I just returned from a trip to the Netherlands. It was a dream. My partner and I wanted to see the real Dutch life. We chose a city called Haarlem. It is the perfect place for a mature traveler who loves history and quiet streets. It is also the perfect place for a dog lover. If you want Dog Friendly Travel in Haarlem, Netherlands, you are in luck. This city is so welcoming. It is often called “Little Amsterdam” because it looks like a mini version of the capital. It has the same cute houses and beautiful canals. However, it feels much calmer. There is less of that big-city rush.
First of all, let us talk about the vibe. Haarlem is quintessentially Dutch. It is known for its charming canals and a chilled atmosphere. It strikes a perfect balance between small-town charm and urban energy. This city is even older than Amsterdam. It is teeming with history and stunning brick architecture. I fell in love with it immediately. You can find it just 20 kilometers west of Amsterdam. It is the capital of the province called North Holland. The population is about 162,543 people as of 2021.
Getting to Haarlem with Your Furry Friend
We started our journey from Amsterdam. It is so easy to travel in Europe. We took a train from Amsterdam Central. It did not take long at all. Frequent trains run every 10 minutes. The journey is only about 15 to 20 minutes. The cost is approximately €4.90 for a one-way ticket as of 2025.
Are dogs allowed on dutch trains?
You might wonder about the rules for pets. Are dogs allowed on dutch trains? The answer is a big yes. Most people in the Netherlands love dogs. If you have a small dog that can sit in a bag or a carrier, it can usually travel for free. However, for larger dogs, you must buy a special ticket. This is called the Day Ticket Dog. This ticket allows your dog to travel with you for one whole day. It is a great deal for dog-friendly holidays netherlands. Our dog, Theo, was so happy on the train. He just sat at our feet and watched the world go by.
Dogs public transport amsterdam and Haarlem
If you are coming from the airport, it is also simple. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is only 30 minutes away by train. You might need to change trains at a station called Amsterdam Sloterdijk. Additionally, there is a big red and grey bus called the R-net line 300. It runs every 6 to 10 minutes between Schiphol and Haarlem.
Now, are dogs allowed on buses in the netherlands? Yes, they are. Connexxion is the main bus company in this area. Their rules are very fair. Smaller pets can travel in a carrier or a basket. A dog can come on board if it is on a short leash. You just need to make sure the dog is not a nuisance to other passengers. Guide dogs and assistance dogs are always allowed. This makes dogs public transport amsterdam and Haarlem very convenient.
Exploring the Historic Heart of Haarlem
Once we arrived at the station, we were amazed. The Haarlem railway station is an Art Nouveau masterpiece. It was built in 1906. It is one of the oldest stations in the country. From the station, the city center is a quick and scenic walk. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to reach the main square. The old town is small. It is less than a kilometer across. This makes it perfect for walking with your dog.
The Grote Markt
The heart of the city is the Grote Markt. This is the central square. It is surrounded by historic buildings and bricks on all sides. It has been a gathering place for centuries. Locals call it the Grote Markt, which means “Great Market”. On Saturdays, the square comes alive with a general market. You can buy cheese, fresh flowers, and artisanal goods.
First of all, you must try the food at the market. There is a vendor who cuts fresh pineapples. There is also an oyster stand. We bought fresh stroopwafels. They are thin waffles with caramel inside. They are still warm when you buy them. It is a Saturday tradition for locals. I highly recommend it.
The Great Church of St. Bavo
Dominating the square is the Grote Kerk or St. Bavo Church. It dates back to 1307. It is an impressive Gothic-style church. It was originally a Catholic church but became Protestant during the Reformation in 1578. Inside, you will find a massive organ from the 1700s. This is the famous Müller organ. It has 5,000 pipes. Some are as long as 10 meters.
Wait for the best part. A young Mozart played this organ when he was only 10 years old! Other famous musicians like Händel and Mendelssohn played it too. Professional shows are still open to the public a few times a week. Entry to the church is usually around €2.50 for adults.
A Bit of Grim History
History is not always pretty. During the Siege of Haarlem in 1573, people were very hungry. They were so desperate that they actually ate dogs and cats. You can find a gravestone in the church that mentions this war. There is also a cannonball stuck in the wall of the church to remember the siege. It is a reminder of how tough the people of Haarlem are.
Places to Go with Dogs: Netherlands and Haarlem
Haarlem is full of places to go with dogs netherlands. We found so many activities that welcomed our furry friend.
Windmill De Adriaan
You cannot visit the Netherlands without seeing a windmill. Molen De Adriaan is a famous landmark along the Spaarne River. The original windmill was built in 1779. Sadly, it burnt down in 1932. It took 70 years for it to be rebuilt. It finally reopened in 2002. It is a fully functional windmill. It works mostly for tourists on Saturdays and holidays. Inside, there is a small museum. You can climb to the deck for a panoramic view of the city. It costs about €7.50 for a guided tour. While dogs might not go on the tour inside, the area around it is beautiful for a walk.
