Haarlem Railway Station - Image 1
1 / 10

Haarlem Railway Station

4.6
·926 reviews·Haarlem, Netherlands

Netherlands' only preserved Art Nouveau station, a historic gateway to charming Haarlem and beyond.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Haarlem Railway Station - Image 1

Haarlem Railway Station

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Netherlands' only preserved Art Nouveau station, a historic gateway to charming Haarlem and beyond. Instagram

4.6
(926 reviews)

"An absolutely beautiful railway station. A perfect blend of old and new. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Snap-worthy Architecture

Don't miss the stunning Art Nouveau details! Perfect for photography enthusiasts. :camerawithflash:

🎟️ Easy Ticket Purchase

Ticket machines are user-friendly, and platforms are well-signed for smooth navigation. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Art Nouveau Architecture

Art Nouveau Architecture

Marvel at the intricate details of the Netherlands' only preserved Art Nouveau train station. A true architectural masterpiece.

Instagram
Historic Platform 3A

Historic Platform 3A

Did you know Platform 3A was a filming location for Ocean's Twelve? Feel the movie magic here!

Instagram
Seamless Connectivity

Seamless Connectivity

Easily connect to Amsterdam, Leiden, The Hague, and Rotterdam. Your Dutch adventure starts here.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Art Nouveau Gem

Step back in time at Haarlem Railway Station, the Netherlands' only fully preserved Art Nouveau station. Built between 1906-1908, it's a stunning architectural marvel that predates modern designs. Instagram

Gateway to Haarlem

This station is your direct link to the charming city of Haarlem, just a short train ride from Amsterdam. It's a convenient hub for exploring canals, historic sites, and local culture. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend afternoons
Why
Lively with travelers
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Haarlem is just soo cute! Where should we go next? #livinginthenetherlands #haarlem #lifeinamsterdam #visitinghaarlem #culturetok @mindofsyl
@driplist
23.1K likes • 462.3K views

📸 Snap-worthy Architecture

Don't miss the stunning Art Nouveau details! Perfect for photography enthusiasts. Instagram :camerawithflash:

🎟️ Easy Ticket Purchase

Ticket machines are user-friendly, and platforms are well-signed for smooth navigation. Reddit :ticket:

Small cities can be lively and active. Take a trip to Haarlem if you don’t belive me. #haarlemcity #haarlem🇳🇱 #netherlandstiktok #spaarne #courtyardgarden #bestcitiesintheworld #bestcitiesineurope #walkablecities #peopleperson #urbanplanningtiktok #seetheworlddifferently #didyouknowthis
@notjustbikes
2.8K likes • 47.5K views
✨ Haarlem Railway Station — where history meets design magic 🎨🚂 From being part of the first railway line in the Netherlands to standing today as the country’s only Art Nouveau train station, this spot is pure travel eye-candy 😍 📍 Just 20 mins from Amsterdam, but feels like stepping into another era. 🎬 Fun fact: Platform 3A even starred in Ocean’s Twelve! 💡 I’m on a mission to uncover the most p...
thefotopdia
42 likes • 667 views

🚲 Bike Parking Available

Secure bike parking is available outside the station for cyclists. TikTok :athletic_shoe:

☕ Grab a Bite

Several stores and restaurants are housed within the station's historic buildings. Reddit :knifeforkplate:

Ride a classic steam train from Haarlem to Amsterdam (or the other way around) on Saturday 23rd August. As part of the SAIL 2025 celebrations you will also have the chance to catch a steam boat and sail around IJhaven, amongst the boats moored there. Follow this link to book this unique experience https://hetstoomgenootschap.nl/sail-2025/. 🚂🚢 #amsterdam #netherlands #holland #dutch #urban #sail #s...
amsterdam.experiences
2.7K likes • 85K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Snap-worthy Architecture

Don't miss the stunning Art Nouveau details! Perfect for photography enthusiasts. Instagram :camerawithflash:

🎟️ Easy Ticket Purchase

Ticket machines are user-friendly, and platforms are well-signed for smooth navigation. Reddit :ticket:

🚲 Bike Parking Available

Secure bike parking is available outside the station for cyclists. TikTok :athletic_shoe:

☕ Grab a Bite

Several stores and restaurants are housed within the station's historic buildings. Reddit :knifeforkplate:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(926 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Haarlem Railway Station for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture and excellent connectivity. It's described as a beautiful blend of historic charm and modern functionality, serving as a convenient gateway to Haarlem and other Dutch cities. While primarily a transit point, its unique design and historical significance make it a noteworthy stop.

