tourism in the hague

18 Top Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in The Hague

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Lura Seavey Updated Dec 24, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The Hague (Den Haag) is not only the third largest city in the Netherlands, it's the seat of the country's government and home to the Royal Family. It's also a city full of history, many splendid museums and art galleries, and countless entertainment opportunities.

Located close to the North Sea (it's where you'll find the seaside resort of Scheveningen), The Hague is also home to numerous government ministries and embassies, along with the headquarters of several major international organizations, including the International Court of Justice.

The Hague is also a city of the arts, and was home to many prominent Dutch artists. The big draw? They were no doubt attracted by the city's pleasant wide streets, elegant and spacious squares and promenades, and attractive residential suburbs.

Find the best places to visit in and around the city with our list of the top tourist attractions and fun things to do in The Hague.

See also: Where to Stay in The Hague

1. The Mauritshuis

2. explore the many buildings of the historic binnenhof, 3. visit escher in the palace (escher in het paleis), 4. take a virtual trip to the seaside at panorama mesdag, 5. step back in time in the ridderzaal: the knights' hall, 6. feel like a giant at madurodam, 7. kunstmuseum den haag, 8. see the dream cars at the louwman museum, 9. the peace palace, 10. take a walk in the park at landgoed clingendael, 11. see the seaside at scheveningen and the pier, 12. hike through haagse bos and visit huis ten bosch, 13. the prison gate museum (gevangenpoort), 14. the grote of sint-jacobskerk, 15. take a quick trip to duivenvoorde castle, 16. drievliet amusement park, 17. visit lisse, 18. explore old town gouda and the grote kerk of sint janskerk, where to stay in the hague for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions & things to do in the hague.

The handsome Mauritshuis, a monumental yet elegant residence built in classical style in 1641, serves as one of The Hague's most important museums. Highlights include a small room, or 'cabinet', containing valuable objects and curios, along with numerous paintings.

Of these artworks, the most important are Rembrandt's Anatomy Lesson ; Vermeer's View of Delft ; Jacob van Ruisdael's View of Haarlem ; and Rogier van der Weyden's Lamentation , a masterpiece of medieval painting. English language guided tours are available, and a superb app showing the museum's many masterpieces can be downloaded for free in advance of your visit. A high-end restaurant and a shop are located on the premises.

Address: Plein 29, 2511 CS Den Haag

Official site: www.mauritshuis.nl/en/

Located in the center of the oldest section of The Hague is the Binnenhof, or "Inner Court." This irregular group of buildings was constructed around a large central courtyard. With its origins dating back to 1250 and tied to the building of a castle (long since gone), it soon became the residence of the ruling aristocracy, and today houses both chambers of Parliament.

The most important building of the complex is the exquisite Ridderzaal , or Knights' Hall , which is still used for functions and receptions (see #5 below for more on this stunning structure). In the North Wing, the chamber is the official residence of the Prime Minister. Also important are the Rolzaal court house dating from 1511 and the Lairessezaal with its 17th-century paintings by Gerard de Lairesse.

Other highlights include the First Chamber , notable for its painted medallions depicting statesmen and the portrait of King William II under the country's coat of arms. The Second Chamber – the legislative authority that watches over the government – sat in the former ballroom from 1815 until 1992.

Address: 2513 AA Den Haag

This impressive collection of the works of artist M. C. Escher is housed in the former Winter Palace of the Queen Mother Emma. While the building is itself a historic attraction, it's the permanent collections that are the big draw here. Known as Escher in the Palace (Escher in Het Paleis), highlights include around 150 original prints and lithographs showcasing his most famous works, renowned for their mind-bending twists on perspective and perception.

Other important collections include the wood blocks and lithograph stones that Escher created his prints from, as well as examples of his early work. The museum encourages young and old to interact, offering a scavenger hunt for kids and the chance for visitors to experiment with creating their own optical illusions and tessellations. English language guided tours are available, as are handy audio guides. A café and museum shop are also located on the premises.

Address: Lange Voorhout 74, 2514 EH Den Haag

Official site: www.escherinhetpaleis.nl/?lang=en

Housed in a specially made rotunda, Panorama Mesdag (also known as the Panorama of Scheveningen) is a gigantic painting measuring 120 meters in length and 14 meters in height that was painted in the 19th century by HW Mesdag and his wife, Sientje Mesdag-Van Houten, along with other artists of the Hague School.

This stunning scene depicts coastal Scheveningen as it was around 1880, with charming views of the sea, the beach, and dunes. Designed to create the illusion of 3D and a 360-degree vista, this spectacular circular painting – the largest in the world – is indirectly lit from above, and thanks to its large sand dune with a number of real objects, creates the illusion that you're standing in the middle of this beautiful landscape.

The building also contains a collection of paintings by Mesdag and his wife, and the museum shop sells related gifts and souvenirs. Further examples of Mesdag's work, along with other Hague School artists, are on display at the Mesdag Museum .

Address: Zeestraat 65, 2518 AA Den Haag

At the east end of the Binnenhof's central courtyard (see #2 above), the 13th-century Knights' Hall ( Ridderzaal ) is a spectacular historic building still used for state receptions and the opening of parliament each September. This large Gothic hall - it measures 40 meters by 20 meters - boasts many magnificent stained-glass windows depicting the coats of arms of Dutch towns, as well as the spectacular Rose Window with the arms of the principal noble families of the Netherlands.

The heavy timber roof structure with its 18-meter-long beams has the appearance of an upturned ship, and carved wooden heads symbolizing eavesdroppers from the "higher powers" are supposed to deter members of the assembly from lying. Originally built as a banqueting hall, it later served as a market, promenade, drill hall, playground, and even a hospital before being restored in 1904.

Address: Hofweg 1-H, 2511 AA Den Haag

Official site: www.royal-house.nl/topics/prinsjesdag/ridderzaal

Madurodam is a truly unique attraction, which tourists of any age will enjoy. Best known for its extensive miniatures depicting life in the Netherlands in 1:25 scale , visitors can wander among the various areas, each crafted in perfect detail to recreate the nation's most iconic attractions.

When visiting the miniature Amsterdam , visitors can actually peek in the windows of the Rijksmuseum and see tiny reproductions of the artwork hanging on the walls. Visitors are able to walk among the models like giants, admiring iconic structures like The Peace Palace , the De Volharding building, Anne Frank's house , and St. John's Cathedral .

Other fun things to do here include experiencing interactive exhibits featuring wind power and Holland's windmills. For older kids, there's a flight exploration center, while toddlers will enjoy the playgrounds. There are also numerous props perfect for photo ops, like an oversized clog or giant tulips. The most unique experience here is the Fantasitron where you can get a 3D scan, which is used to create a miniature figure of yourself.

For a special experience, one of the top things to do in the Hague at night is to visit Madurodam when the streets and buildings are lit up, especially lovely at Christmas.

Address: George Maduroplein 1, 2584 RZ Den Haag

Official site: www.madurodam.nl/en

Situated in the modern residential district of Duinoord, a garden suburb with houses built in a style influenced by traditional Dutch almshouses (hofjes), the architecturally pleasing Kunstmuseum Den Haag, or Municipal Museum is a must-see.

Also known as Gemeentemuseum Den Haag, the building was designed by HP Berlage in 1935. The museum displays a wide range of material relating to the history of the town. It also houses impressive collections of 19th- and 20th-century art, applied and decorative art (including ceramics, silver, and furniture), and an outstanding collection of traditional and electronic musical instruments. Of particular note is a section dedicated to modern art with numerous works by Piet Mondriaan and Paul Klee. Check the museum's website for details of special temporary exhibits and workshops.

Address: Stadhouderslaan 41, 2517 HV Den Haag

The Louwman Museum features the oldest collection of cars in the world , now numbered at more than 200 vehicles from around the world. The earliest model in the collection is the 1886 Benz Patent Motor Car, powered by a single cylinder and the first motor car to be patented.

Other early models include rarities like the 1887 De Dion-Bouton Trepardoux Steam Quadricycle, an 1895 Buffum Four Cylinder Stanhope, and the 1897 Daimler 6-HP Twin-Cylinder Six-Seat Brake. Some of the more bizarre models include the 1910 Brooke Swan Car, a 1932 Curtiss Aerocar Land Yacht, and the 1951 Taruffi Italcorsa/TARF II. Vehicles from around the world are represented, and the newest include electric and hybrid models, as well as race cars.

Address: Leidsestraatweg 57, 2594 BB Den Haag

Official site: www.louwmanmuseum.nl/en/

The famous Peace Palace (Vredespaleis), an imposing brick building constructed between 1907-13, was largely paid for by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. Built in a mix of Gothic and Neoclassical styles, it's flanked on its long-arcaded façade with its steeply pitched roof and 80-meter-high tower.

Home to the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the Academy of International Law, and a library of international law, it boasts a rich interior décor contributed to by numerous countries, including marble from Italy, wood paneling from Brazil and the USA, and ornamental iron railings from Germany. Weekend guided tours are conducted through the palace and around the superb gardens. Bookings can be made through the visitor center (see the official website below).

Address: Carnegieplein 2, 2517 KJ Den Haag

Official site: www.vredespaleis.nl/?lang=en

The gardens surrounding the manor house at Landgoed Clingendael (Huys Clingendael) date back to the 16th century, creating a peaceful city oasis. The park is open year-round and is free to the public, featuring a large playground and picnic area, as well as a tearoom adjacent to the perfectly landscaped English Garden.

The Japanese Garden, the most impressive part of the estate, is only open for a few weeks each spring and fall due to its fragility. It contains a variety of artifacts brought back from Japan by Lady Daisy, the former owner of the estate, who had this garden made in 1910, including stone lanterns, water casks, and tiny wooden bridges.

Address: Clingendael 12a, 2597 VH, The Hague

Official site: https://denhaag.com/en/clingendael

The Scheveningen Resort area is a popular place to visit during the summer months with both locals and tourists. In addition to being a lovely beach area on the shores of the North Sea, this area is home to several top attractions and things to do, as well as a regular host to several festivals and concerts.

Those looking for a unique way to enjoy the view will want to check out SkyView de Pier, a Ferris-wheel style observation wheel, which features gondola cars where tourists can enjoy a meal or even high tea. This sits on the water among many other attractions on this huge pier, which include a zipline, bungee-jumping, and plenty of shopping and restaurants.

Another highlight of the Scheveningen area is SEA LIFE Scheveningen , an aquarium featuring a variety of ocean life, including sharks, stingrays, turtles, otters, and penguins.

Address: Strandweg 150-154, 2586 JW Den Haag

One of The Hague's prettiest open spaces, Haagse Bos is a two-kilometer-long expanse of parkland noted for its beautiful winding avenues. Extending all the way from the old city center to the boundary of the suburb of Wassenaar , it's a pleasant way to spend time as you explore one of the country's oldest forests, protected from deforestation since the Middle Ages.

The park's most notable feature is Huis ten Bosch, a moat-surrounded palace built in 1646 as a royal country residence. Famous as the location of the world's first international peace conference in 1899, the palace is now home to King Willem-Alexander. While not open to the public, there are fine views of the building from various points around the park.

Another palace worth walking around for its fine exterior views is Noordeinde Palace. The best views are from the Noordeinde Palace Gardens (admission is free), which also provides a great view of the Royal Stables , home to the horses used to pull the Royal Coaches.

Address: 's-Gravenhaagse Bos 10, 2594 BD Den Haag

On the north side of the Binnenhof stands the Prison Gate (Gevangenpoort), a well-preserved structure built in 1296 as a gatehouse. Converted to a prison in the 15th century, it was here that brothers Cornelis and Johan de Witt, accused of an attempt on the life of Prince William III, were murdered in 1672 (a monument to them stands in the nearby courtyard).

The old prison and torture chambers have been open to the public since the 1880s and include a large collection of paintings, prints, and relics - as well as torture devices - illustrating the administration of justice in the 17th century. English language tours are available.

Address: Buitenhof 33, 2513 AH Den Haag

Official site: www.gevangenpoort.nl/en/homepage

The oldest part of the Gothic Grote of Sint-Jacobskerk (Great St. James Church) dates from the 14th century, while newer sections, including the 100-meter-high tower, were added around 1420. Unique in the Netherlands for its hexagonal form, the tower originally served as a lookout (the bell was too big for the tower and can be seen inside the church). A new carillon, one of the largest in the Netherlands with 51 bells, was installed in 1959, and can be visited as part of a tower tour (the views over the city are incredible).

Highlights of the beautifully vaulted interior include numerous monuments and grave-slabs, including those of the poet and statesman Constantijn Huygens who died in 1687, and physicist and astronomer Christiaan Huygens, buried here in 1695. Other notable features are the carved wooden pulpit from 1550, the coats of arms of the Knights of the Golden Fleece, a large 19th-century organ, and the stained glass in the choir and north transept.

