem is very beautiful, seeing the various architecture of the buildings and the atmosphere of the city there makes my heart feel comfortable, especially since there is a canal in the middle of the city which makes the view even more spectacular
So far I have seen a few Dutch cities and I would say Haarlem is one of my favourites because of the atmosphere. I don't like crowded cities and architecture is always the priority when it comes to exploring a city. The canals of this city are nice and you can have a good walk near the canals. I sat there and had my lunch there while enjoying the canal view. If you see the photos, you won't see any people and that's the real picture of Haarlem during the start of spring...
Thanks for reading my post, Happy Weekend...
One of my dream about Amsterdam 😊
I think sis it is time to plan for your dreamy vacation. I would love to meet you in Europe sis...Your dream will come true soon, sis...
This is an absolutely beautiful place, which I would certainly like to visit one day. I love the architecture and urban landscapes that we see in your photos @priyanarc 😍
Have a nice weekend :)
!discovery 40
If you love history and architecture and want to have a small day trip, this city is for you. I spent 4-5 hours there and was able to explore half of the city. Historical locations are nearby so half a day is perfect to explore Haarlem...
Take care and I wish you a relaxing weekend...
This city is amazing. Every single detail is a nice thing.
Thank you... I will write the last part soon (windmill and canals)... Have a nice weekend...
It looks amazing, I really enjoyed this view 💚
Thank you, I am glad that you liked this nice city...
I feel like there's a real issue with cars over there. Like the photos seem to suggest cars are just in the way with very small space generally for pedestrians/bikes. Or maybe just that particular area?
Everything else looks wonderful and I'm jealous
Hi, Bike lanes and pedestrians are normally priority near canals and unfortunately, people park their cars near the canals like the picture. It's very risky but in a few cities in the Netherlands, near the canal, cars are parked like this (mostly Amsterdam, Haarlem, Utrecht so far I saw). I think most of these residential buildings don't have their parking spots so they park in front of their home like this near canals. I will ask around why they park like this...
It's actually a nice city, I am glad you liked this city...Have a nice weekend...
Great shots never been there but would like to go some day .
Thank you, most of the cities in Holland are beautiful and worthy to see...Take care and thanks for reading my post...
Does look very nice Thank you and you to . Look forward to seeing more.
@priyanarc A beautiful place that preserves its cultural and historical richness.
Most of the Dutch cities represent culture and history and I love how they have been preserving these cities for so long...
Thank you for stopping by...
I can't understand why I've never spent more time in Holland. I just love the canals by the streets and cycling and the architecture is just so candy-box.
The Dutch Tourist Board ought to be paying you for selling their country so well with your positive write-ups and amazing photos! I also think that when you're on one of your days out, you ought to post your step count on Actifit! It must be a huge number lol
You take care and have a great week :-)
That's why you need to come back again so that you can spend more time near the canal and maybe buy a boat 😀
🤣 I would love that, income is always good. This habit grew when I used to write about Kharkiv and my daily life. Darn, at least I did something on Hive... 😉
😎😁
I hope you are having an awesome week my friend :D
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Thank you so much @pinmapple and @choogirl...
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