"Opened in 1839 as part of the Netherlands’ very first railway line between Amsterdam and Haarlem, this station is both historic and functional. The current building, constructed between 1906 and 1908, is a rare example of fully preserved Art Nouveau railway architecture in the country. Today, the station connects directly to Amsterdam Central and offers easy transfers to Leiden, The Hague, and Rotterdam."

Seokjin Ham

"Typical Dutch town, with beautiful buildings, canals, windmill and lovely green spaces. We rented an electric boat and went on a trip around the canals which was a great way to see Haarlem."

Michaela Salmon

"A convenient train station with a consistent service to a wide range of location throughout the Netherlands. Ticket machines are easy to use and the platforms are well signed and easy to navigate."

Matt H

What People Like

Beautiful Art Nouveau architecture
Excellent train connectivity
Historic charm

What People Dislike

Can be busy during peak hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

It's a quick and easy journey! Trains run frequently from Amsterdam Central to Haarlem Railway Station, taking approximately 15-20 minutes. TikTokReddit+1

Yes, the station is a major transport hub. Besides trains, there's a bus station right next door, making it easy to reach various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Reddit

Absolutely! Haarlem Railway Station is well-connected to major cities like Leiden, The Hague, and Rotterdam, offering convenient travel throughout the Netherlands. Reddit

Yes, there is bicycle parking available outside the station. For car parking, you'll need to look for nearby public parking facilities. TikTok

Opened in 1839 as part of the Netherlands' first railway line, the current building dates from 1906-1908 and is a rare example of fully preserved Art Nouveau architecture. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can easily purchase tickets from the ticket machines located within the station. The machines are user-friendly and available in multiple languages. Reddit

As a major railway hub, Haarlem Railway Station operates throughout the day and into the night to accommodate train schedules. Specific platform and service times can be checked on the NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) app or website. Instagram

While not a typical tourist attraction for tours, the station's unique architecture is a draw. Occasionally, special events like steam train rides might be offered, especially during heritage celebrations. Instagram

No, there is no entrance fee to enter Haarlem Railway Station. It is a public transport hub, and you only need a ticket if you are traveling by train. Reddit

Yes, you can use your OV-chipkaart (public transport card) or the NS app to check in and out for your journey, which is often more convenient than buying single tickets. Instagram

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

The station offers various facilities including shops, restaurants, restrooms, and bicycle parking. Lifts are also available for accessibility. Reddit

Yes, Haarlem Railway Station has multiple stores and restaurants housed within its historic buildings, offering convenient options for travelers. Reddit

For train enthusiasts, Haarlem Railway Station is a great spot. You can see various types of trains, including intercity and sprinter services, passing through. Instagram+2

The station is a rare and well-preserved example of Art Nouveau architecture, characterized by its ornate details and flowing lines. Instagram

While there isn't a direct rental service within the station itself, you can find bike rental shops in the city center, a short walk from the station. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Focus on the exterior Art Nouveau facade, the interior trusses, and Platform 3A for its movie connection. The contrast between old and new architecture is also photogenic. Instagram

Yes, taking photos for personal use is generally allowed inside Haarlem Railway Station. However, professional photography or filming may require special permission. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the station's architectural beauty. TikTok

The station's Art Nouveau design is unique in the Netherlands. Also, Platform 3A's connection to 'Ocean's Twelve' offers a fun photographic angle. Instagram