Address: Rond de Grote Kerk 12, 2513 AM Den Haag

Located just 15 kilometers northeast of The Hague, the small town of Voorschoten and delightful Duivenvoorde Castle (Kasteel Duivenvoorde) is a spectacular medieval fortress restored in 1631.

The original decoration and furnishings have been preserved, including family portraits, Delftware, a large collection of Chinese and European porcelain, and numerous items of silver. Also of note is the English-style park.

Address: Laan van Duivenvoorde 4, 2252 AK Voorschoten

Families visiting the Hague will want to leave some time to explore Drievliet Amusement Park, located close to the city center. This small park is great for all ages, with plenty of kiddie rides like the teacups and kid-driven tractors.

All-ages family attractions include Ferris wheels, slides, a hedge maze, and the spookmuseum – a traditional carnival-style haunted house. There are also plenty of thrill rides to satisfy older kids, including a roller coaster, and a variety of water-based activities including waterslides, a spray park, Fountain Square, and a splash ride.

The park also provides family entertainment, including live shows and movies in its "5D" theater, which incorporates moving seats and other technology to make viewers feel like they are really in the action.

The park is open early May through the first weekend of September, plus additional weekends in April, weather permitting.

Address: Avenue of 's-Gravenmade, Den Haag

Official site: www.drievliet.nl

Located about 30 kilometers from The Hague (about a half-hour drive or a one-hour train ride), Lisse is the perfect destination for flower lovers. It is home to one of the Netherlands' best floral parks, Keukenhof , which includes expansive gardens, as well as hosting special events throughout the summer.

Nearby, visitors can head over to the Black Tulip Museum, which takes an in-depth look at the Dutch tulip industry from its inception through the present-day. Lisse is also home to a lovely 12 th -century castle, 't Huys Dever , which is open for tours.

There's a lot more to the Dutch town of Gouda than its cheese. This historic town, 33 kilometers east of The Hague, has one of the most attractive town halls in the country, famous for looking more like a place of worship than of government. In the spacious triangular Markt, this imposing Late Gothic building (by Jan Keldermans, 1449-59) was originally surrounded by a moat.

The handsome external staircase in Renaissance style was added in 1603. On the east wall is a carillon, which rings every half hour with moving figures representing the granting of the town's charter by Count Floris V in 1272. In the Trouwzaal (Marriage Hall), look for the 17th-century tapestry by David Rufelaer made in Gouda.

Gouda's most important church is the Grote Kerk of Sint Janskerk, dating from the 15th century and one of the largest in the Netherlands. In addition to its size, its other best-known feature is its vividly colored stained glass windows, the Goudse Glazen , which include both Biblical and historical themes. The finest of the glass was the work of Wouter and Dirck Crabeth between 1555 and 1577, while the most recent window, War and Liberation , was designed by Charles Eyck in 1947.

In The Hague, most of the main attractions and architectural landmarks lie between the city center and the sea, so this area makes the best base if you're visiting for the first time. Hotels tend to cluster around the Binnenhof, where you'll also find the Ridderzaal (Knights' Hall) and Prison Gate Museum.

Other attractions, such as the Mauritshuis and the Escher Museum, are within walking distance from here, and the beach resort of Scheveningen is less than 10 minutes' drive away. Here are some highly-rated hotels in this convenient location:

Luxury Hotels:

• In the embassy quarter, steps from the swankiest shopping areas, Hilton The Hague has a 24-hour fitness center and lies within walking distance of most of the city's top sites.
• Hotel Des Indes , a former palace near some of The Hague's best museums, drips with historical elegance.
• The pet-friendly Paleis Hotel , about 10 minutes on foot from the Binnenhof, is a popular boutique option, with friendly service and stylish rooms.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• In a fabulous location, across the street from the Binnenhof, the boutique Hotel Corona sits at the top end of the mid-range hotels, with large rooms clad in rich, cozy hues.
• If you're seeking the modern comforts of a chain hotel, Mercure Hotel Den Haag Central delivers, just a short stroll from the Binnenhof.
• The Holiday Inn Express The Hague - Parliament, an IHG Hotel , offers clean, contemporary rooms and breakfast is included. It lies minutes away from the Mauritshuis and the Escher Museum.

Budget Hotels:

• The Ibis Den Haag City Centre , near the old City Hall and a short walk from the Binnenhof, sports a sleek, contemporary aesthetic. Breakfast is also included in the rates.
• A five-minute walk to the Escher Museum, the great-value easyHotel Den Haag City Centre has clean rooms and friendly staff.
• The homey, family-run Staten Hotel is another good option, just a ten-minute walk from the Gemeentemuseum.

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Just Outside the City: The towns just outside The Hague are minutes away and full of things to do. The university town of Leyden (Leiden) sits just to the north of the city, known for its cultural diversity and attractions like the Old Castle (Burcht van Leiden) and multiple excellent museums. South of the city on the route to Rotterdam, the picturesque town of Delft is best known for its world-famous blue Delftware ceramics; visitors can tour the De Porceleyne Fles factory and watch as each piece is hand-painted. Just a few more kilometers southeast, the country's second-largest city Rotterdam is packed full of tourist attractions, from historic buildings to excellent museums.

Amsterdam and Surroundings: A one-hour drive or 35-minute train ride brings you to Amsterdam, home to some of the Netherlands' top tourist attractions. The Rijksmuseum , Van Gogh Museum , and Rembrandt House Museum hold some of the world's best artwork, and the Anne Frank House is a historic landmark that holds a museum dedicated to Anne and her experiences. In addition to its fine museums, there are plenty of other things to see and do in Amsterdam , from touring its canals to exploring its neighborhoods like the Jordaan. Among the most popular destinations in Amsterdam's surrounding area is the former seat of the Counts of Holland, the historic town of Haarlem . Here, you will find several architectural masterpieces including the Gothic Grote Kerk, Neoclassical City Hall , and the 15th-century Amsterdamse Poort .

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About The Hague

Located on the west coast of the Netherlands, with no less than 11 km of sandy beach, The Hague is the administrative capital of the country, home to the Dutch royal family and the base for numerous international organisations. But beyond that it is a lovely place to stay wether you want to enjoy the city or the beach. Its residents are proud of their identity, but they also tend to look beyond borders.

There is a good reason why The Hague is the international city of peace and justice. It’s the city where people enjoy living while working towards a better world. Living, working, exploring or studying in the Hague, come and discover this unique city.

23 Unmissable Things to Do in The Hague

The beautiful city of The Hague, or Den Haag as it is known locally, is located in the western Netherlands, on the North Sea coastline. It is the third largest city in the Netherlands, the capital of the South Holland province, and is both the royal and administrative capital of the country. The Hague is also home to the seat of the Dutch parliament, the United Nations’ International Court of Justice, and the International Criminal Court.

This being said, there are also many fun and interesting things to do in The Hague that are not of political or administrative nature. The Hague is one of the only large cities in the Netherlands that is located directly on the coastline and boasts an 11km stretch of beach at Scheveningen. It is home to a plethora of beautiful monuments and buildings, modern hotels, and open spaces. Coupled with the beaches, you really get the feeling of freedom and openness in a buzzing city.

In this article, you will learn a little bit about the history of The Hague, things to do, and by the end of it, you should have an in-depth understanding of the city and how to get around. So, sit back, relax, and prepare to transport yourself to the wonderful city of The Hague.

Read more: Where to stay in The Hague – a hotel guide with recommendations for the best places to stay in The Hague per neighbourhood, per type of traveller and per budget

How to get to The Hague

1. escher in the palace, 2. louwman museum, 3. madurodam, 4. hop on the historical tram, 5. panorama mesdag, 6. the mesdag collection, 7. the mauritshuis royal picture gallery, 8. prince william v gallery, 9. city canal cruise, 10. oranjehotel world war ii prison, 11. kunstmuseum den haag, 12. scheveningen beach, 13. skyview de pier, 14. sea life scheveningen, 15. omniversum, 16. museum beelden aan zee, 17. the binnenhof and hofvijver, 18. enjoy a drink at the square, 19. peace palace, 20. the hague historical museum, 21. palace huis ten bosch, 22. palace noordeinde, 23. the prison gate museum, final words.

DISCLOSURE: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase via one of those links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost for you.

Being the second most important city in the Netherlands, The Hague is well-connected to the rest of the country by highways and public transport. The Hague is also the second most visited city in the Netherlands together with Rotterdam, switching places now and then.

Wherever you are staying in the Netherlands The Hague could be the perfect destination for a day trip. My preference would be to visit The Hague by train, as the train station is conveniently located in the centre of the city and it has been renovated recently. However I have visited The Hague many times by car, with my favorite place to park being Q Park Maliveld, just a few hundred metres from the city centre.

Tip: Read this post about using the public transport in the Netherlands . It’s packed with tips that only a local knows!

Here are some distances from other major cities in the Netherlands to The Hague by car and the time it takes both by car and by train:

• Amsterdam – The Hague: 65 km/55 min; by train: 50 min
• Schiphol – The Hague: 47 km/40 min; by train: 32 min
• Groningen – The Hague: 240 km/2 hr 40 min; by train: 2 hr 40 min
• Utrecht – The Hague: 70 km/60 min; by train: 38 min
• Rotterdam – The Hague: 25 km/30 min; by train: 23 min
• Eindhoven – The Hague: 140 km/1 hr 40 min; by train: 1 hr 30 min
• Maastricht – The Hague: 225 km/2 hrs 25 min; by train: 2 hrs 40 min

The best way to find out how to travel from A to B in the Netherlands is to use the Glimble app. You can buy your tickets in the app and travel hassle-free. The app is absolutely free to download .

• Click here to download Glimble for Android
• Click here to download Glimble for iPhone

Besides a train connection with the largest Dutch cities, The Hague is also well-connected by bus. Check out the website of FlixBus for more information. For international travel options, check out Omio , where you can also buy train and bus tickets.

If you are staying in Amsterdam and would like to visit The Hague on a day trip, you can also opt for an organized day tour. Here are a couple suggestions:

• Rotterdam, Delft & The Hague Full-Day Tour
• Guided Trip to Rotterdam, Delft & The Hague
• Delft and The Hague Private Tour
• Kinderdijk and The Hague Tour with Museums

Top things to do in The Hague

The Hague is a large cosmopolitan city with beautiful architecture and lots of things to see and do. Read further to find out which are the best things to do in The Hague. On the handy map below I’ve marked all tourist attractions in the city. You can add the map to your Google Maps and use it even if you are offline.

Escher in Het Paleis , or Escher in The Palace in English, is one of the famous museums in The Hague that contains the work and literature on the life story of M. C. Escher . Maurits Cornelius Escher was a world-famous Dutch graphical and imaginative artist who, for the most part of his life, was overlooked in the art world.

However, since 2002, there is now a permanent exhibition of his finest works on display at the Lange Voorhout Palace in The Hague, the former home of Queen Mother Emma . Some of his most famous artworks that you will be able to see here include the lithographs Belvedere , Relativity , and Convex and Concave as well as the woodcuts Day and Night , Snakes , and Tower of Babe l.

If you are a fan of the impossible art of M. C. Escher, the museum dedicated to him in The Hague is a must-visit.

Practical info

Address: Lange Voorhout 74, 2514 EH Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 11,50 EUR; kids (13-17 yoa) – 8,50 EUR; kids (7-12 yoa) – 6,50 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 11:00 till 17:00 Website: www.escherinhetpaleis.nl

The Louwman Museum , formerly known as the Nationaal Automobiel Museum (National Automobile Museum) and Louwman Collection, is one of the most amazing automobile museums in The Hague. It contains many historic cars, coaches, and motorcycles – 275 to be exact! The collection includes the likes of the Ahrens-Fox Model N-5-2 1000 GMP Fire Engine, the Briggs and Stratton Flyer, Chrysler Town & Country Barrel Back Station Wagon, and the Detroit Electric Clear Vision Brougham to name a few.

Whether you’re a classic automobile fan or not, no visit to The Hague is complete without stopping by the Louwman Museum. It is an appropriate excursion for both young and old and definitely one of the top things to see in The Hague.

Address: Leidsestraatweg 57, 2594BB Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 19 EUR; kids (5-18 yoa) – 10 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 10:00 till 17:00 Website: www.louwmanmuseum.nl

Located in the Scheveningen district of The Hague, Madurodam is a miniature city containing 1:25 scale replicas of some of the most well-known Dutch cities and cultural landmarks. It is possible to explore the Netherlands within an hour, navigating through the network of buildings, squares, and streets.

It is one of the highly recommend things to see in The Hague, as it accurately tells the story of the Netherlands and how it has evolved into the eccentric country that it is today. With all the buildings and landmarks at a maximum height of 60 cm, it’s a fun adventure for the whole family, including the little ones.

