Welcome to Haarlem, capital of the province Noord Holland. Haarlem, also known as "Haarlem Flower City" and one of the best shopping-cities of the Netherlands, is situated on the banks of the river "Het Spaarne" and adjacent to the beautiful National Park the Kennemerduinen.
Haarlem was founded over 750 years ago, and has approximately 155.000 inhabitants. Over 15 museums are located in Haarlem, of which the Frans Hals museum probably is the best known.
This gay-guide offers you some of useful information. We, Gay-Haarlem.nl, hope this information will contribute to your pleasant stay in Haarlem and its surroundings.
Coming to Haarlem
Travelling by train, Haarlem will show all its glory when you arrive on the monumental, magnificent and oldest train station of the Netherlands. The city of Haarlem has an idyllic city center with canals, beautiful facades and small, picturesque alleys.
Haarlem offers you lots of cultural possibilities and attractions, like the world famous Frans Hals museum and the historic Teylers museum, the oldest museum of the Netherlands. And don't forget the cathedral "Grote of St. Bavo Kerk", with its famous Müller-organ from 1768, situated near the Grote Markt (Central Marketplace).
On the train station you can obtain a city map from a machine. Most bus stops and taxis can be found on the square in front of the train station. Or explore the city in a real Dutch way, by bike. Bike rental is also situated on this square.
Following a number of cities in the Netherlands, a Rainbow Crossing was realized in Haarlem at the initiative of Gay Haarlem.nl. This was officially taken on June 8, 2016 and is situated at the intersection of the Parklaan and the Kruisweg. This included the Rainbow Crossing in the 'Red Runner', the walkway from the central station to the historic center of Haarlem. 
The Tourist Information Center (VVV) is situated in the city hall (near the stairs), Grote Markt 2. This is a 15 minutes' walk from the central station. At the Tourist Information Center you can also obtain a city map.