City game Haarlem: The Secrets of its Golden Streets

Haarlem , Netherlands

City game Haarlem: The Secrets of its Golden Streets

Active

(3 reviews)

2h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Curious about the lesser-known stories of Haarlem? Starting with the very first steps of this playful walk, you’ll experience the thrill and beauty of discovery. Location-based riddles will show you the way to our favourite local places, including quiet courtyards, forgotten stories and cute hidden spots we’ll keep secret... for now! Fun fact: this trail was created by our local creator.
- Explore Haarlem's Golden Streets during this interactive and fun discovery walk
- Learn about the history and local stories of the city centre in a playful way
- Solve 16 location-based riddles to unlock directions to your next stop along the route
- See popular sights like Proveniershofje from a different angle and discover hidden local spots

This discovery walk is an educational and fun activity for friends, couples, families with kids, curious locals, visitors, and team building.

Available options

City game Haarlem: The Secrets of its Golden Streets

What's included

a city game with riddles, stories and hints

Detailed itinerary

Discover the "big" central market square in the old part of the city. Your adventure with Secret City Trails begins from here; in front of the church!

Have a quick stroll inside a picturesque green courtyard!

Enjoy the silence in the Omvalspoort

Start the trail under the impressive Sint Bavochurch and enjoy its beauty

What's not included

phone data

Available languages

Written guide

EN NL

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 3.5

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

We do not provide phones or phone service for this activity.

Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately

Break: The trail includes two breaks near a lovely cafes– the recommended time for the break is 30 minutes to make sure you can enter all locations to find your answers in time

Difficulty level: Medium

Meeting point

Start your activity at Grote Markt 22, near the Sint Bavochurch. When you arrive, click on the link you’ve received from Secret City Trails and start the self-guided discovery game. You can start and pause the trail anytime you want, and pick-up later to finish.

Important notes

- To play the trail, you click on the play link which you received by email from Secret City Trails
- If a trail is available in multiple languages, you will receive an English introduction mail, but you can select the language once you have started the game
- The play link is valid for 90 days starting at your activity date, so if you want to postpone your activity, you can do that without modifying your booking.
- Once you click on the play link, you can invite 4 other people to play along with you. - Only the team captain can enter the answers.
- Once started, you have 15 days to finish the trail. So if you are tired or the weather changes, take a break and go ahead once ready to do so.
- We suggest playing the trails during daylight hours to make it easier to discover clues and directions, which often can be found in the details

About Haarlem

Haarlem is a charming city in the Netherlands, known for its rich history, beautiful architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Often overlooked by tourists heading straight to Amsterdam, Haarlem offers a more relaxed pace with equally captivating canals, historic buildings, and a thriving arts community.

Top Attractions

Grote Markt

The Grote Markt is the central square of Haarlem, surrounded by historic buildings, cafes, and the iconic Church of St. Bavo.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Frans Hals Museum

This museum is dedicated to the works of Frans Hals, a prominent Dutch painter of the Golden Age, and other local artists.

Museum 1-2 hours €12

Teylers Museum

One of the oldest museums in the Netherlands, Teylers Museum houses a diverse collection of art, natural history, and scientific instruments.

Museum 1-2 hours €12.50

Haarlem's Canals

Haarlem's canals are a beautiful and serene part of the city, offering picturesque views and a relaxing atmosphere.

Nature Varies Free (boat tours may cost extra)

Adriaan Windmill

This historic windmill is one of the few remaining in Haarlem and offers insights into the city's milling heritage.

Historical 1 hour €5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Stamppot

A traditional Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables, usually served with smoked sausage.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Haarlemse Hopjes

A traditional Dutch candy made from almonds, sugar, and spices, originating from Haarlem.

Dessert Contains nuts

Poffertjes

Miniature fluffy pancakes, typically served with powdered sugar and butter.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Cycling Hiking Surfing Canal cruises Spa treatments Picnicking Museum visits Historic site tours

Best Time to Visit

May to September

The peak season offers the best weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is lively with festivals and events, and the gardens are in full bloom.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Dutch
Widely spoken: English, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Haarlem is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
• Be wary of strangers approaching you with unusual requests or offers

Getting there

By air

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 20 km

By train

Haarlem Station

By bus

Haarlem Station, Grote Markt

Getting around

Public transport

The bus network in Haarlem is extensive and efficient, covering all major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Grote Markt Janskerkhof Spaarnwoude Haarlemmerhout

Day trips

Zandvoort

15 km • Half day to full day

A popular seaside resort town with a long sandy beach, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.

Amsterdam

20 km • Full day or overnight

The capital of the Netherlands, offering a wealth of cultural attractions, historic sites, and vibrant nightlife.

Keukenhof Gardens

25 km • Half day to full day

One of the world's largest and most beautiful flower gardens, featuring stunning displays of tulips and other flowers.

Festivals

Haarlemse Hopjes Festival • October Haarlem Culinair • June Haarlemse Filmdagen • November

Pro tips

Visit the Grote Markt early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid crowds and enjoy the square's beauty
Rent a bike to explore the city like a local and discover hidden gems
Try local specialties such as Stamppot and Haarlemse Hopjes at traditional restaurants and cafes
Take a day trip to nearby Zandvoort for a relaxing beach getaway or to Amsterdam for a vibrant city experience
Visit Teylers Museum for a unique and fascinating glimpse into the history of science and art