Address: George Maduroplein 1, 2584 RZ Den Haag Admission fee: fixed day ticket – 18 EUR; a family (or friends) of 4 – 18,75 EUR; flex ticket – 23,50 EUR; kids (0-2 yoa) – free of charge Opening times: daily, from 10:00 till 17:00 Website: www.madurodam.nl

One of the most fun things to do in The Hague is taking a ride on the historical tram . This vintage tram will take around all famous attractions in The Hague all the way to Scheveningen and the beach and back to the city. There are 14 stops in total en route where you can hop on and off. There’s also an audio tour available, which I can highly recommend.

Day ticket including audio tour: adults – 16 EUR; kids (4-12 yoa) – 5 EUR Schedule: from 8 April to 11 November, Saturday and Sunday; in July and August, Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday; every 30 minutes Website: touristtram.nl

The Panorama Mesdag is a delusional, cylindrical painting by artist Hendrik Willem Mesdag in 1881, which can be viewed in one of the only especially constructed museums in The Hague. It was painted from the highest sand dune in Scheveningen and highlights the sea, dunes, and old fishing village in seaside town.

The painting took a total of four months to complete and Mesdag had the help of four other artists in order to do so. It stands more than 14 meters high, boasting an impressive circumference of 120 meters, justifying the time and manpower taken to paint it.

Address: Zeestraat 65, 2518 AA Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 15 EUR; kids (12-18 yoa) – 12 EUR; kids (4-11 yoa) – 7 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 10:00 till 17:00 Website: panorama-mesdag.nl

The Mesdag Collection is one of the few museums in The Hague that houses some of the most famous art pieces from around the world, assembled by Hendrik Willem Mesdag and his wife Sina van Houten (affectionately known as Sientjie). The museum is located directly next door to the former residence of the couple and has some pieces of artwork from the likes of Théodore Rosseau, Vincent van Gogh, and Charles-Francoise Daubigny.

Aside from these wonderful paintings, there was an exquisite collection of ceramics by Theo Colenbrander, who was a local from The Hague. The collection even contained pieces from as far as Japan, with the likes of a once-functional Samurai sword and a unique sacrificial vase.

Address: Laan van Meerdervoort 7-F, 2517 AB Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 13 EUR; kids (under 18 yoa) – free of charge Opening times: Friday, Saturday, Sunday, from 10:00 till 17:00; in April, Wednesday-Sunday, from 10:00 till 17:00 Website: www.demesdagcollectie.nl

Sticking to the theme of museums in The Hague, The Mauritshuis Royal Picture Gallery is a state-owned collection of artworks from non-other than Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other masters from the Dutch Golden Age .

The museum is centrally located in the city on the Hofvijver lake and no visit to The Hague is complete without going to visit the Girl with a Pearl Earring of Vermeer or the Anatomy Lesson of Dr Nicolaes Tulp of Rembrandt.

Address: Plein 29, 2511 CS Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 19 EUR; kids (under 18 yoa) – free of charge Opening times: Monday, from 13:00 till 18:00; Tuesday-Sunday, from 10:00 till 18:00 Website: www.mauritshuis.nl

The Prince William V Gallery is a part of the Mauritshuis, but is quite often overlooked as it is located in another building. For sure it’s one of the lesser-known hidden gems in the city. The gallery boasts an impressive collection of Dutch and Flemish masterpieces from the personal collection of William V, Prince of Orange .

The Prince William V Gallery is also the oldest museum in the Netherlands. It opened for public in 1774.

Address: Buitenhof 33, 2513 AH Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 5,50 EUR; kids (under 18 yoa) – free of charge; If you have a Mauritshuis ticket you don’t need to pay for the Gallery Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 12:00 till 17:00 Website: www.mauritshuis.nl

Moving away from the museum theme for a moment, take a leisurely cruise on the canals of The Hague and see the city from a completely unique angle. Not only do you get to see the city from the water but also hear the stories of the history of The Hague and current affairs in the city.

A well-renowned company like De Ooievaart has a host of extremely knowledgeable guides that will no-doubt broaden your understanding of this wonderful city with the wind blowing through your hair. There are two routes to choose from, so whether you pick the canal route or the barge route, you will be sure to hear an interesting story or two about The Hague.

Moving back to the theme of museums in The Hague, National Monument Oranjehotel in Scheveningen was a prison used by the Germans in the Second World War. It was here that they interrogated and prosecuted some 25, 000 people who had resisted laws imposed by the Germans. The name Oranjehotel was the name given to the prison as a tribute to those who were housed there.

Oranjehotel is one of The Hague attractions where you can really transport yourself back in time and experience what it was like to be a prisoner here. You’re able to enter one of the death cells as used by the Nazis and put yourself in the Dutch prisoners’ shoes. Luckily you don’t have to stay there for the entire length of a sentence, and you can be released after a couple minutes.

Address: Van Alkemadelaan 1258, 2597 BP Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 12,50 EUR; youth (8-24 yoa) – 7 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 11:00 till 17:00 Website: www.oranjehotel.org

Kunstmuseum Den Haag is one of The Hague attractions that has changed names several times over the past 150 years. What started out as Museum voor Moderne Kunst became Haags Gemeentemuseum and until 2019, was known as Gemeentemuseum Den Haag . It is one of the ideal museums in The Hague to wander around and gaze at the diverse artworks from some of the most famous modern artists. Think Piet Mondrian , van Gogh , Monet , and Picasso , to name a few.

It is one of the largest museums in Europe, housing in the region of 160, 000 pieces of artwork. Designed by renowned architect Hendrik Berlage , the museum also has many exhibitions on display. Permanent exhibitions include Discover the Modern , Delftware WonderWare , and Chambers of Wonder while current exhibitions include Mondrian Moves and Wiebke Siem .

Fun fact: Hendrik Berlage is also the architect of the Beurs van Berlage in Amsterdam, another beautiful example of the Amsterdam School .

Address: Stadhouderslaan 41 2517 HV, Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 16 EUR; kids (up to 18 yoa) – free of charge; youth (19-25 yoa) – 8 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 10:00 till 17:00 Website: www.kunstmuseum.nl

One of the all-time favorite things to do in The Hague is to pop down to Scheveningen beach on the North Sea coast. It is here that you can get your toes in the sand and enjoy a swim in the summer months. It’s also a great beach for sport lovers and beginners can even try their hand at surfing thanks to surf shops along the promenade offering lessons and rentals.

The beautiful promenade lends itself to walking, cycling, and skating in the summer months and the pristine sandy beaches have earned blue flag status as a result of their superior cleanliness and safety. There is also a plethora of amazing restaurants and beach bars to fill your stomach or quench your thirst after a long day in the sun or a heated volleyball match.

SkyView de Pier is definitely one of the attractions in The Hague that is not to be missed! Towering 50 meters above the North Sea, the giant Ferris wheel offers unparalleled views of Scheveningen beach, the sea, and the nearby neighborhood.

A full rotation trip takes around 12 to 15 minutes, during which time you will be housed in a luxurious gondola and can even share a unique high tea with friends and family. The pastry tower, tea, and prosecco are bound to attract both young and old – no prosecco for the young ones, of course! The combination of amazing views and a glass of prosecco makes it one of the favorite things to do in The Hague.

Address: Strandweg 156 2586 JW Scheveningen Admission fee: including a drink: adults – 15 EUR; kids (up to 12 yoa) – 7,50 EUR; only the Ferris Wheel: adults – 10,50 EUR Opening times: Monday-Thursday, from 12:00 till 20:00; Friday-Saturday, from 11:00 till 22:00; Sunday, from 11:00 till 21:00 Website: skyviewdepier.nl

SEA LIFE Scheveningen is one of the best things to see in The Hague for families with children. There are 45 aquariums that accommodate an array of sea life from fish, sharks, rays, and even Max the Asian small-clawed otter. With more than 4,000 species of marine life, your visit to SEA LIFE Scheveningen will be nothing short of amazing.

As a bonus, you will be able to contribute to the Sea Life trust, an organization that has been set up in order to protect the world’s oceans. Not only will you be able to see this beautiful marine life at Sea Life, but also ensure that the natural marine habitats of these animals are conserved.

Address: Strandweg 13, 2586 JK Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 21 EUR; kids (up to 3 yoa) – free of charge Opening times: daily, from 10:00 till 17:00 Website: www.visitsealife.com

If you are looking for things to do in The Hague that are out of the ordinary and will stimulate your senses, then look no further. Omniversum is a state-of-the-art movie theater that can accommodate some 300 people. The domical theater boasts a screen that surrounds the entire audience, proven to provide an all-round better viewing experience.

The incredible visual experience coupled with amazing audio is bound to give you the feeling that you’re in the screen. Films such as Serengeti, Dinosaurs of the South Pole, or Wild Canada will be nothing short of spectacular in this football-sized arena. You will also be able to taste weird and wonderful things such as algae, urine tea, and insects. It really is an experience not to be missed!

Address: Stadhouderslaan 37, 2517 HV The Hague Tickets: see the website of Omniversum Opening times: daily, from 10:30 till 17:00 Website: www.museon-omniversum.nl

Beelden aan Zee is one of the only museums in the Netherlands to specialize exclusively in exhibiting sculptures. It was founded by Theo and Lida Scholten in 1994, a Dutch couple who were avid collectors of sculptures. You can see some rather impressive artworks at Beelden aan Zee from artists such as Piet Esser, Jaap Kaas, Tony van de Vorst, and Ossip Zadkine.

Aside from the permanent exhibits, there are several temporary exhibits in the museum that continuously change. The Studio by the Sea is made up of three sections – an artists’ studio, an interactive education room, and a lounge. Johan Tahon will be present to teach you all there is to know about sculptures and how they are produced. There is a lot more that goes into it than you might think!

Address: Harteveltstraat 1, 2586 EL Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 17,50 EUR; kids (13-18 yoa) – 8,75 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 10:00 till 17:00 Website: www.beeldenaanzee.nl

When visiting The Hague, things to do around the city center include a visit to the Binnenhof complex and the Hofvijver lake. Binnenhof is of significant political importance as it is the meeting place of both the House of Representatives ( Tweede Kamer ) and the Senate ( Eerste Kamer ).

In the middle of the Binnenhof is the famous Ridderzaal (The Hall of Knights), which was originally a ball room. Today it’s used for formal receptions and conferences. The most important role of the Ridderzaal is on Prinsjesdag , when the Dutch monarch opens the Dutch Parliamentary year in September and gives there the famous speech from the throne.

The office of the Prime Minister of the Netherlands (currently Mark Rutte), is also stationed here as well as the Ministry of General Affairs – responsible for government policy, planning, information, and the Dutch Royal House.

The Hofvijver lake, at the center of The Hague, is surround by Binnenhof, Mauritshuis, Korte Vijverberg Road, and Lange Vijverberg Road. There is also a small island to be observed in the middle, which has no official name but is often referred to as “the island in the Vijverberg”.

One of the most famous squares in The Hague is called simply The Square – Het Plein . It is located adjacent to the Binnenhof and once served as the kitchen garden of the palace. The square was created in 1632 following the model of Place de Vosges in Paris. The statue in the middle of the square is of William the Silent , who became the founder of Orange-Nassau dynasty, the line of the Dutch monarchs since the 16th century.

On two sides the square is lined up by numerous cafes and restaurants and is a favorite lace for both locals and visitors of the city to get a drink or a bite.

If you’re still asking yourself what to do in The Hague at this point, the Peace Palace ( Vredespaleis ) is absolutely worth a visit. It is of immense international importance as it is home to the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the UN International Court of Justice, and The Hague Academy of International Law.

You can visit the Peace Palace with a guided tour. There’s also a guided tour of the Palace’s Gardens.

Tip: You need a valid passport or an EU ID-card if you want to visit the Peace Palace.

Address: Carnegieplein 2, 2517 KJ Den Haag Admission fee: Visitors Centre – free of charge; a guided tour of the Palace – 15 EUR; kids (up to 7 yoa) – free of charge; guided tour of the Palace Gardens – 12,50 EUR; kids (up to 8 yoa) – free of charge Opening times: (Visitors Centre) Wednesday-Sunday, from 12:00 till 16:00 Website: www.vredespaleis.nl

Another interesting museum to visit in The Hague is The Hague Historical Museum ( Haags Historisch Museum ) located just at the Hofvijver in the heart of the city. This museum tells the story of the city of The Hague through art and it has lovely collection of historical objects. There also temporary exhibitions that handle sensitive historical subjects, like the colonial past of the city.

Address: Korte Vijverberg 7, 2513 AB Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 18 EUR; kids (6-17 yoa) – 5 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Friday, from 10:00 till 17:00; Saturday-Sunday, from 12:00 till 17:00 Website: www.haagshistorischmuseum.nl

Huis ten Bosch is one of the three official residences of the Dutch monarch and is one of the most visually stunning things to see in The Hague. It is designed in the style of Dutch Baroque architecture and Dutch Classicism, by architects Jacob van Campen, Pieter Post, and Daniel Marot.

The two other official residences of the Dutch Monarch are Nooordeinde, also located in the Hague, and the Royal Palace in Amsterdam. The current tenant (as of 2019) is Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, King of the Netherlands since 2013.

