10 Things to Do in St. Bavo Cathedral, Haarlem, Netherlands



St. Bavo Cathedral is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in Haarlem, Netherlands. The cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and is a popular tourist destination in the Netherlands. Visitors to the cathedral can enjoy a variety of activities, from viewing the stunning architecture and artwork to attending services and experiencing the cathedral’s history. Here are 10 things to do in St. Bavo Cathedral, Haarlem, Netherlands.

1. Visit the Interior of the Cathedral: St. Bavo Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and visitors can explore the interior of the cathedral to appreciate its beauty. The interior features a variety of artworks, including stained glass windows, statues, and paintings. Visitors can also admire the intricate stone carvings and the impressive organ.

2. Attend a Service: St. Bavo Cathedral offers a variety of services, including Mass, Vespers, and other special events. Visitors can attend a service to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the cathedral and to observe the traditional rituals and practices of the Catholic Church.

3. View the Exterior of the Cathedral: The exterior of St. Bavo Cathedral is just as impressive as the interior. Visitors can admire the Gothic architecture, the intricate stone carvings, and the impressive spires.

4. Tour the Crypt: The crypt of St. Bavo Cathedral is a fascinating place to explore. The crypt houses the remains of many notable figures, including the Dutch painter Frans Hals.

5. Explore the Treasury: The treasury of St. Bavo Cathedral contains a variety of religious artifacts, including chalices, vestments, and reliquaries. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship of these items and learn more about the history of the Catholic Church.

6. Attend a Concert: St. Bavo Cathedral is home to a variety of concerts, including classical music and choral performances. Visitors can attend a concert to enjoy the beautiful music and to appreciate the acoustics of the cathedral.

7. Visit the Museum: The museum of St. Bavo Cathedral contains a variety of artifacts related to the history of the cathedral and the Catholic Church. Visitors can learn more about the history of the cathedral, view artworks, and explore the museum’s other exhibits.

8. Take a Guided Tour: Guided tours of St. Bavo Cathedral are available for visitors who wish to learn more about the history and architecture of the cathedral. The tours are led by knowledgeable tour guides who can answer any questions visitors may have.

9. Climb the Tower: Visitors can climb the tower of St. Bavo Cathedral to enjoy a stunning view of Haarlem and the surrounding area. The climb is not for the faint of heart, but the view from the top is worth the effort.

10. Enjoy the Surrounding Area: St. Bavo Cathedral is located in the heart of Haarlem, and visitors can explore the surrounding area to enjoy the city’s other attractions. Haarlem is home to a variety of museums, restaurants, and shops, and visitors can also explore the canals and parks in the area.

St. Bavo Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic architecture and a popular tourist destination in the Netherlands. Visitors to the cathedral can enjoy a variety of activities, from admiring the architecture and artwork to attending services and exploring the treasury. Whether you’re looking to admire the beauty of the cathedral or to experience its history, there are plenty of things to do in St. Bavo Cathedral, Haarlem, Netherlands.