Stadhuis
This former hunting lodge on the market square belonged to the Count of Holland, who permitted it to be transformed into Haarlem's Town Hall in the 14th century. The large main
The Best Sight in Haarlem, The Randstad
Haarlem is a compact city and easy to cover on foot. From the main railway station it is about five minutes' walk south to the Grote Markt. The Frans Hals Museum is another five minutes beyond that.
Throughout the old city center are many historic hofjes—hidden little courtyards that make Haarlem an incredibly pleasant place to explore. Look for the Zuider Hofje, the Hofje van Loo, the Wijnbergs Hofje, and the Brouwershofje (they are all signposted). Closer to the Grote Markt are the Remonstrants Hofje, the Luthershofje, and the Frans Loenen Hofje. These secluded gardens are filled with flowers and birdsong, and offer peace and respite away from the city streets. They are usually open weekdays 10–5.