One of the last things to see in The Hague is the Noordeinde Palace , one of the three palaces of the Dutch Royal family. It was once a medieval farmhouse, converted in 1533 in a palace. Following the fall of Napoleon, Noordeinde became a Royal Palace used on and off by various Dutch Kings and Queens as a winter residence.

Since the thorough restoration of the palace in 1984, it has been used as the official workplace of the Dutch Monarchs.

The palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens which are open to the public.

Rounding off the list of top things to do in The Hague is The Prison Gate Museum , one of the oldest operational museums in The Hague – it’s been going since 1882! Located on the Buitenhof, next to Prince William V Gallery, a former gate and medieval prison, Gevangenpoort allows you into the inside of an ancient prison.

You can also meet the jailer, executioner, or judge and also be striking distance away from a former functioning guillotine. Make sure you’re on your best behavior though – you wouldn’t want to meet the razor-sharp edge of the mighty blade!

Address: Buitenhof 33, 2513 AH Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 15 EUR; kids (4-17 yoa) – 7,50 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Friday, from 10:00 till 17:00; Saturday-Sunday, from 11:00 till 17:00 Website: www.gevangenpoort.nl

There are so many reasons to visit and things to do in The Hague that it should be on every traveler’s list. It’s the perfect day trip from Amsterdam, taking a mere 40 minutes by intercity train, or less than half an hour from Rotterdam.

Ease of travel to and within the city, open spaces, long sandy beaches, and a deep history marked by political and administrative ties makes The Hague a must-see destination. When visiting The Hague, attractions are not difficult to come by and you can find something to see and do constantly. After a long day of sight-seeing or laying on the beaches of Scheveningen, there is also no shortage of modern restaurants and bars to end the day at. If you’re not concerned about your waistline, a stroopwafel is the perfect sweet ending to a day in The Hague.

About Daniela

Netherlands Tourism

The Hague (in Dutch: Den Haag) is the capital city of the province South Holland . With over 500 thousand inhabitants it is the third largest city of the Netherlands (after Amsterdam and Rotterdam ). The Dutch government and parlement are located in The Hague, this might seem strange as The Hague is not the capital city of the Netherlands . You also might know The Hague as The International Court of Justice and The International Criminal Court are located in the city, both are often referred to in news programs around the world.

History of The Hague

The first recorded historical reference to The Hague is circa 1230 when a lodge, for hunting, was built there by Count Floris the fourth. This was rebuilt as a castle in 1248 by his son William the 2nd. The name, The Hague, is based on the word for hedge as an enclosure where the building was set. More buildings, such as the Knights Hall, were built close to the castle and it eventually came to be the home of the Counts of Holland. These buildings can now be found in the old quarter, Binnenhof. A lake was built close by this area in 1350 and is still there today.

The New Capital

This area, in the late 1200’s and the 1300’s, became an center of commerce and the area grew as trading flourished with many merchants coming to the district. In the 16th century when Holland was under rule from Spain, The Hague was established as the center for the Dutch and later, under William the 1st, it became the capital of the Netherlands. In 1585 all of the main bodies of the Dutch government moved into the area, further establishing it as the center of power in the country.

Although it is no longer used, The Hague, in the 16th century was named Gravenhage, this roughly translated as “The Counts Wood”, harking back to its origins as a hunting lodge. in 1575 the whole area came under threat of demolition As the lack of city walls made it almost impossible to defend, as when it was overrun by the Spanish at the onset of the “80 years war”, but this idea was abandoned after the intervention of William of Orange.

The area was finally granted city status in the early 19th century by Louis Bonaparte in the Napoleonic wars, after which the Netherlands and Belgium were formed into a single state, as The United Kingdom Of The Netherlands, although Belgium was once again separated in 1830 with Amsterdam remaining as the capital, but the government remaining in The Hague.

The Modern era

The building of The Hague as a large city really started in 1850 with new residential areas being built to house government employees and also employees of the Dutch East India Company.

The city encompassed the area of Looseduinen in 1923 as it grew even further beyond it’s boundaries. During the 2nd world war large parts of the city were demolished to make way for the “Atlantic wall” and in 1945 a residential area was accidentally bombed by the British who were attempting to bomb the V2 rocket site in a nearby park.

After the war there was a massive building programs, both to repair the damage and to accommodate the growing population. Today the city is still expanding beyond it’s borders with new areas being annexed and new residential areas being built.

Home of Justice

The Hague has been the center for international law for centuries. It was once referred to as the “legal capital of the world” by then United Nations Secretary General Boutros Boutros-Ghali. Known as the City of Peace and Justice, The Hague is home to the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. It is also one of the major cities hosting the United Nations; along with New York, Nairobi, Geneva, Vienna and Tokyo.

Here is a list of important dates in the political history of The Hague:

• · Late 16th Century – The government of the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands was founded.
• · 1838 – Since this date the Supreme Court of the Netherlands has been based in The Hague.
• · 1893 – The Hague Conference on Private International Law was founded by Nobel Prize winner by Tobias Asser.
• · 1903 – Construction of the Peace Palace was completed and housed the Court of Permanent Court International Justice: the legal branch of the League of Nations.
• · 1946 – Court of International Justice is founded following WWII and is housed in the Peace Palace.
• · 1981 – The Iran-United States Claims Tribunal was founded.
• · 1990 – An explosion of the founding international bodies in The Hague, resulting in 160 such bodies in the city and surrounding area.

Transportation in The Hague

The Hague is a bustling, though not overly large, city of around 500,000 people. Transportation in the city is very affordable, clean and efficient. There is a good network of around 30 tram and bus routes that should be able to get you to wherever you want to go. There is also a regular light rail link. The main operators are, Conexxion, Veolia and HTM. Although there is not a full service operating at night, there are several night buses  run by the public transportation company.

Paying For Your Journey

The buses and trams in The Hague are paid for by using the OV-chipcard . These are a plastic card about the size of a credit card that you have to “validate” at the beginning and end of every journey.  One of the best options is to get an HTM day ticket, it costs 7.70 euros, for the days travel on all trams, RandstadRail line and also the buses that are run by HTM. Although this covers you for all day trips, you will need to pay extra if you are taking the night bus.

If you have a chipcard you can get the day ticket loaded on to that, but if you do not have one then you can get a paper ticket. Unfortunately you are not able to buy a day ticket on the bus, tram, or train, but they are sold in hotels, train stations, and the tourist information centers. The day ticket is valid from when it is first validated until the end of service that day. For single journeys, if you do not have a chipcard you can pay in euros.

If you are traveling to The Hague by car and do not want the hassle of parking and driving in the city, there are 4 different “park and ride” terminals around the main roads that lead in to The Hague.

Travelling By Taxi And Bicycyle

If you want to travel by taxi you can flag them down in the street, phone to be picked up, or go to one of the many taxi stands that are around The Hague. Taxis are obliged to charge a standard fare that is the same throughout the country. But there is one company called Regio Taxi Haaglanden which charges a fare that is halfway between that of a bus or tram and that of a taxi.There are also cabs in The Hague that are quiet electric taxis.

Possibly the best way of travelling around The Hague is by bicycle. All of the main streets and thoroughfares have cycle lanes on them and, due to the compact nature of the city it is often quicker to travel by bicycle than other means of transport.

The Hague Tourism

The Hague is a great city to visit. It has a wealth of history for the tourist to get to know, and it  also, with it’s modern skyline looks firmly toward the future. it also has a wonderful coast on the North Sea and some great beaches, but it also has a more serious side as the government and legislature for the Netherlands is based here. There are also many royal palaces and monuments in The Hague and it is still home to many members of the Dutch royal family . The Hague is also known as the “City of Peace” as there are many national, and international organizations working to that goal.

The Palace of Peace is a lovely Palace that was built around the turn of the twentieth century and is well worth a visit. It is closed on Mondays but on other days you are able to book a very interesting and informative tour of the building

Night life and Shopping

There are many are many great bars and restaurants in  The Hague. And you will never be short of something to do in the evenings as there is a wealth of great nightlife there. The plein market and Grote market squares contain many clubs as well as some great places to eat.

For the best shopping go to the Vlamingstraat and the Spuistraat. There you find a wide variety of shops offering fashion and designer goods as well as some more individual shops. but for real specialty shops and individual retailers you should visit The Hofkwartier, there are also upmarket fashion and footwear shops here.

Museums and Visitor Attractions

There are over 30 museums in The Hague, and there should be something for everyone. The Mauritshuis art museum has works from the grand masters of Dutch and Flemish masters, such as Rembrandt and Vermeer. The Louwman museum is a fascinating auto museum containing cars and vehicles through the ages. Museum Meermanno has some unusual and interesting collections, including one on 200 years of Dutch comics.

Madurodam is a wonderful visitor attraction with a miniature city to look around and enjoy. the Amusement park Duinrell is a great family attraction with plenty to see and do and some great rides to go on

The Hague, with its tradition and current political establishments, bars, cafes Amusement parks and museums really has something for everywhere and is a destination that is nit to be missed..

Parks In The Hague

The Hague is a fascinating place to visit, especially so being the seat of government in this Netherlands. Although the center of the city is quite built up there are many greens spaces and some beautiful parks, fields and forests.

The Japanese Garden

One of the most fascinating of these is Clingendael Park , which is home to the wonderful Japanese Garden this was originally laid out in the early 1900’s by Marguérite M. Baroness van Briene.

She undertook a number sea voyages to Japan, in order to bring back the plants, sculptures, bridges and the pavilion that grace the park today and give it it’s wonderful and unique character. Although it is free to go to the gardens, unfortunately, due to fragile nature of the area it is only possible to visit in the spring and autumn. But it is a fascinating place and well worth the wait.

The Malieveld is a large grassed area in the center of The Hague, just near the Central Station. As well as being an excellent place for a picnic, or to enjoy the summer sun, it is also home to many events throughout the year, with a funfair and also a circus in the autumn. In contrast it is a favorite place for protests and political rallies, due to it’s central location.

The Park Of Roses

Another excellent place to relax is the Rosarium. It is a very well maintained Park where you can wander among a stunning display of flowers in the summer it is a very peaceful location in which to spend a quiet afternoon. As the name implies it is home to a stunning amount and variety of roses.

The Haagse Bos is an ancient forest that reaches right into the middle of the city. Being in such a central location it is a firm favorite among the residents and workers of the area where they are able to spend awhile out of the traffic and buildings and amongst the grass and trees of the forest.

It is also home to a large amount of wildlife in the shape of red deer and many different types of birds. Originally covering a much larger area it was reduced, both by the needs of the population, for land for building and wood for the war against the Spanish. But it was protected by a law that was brought in in 1576 and is still in force today.

Although the Hague is a very busy place it has many beautiful parks and it is well worth taking the time explore them.

Pictures of The Hague

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17 Top Things You Must Do in The Hague: The Ultimate Den Hague Itinerary

Step back in time at Binnenhof, explore the Peace Palace, bungee over the North Sea, stroll around Hofvijver, and dine 135 metres up. These are the top things to do in The Hague for the perfect weekend.

The Hague is easily one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities I’ve ever visited. Full of monuments, historic districts and located just fifteen minutes from the beautiful North Sea coastline, The Hague deserves a spot on every traveller’s bucket list.

As the Netherland’s government city, The Hague is home to numerous embassies and mansions, boasts wonderfully green boulevards and parks, a refined culinary scene, and a great cafe culture. The Hague is known by its residents as ‘the Royal City by the Sea’.

Whilst there is SO much to do and see throughout the whole country of the Netherlands, I would recommend spending a solid few days experiencing the diverse city of The Hague for yourself.

The Hague is Den Haag, but it’s also ’s-Gravenhage

If you’re going to The Hague, then you should know that in Dutch it’s, called Den Haag, pronounced dehn hah with an aspirated final ‘h’. However, this is not its official name.

It’s a bit of a tongue twister, but The Hague is officially called ’s-Gravenhage (meaning ‘the Count’s Hedge/Terrain/Court’) or Den Haag literally “In The Hedge”.

A Brief History of The Hague

The Hague originated around 1230, when Count Floris IV of Holland purchased land alongside a pond, the present-day Hofvijver, in order to build a hunting residence.

In 1248, his son and successor William II, King of the Romans, decided to extend the residence to a palace, which would later be called the Binnenhof meaning ‘Inner Court’.

Den Haag is home to the royal family as well as the Dutch seat of government. Before Louis Bonaparte had his way in 1806, Den Haag was actually the capital. It wasn’t until eight years later, when the French had been ousted, that the government returned to Den Haag, but the title of capital remained with Amsterdam.

Den Haag is usually in the headlines because ever since the 20th century Den Haag has been home to several international legal entities, including the UN’s International Court of Justice, which regularly holds trials. This is also where foreign embassies in the Netherlands are based, giving the city a significant international community of expats.

