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Gravestenenbrug

4.6
·491k reviews·Haarlem, Netherlands

A charming pedestrian drawbridge over the Spaarne river, offering picturesque canal views and a glimpse of Haarlem's historic waterways.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
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Ophaalbrug open

Gravestenenbrug

Best Time

Late afternoon

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming pedestrian drawbridge over the Spaarne river, offering picturesque canal views and a glimpse of Haarlem's historic waterways.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Witnessing the Gravestenenbrug lift for passing boats is a magical and unforgettable Haarlem experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Bridge Schedule

Bridge openings are for boats! Check local schedules to see it in action. :boat:

Sunset Views

Aim for late afternoon for stunning sunset photos over the canal. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Drawbridge in Action

The Drawbridge in Action

Spaarne River

Witness the Gravestenenbrug lift for passing boats – a charming and iconic Haarlem sight.

Sunset Over the Spaarne

Sunset Over the Spaarne

Canal banks

Experience breathtaking sunsets painting the sky behind the historic bridge and canal houses.

Historic Canal House Views

Historic Canal House Views

Along the Spaarne River

Enjoy picturesque views of traditional Dutch canal houses lining the Spaarne, with the bridge as a focal point.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Gravestenenbrug

The Gravestenenbrug is a pedestrian drawbridge, so its operation depends on boat traffic. Check local schedules for bridge openings to witness this unique spectacle. Sunset views are particularly popular, so consider visiting in the late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.

Bridge Maintenance & Access

The Gravestenenbrug undergoes periodic maintenance. While it's a drawbridge, it's primarily for pedestrians. Be aware that it may be closed for repairs, as noted in recent updates. Always check for current status before your visit to avoid disappointment.

Best Times

When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Romantic ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

An unforgettable evening at Black Goat Supperclub! ✨ We stepped into a beautiful canal house overlooking the Spaarne and Gravestenenbrug, not knowing exactly what to expect—but what unfolded was pure magic. With just 10 seats around a communal table, we embarked on a three-hour culinary journey crafted by Cat & Derek, where every dish told a story. The food? Bold, unexpected, and bursting with c...
themorningstories
53 likes • 2.6K views

Check Bridge Schedule

Bridge openings are for boats! Check local schedules to see it in action. :boat:

Sunset Views

Aim for late afternoon for stunning sunset photos over the canal. :camerawithflash:

The Gravestone Bridge, Haarlem! 🎥🌉🚁 • • • 📍 Haarlem, The Netherlands • • • The Gravestenenbrug is a drawbridge, intended for pedestrians in the center of the city of Haarlem. The current bridge dates back to 1950 and served as a replacement for the bridge that had been located here in the same place for about 800 years. The bridge connects the bank of the Korte Spaarne over the Binnen Spaarne w...
daniel.budaes
202 likes • 5.4K views
• オランダのハーレム🇳🇱 跳ね橋が上がって船が行き来する様子はとても長閑で不思議と心が休まり⛴ついついずっと見つめてしまいます☺️フラーフェステネン橋にて📸 #holland #thenetherlands #netherlands #canalcruise #haarlem #carillonshop #haarlemcity #gravestenenbrug #gravestenenbrugbridge #跳ね橋 #オランダ #🇳🇱 #ハーレム #ヨーロッパ好き #ヨーロッパ大好き #ヨーロッパ好きな人と繋がりたい #海外旅行好きな人と繋がりたい
carillon_europe
332 likes • 1.9K views

Maintenance Closures

Bridge may be closed for maintenance. Check status before visiting. :warning:

Pedestrian Focus

Primarily a pedestrian bridge, offering lovely strolls. :athletic_shoe:

One of the best spots in Haarlem 😍 👉🏼The bridge is currently under construction and will be back in March. #haarlem #haarlemcentrum #gravestenenbrug #spaarne #dutchcity #canals #visitnetherlands #hollandgram #europe #hellofrom #voyaged #haarlemcity #haarlemnetherlands #beautifuldestinations #visiteurope
stratenvanhaarlem
1.1K likes • 22.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Bridge Schedule

Bridge openings are for boats! Check local schedules to see it in action. :boat:

Sunset Views

Aim for late afternoon for stunning sunset photos over the canal. :camerawithflash:

Maintenance Closures

Bridge may be closed for maintenance. Check status before visiting. :warning:

Pedestrian Focus

Primarily a pedestrian bridge, offering lovely strolls. :athletic_shoe:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the picturesque charm of Gravestenenbrug, especially during sunset and when the drawbridge is in action for passing boats. The historic canal houses and the tranquil Spaarne river setting create a quintessential Dutch experience. Some visitors note that the bridge can be closed for maintenance, so checking its status beforehand is advised.

What People Like

Picturesque canal views
Drawbridge in action
Sunset ambiance

What People Dislike

Occasional maintenance closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Gravestenenbrug is centrally located in Haarlem, easily accessible on foot from the city center. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant walk through the charming streets of Haarlem. Many visitors enjoy exploring the city on foot, so consider it part of the experience. Instagram

Yes, Haarlem's city center is well-served by public transport. Buses stop frequently near the Spaarne river, making it easy to reach the vicinity of Gravestenenbrug. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the bridge. Instagram

Driving directly to Gravestenenbrug is not recommended as it's a pedestrian bridge in a city center with limited car access. Parking is available in nearby garages, but walking is the best way to experience Haarlem's historic areas. Instagram

Exploring the area around Gravestenenbrug on foot is highly recommended. Wander along the Spaarne river, discover charming side streets, and enjoy the picturesque canal houses. A canal cruise also offers a unique perspective. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Gravestenenbrug is a public pedestrian bridge and does not require an entrance ticket. You can walk across it and enjoy the views freely. Instagram

