Discover The Hague | A Visitor's Introduction to The Hague

Why is The Hague Worth a Visit?

The Hague is worth visiting for its mix of political significance, cultural richness, and seaside beauty. Unlike other Dutch cities, The Hague offers both a bustling urban experience and a tranquil escape with its proximity to the North Sea. The city is home to renowned museums, such as the Mauritshuis, and international institutions, giving it a cosmopolitan vibe. Whether you’re interested in exploring its historic sites, enjoying fine art, or relaxing on the beach, The Hague offers a diverse array of experiences.

The Hague Highlights: Things to See and Do in The Hague

1. Binnenhof and Ridderzaal

The Binnenhof is the historic heart of The Hague and one of the oldest parliamentary buildings in the world still in use. This stunning complex houses the Dutch Parliament and the Prime Minister’s office. The Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights) is the highlight, featuring a grand Gothic interior where important ceremonies, such as the King’s Speech, take place. Guided tours offer insights into the building’s history and political significance.

2. Mauritshuis

The Mauritshuis is one of the most prestigious art museums in the Netherlands, housing a remarkable collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings. Highlights include Johannes Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Rembrandt’s The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp. The museum, set in a beautiful 17th-century building, offers an intimate and enriching experience for art lovers.

3. Peace Palace

The Peace Palace is a symbol of international law and justice, housing the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Visitors can take guided tours of the palace’s stunning interior, featuring intricate woodwork, stained glass, and artworks donated by countries around the world. The Peace Palace Gardens are also worth exploring, offering a serene environment for reflection.

4. Scheveningen Beach

Scheveningen is The Hague’s most popular seaside resort, offering a long stretch of sandy beach, a bustling promenade, and a historic pier. The beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports, while the promenade features a variety of restaurants, cafés, and shops. The Scheveningen Pier offers panoramic views, a Ferris wheel, and bungee jumping for thrill-seekers.

5. Madurodam

Madurodam is a unique miniature park that showcases the Netherlands in 1:25 scale. Visitors can explore detailed models of Dutch landmarks, including windmills, canals, and historical buildings. The park offers interactive exhibits and activities, making it a fun and educational experience for both children and adults. It’s a great way to learn about Dutch culture and history in a compact and engaging setting.

6. Escher in Het Paleis

Set in a former royal palace, Escher in Het Paleis is a museum dedicated to the works of M.C. Escher, the master of optical illusions. The museum features a vast collection of Escher’s prints, including his famous Relativity and Drawing Hands. The interactive exhibits allow visitors to step into Escher’s world of impossible architecture and mind-bending perspectives, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and curious minds.

7. Grote Kerk

The Grote Kerk (Great Church) is one of The Hague’s oldest and most significant churches, dating back to the 13th century. Known for its striking Gothic architecture and impressive tower, the church has hosted royal ceremonies, including baptisms and weddings. Visitors can climb the tower for spectacular views of the city and learn about the church’s rich history through its exhibits and guided tours.

8. Lange Voorhout

Lange Voorhout is one of The Hague’s most picturesque streets, lined with stately buildings, museums, and trees that create a canopy over the wide avenue. The area is home to several embassies and historic sites, including the Hotel Des Indes, a luxurious hotel with a rich history. In spring, the street is adorned with blooming flowers, and in summer, it hosts a lively outdoor art exhibition known as the Sculpture Gallery.

9. Gemeentemuseum Den Haag (Kunstmuseum)

The Gemeentemuseum, also known as the Kunstmuseum, is a modern art museum renowned for its extensive collection of works by Piet Mondrian, including his iconic Victory Boogie Woogie. The museum’s Art Deco building, designed by architect H.P. Berlage, is an architectural masterpiece in itself. The museum also hosts a wide range of temporary exhibitions, covering everything from contemporary art to fashion.

10. Panorama Mesdag

Panorama Mesdag offers a unique artistic experience with its massive cylindrical painting by Hendrik Willem Mesdag. The 360-degree panorama depicts the seaside village of Scheveningen as it appeared in the late 19th century. Visitors can walk around the platform, feeling as though they are standing on a dune overlooking the sea, thanks to the painting’s incredible detail and immersive effect.