Yes, trainspotters and photographers often capture trains here. Be mindful of other passengers and station operations. Instagram+2

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Toddlers

Haarlem Railway Station is a good starting point for families. The station is well-signed and has ticket machines that are relatively easy to use. Reddit For families with toddlers, the short train ride from Amsterdam (about 15-20 minutes) is manageable. TikTok Once in Haarlem, consider renting an electric boat for a relaxed canal tour, which is a great way to see the city with young children. Reddit The city itself is quite walkable, and many attractions are close to the station. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Haarlem Railway Station is a dream for photographers, especially those who appreciate architecture. Its status as the Netherlands' only preserved Art Nouveau station offers stunning visual opportunities. Instagram Focus on the intricate facade details, the interior trusses, and the unique character of Platform 3A. Instagram Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best light, and the station's connectivity means you can also capture various train types in motion. Instagram+2

🚆 Trainspotters & Railfans

This station is a prime location for trainspotting. You'll see a variety of NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen) trains, including Sprinters and Intercity services, regularly passing through. Instagram+2 The station's active lines and diverse rolling stock make it an exciting spot to observe and photograph trains. Keep an eye out for special heritage services that might occasionally run. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Marvel: Art Nouveau

Haarlem Railway Station stands out as a rare gem in the Netherlands, being the country's only fully preserved Art Nouveau train station. The current building, constructed between 1906 and 1908, is a testament to the era's distinctive architectural style, characterized by organic forms, intricate detailing, and a harmonious blend of art and function. Visitors are often struck by the flowing lines, decorative elements, and the overall sense of grandeur that sets it apart from more utilitarian modern stations. Instagram

This architectural significance makes it a must-see for anyone interested in history, design, or simply appreciating beautiful structures. The interior, with its exposed trusses and the integration of shops and restaurants within older buildings, further enhances the experience, offering a glimpse into the station's past while serving present-day travelers. Reddit

For those looking to capture its beauty, the station offers numerous photographic opportunities, from the sweeping curves of the facade to the detailed craftsmanship within. It's a place where history and modern transit seamlessly coexist, providing a unique and memorable arrival or departure point. Instagram

A Hub for Exploration

Haarlem Railway Station is more than just a transit point; it's a strategic gateway to exploring the charming city of Haarlem and beyond. Its prime location makes it incredibly convenient for day-trippers from Amsterdam, with trains departing frequently and the journey taking a mere 15-20 minutes. This ease of access means you can easily spend a day immersing yourself in Haarlem's picturesque canals, historic buildings, and vibrant atmosphere before returning to the capital. TikTok+1

Beyond Haarlem itself, the station's connectivity extends to other major Dutch cities. It's a key stop on routes to Leiden, The Hague, and Rotterdam, making it an ideal base for multi-city explorations. Whether you're planning a short visit or a longer stay, Haarlem Railway Station ensures you can navigate the Netherlands with ease and efficiency. Reddit

The station also boasts excellent local transport links, with a bus station located adjacent to it. This integration of rail and bus services further enhances its role as a central hub, allowing for seamless transitions to various parts of Haarlem and its surrounding regions. Reddit

Beyond the Commute: Unique Experiences

While primarily a functional transport hub, Haarlem Railway Station offers a few unique experiences that elevate it beyond the ordinary. For film buffs, Platform 3A holds a special significance as a filming location for the Hollywood blockbuster 'Ocean's Twelve,' adding a touch of cinematic glamour to your visit. Instagram

Train enthusiasts will find plenty to admire, with a steady stream of diverse trains passing through, from modern intercity services to sprinter trains. The station's active rail lines provide a dynamic backdrop for trainspotting and photography. Instagram+2

Furthermore, the station's historic architecture is a draw in itself. The presence of shops and restaurants within the older parts of the station allows visitors to enjoy a meal or browse while soaking in the ambiance of a bygone era. Reddit Occasionally, special heritage events, such as steam train rides, might depart from or pass through Haarlem, offering a nostalgic journey into the country's railway past. Instagram

You may also like