Ready to learn more about what makes The Hague so special?

From where to eat, drink, shop and what historical sites, monuments and museums to visit, here is my complete guide to the top things to do in The Hague!

Map of The Hague Itinerary

Want to know where you’ll be going? Take a look at the detailed map below.

Tip: For a larger view of the map, click on the icon in the top right corner.

Going to the Netherlands? Get my free Dutch travel phrase guide

Where to Eat in The Hague

1. refuel at grand cafe walter benedict.

On the quaint shopping strip of Denneweg, is Grand Cafe Walter Benedict . Even though the restaurant is situated in the exclusive area of The Hague, it is a spot that offers something for everyone. There is a cosy vibe and the employees are really friendly. Even though it was 2pm, I made the most of their all-day breakfast. Which I highly recommend. This places really captures the French atmosphere without being stuffy. Bon appétit!

2. Dine at The Penthouse

It’s even at a higher altitude than the restaurant of the Eiffel tower. In addition to a luxury five-course dinner, there is always room for lunch, ‘highest’ tea or drinks. Don’t forget to go out onto the spectacular city balcony and enjoy the view.

3. Have a feast at Encore by Simonis

Located in the harbour of Scheveningen, I ate one of my favourite meals at Encore by Simonis . With an Asian cuisine influence, their speciality is serving daily fresh fish and meat.

As a vegetarian, I opted for their crispy vegetable tempura as a starter then the vegetable stir-fry as a main. Then came dessert, I mean just look at that mango-shaped ice-cream?! It tasted as good as it looked.

4. Cocktails and Chill at Jamey Bennett

Dine al fresco or cosy up inside on their Chesterfield sofa, Jamey Bennett is perfect anytime of day. Inspired by the British spy Mr. Bennett, this restaurant is cosy, modern, and boasts a great atmosphere.

Everything here is prepared to perfection. They even make their own granola! No detail is left untouched.

Visit the Best Museums in The Hague

5. escher in the palace (escher in het paleis).

A personal favourite, the Escher Museum must be seen. Maurits Cornelis Escher was a Dutch artist, known for his genius at drawing impossible situations. Located in the beautiful former winter palace of Queen Emma of the Netherlands, this permanent collection has some of the M.C. Escher’s most famous illustrations.

The exhibition combines unique works of art with biographical material including photographs, letters, and preliminary sketches. Escher mainly worked with printing techniques such as woodcut, lithography, mezzotint and tessellation.

6. Admire Masterpieces at Gemeentemuseum

All over The Hague are dedications to the Dutch artist Piet Mondrian. Most famous for his blue, red, and yellow motifs with vertical and horizontal line, the Gemeentemuseum is well-known for it’s collection of Mondrian’s work

One of the most famous is his last and unfinished piece de resistance named “Victory Boogie Woogie” which was purchased for a cool 35 million euros.

The permanent collection contains modern art, fashion, music, decorative arts, a print room with about 50,000 drawings, and prints and posters.

Head to the top the museum where each of the five large rooms each represents a different art period.

7. See the ‘Girl with the Pearl Earring’ at Mauritshuis

You can’t visit The Hague without seeing Vermeer’s ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’. But she isn’t the only draw card to this impressive museum.

Mauritshuis showcases Dutch and Flemish paintings from 1400 to 1800, with works by painters such as Vermeer, Rembrandt, Rubens, Jan Steen, Frans Hals, Van Dyck and Adriaen Coorte.

Located in an elegant 17th-century residence other notable works include Rembrandt’s ‘Anatomy Lesson’, Vermeer’s ‘View of Delft’, Jacob van Ruisdael’s ‘View of Haarlem’ and Rogier van der Weyden’s ‘Lamentation’.

8. See the world’s largest circular painting at Panorama Mesdag

If you love your art and seek a truly unique experience, head to Panorama Mesdag for the largest circular painting in the world.

I’ve never seen anything like it and no photo can do this place justice, you just have to see it for yourself. It’s incredible!

Housed in a specially made rotunda, Panorama Mesdag is a gigantic painting measuring 120 meters in length and 14 meters in height. HW Mesdag, and other artists of the Hague School painted this epic scene depicting the coastal town of Scheveningen as it was around 1880.

To bring the painting to life are real sand dunes, the sound of the waves lapping, and the smell of sea air wafting throughout the space. Don’t ask me how.  It feel s like you’ve stepped back in time.

9. Wander around the Netherlands’ most famous buildings at Madurodam

The kid in me wanted so desperately to visit Madurodam, but alas I ran out of time. On display here is an 1:25 scale miniature of a fictional Dutch city and replicas of the Netherlands’ most famous buildings.

By visiting Madurodam you’ll also be doing a service to the community as the entirety of net proceeds from the park go towards various charities in the Netherlands.

Book your guided tour here 

Where to Relax and Have and Adventure in The Hague

10. relax at the beach in scheveningen.

Perhaps the main tourist attraction in Scheveningen is the Kurhaus. This Art Nouveau style structure (now protected as a national monument) was built in 1885 and houses a first-rate hotel, an art gallery, elegant promenades, and the impressive Kurzaal, a huge glass domed.

What to See in The Hague’s Historical Centre

11. explore the beautiful binnenhof complex.

The centrepiece of The Hague is Binnenhof, meaning ‘Inner Court’. This beautiful complex of buildings in sits opposite the picturesque Hofvijver lake, meaning ‘Court Pond’. This is a wonderful place to sit back and watch the world go by.

Originally this 13th- century Gothic castle functioned as a residence for the counts of Holland, then in 1584 became the political centre of the Dutch Republic. Today, it houses both chambers of Parliament and is the oldest House of Parliament in the world still in use.

Located in the centre of Binnenhof in its large central courtyard is the exquisite Ridderzaal, or Knights’ Hall. This large Gothic hall is still used for state receptions and the opening of parliament each September. In the North Wing is the chamber and official residence of the Prime Minister.

12. See an official Dutch Residence at Palace Noordeinde

As one of the three official palaces of the Dutch royal family, Noordeinde Palace is modest in size and location. Situated near a popular shopping mall, it has been a “working palace” for King Willem-Alexander since 2013.

Fo r a quiet oasis, visit its romantic gardens with flower beds, fountains, hedgerows and ponds lies . It’s from the Palace Gardens that the Palace is best enjoyed as it offers a great view of the Royal Stables.

On warm days, this is a great picnic spot.

13. Be blown away by the decor at The Peace Palace

The Hague is the ‘International City of Peace and Justice’ and the cornerstone of this is the famous Peace Palace or Vredespaleis. This imposing brick building is an international law administrative building which houses the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the Hague Academy of International Law and the Peace Palace Library. Bit of a mouthful, hey?

Not only that but it has an equally impressive interior. This was another place I missed out on seeing properly. Doh! Going inside the Peace Palace is only available on weekends and as part of a guided tour which must be booked in advance. Alternatively, you can head to the Visitors Centre near the entrance. Just let me say that the rich interior décor of this Gothic and Neoclassical style building brings together the crème de la crème. Its marble comes from Italy , wood panelling from Brazil and the USA , and its ornamental iron railings from Germany .

Guided tours must be booked via their website. 

14. Stroll along Lange Voorhout

Opposite Escher in Het Paleis are the lush tree-lined roads of Lange Voorhout. In the Middle Ages, the Lange Voorhout was bordered by several farms but by the 14th and 15th centuries houses were built in this area when the Counts of Holland modernised the governance of the county with new administrative divisions. This area soon became the neighborhood where courtiers and later statesmen came to live.

15. Step back in time at The Prison Gate Museum

On the north side of the Binnenhof stands the Prison Gate or Gevangenpoort. This well-preserved structure was built in 1296 as a gatehouse then was converted into a prison in the 15th century.

It was here that brothers Cornelis and Johan de Witt, accused of an attempt on the life of Prince William III, were murdered in 1672 (a monument to them stands in the nearby courtyard).

The old prison and torture chambers have been open to the public since the 1880s and include a large collection of paintings, prints, and relics – as well as some rather gruesome torture devices.

Where to Shop in The Hague

16. visit the hague market.

The Hague Market or ‘De Haagse Markt’, is one of the largest multicultural markets in Europe. Looking for something? You’ll probably find it here amongst its extensive range of exotic products.

Open four days a week, the market is visited by approximately 35,000 people. While The Hague Market is primarily known for its large range of exotic products it also has some of the best from fresh produce including vegetables, fruit, fish and meat to herbs plus women’s, men’s and children’s clothing and electronics.

17. Shop in Style at De Haagse Passage

Fancy something more elegant? Step inside The Hague’s famous shopping arcade De Passage. Beneath the glass atria and chiselled façades are classy boutique stores, bustling food and drink establishments, and even a hotel. This place is stunningly beautiful.

This arcade was built by local dignitaries between 1882 and 1885 for the express purpose of ‘high-class shopping’ in imitation of Paris. Today, it is the Netherlands’ oldest shopping arcade and has official UNESCO monument status.

Where to Stay in The Hague

Best Accommodation in The Hague for Sightseeing

In The Hague, most of the main attractions and architectural landmarks lie between the city centre and the sea so it makes sense to base yourself here if you’re visiting for the first time.

Hotels tend to cluster around the Binnenhof, where you’ll also find the Ridderzaal (Knights’ Hall) and Prison Gate Museum. Other attractions, such as the Mauritshuis and the Escher Museum, are within walking distance from here, and the beach resort of Scheveningen is just a 10-15 minute tram ride away.

Hotel Boutique Hotel Corona

During my three days in The Hague, I stayed at the 4-star boutique establishment, Hotel Boutique Hotel Corona . The hotel itself is just across the road from De Passage and Binnenhof. From my room, I had a wonderful view overlooking the lively Buitenhof square.

It was the size of my room and bathroom that made this hotel memorable. Can you get beds larger than king size? Because my bed could easily fit four people! The bathroom had two sinks, a huge shower not to mention the epic six-seater spa tub. The breakfast buffet was included and the lovely chef even made my pancakes with local ingredients. Check rates and availability of Hotel Boutique Hotel Corona here .

Getting to The Hague

I flew with KLM who offer direct flights to Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport from both Heathrow and City Airport; conveniently covering those in both the west and east of London. For the first time ever I flew out from London City Airport. The best thing about small airports is that you don’t have to arrive too early to get through all the checkpoints. From the time I arrived at the airport to getting to my gate, it took a whole fifteen minutes! I’ve never had a less stressful airport experience.

From Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport it was a quick 30-minute taxi ride to the hotel. Alternatively,  book your transfer here. Easy!

Got more time? Take a day trip from The Hague

• Visit Rotterdam! – Get my full Rotterdam city guide here
• Visit the famous tulips at Keukenhof Garden and Flowerfields 
• Duivenvoorde Castle –  Just 15 kilometers northeast of The Hague is the small town of Voorschoten with its delightful Duivenvoorde Castle (Kasteel Duivenvoorde), a medieval fortress restored in 1631. The original decoration and furnishings have been preserved, including family portraits, Delftware, a large collection of Chinese and European porcelain, and numerous items of silver.
• Old Town Gouda and the Grote Kerk of Sint Janskerk –   Visit Gouda for its cheese, stay for its gorgeous historic town, 33 kilometres east of The Hague. Visit one of the most attractive town halls in the country, build in the 15th century, it’s famous for looking more like a place of worship than of government.

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Great article. With Den Haag (The Hague) it is the same as with Los Angeles .. It’s real name is of course “El Pueblo de Nuestra Señora la Reina de los Ángeles del Río de Porciúncula,” (“The Town of Our Lady the Queen of the Angels on of the River Porciúncula”) The Hague of the Count…. (The Counts Hague (‘s Gravenhage).

In your article you forgot the canaltours.. There are several nice organisations on the Canals Willemsvaart brings you to the Beach from the city center, others do tours in the City or to Delft The Hague Boat, Bootvaren, Salonboot Den Haag, Rondvaartbootje or Oranje Boot.

And don’t forget the many parks in and around the city. The Royal Gardens, the Forest of The Hague, the Forest of Scheveningen, Westbroekpark (behind Madurodam). Nice during all 4 seasons.

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18+ Unmissable Things to do in the Hague, Holland

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Amazing architecture, beautiful beaches and loads of independent restaurants and shops, this is the ultimate list of things to do in the Hague!

Surprising. That’s just one way to describe the Hague. And when I say surprising I mean that in a good way, a very very good way. There is just so many amazing things to do in the Hague!

When I posted pictures of the Hague on Facebook and Instagram, almost everyone said the same thing – “wow, I did not expect the Hague to look like that!” Well it really does.

  A post shared by Macca Sherifi (@anadventurousworld) on Jul 4, 2018 at 11:24am PDT

The thing is, the Hague is almost like two completely different places in one – you’ve got the beach and you’ve got the city. The means you can have two types of holiday, a beach break and a city break.

