The northern inner harbour, parallel to the Zuiderhaven on the other side of the old town. Lined with even taller and more ornate merchant houses, several with elaborate gables and date stones, reflecting the wealth of Harlingen's 17th-century captains. The Eise Eisinga family lived here before moving to Franeker; several houses on the north side carry small plaques explaining their history.
The Noorderhaven is the quieter of the two harbours, with fewer bars and more residential character. Best walked in late afternoon when the western light catches the brick fronts.