Hidden Hofjes
Haarlem is famous for its hofjes. These are private courtyards built around beautiful gardens. They were originally created as almshouses for elderly single women. There are about 20 hofjes left in the city. Some are open to the public on weekdays. They are like mini-sanctuaries. We discovered many of them while walking our dog. They are very peaceful. Please remember to be quiet when you step inside.
Canal Cruises
The canals are the de facto superhighways of the Netherlands. You can take a canal boat tour to see the city from the water. We used a company called Greenjoy. They are very dog-friendly. You can reserve an electric boat online. They give you a code to activate the boat yourself. There is no need for long lines. Our dog, Kygo, loved jumping into the boat. Just bring an umbrella for shade and some treats. If you prefer a guided tour, there are other boats that leave from opposite the Teylers Museum.
Dog-Friendly Holidays Netherlands: Nature and Beaches
One of the best things about dog-friendly netherlands is the access to nature. Haarlem is perfectly located near parks and the coast.
Haarlemmerhout Park
This is the oldest public park in the Netherlands. It offers tree-lined paths and a quintessentially Dutch atmosphere. It is a personal favorite for a morning stroll. Locals love to picnic and relax here. There is even a deer park called “Hertenkamp”. It is a great place to let your dog stretch its legs.
Zuid-Kennemerland National Park
If you want more wild nature, head west. Rent a bike and ride for 15 minutes. You will find the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park. It has dunes, forests, and grasslands. You might even spot Highland cattle grazing there. It is a beautiful place for hiking or cycling.
The Beaches: Zandvoort and Bloemendaal
The North Sea coast is very close. You can take a train to Zandvoort in just 10 to 15 minutes. The station is only 200 meters from the beach. Zandvoort beach is 9 kilometers long. It is divided into different sections. There is a family beach, a sports beach, and even a nude beach.
Now, pay attention to the dog rules. In autumn and winter, it is great to walk your dog by the sea. Dogs are allowed on the beach during the day from October 1 to May 1. Outside of this time, the rules change. During the summer, you might need to find specific dog-friendly zones. After a long walk, you can warm up by a fire at one of the five beach pavilions that stay open all year.
Similarly, Bloemendaal aan Zee is a great choice. You can reach it by bus line 81 in about 20 minutes. It also has seasonal dog-friendly zones where dogs can run off-leash. It is one of our favorite things to do in the summer.
Dining and Drinking with Your Dog
You will never go hungry in Haarlem. The city has a great food scene. Dogs in netherlands are often allowed inside restaurants. This was a wonderful surprise for us.
Theo’s Favorite Restaurants
Our dog, Theo, joined us inside many restaurants. People did not even ask questions. They just brought him a water bowl and gave him snuggles. It made his quality of life so good. We felt very welcome.
First of all, you should visit Jopenkerk. This is a former church turned into a craft brewery. You can taste local Jopen beer while sitting in a beautiful historic setting. It is a very cool place to enjoy a drink. You can even see the brewing machinery behind the bar.
Additionally, we had the best vegan pancakes ever at a brunch spot. The staff was so kind. They made sure we had a seat with enough space for Theo. They even brought him a water dish. It is not just about being “permitted”. These people genuinely love dogs.
Other Great Spots
- Romeo’s Italian Deli: Multiple people recommended this place. It is an Italian sandwich shop. The place was packed, which is a good sign. The bread is homemade and amazing.
- Fishbar Monk: This is the place to go for seafood.
- Specktakel: They serve fusion dishes inspired by global flavors. They have a good selection for vegetarians too.
- Ratatouille Food & Wine: This is a Michelin-star restaurant. It is a bit of a splurge, but the food is top class.
Dog Services and Care in Haarlem
If you need a break or an emergency happens, Haarlem has you covered.
Hotdoghouse Daycare
We found a boutique daycare called Hotdoghouse. They recently opened a location in Haarlem at Hendrik Figeeweg 2a. It is just a 5-minute walk from the city center. They offer a playful and safe environment. There are no cages. Dogs stay in supervised groups indoors and outdoors. They even have heated indoor spaces for the winter. They work with small groups to give each dog personal attention. You can even book a “dog nanny” for overnight care.
Emergency Vets
No one wants an emergency on holiday. However, it is good to be prepared. If your pet needs help after hours, you can go to Evidensia Dierenziekenhuis Amsterdam. It is located in Zwanenburg, which is between Amsterdam and Haarlem. They are open 24/7.
History: Why is it called Haarlem?
The name Haarlem is very old. It dates back to the 10th century. It probably comes from “Haarlo-heim”. This name has three parts. Haar means an elevated place, like a sand dune. Lo means forest. Heim means home or house. So, Haarlem means “home on a forested dune”.
Haarlem was once a major city. In the 14th century, it was the second largest city in Holland. It became wealthy by collecting tolls from ships on the Spaarne River. Because of its history with tulips, it is often called the “Flower City” or Bloemenstad.
The New York Connection
You likely know the neighborhood of Harlem in New York City. It is named after this Dutch city! In 1658, Peter Stuyvesant founded a settlement called Nieuw Haarlem in northern Manhattan. The British renamed it “Harlem” when they took over in 1664. The link between the two cities is still celebrated today with a festival.