Everyone is always surprised that the Netherlands has such a beautiful beach, but it really does. Golden sand for as far as the eye can see that stretches on and on. In fact, this is one of the best places in the world for kite surfing and sand boarding.

Also, there are so many bars and clubs along the beach offering everything from bbqs to sunset cocktails. This really is a proper beach holiday destination. I might even throw this one out there – the sunsets were some of the best I’ve seen in such a long time.

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam , then make sure you check out my guides on the best things to do in Amsterdam , where to stay in Amsterdam and what to eat while you’re in the city.

What to do in the Hague

As for the city itself, the Hague is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. And with buildings like the Peace Palace and Parliament, it is one of the most beautiful too. And that’s before we mention the other Hague attractions.

Also, the Hague has pretty much shunned chain restaurants and shops. There is a real emphasis on independent boutiques meaning if you’re a foodie or a shopaholic then you’ll just love it here. There is a real sense of a local feel which makes it much more welcoming than Amsterdam .

If you’re wondering what to do in the city, here are some of my favourite things to do in the Hague. I really hope you enjoy this place as much as I did!

If you really want to get to know the Hague then I’d recommend a private tour with a local . Then you get to see everything this city has to offer from a local’s perspective!

Fun Things to do in the Hague, Netherlands

1. wander around all the buildings at parliament.

One of the most famous complex of buildings in the Hague is the Binnehof . This is the home of Dutch Parliament and the building is completely open to the public.

There are two main buildings at Parliament. One is modern and covered by glass everywhere (this is to represent that the Dutch parliament are completely transparent with everything they do). The other building is the ornate old castle that dates back to the 15 th century.

Parliamentary members are always walking around here in a busy rush and I think it’s cool that you can see them go about their daily business. This is a great place to kick off your Hague itinerary!

2. Marvel at the beauty of the Peace Palace

Another building I love in the Hague is the Peace Palace . This is the International Court of Justice, and even though it looks like another old castle it is a working building. It was definitely one of my favourite photo spots in the city.

The only way you can access the International Court is on a guided tour. A guide will tell you about the building and about the institutions housed in it. A tour through the Great and Small Hall of Justice, the corridors and the Japanese Room will give you an impression of the most beautiful rooms of the Palace.

Tickets cost €11 per person are the guided tours are in Dutch, German and in English. The tour takes around 45 minutes.

3. Immerse yourself in the mind of Escher at the Escher Museum

The Escher Museum is home to the works of Maurits Cornelis Escher, a Dutch graphic artist who made mathematically inspired art. Even in today’s modern society Escher’s drawings are mind-boggling. If you want an insight into Escher’s mind, then the Escher Museum is an absolute must.

Based over three floors, the Escher Museum houses some of his most famous works such as ‘Drawing Hands’ and ‘Ascending and Descending’. I found it really fascinating learning where Escher got his inspiration from and how he came up with some of his designs. Pretty trippy I can tell you that – what a mind!

Here is an example of his art:

In my opinion, this is without a doubt one of the most fun things to do in the Hague.

Tickets to the Escher Museum in Het Paleis cost £9 per person.

4. Act like a big kid at Madurodam

Madurodam is a model village right in the heart of the Hague and it is a celebration of all things Dutch.

If you’ve got little ones they will absolutely love it here – not only do you get to learn more about the Netherlands it is really interactive too. Even big kids like me can have fun here! There’s a reason why this is one of the top attractions in the Hague.

Tickets to Madurodam cost £16 per person – I really recommend this activity!

5. Eat crockets and bitterballen

I can’t leave the Netherlands without having crockets and bitterballen – they are my favourite snack here. For those of you who don’t know, they are mashed potato stuffed with meat like pancetta and then deep fried. They are absolutely perfect as an afternoon snack with a beer to hand.

While in the Hague I tried out a few places and my favourite were from Walter Benedict . This is a cute café/restaurant near to the Escher Museum and perfect for lunch. Give it a go and you won’t regret it.

6. Walk down the palisade at Haagsche Passage

This looks like somewhere in Italy, doesn’t it!? Europe’s famous palisades were first built in Belgium and the Netherlands before moving onto Italy. Even though this palisade is quite small, there are still a few lovely shops along here and it is like stepping back to a forgotten era.

If you’re a shopaholic then this is one of the best places to visit in the Hague. Oh, and a top tip for you. Some of the chocolate shops here are to die for.

7. Get lost in the Hague’s side streets

The centre of the city is completely pedestrianised so it’s easy walking around browsing at all the independent shops and cafes. One of the best things you can do in the Hague is just have a wander around and see where it takes you! I really recommend stopping into a few shops or cafes to get a real feel for the place too.

8. Grab a bite to eat at Jamey Bennett

A restaurant that came very highly recommend to us was Jamey Bennett . This is a tapas/small plate style restaurant and it didn’t disappoint.

We ate our way through the menu but the scallops with a mango salsa and burnt butter sauce were just delicious. Also, the wine was spot on. We arrived just as the sun was setting so sat outside and watched the world go by.

9. Check out the Sculpture by the Sea Museum

When it comes to what to do in the Hague there are plenty of galleries and museums to choose from. Very close to Scheveningen is the Sculpture by the Sea museum.

This is home to some very alternative and avant garde sculptures all with the sea in the background. There’s a really nice café here too. If you’re looking for another fantastic museum then I also recommend Gemeentemuseum Den Haag!

10. Hit the beach at Scheveningen

If you’re in the Hague for a few days then I’d definitely recommend spending a day at the beach. As I’ve already said, the beach is just gorgeous, definitely one of the best in Europe.

There are two main beaches here – Scheveningen and Kijkduin. Scheveningen is much more popular with loads of beach clubs to choose from and other activities too. If you’re looking for some fun things to do in the Hague then head to the pier at hit those arcades!

11. Ride the ferris wheel at Scheveningen Pier

At the end of Scheveningen Pier is a big ferris wheel . Tickets cost €9 and you really do get some of the best views of the beach from the top of the wheel. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, next to the ferris wheel is a little bungee jump and zipline tower. I’m not going to lie, both looked so much fun and I wish I gave it a go!

12. Stay in the cutest beach houses you’ll ever find

How cute are these beach houses!? We stayed in Haagse Strandhuisjes at Kijkduin beach, a little south of the Hague. These beach houses are completely kitted out with two bedrooms (one double and one with bunkbeds), a bathroom and a fully fitted kitchen. In my eyes waking up and being right on the beach is what holidays are all about!

I genuinely loved stay here and it was the perfect spot for me. As I’ve already said, you can have two types of holidays in Hague. For me, being so close to the beach was amazing. Then, when we wanted something to eat, we hit the beach bars or headed into the city centre. Just perfect.

13. Watch incredible sunset after incredible sunset

I always have these belief that there’s no such thing as a bad sunset – even if there’s cloud cover it can still look magical. However, the sunsets at the Hague were just next level. We had two in a row where there wasn’t a single cloud in the sky and watching the sunset from our beach house was one of my favourite moments while in the Hague.

14. Take home some delicious Dutch cheese

Sometimes it’s the simple things that make a tourist attraction in the Hague. Like cheese!

Edam, emmental, gouda – the Dutch certainly know how to make cheese. There are loads of little cheese shops all over the city but if you want some of the best cheeses then head to the market just outside Parliament. Just don’t forget to taste test! I picked up a wedge of gouda that very nearly didn’t make it home it was that delicious.

15. Immerse yourself in the amazing architecture in the Hague

It doesn’t matter where you are in the Hague, you’re never far from a beautiful building. I really enjoy architecture so one of the best things you can do in the Hague is immerse yourself in the colourful and unique buildings here. For example, the H&M is in an old 1800s shop – all very grand!

16. Take a peek inside the Grand Hotel at Scheveningen

The Grand Hotel at Scheveningen is one of the oldest hotels in the Netherlands. And as the name would suggest, it is one of the most impressive too. The Grand Hotel looks like it’s out of the Great Gatsby and it is somewhat of an institution at the Hague.

Even though it is very expensive to stay here, it is worth popping inside and having a sneak peek of how beautiful it is. When it comes to what to do in the Hague, I’d say popping for head into this place is a must.

17. Have a couple of cocktails at Bleyenberg

If you’re looking for one of the best cocktail bars in the city then head on up to Bleyenberg . Up on the 7 th floor you’ll have some lovely views of the city below and the cocktails are quality too – make sure you try their limoncello spritz for something a little different! What better place to finish up your amazing weekend in the Hague!

18. Visit the Prison Gate Museum

The Prisoner’s Gate ( Gevangenpoort ) is a former medieval prison on the Buitenhof. As the Hague has been the political heart of the Netherlands for centuries, this is where they locked up all the political prisoners. Between 1428 and 1828, the gatehouse was a prison to many famous regents.

If you visit the Prison Gate Museum you’ll hear all about the political conspiracies and the punishments of prisoners. It can be pretty gruesome at times but that’s history for you.

You can take a guided tour here but unfortunately tours in English are only held on Sundays

This post was in association with This Is The Hague promoting some of the best things to do in the Hague during the summer! As always, views are entirely my own and without bias.

Are you planning a trip to the Hague? If so, what are you looking forward to doing there? Let me know in the comments below!

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About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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4 thoughts on “18+ Unmissable Things to do in the Hague, Holland”

I was in the Netherlands a few years ago. Now I read your page and fall in love with this country again. I will definitely go there again someday. Maybe next year?

That’s great to hear! The Netherlands is such a fantastic place to visit that’s for sure!

Looks a fabulous area of Holland to explore! Particularly like the architecture of The Hague!

Yes! There’s so much to do in such a tiny place. I was really surprised you could have a city break and a beach holiday all in one place!

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20 Must-Visit Attractions in the Hague, the Netherlands

The Hague is the third-largest city in the Netherlands and has acted as the country’s political capital for centuries. Over the past 100 years many international organisations have settled in the Hague and the city has developed deep ties with the United Nations. Although these political factors are certainly important, there’s significantly more to the Hague than governance and the city features many fascinating attractions that will appeal tourists, travellers and day trippers.

1. mauritshuis.

2. Binnenhof

Historical Landmark

3. Madurodam

Amusement Park

This sprawling miniature theme park features thousands of tiny replicas of famous Dutch landmarks such as the Binnenhof, Dam Square and the Dom Tower . The sheer number of miniatures at Madurodam is truly remarkable and everything inside the park has been painstakingly realised in order to capture the essence of Dutch architecture.

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5. Escher in the Palace

Art Gallery, Museum

6. SkyView Pier

Architectural Landmark

7. Huis ten Bosch

Many famous figures have lived inside Huis ten Bosch over the past 400 years and the palace is currently owned by the Dutch Royal Family. According to official sources, King Willem-Alexander and his family will relocate to the palace sometime in the near future and make it their formal residence.

8. The Peace Palace

The Hague’s Peace Palace has housed the International Court of Justice and several other important legal organisations since the early-20th century. Guided tours are available around the palace on certain days and there is a permanent visitor centre onsite.

9. Panorama Mesdag

10. Bungy Scheveningen

Sports Center

This hair-raising attraction is located on top of the spiralling tower at the head of Scheveningen pleasure pier. At Bungy Scheveningen, adrenaline junkies are invited plunge from a 60m (197ft) platform and then bounce candidly over the Hague’s coastline.

11. Gemeentemuseum

12. scheveningen beach.

Chilling out on Scheveningen Beach is a staple of Dutch summertime and legions of day trippers flock to this coastal resort during sunny spells. The beach is around five kilometres (3.1mi) aways from the Hague’s city centre and easily accessible via tram or bike.

13. Mesdag Collection

14. Kijkduin

Although Kijkduin is slightly overshadowed by Scheveningin, there are many reasons to visit this smaller seaside resort. Its natural dune landscapes, for example, are absolutely stunning and offer unrivalled views across the Netherland’s western coastline.

15. Haagse Bos

Natural Feature

Haagse Bos is among the oldest surviving forests in the Netherlands covering a rectangular parcel of land that trails from the Hague’s centre to a small town called Wassenaar. The forest has always played an important role within the Hague’s history and provided timber for the Binnenhof’s walls during the palace’s early years.

16. Museum Beelden aan Zee

17. Clingendael

The gardens around Clingendae l manor are renowned for their stunning natural beauty and have been open to the public since the mid-20th century. This marvellous estate contains a painstakingly designed Japanese garden that features many authentic Japanese items and many rare and exotic plants.

18. Sea Life Scheveningen

19. kinderboekenmuseum, 20. museum de gevangepoort.

The stone keep near the Binnenhof in the Hague incarcerated serious criminals for over four centuries and has held several famous figures from Dutch history. Today, this medieval building contains an educational, family-friendly museum that retraces the history of crime and punishment in the Netherlands.

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Places to Stay

The best hotels in the hague for every traveller.

See & Do

The best museums in the hague, netherlands.

Bars & Cafes

The best cafés in the hague, the netherlands.

