Audio Guide of Haarlem Market Square

As the city’s central square (Grote Markt), it is a public space open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is located right in the city center, and you can easily reach it on foot from Haarlem Central Station in about 10 minutes.

Access to the square is completely free; you can stroll around and admire the facades at no cost. You only need to pay if you decide to enter specific monuments such as the Great Church of St. Bavo or spend money at the terraces.

For a walk around, seeing the Coster statue, and taking photos, about 30 to 45 minutes is enough. If you plan to visit the church or enjoy a coffee on one of the famous terraces, set aside at least an hour and a half.

It has been the beating heart of the city since the Middle Ages, serving as the setting for executions, tournaments, and celebrations. It is surrounded by architectural gems such as the Vleeshal, the former meat market, and the Town Hall, which tell the story of centuries of Dutch commercial power.

Without a doubt, Saturday is the highlight because of the large weekly market of local products that fills the square with life, flowers, and food. If you prefer a quieter moment to appreciate the architecture, visit on a Monday morning or any weekday at sunset.

Yes, the square is spacious and flat, which makes movement easier, although the old cobblestones can cause some vibration for wheelchairs. Most of the surrounding cafés and restaurants are adapted to welcome visitors.

You are in the perfect location; just a few steps away you will find the Teylers Museum, the oldest museum in the Netherlands, and the moving Corrie ten Boom House. It is the ideal starting point for any cultural route.

Don’t stay only in the center of the square; find a seat on the terrace of Grand Café Brinkmann to watch people go by like a local. Also, take a close look at the central statue of Laurens Janszoon Coster, whom locals defend as the true inventor of the printing press.