11. The Hague Market (De Haagse Markt)

De Haagse Markt is one of the largest open-air markets in Europe, offering a vibrant and multicultural shopping experience. Visitors can browse a wide array of stalls selling fresh produce, clothing, electronics, and international foods. The market’s lively atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a great place to experience the local culture and pick up unique items at bargain prices.

12. Clingendael Park and Japanese Garden

Clingendael Park is a beautiful historic park known for its serene landscapes, walking paths, and the exquisite Japanese Garden, one of the oldest in Europe. The garden features traditional Japanese plants, stone lanterns, and a picturesque pond, creating a peaceful and meditative environment. The garden is open to the public during limited periods in spring and autumn, offering a rare and tranquil experience.

13. Noordeinde Palace

Noordeinde Palace is one of the three official palaces of the Dutch royal family and serves as the working palace of King Willem-Alexander. While the palace itself is not open to the public, the surrounding area, including the Noordeinde Street, is a lively shopping district with high-end boutiques, art galleries, and cafés. The Royal Stables nearby occasionally host public events, offering a glimpse into the royal family’s equestrian traditions.

14. The Hague’s Chinatown

The Hague’s Chinatown is a vibrant district filled with Chinese restaurants, shops, and cultural landmarks. The area’s decorative gates, traditional lanterns, and bustling streets create an authentic atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy delicious Asian cuisine, shop for unique goods, and explore cultural festivals and events that celebrate the rich heritage of the Chinese community in The Hague.

15. Haagse Bos

Haagse Bos is a large forested area in the heart of The Hague, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. The forest features walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and a variety of wildlife, including deer and birds. Huis ten Bosch Palace, one of the royal residences, is located within the forest, adding a touch of grandeur to this natural haven.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

The Hague is easily accessible by train, car, and air. The city is well-connected to major Dutch cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam via regular Intercity trains. The Den Haag Centraal and Den Haag Hollands Spoor stations are the main railway hubs. For international travellers, Rotterdam The Hague Airport and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport offer convenient connections, with direct trains to The Hague.

Parking

Parking in The Hague can be challenging, especially in the city centre. There are several underground car parks available, such as Q-Park facilities. For those driving, it’s recommended to use Park and Ride (P+R) facilities on the city’s outskirts and take public transport into the centre to avoid traffic and high parking fees.

Public Transport

The Hague boasts an efficient public transport system, including trams, buses, and trains, operated by HTM. The city’s compact size makes it easy to explore by tram or bus. For tourists, the HTM Day Ticket offers unlimited travel on public transport for a full day, making it a convenient option for sightseeing.

Dining

The Hague’s culinary scene is diverse, reflecting its international character. The city offers a mix of traditional Dutch cuisine, international dishes, and fine dining. Try local favourites like haring (herring), bitterballen, and poffertjes. For an upscale dining experience, visit Calla’s, a Michelin-starred restaurant. The city’s many beachfront restaurants in Scheveningen offer fresh seafood with stunning sea views.

Shopping

The Hague offers excellent shopping opportunities, from high-end boutiques on Noordeinde to mainstream brands on Spuistraat and Grote Marktstraat. The city’s Haagsche Bluf shopping centre blends modern retail with historic architecture. For unique finds, visit the The Hague Market or explore the local shops in the charming neighbourhood of Hofkwartier.

When to Visit

The Hague is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is between May and September, when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are in full swing. Summer is particularly vibrant, with events like the Flag Day (Vlaggetjesdag) in Scheveningen celebrating the arrival of the herring catch. Winter brings festive charm with the Royal Christmas Fair and seasonal decorations.

Local Events

The Hague hosts a variety of events throughout the year, reflecting its cultural diversity and international significance. Prinsjesdag, held every September, marks the opening of the Dutch parliamentary year with a royal procession. The Tong Tong Fair, a celebration of Indo-Dutch culture, is one of the city’s most popular events. The International Fireworks Festival in Scheveningen lights up the summer sky with dazzling displays.

Exploring Beyond The Hague

The Hague is a great base for exploring nearby attractions. The historic city of Delft, famous for its blue pottery, and Rotterdam, known for its modern architecture, are both just a short train ride away. Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its iconic windmills, offers a quintessential Dutch experience and is easily accessible from The Hague.