Comparing Haarlem to Other Cities
Many people ask if Haarlem is better than Amsterdam. I think they are just different. Amsterdam has the big-city energy and world-famous museums like the Rijksmuseum. However, Haarlem offers authentic Dutch life without the overwhelming crowds. Accommodation in Haarlem can be 30% to 40% cheaper than in Amsterdam. It is a much more relaxed pace.
Rotterdam with Dog
If you are traveling further, you might visit Rotterdam with dog. Rotterdam is very modern compared to Haarlem. It was heavily bombed in World War II, so it has a lot of new architecture. It is a different vibe entirely. However, the train system makes it easy to visit. You can take a train from Haarlem to Rotterdam easily.
Seasonal Guide for Dog Travelers
Each season in Haarlem offers something special.
- Spring (April-May): This is peak tulip season. The fields around Haarlem explode in color. Keukenhof Gardens is a short 30-minute bus ride away.
- Summer (June-August): The festival season is in full swing. You can enjoy Haarlem Jazz in late August. Long days mean more time at the beach clubs in Zandvoort.
- Autumn (September-October): This is a local favorite. The crowds disappear. The light is beautiful. The dunes in Zuid-Kennemerland turn golden.
- Winter (November-February): Experience gezelligheid, which is Dutch coziness. The Christmas market at Grote Markt is magical. There are festive lights and cozy fireplaces in cafes.
Final Tips for Your Trip
To wrap up, here are a few things to remember for your dog-friendly netherlands adventure:
- Book Ahead: If you want to visit museums like the Teylers Museum (the oldest in the country, founded in 1778), book your tickets online to skip the lines.
- Saturday Market: Do not miss the Saturday market on the Grote Markt. Buy some cheese and a warm stroopwafel.
- Kadesessies: In the summer, join the locals along the Spaarne River. Grab some food and wine and sit by the water to watch the boats.
- Dog Ticket: Remember the Day Ticket Dog for the train if your dog is large.
- Language: Almost everyone speaks perfect English. It makes traveling very easy.
Haarlem is a gem. It is historical. it is beautiful. Most importantly, it is welcoming to our four-legged family members. I cannot wait to go back. I hope you enjoy your visit to this wonderful “Flower City.” Happy travels!
FAQ
Are dogs allowed on public transport in Holland?
You can definitely take your pet on trains, buses, trams, and even the metro. Small dogs that fit in a bag or a carrier usually travel for free. Additionally, you must buy a Day Ticket Dog if your dog is larger and sits on a leash. Therefore, travel is easy for everyone. Are dogs allowed on buses in the netherlands? Yes, they are allowed on the bus as long as they stay on a short leash. On top of that, the driver can decide if there is enough space for your pet. Easy travel? Absolutely.
Is Haarlem nicer than Amsterdam?
I think the two cities are just different. Haarlem is often called “Little Amsterdam” because it has the same beautiful canals and houses. However, it is much quieter and feels more like a real neighborhood. On the contrary, Amsterdam has the big-city energy and those world-famous museums. Gradually, you might find that you prefer the calm vibe of Haarlem. Plus, it is much cheaper to stay there.
Are dogs allowed in restaurants in Holland?
They sure are! I found that most restaurants let you bring your dog inside. First of all, it is not even a question in most places. Additionally, the staff will often bring a water bowl and give your dog some snuggles. Similarly, cafes and brunch spots are very welcoming. A dream for dogs? You bet.
Are dogs allowed in stores in Amsterdam?
Yes, many shops allow you to bring your furry friend. Also, there are many pet-friendly bakeries and unique shops. First of all, you should check for a sign on the door. Later, you will see that many locals bring their pets along while they shop.
How dog friendly is the Netherlands?
It is one of the best places for pet owners. First of all, the quality of life for a dog here is very high. Dogs can join you in restaurants, on public transport, and even on boat tours. Additionally, people actually genuinely like dogs and do not just tolerate them. Therefore, you will feel very welcome.
Is Haarlem a walkable city?
It is very easy to walk around. First of all, the historic center is quite small and compact. Gradually, you can see the whole old town by just walking for a few minutes. Therefore, you do not really need a car or a bus to see the main sights. Scenic views? Everywhere.
Do they speak English in Haarlem?
Yes, they do. First of all, almost everyone speaks perfect English. Additionally, it is so easy to travel here because you do not need to speak Dutch at all. Therefore, you will have no trouble asking for directions or ordering food.
Are dogs allowed in coffee shops in Amsterdam?
Yes, your dog can join you in many local coffee shops. First of all, places like Coffee Bru or Back to Black are very friendly to pets. Also, they might even have resident cats for your dog to meet.
Concluding words
Haarlem is the perfect spot for a pet-friendly getaway. It offers historic streets and easy travel by train. Your dog can join you in cozy cafes or on a beach walk in Zandvoort. This city feels more authentic than Amsterdam. You should plan your trip now. It is a wonderful experience for you and your dog.