As a pedestrian bridge, Gravestenenbrug is generally accessible at all times. However, it operates as a drawbridge for boats, so its opening for passage is dependent on maritime traffic. Instagram

The Gravestenenbrug opens to allow boats to pass through the Spaarne river. The exact times vary depending on the boat traffic schedule. Witnessing this is a highlight for many visitors. Instagram

Gravestenenbrug is typically open for pedestrians. However, it can be closed for maintenance or during specific periods for repairs, so it's advisable to check for any temporary closures before your visit.,Instagram Instagram

The primary restriction is that it's a pedestrian bridge. During maintenance periods, it may be temporarily closed to all traffic. Always be mindful of your surroundings and any posted signage.,Instagram Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The golden hour, especially during sunset, offers magical lighting for photographing Gravestenenbrug and the surrounding canals. Early mornings can also provide a serene atmosphere with fewer people.,Instagram Instagram

The banks of the Spaarne river offer excellent vantage points. Look for compositions that include the bridge, the canal houses, and reflections in the water. Capturing the bridge in motion as it opens for boats is a unique shot. Instagram

Absolutely! A canal cruise provides a fantastic perspective for photographing Gravestenenbrug and Haarlem's cityscape from the water. It allows for unique angles you can't get from land. Instagram

Many photographers enjoy capturing the bridge from slightly elevated positions along the canal banks, looking down the Spaarne. Shots that include the historic canal houses in the background are also very popular. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the bridge and its surroundings. For sunset shots, a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details. A tripod can help with low-light photography during evenings. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the area around Gravestenenbrug and along the Spaarne river is dotted with charming cafes and restaurants. You can find places offering local Dutch cuisine and international dishes with lovely canal views. TikTok

You can find everything from casual cafes for a coffee and pastry to more upscale dining experiences. Some establishments offer unique communal dining, like the Black Goat Supperclub, which overlooks the bridge. TikTok

Certainly! Several restaurants and cafes along the Spaarne river offer outdoor seating or large windows with direct views of Gravestenenbrug and the passing boats. TikTok

While some restaurants offer fine dining, you can also find more affordable options like bakeries for snacks or casual eateries in the vicinity. Exploring the side streets away from the immediate waterfront might reveal more budget-friendly choices. TikTok

The Black Goat Supperclub is a unique dining experience located in a canal house overlooking Gravestenenbrug. It offers an intimate, communal dining experience with a multi-course meal crafted by chefs. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Gravestenenbrug is a delightful spot for families. Kids will be fascinated by the drawbridge mechanism when boats pass through the Spaarne river – it's like a real-life spectacle! Instagram The surrounding canal paths are great for a leisurely stroll, and there are often opportunities to see ducks and other waterfowl. Pack some snacks and enjoy the views, or find a nearby cafe for a treat. Instagram

While the bridge itself is pedestrian-friendly, keep a close eye on children near the water's edge. The charm of Haarlem's canals is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, so allow ample time for little ones to explore and take in the sights. Consider a short canal cruise for an extra dose of fun and a unique view of the bridge. Instagram

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Gravestenenbrug is a dream location. The interplay of historic canal houses, the iconic bridge, and the Spaarne river offers endless composition possibilities. Aim for the golden hour, especially during sunset, for breathtaking light that enhances the colors and reflections.,Instagram Instagram

Don't miss the chance to capture the bridge in motion as it lifts for boats – this is a truly unique and dynamic shot. Experiment with different angles, from street level to slightly elevated viewpoints along the canal. A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the grandeur of the scene, while a telephoto can isolate architectural details.,Instagram Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Gravestenenbrug

The Gravestenenbrug, or 'Gravestone Bridge,' has a long history in Haarlem, with a bridge existing in its location for approximately 800 years. The current iteration dates back to 1950, replacing its predecessor. It serves as a vital pedestrian link across the Spaarne river, connecting different parts of the city center. Its function as a drawbridge means it plays an active role in the city's daily life, facilitating the passage of boats. Instagram

The bridge is not just a functional crossing but also an iconic landmark that contributes to Haarlem's picturesque canal scenery. Its design and operation are characteristic of traditional Dutch bridges, adding to the charm of the city. The ongoing maintenance and restoration efforts, including repainting in historical colors, ensure its preservation and aesthetic appeal.,Instagram Instagram

Witnessing the Gravestenenbrug in operation is a unique experience that many visitors cherish. The sight of the bridge lifting to allow boats to pass is a quintessential Dutch moment, offering a glimpse into the harmonious coexistence of urban life and waterway navigation. Instagram

Experiencing Haarlem's Canals from Gravestenenbrug

Gravestenenbrug offers a prime vantage point for experiencing Haarlem's beautiful canal network, particularly the Spaarne river. From the bridge, you can admire the historic canal houses that line the waterfront, their reflections shimmering in the water. The gentle flow of the river and the occasional passing boat create a tranquil and picturesque atmosphere. Instagram

For an even more immersive canal experience, consider a boat tour that passes under or near Gravestenenbrug. These tours provide a different perspective of the city, allowing you to appreciate the architecture and the bridge itself from the water. It's a fantastic way to see Haarlem from a unique angle and capture memorable photos. Instagram

Whether you're strolling across the bridge or enjoying a meal at a nearby canal-side restaurant, the presence of the Spaarne river and Gravestenenbrug is central to Haarlem's charm. It's a place where the city's history, architecture, and waterways converge, offering a quintessential Dutch experience. Instagram

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