Haarlem is a city that combines picturesque canals, historic architecture, and a lively culinary scene—making it a fantastic spot for wine lovers. While the city is famous for its art and history, its wine tours offer a relaxed way to enjoy local flavors amid its charming waterways. Our favorite is the Haarlem: Local Cheese and Wine Cruise, which stands out for its blend of culinary delights and scenic views. Imagine sipping Dutch wines and nibbling cheeses while drifting past iconic landmarks—an experience that’s both tasty and visually rewarding.
If you prefer a more intimate, evening setting, the Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise offers a cozy, hour-and-a-half cruise perfect for romantic or relaxed outings. Both tours showcase Haarlem’s waterways, but each offers a slightly different vibe and focus, which we’ll explore below.
Below is a quick overview of the best wine and cheese cruises in Haarlem, highlighting what makes each unique. Whether you’re after a daytime cruise with historical sights or an evening outing with local flavors, these tours are worth considering.
1. Haarlem: Local Cheese and Wine Cruise
This 1.5-hour boat ride with Smidtje Canal Cruises combines Dutch cheeses and fine wines with a scenic journey along Haarlem’s canals. The tour includes a host on board who guides you through tasting different cheeses paired with local wines, all while enjoying views of the city’s historic buildings. The heated boarding location makes it comfortable even if the weather isn’t perfect—though it’s only available in July and August, so plan your trip accordingly.
What makes this cruise special is the focus on authentic Dutch flavors paired with the backdrop of Haarlem’s beautiful architecture. The guide’s commentary offers insight into local culture, and the intimate setting makes it easy to relax and chat. Reviews give it a solid 4.1/5 based on 10 reviews, with many visitors appreciating the combination of delicious cheeses and wines and the friendly staff.
Bottom line: This tour provides excellent value for those looking for a short, guided experience that combines food, drink, and scenery in warm months. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of local culinary traditions while enjoying Haarlem from the water.
2. Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise
This 1 hour 30-minute cruise offers a cozy, relaxed way to see Haarlem’s waterways while indulging in cheese and wine. The tour departs with a captain and hostess ready to pamper your group, creating a friendly, welcoming atmosphere. The cruise passes key sights such as Molen ‘De Adriaan’, the Frans Hals Museum, and the Teylers Museum, giving you a cultural overview of the city from the water.
What sets this cruise apart is its detailed itinerary, which includes stops at notable landmarks like the Jopen Beer Brewery and the historic Teylers Museum. The pairing of cheese and local wines is thoughtfully curated, making for a perfect evening out or a special date. The tour has a modest rating of 4.0/5 from 2 reviews, but those reviews praise the delicious pairing and friendly crew.
At just over an hour and a half, this cruise offers good value for its price at around $40. It’s best suited for travelers interested in the city’s art and science history as well as the culinary experience. A minor potential drawback is the limited number of reviews, but the experience’s focus on Haarlem’s landmarks makes it a memorable choice.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a cultural and culinary overview in a relaxed setting, especially if you enjoy learning about Haarlem’s museums and architecture along with your wine.
How to Choose Between These Haarlem Wine Tours
When deciding which cruise suits your trip, consider the time of year, your interests, and your desire for specific sights or experiences. If you want a summer daytime cruise with a focus on Dutch cheeses and wines, the Haarlem: Local Cheese and Wine Cruise is a great pick. It’s perfect for those who want a guided, inclusive tasting experience with scenic canal views.
For a more intimate and evening experience that combines Haarlem’s landmarks with a relaxed, social atmosphere, the Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise offers a cozy, cultural outing. It’s especially suited for couples or small groups wanting to combine sightseeing with local flavors.
In general, both tours are good value for their price, but if your schedule is tight or weather might be variable, the shorter cruise might be more practical. Booking early, especially in peak months, is recommended to secure your preferred time.
Final Thoughts
Haarlem’s waterways provide a beautiful setting for wine and cheese cruises that highlight the city’s history, art, and culinary traditions. If you love combining sightseeing with local flavors, the Haarlem: Local Cheese and Wine Cruise offers a lively daytime experience, while the Haarlem Cheese and Wine Cruise delivers a cozy evening outing.
For travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic, and tasty way to explore Haarlem, these tours are excellent choices. Consider your timing, preferences, and whether you want a daytime or evening experience to pick the ideal cruise. Booking early is always wise, especially during the busy summer months. Now, get ready to sip your way through Haarlem’s charming canals—cheese and wine in hand!