An Insider’s Guide to the Best Bars in The Hague

The Best Contemporary Art Galleries in The Hague

Restaurants

An expert’s guide to the best restaurants in the hague.

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What to do in the Hague: A resident’s guide of unique 30+ things to do in the Hague

July 23, 2023 by Karen Turner 25 Comments

I live in the Hague.  Although I’m always telling people about how fantastic the Hague is, I’m hoping that this guide to the Hague will inspire people to take the day trip from Amsterdam to the Hague to experience a bit of what makes it so unique.  It’s a beautiful and a bit of a strange city.  Keep reading for tips on what to do in the Hague with 30+ unique things to do in the Hague to inspire you to explore the Hague.

Disclaimer: I live in the Hague and I’ve tried to give a decent overview of what to do in the Hague as it’s a lovely city!   Most of these activities I’ve visited and researched independently, but This is the Hague (who I collaborated with) helped set up a tour of the Peace Palace and provided complimentary entrance to the Madurodam.

Although most people go crazy for Amsterdam or Rotterdam, the Hague is a beautiful and slightly quirky city.  Often overlooked in favor of other Dutch cities and considered “boring” according to my Dutch friends, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by how many things to do in the Hague there truly are.  It’s a beautiful and quirky city where ideas become reality without pause. 

Although most people stick to the standard things to do in the Hague, this city has a lot more activities to offer, so I really hope this guide to the Hague with a local’s insight on what to do in the Hague inspires you to get a bit off the beaten path in the Hague.  I really think that one day in the Hague isn’t enough and I’d consider two days to be the sweet spot.  

I think the Hague is a great (and affordable) base for exploring the Netherlands as Delft is only fifteen minutes away, Amsterdam is forty minutes away, and Schiphol is thirty minutes away.  Most of my friends who experience this other side of the Hague beyond the “boring” government side quickly understand why I’ve made this city my home after living in Amsterdam.  I wrote this guide as I was tired of seeing guides that covered the main attractions glossing over the bits that make this city special.

I’ve grouped what to do in the Hague by area of the city.  The Hague is pretty walkable within the city center, but it might be easier to take public transit between the center and Scheveningen, the beach resort by the Hague. For more tips (for couples!), you can click for romantic things to do in the Hague.

The Hague is the only major city in the Netherlands with a beach, so be sure to take a bus twenty minutes to enjoy the water (and the wind) in Scheveningen. I’ve not included Scheveningen as the city center of the Hague (and surrounding areas). Click for my guide to Scheveningen!

• 1 Things to do in the Hague:
• 2.1 Go shopping in Noordeinde
• 2.2 Admire the King’s working Palace (Noordeinde Paleis)
• 2.3 Sample drinks at Van Kleef Distillery
• 2.4 Admire and climb the Grote Kerk
• 2.5 Get a drink in Grote Markt or Plein
• 2.6 Buy beer from the Kloosterbrouwerij Haagsche Broeder
• 2.7 Play Board Games All Night
• 2.8 Explore the hofjes of the Hague
• 2.9 Admire the Dutch masters & see “The Girl with the Pearl Earring at the Mauritshuis”
• 2.10 Admire Escher’s art at Escher in Het Paleis
• 2.11 See the gorgeous Binnenhof
• 2.12 Explore the UNESCO-recognized Passage
• 2.13 Sip coffee at one of the Hague’s many cafes
• 2.14 Walk along the Lange Voorhout street
• 2.15 Antique shops along Denneweg
• 2.16 Have a beer along Bierkade
• 2.17 Eat Indonesian food
• 2.18 Drink bubble tea or eat dim sum/Chinese pastries in Chinatown
• 3.1 Jump at the Trampoline Church (Planet Jump)
• 3.2 Cycle past the embassies in the Hague
• 3.3 View or Tour the Peace Palace
• 3.4 Buy food and have lunch at the Haagse Markt
• 3.5 Museum Voorlinden
• 3.6 Museum Meermanno
• 3.7 Madurodam: The world’s most cheerful war memorial
• 3.8 Panorama Mesdag
• 3.9 Explore the secondhand shops of the modern Zeeheldenkwartier
• 3.10 Go skiing or snowboarding year-round
• 3.11 Go ice climbing year-round
• 3.12 Admire the windmills in Voorburg & Leidschendam
• 4 Top Tours to Experience The Hague Like a Local
• 5 How to get around the Hague
• 6 Map of the Hague

Things to do in the Hague:

• Go shopping and browse books/art in Noordeinde
• Admire the King’s working palace

Sample drinks at Van Kleef Distillery

• Climb the Grote Kerk
• Get a drink in Grote Markt

Buy beer from the Kloosterbrouwerij Haagsche Broeder

• Play Board Games all night!

Explore the hofjes of the Hague

• See the girl with the pearl earring at the Mauritshuis
• Admire Escher’s art at Escher in Het Palais

See the gorgeous Binnenhof

• Explore the Passage

Sip coffee at one of the Hague’s many cafes

Walk along the lange voorhout street.

• Antique shops on canal street

Have a beer along Bierkade

Eat indonesian food, drink bubble tea or eat dim sum/chinese pastries in chinatown.

• Go jumping at the Trampoline church
• Admire the embassies in the Statenkwartier
• Tour the Peace Palace

Buy food and have lunch at the Haagse Markt

Museum voorlinden, museum meermanno.

• Take street-level photos or pretend to be a giant at Madurodam
• Enjoy the Panorama Mesdag
• Explore the second-hand shops of the modern Zeeheldenkwartier
• Go skiing indoors year-round.

Go ice climbing year-round

• Admire the windmills in Voorburg/Leidschendam or the historic cute village of Leidschendam

What to do in the historic city center of the Hague

Only a fifteen-minute walk from the main train stations, the Hague has a beautiful pedestrian-friendly historic center. Although most people power through the city center of the Hague without enjoying the things that truly make this city special, namely its diversity and its history, the Hague has a lot of things to do!

Go shopping in Noordeinde

Often considered the most beautiful street in the Hague, Noordeinde houses many historic buildings with stunning Art Deco touches and some of the best independent shopping in the Hague.  I especially recommend browsing the Noordeinde area for beautiful Dutch clothing, books (at the Bookstore), and a nice bottle of wine.  Be sure to step into the Bookstore for a vegan-friendly drink and for a new (or used) book.

Wine lovers need to stop in at de Filosoof .  This wine store filled with exotic wines from around the world has one of the cutest and fluffiest cats that I’ve ever seen.   Its name is Socrates and it even has its own gin named after it.  Be sure to give Socrates a pet while buying a wine from Georgia or Armenia!

Admire the King’s working Palace (Noordeinde Paleis)

Although it shocks many people, the King of the Netherlands goes to work most days in the city center of the Hague within the Noordeinde Palace.  Anyone walking down the street can admire the palace although you’ll know if the King is in if the flag is raised.

The palace has two sides, including a lush garden where you can have a picnic.  I particularly love the semi-secret passage connecting garden with the rest of Noordeinde.  ( More about this secret passage soon!)

Van Kleef is a jenever distillery that has been in the same location since 1842 and it’s the last remaining jenever producer in the Hague.  Specializing in jenever as well as bitters, Van Kleef is half museum, half tasting room, so if you’ve read my guide to Dutch alcohol , you’ll want to come in here for a tasting. 

I really recommend trying out the Kruìde Baggâh, a traditional Dutch herbal.  It’s typical for a Beerenberg-style drink, but it’s very different if you’re not used to this distinct style of Dutch drinks.  It’s fun to stop here for a tasting with friends.

Admire and climb the Grote Kerk

The large cathedral of the Hague is one of the main landmarks of the city and anyone seeking out a unique view of the Hague will want to climb for epic views of the city (although keep reading for an alternative).  At minimum, enjoy the beautiful square surrounding the church. 

This P rotestant church is one of the oldest buildings in the Hague dating back to the 13th century.  There are often organ concerts held in the church, so check ahead for events!

Get a drink in Grote Markt or Plein

Grote Markt and Plein are the two main squares of the Hague. One of the things that I love about the Hague is that the city center really belongs to the people of the Hague, unlike Amsterdam.  Although it gets quite crowded in both areas on Saturday nights, be sure to step into the various bars for local beer, live music, and some great cocktails.

Plein is the other major square with lots of chic bars and restaurants, perfect for a nice drink outside on a nice day.  I particularly love the Ministry of Justice building around the corner and on a nice day, I love walking through Plein.  There’s quite a few cute shops down the street as well.

Most people associate Cloister beer with the Trappist orders in Belgium, however the Hague has their own Cloister brewery.  Although they only recently started in 2006 after one of the brothers started beer brewing as a hobby.  Since then, the brothers have produced a small number of beers that you can buy from the brothers themselves. 

The selection varies, but there’s something really magical about stepping into the cloister shop to browse the various food/drinks from different cloisters around Europe.  I particularly enjoyed their slightly sour Prior while my husband loved their darker Postulant , closer to a triple. There is now a namesake bar along Noordeinde where you can sample the Haagse Broeder beers!

Play Board Games All Night

I recently discovered the Spellenhuis , which is a sprawling three-story board game store and cafe in the city center. I recommend reserving a table ahead for larger groups on weekends, but it is a lovely place to spend the evenings playing from their gigantic board game library. You need to pay a fee to access the library, but the cafe serves handmade pizzas, beer, coffee, and soft drinks. It is appropriate for all ages and they even stock games suited for two people. The games are a nice mix of party and more serious games with something for everyone. I recently went with a group who all loved it.

Like many cities in the Netherlands, the Hague has hofjes.  Hofjes are historic buildings used for housing the poor that were financed typically by private financiers.  There were typically stipulations about who could live there, often the elderly and/or single women of a certain faith.  The hofjes in the Hague tend to be smaller and harder to access compared to other cities in the Netherlands.  However, there are some stunning hofjes and it always amazes friends to enter these courtyards.  Most are on private property, so you really must be careful about being respectful of the residents of the hofje.  My favorite is  ‘t Hooftshofje if you’re lucky enough to get inside.

Admire the Dutch masters & see “The Girl with the Pearl Earring at the Mauritshuis”

Art lovers often are surprised to learn that the Girl with the Pearl Earring and the Goldfinch are housed in the Hague rather than Amsterdam.  The Mauritshuis is a stunning museum full of Dutch masters with many Rembrandt and Vermeer paintings. Be prepared to spend at least a few hours here. 

Both famous paintings sometimes go on tour around the world, so check to see if both paintings will be in the Hague before you’re disappointed (like my mother-in-law was) if you really want see the Goldfinch or the Girl with the Pearl Earring.

Admire Escher’s art at Escher in Het Paleis

Even if you’re not into traditional art, the Escher museum has a lot to offer.  With some of Escher’s most famous works and some fun interactive displays, Escher in het Paleis is perfect for a short afternoon in the Hague to appreciate modern art.  

Even if you’re not an Escher superfan, the museum is housed in the stunning former palace of Queen Wilhelmina with some unique modern chandeliers that make each room a surprise.   Escher in Het Palais is one of my husband’s favorite museums in the Netherlands and I’ve been countless times.  For those of you with math-loving family members, they’ll be transfixed by Escher’s brilliance.

Dutch parliament is housed in the Binnenhof.  This iconic building in the Hague is the oldest continuously used parliament building in the world and it is a stunning feature, especially from across the pond.  The Hague was historically the capital of the Netherlands, however after the capital of the Netherlands was moved to Amsterdam, the government buildings mostly remain in the Hague. 

The building itself dates back to the 13th century although various parts of it have been built at various points in history.  I particularly enjoy walking (or biking) through the middle of the Binnenhof although the best views are from across the pond on the exterior.   The island in the middle of the pond was used for executions to ensure that people could watch.

Explore the UNESCO-recognized Passage

The Passage is the UNESCO-recognized monument in the Hague.  Although people usually think first of the covered passages of Paris or Milan, the Hague’s Passage [there’s just one remaining at this point] has some distinct architectural features, specifically a domed roof.  It’s just lovely to walk through the Passage although I love to stop off at Hop&Stork for a coffee and a chocolate.

The Dutch are responsible for our coffee addiction and the first ever coffee shop in the Netherlands was actually in the Hague in the early 1700s.  Since then, coffee has become an integral part of Dutch culture and you’ll find numerous cozy (and beautiful) cafes in the Hague.

Click for my insider’s guide to coffee shops in the Hague .

The Lange Voorhout was historically the street where noble families built their town castles in the middle ages, however wagons were not allowed to pass beyond the street.  The Golden Age cemented the prominence of the Lange Voorhout for the home of the Hague’s richest members. 

The L-shaped street was a favorite of rich nobles and foreigners who would wave from their carriages while parading up-and-down the street.  In spring, you’ll find lots of beautiful flowers springing up.

