7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Haarlem

As a digital nomad living in Haarlem, you're perfectly positioned to explore the rich cultural tapestry of the Netherlands and beyond. While the city itself offers a charming blend of history and modernity, the weekends are an ideal time to venture out and discover new places. From bustling cities to serene nature escapes, there's a perfect weekend getaway for every taste. Here are seven destinations that promise to rejuvenate your spirit and inspire your work.

Amsterdam

Just a stone's throw away from Haarlem, Amsterdam is the quintessential weekend getaway. The city's picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene make it a must-visit. Spend your days exploring the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House, and the Van Gogh Museum, or simply meander through the Jordaan district with its trendy boutiques and cozy cafes. As the sun sets, the city's nightlife comes alive with an array of bars and clubs.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Amsterdam from Haarlem is by train. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes, with frequent services running from Haarlem Station.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a canal cruise, especially in the evening when the city lights reflect beautifully on the water.

Where to Stay: The Hoxton, Amsterdam, offers a stylish stay with canal views and a lively atmosphere. For a more unique experience, consider staying on a houseboat.

Where to Eat: Foodhallen is a trendy indoor food market with a variety of cuisines, perfect for a casual and delicious meal.

Keukenhof Gardens

For a colorful escape, the Keukenhof Gardens are a floral wonderland, especially in the spring when the tulips are in full bloom. The park is one of the world's largest flower gardens, and the sea of colors is truly a sight to behold. Aside from the flowers, there are art installations, greenhouses, and themed gardens to explore.

How to Get There: During the open season, there are direct buses from Haarlem to Keukenhof, or you can drive there in about 30 minutes.

Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid the crowds and to catch the soft morning light, which is perfect for photography.

Where to Stay: Nearby Lisse offers charming B&Bs like De Vier Seizoenen, which provides a cozy stay close to the gardens.

Where to Eat: Restaurant De Vier Seizoenen in Lisse offers a delightful dining experience with a menu that changes with the seasons.

Utrecht

Utrecht's medieval center, with its Dom Tower, ancient canals, and vibrant street life, offers a more laid-back alternative to Amsterdam. The city is rich in history and culture, with plenty of museums, galleries, and music venues to keep you entertained. The unique wharf cellars along the canals have been converted into cafes and shops, creating a distinctive atmosphere.

How to Get There: Utrecht is easily accessible by train from Haarlem, with the journey taking approximately an hour.

Travel Tip: Climb the Dom Tower for a panoramic view of the city, or take a leisurely walk along the Oudegracht, the city's most famous canal.

Where to Stay: Mother Goose Hotel is a boutique option with a warm, welcoming vibe and excellent city views.

Where to Eat: Olivier Belgian Beer Café is housed in an old church and offers a great selection of beers and hearty Belgian cuisine.

Zaanse Schans

Step back in time with a visit to Zaanse Schans, a historic village that showcases the traditional Dutch way of life. Here, you can see windmills in action, visit a clog workshop, and explore authentic Dutch houses. It's a great place to learn about the Netherlands' industrial heritage and to enjoy the picturesque countryside.

How to Get There: Zaanse Schans is a short train ride from Haarlem, followed by a bus or a pleasant walk from the station.

Travel Tip: Visit the Zaans Museum to understand the history of the region and its significance in the Dutch Golden Age.

Where to Stay: Heerlijck Slaapen offers charming accommodations right on the Zaanse Schans, with views of the windmills.

Where to Eat: The Pancake Restaurant at Zaanse Schans serves up traditional Dutch pancakes with a variety of toppings.

Texel Island

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, take a trip to Texel Island, the largest of the Dutch Wadden Sea Islands. It's a paradise for nature lovers, with its beaches, dunes, and forests. You can go cycling, bird-watching, or simply relax by the sea. The island also has a seal sanctuary and a brewery that you can visit.

How to Get There: Reach Texel by taking a train from Haarlem to Den Helder and then a short ferry ride to the island.

Travel Tip: Rent a bike to explore the island at your own pace, and don't miss the opportunity to taste the local Texel beer.

Where to Stay: Boutique Hotel Texel offers a spa and an indoor pool, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Where to Eat: Strandpaviljoen Paal 9 is a beachside restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood with a view of the waves.

Giethoorn

Known as the "Venice of the North," Giethoorn is a tranquil village where the main mode of transportation is by boat. With no roads in the center, you can glide along the canals, under charming bridges, and past thatched-roof cottages. It's a serene and picturesque place to disconnect and enjoy the slower pace of life.

How to Get There: Giethoorn is best reached by car from Haarlem, which takes about an hour and a half, or you can take public transport with a combination of train and bus.

Travel Tip: Rent a whisper boat – these electric boats are quiet and easy to navigate through the canals.

Where to Stay: De Dames Van De Jonge Hotel Restaurant offers a cozy stay and can arrange boat tours for guests.

Where to Eat: Grand Café Fanfare is inspired by the 1958 Dutch film "Fanfare" and serves delicious local cuisine in a convivial atmosphere.

Fortress Island Pampus

For a truly unique getaway, visit Fortress Island Pampus, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Defence Line of Amsterdam. This artificial island was built in the late 19th century to defend the city. Today, you can explore the fortress, learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views of the IJmeer lake.

How to Get There: To get to Pampus, take a train from Haarlem to Amsterdam and then catch a ferry from IJburg.

Travel Tip: Check the island's event calendar before you go; they often host special activities and exhibitions.

Where to Stay: There are no accommodations on the island, but you can stay in Amsterdam or in nearby Muiden, where Hotel Het Rechthuis offers a comfortable stay.

Where to Eat: In Muiden, Café Ome Ko is a historic waterside pub where you can enjoy a meal with views of the Muiderslot castle.