In December, you’ll find the Royal Christmas Fair here.  Although the Netherlands doesn’t have famous Christmas market like the Christmas markets in Germany, the Royal Christmas market , which runs for about a week in December, is gezellig ( cozy ) and intimate, especially with a cup of gluhwein in hand.  

Last year, I found most of my Christmas gifts here, including a handmade pilot’s cap made of reindeer leather ,.   In good weather, it’s just enjoyable to bike along this street.

Antique shops along Denneweg

One of the cutest areas of the Hague is Denneweg, one of the oldest streets in the Hague.  Although it was historically known for antique shops (you’ll still find plenty here), it’s turned into an oasis for chic restaurants and shops.  To experience the more upscale side of the Hague, fitting with its royal roots, step into any of the cozy  Bouzy, Wine & Food or wander along the houses along Hooikade. Look for the cat knocker. 😉

The name might tip you off to the face that beer in the Hague was historically made along this cozy canal. Although Bierkade is now a sleepy street along a canal near the city center , you’ll still find a few cafes, however de Paas is the cafe to visit for beer.

This brown bar has an amazing atmosphere and a great selection of local beers.  The canal itself is lovely to walk along and it’s possible to sit on a boat in the canal enjoying your beer in summer.

Due to the historical role of the Hague as the capital of the Netherlands, the Dutch East Indies Company often made trips to the Hague from Indonesia, a former Dutch colony.  As a result, you’ll find one of the largest Indonesian populations outside of Indonesia here in the Netherlands.  The Hague has many great Indonesian restaurants although I personally prefer the more informal  Warung Bude Kati . 

I recently brought an Indonesian friend to this casual yet chill restaurant run by a mother and son.  There are certainly “fancier” Indonesian restaurants in the Hague, but Warung Bude Kadi is one of the most authentic Indonesian restaurants in the Hague with great prices, good (but slow) service, and massive portions.  Don’t get too ambitious as one main is a day’s worth of food. (The rijsttafel is a bonafide feast.)

The Hague has the largest Chinatown in the Netherlands and you can find some delicious Chinese pastries here.  Although most people are often surprised to learn that we have a large Chinatown, it’s hard to miss it as you walk from Den Haag HS towards the city center. 

I like Kaa Lun Palace   for dim sum. For pastries, I like  St. Anny Tea House . For bubble tea, you have lots of options. I like T&C, a new Taiwanese cafe for their bubble tea.

Staying in individual rental accommodations through platforms like Huurportaal can provide a more immersive and authentic experience for travelers. Living in a local neighborhood allows travelers to experience daily life as a resident rather than a tourist. They can explore local markets, interact with neighbors, and get a better understanding of the cultural nuances of The Hague.

Things to do in the Hague and surrounding areas

I realize that it’s a bit weird not to include Scheveningen as part of this post, but I’ll have more about Scheveningen soon .  I do include a few things to do around the Hague in the nearby villages that you might not know about otherwise.

Jump at the Trampoline Church (Planet Jump)

In the Statenkwartier, you’ll find Planet Jump, a former church filled with trampolines.  Although the Netherlands used to be quite religious, a lot of churches have been repurposed as they’ve gone out of business.  This one now is a trampoline gym because…. why not? 

I cycled past this church almost a million times, however, I had no idea for months until I was looking something up on the Hague.  Something that I love about the Hague is how unapologetically quirky it is as a trampoline church would gain cult status in most other cities.

Cycle past the embassies in the Hague

It’s funny: It took me nearly six months of living in the Hague to finally experience this unique urban farm.  The founders created this sustainable rooftop farm to reduce the distance that food travels before it reaches your plate.  Here, you’ll find organic fish (tilapia) farmed with no pesticides as well as organic vegetables grown to perfection.  There’s also a cozy bar with events with a fantastic view of the city, so be sure to check to see when the next urban farmers market in the Hague.

View or Tour the Peace Palace

Seeing the Peace Palace is one of the best things to do in the Hague although most normal visitors won’t be able to take a tour as the building is typically closed when the court is in session.  However, clever visitors can go observe the hearings (in French or English) as observers if you get there early on a court day. 

It’s not a guarantee that you’ll get in, but it’s a great way to see the Peace Palace in action. Keep in mind that the sessions here are arbitrating country-level court cases, rather than criminal cases .  ( Criminal cases are held elsewhere in the Hague.)

The Peace Palace can be at least admired from a distance although getting a tour of the Peace Palace isn’t easy to get.  The tours sell out quickly and they’re only posted about 2-3 weeks in advance, so check shortly before your visit to the Hague to see if it’s possible to get a tour.  At minimum, you can take a selfie outside.  Bring your passport just in case and keep in mind there’s a visitor’s center in case you’re not allowed to enter.  Click for my complete guide on how to tour the Peace Palace.

I absolutely LOVE the Haagse Market and it’s where I get my groceries weekly.  The amazing thing about this place that you’re instantly transported as soon as you enter from the Netherlands.  Where? I’m not exactly sure, but between the prices being shouted (4 avocados for one euro!?), the empanadas from the Dominican Republic, the random household wares, and the fresh stroopwafel, you’re bound to find something in this almost daily market (not open on Sundays).  

Be sure bring cash, so you don’t need to wait in line at the ATM at the entrance with everyone else who forgot, and a large bag.  I usually pick up a week’s worth of groceries here and it’s always a joy to browse the market as I’ve never really experienced anything like it in the Netherlands.

This private modern art museum located outside of the Hague (accessible by car or bus) has some fantastic innovative art.  I realize that art museums aren’t always everyone’s cup of tea, but I absolutely love how this museum focused on creating the best visitor experience. 

The pieces here go beyond standard modern art and often challenge/surprise you.  I won’t ruin the surprises, but the swimming pool exhibition is absolutely amazing and I was delighted by many of the small touches that make this museum far from a generic art museum.

Museum Meermanno is the oldest book museum in the world with some fascinating exhibits on modern literature.  If you’re interested in seeing the stunning interior of a 18th-century building in the Hague, be sure to visit this museum for its interior and courtyard.   Here you’ll find many manuscripts as well as historically significant literature.  Their exhibits are surprisingly non-dry. 😉

Madurodam: The world’s most cheerful war memorial

Although many people have seen photos of the miniature version of the Netherlands in the Hague, most people don’t realize that the Madurodam is actually a war memorial.  The profits from the admission go to children’s charities in honor of a brave soldier from Curaçao who died during World War II.  His parents built Madurodam at the time that the Netherlands was rebuilding itself after the war with the hope that it would inspire people. 

Although I thought the Madurodam was only for children, I had a blast here (as did my husband).  My favorite thing: trying to take photos as if I was on the street level.  The Madurodam is probably one of the most touristy things to do in the Hague, but I was pleasantly surprised by how entertaining and charming the Madurodam is.  If you’ve visited a lot of cities in the Netherlands , you’ll especially love this unique war memorial.

Panorama Mesdag

For a taste of 19th-century Scheveningen, you can visit the 360-degree painting of Scheveningen for a sense of art history as well as history in the Hague.  It gives you the sensation of being on a dune and it’s a nice stop-off if you’re heading towards the Peace Palace from the historic center of the Hague.

Explore the secondhand shops of the modern Zeeheldenkwartier

You might think that there’s no one under thirty in the Hague, however most of us are hanging out in the Zeeheldenkwartier, another part of the Hague, full of modern cafes, interesting restaurants (including Georgian food), second-hand stores.  I can easily spend an afternoon here between Ditjes & Katjes and stocking up on American/British novelty foods at Kelly’s Expat Store.

Go skiing or snowboarding year-round

Outside of the Hague, you’ll find one of the largest indoor ski resorts in the Netherlands, De Uithof.  So, if you’re looking to learn how to ski or snowboard, it’s possible here. They even have ice carts.  If you’re missing winter, be sure to stop off at the Uithof, which also has rock climbing.

Next to Den Haag HS, you’ll find Klimmuur.  This really nice Dutch climbing gym has a surprise: an ice climbing room.  For a small fee, you can take ice climbing lessons with an expert climber.  It’s a bit surprising how quickly ice climbing wears you out, however I had a blast climbing here with friends. 

Be sure to suit up in winter clothes although they’ll give you climbing shoes as well as an ice pick.  You just need to dress warmly and come ready to climb.  If you just want to climb normally or boulder, the Klimmuur gym is well-equipped for that too.

Admire the windmills in Voorburg & Leidschendam

I love that you can cycle only twenty minutes outside of the Hague and experience the typically Dutch countryside that make the Netherlands so famous. 

En route to Voorburg, a cute suburb of the Hague, you’ll pass a children’s farm (Essenstijn) complete with cows and a beautiful windmill.  Although there are apartment buildings in the background, you’re likely to forget that you’re twenty minutes from one of the biggest cities in the Netherlands.  

For a more iconic image, cycle to Molendriegang in Leidschendam , another nearby village near the Hague for the iconic three-windmill shot that you might see on postcards in the Hague. Voorburg and Leidschendam have super charming historic centers, so if you want to experience small-town Holland without going too far, take tram 2 towards Leidschendam’s historic center, Sluisplein.  (The journey will take about 25 minutes.)  Click for my cycling route!

Top Tours to Experience The Hague Like a Local

The Hague, or as locals call it, “Den Haag,” is a city brimming with royal history, international significance, and coastal charm. While you can explore its streets and alleys on foot, there are some unique tours that offer a deeper dive into the city’s essence. Start with a relaxing City Canal Cruise , where you can view The Hague’s iconic landmarks from the water. If you’re keen on exploring the city’s history and architecture, the Old City Private Walking Tour is a must. For those who want to venture beyond The Hague, the Rotterdam, Delft & The Hague Guided Day Tour offers a comprehensive look into the southern Holland region. If you’re up for some physical activity, hop on a bicycle and join the Guided Sightseeing Tour by Bicycle , or navigate the city at your own pace with the Hop-on Hop-off Tourist Tram . Each of these tours promises a unique perspective of The Hague, ensuring you experience the city’s authentic charm.

How to get around the Hague

The Hague is a pretty walkable city although it has a robust public transportation system.  On some trams, you can buy a day pass for the Hague public transportation although you’ll need to have coins on you to buy it on the tram.  You can also tap in/out with your phone or credit card to pay.

Have you been to the Hague? What’s your favorite thing to do in the Hague? Please let me know!

More tips for the Netherlands:

• Best cities in the Netherlands to visit besides Amsterdam
• One day in Delft (15 minutes from the Hague)
• Three days in Amsterdam: your perfect guide
• Secret Amsterdam guide

Map of the Hague

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About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

March 31, 2018 at 6:55 am

I think that Cat cafe is my favorite!! I just love them. 🙂 But other tips are really useful too, thanks!

March 31, 2018 at 3:22 pm

Wow, so many things to do in such little town. I would definitely check the museums and the markets for food! I love visiting lesser known towns and this one is up my alley!

March 31, 2018 at 6:50 pm

Hi Diana, it’s actually a city, the third-largest city in the Netherlands. I hope you visit. 🙂

March 31, 2018 at 7:24 pm

Great post! So far we’ve only been to Amsterdam on a layover, but would love to explore more of the Netherlands, especially the Hague, next time! Sounds like there is a lot to see and do 🙂 Pinning for our next trip!

March 31, 2018 at 8:08 pm

I had my first trip to the Netherlands this year and now I’m obsessed! The Hague looks beautiful – definitely a place to add to my list. Can’t believe Girl with a Pearl Earring is there! Lovely post x

March 31, 2018 at 8:21 pm

My trip to The Hague was way too short. There’s so much to experience, and you captured it beautifully in this post!

April 1, 2018 at 10:46 am

Such a great list! I have no idea why I’ve never been to the Hague, but I’ll make sure to visit next time I’m in the Netherlands

July 29, 2018 at 3:49 pm

Don’t forget to book a High Tea at the famous Hotel Des Indes

December 13, 2018 at 4:22 pm

Hello I am looking for a guide of The Hague for my daughter and I appreciate your blog. But do you sell a book on the Hague ? She will move to that city early next year with her boyfriend and I thought it could be nice gift for Christmas.Thanks

December 13, 2018 at 4:25 pm

Hi Veronique, That is so sweet. I don’t have a book yet. I’m actually writing one at the moment and I will sure to make it clear when it’s publication-ready. 🙂

I’d recommend Stuff Dutch People Like as a fun introduction to the Netherlands: https://amzn.to/2QOlG4E

Best, Karen

July 27, 2019 at 11:49 pm

Hello Karen!

I absolutely loved this page! I’ve been trying to figure out exactly what to see and do on my one day visit to the Hague in September, following a cruise, and your info is great! II’m guessing not, but thought I would ask, do you hire out for a day visit? There’s 6 of us Americans who would love a day with someone as knowledgeable about the area as you! Thanks in advance!

July 30, 2019 at 11:59 am

Hi Malinka, You can send me a message via my email. 🙂

Thanks, Karen

August 5, 2019 at 12:55 pm

The Louwman Museum is fantastic for anyone interested in cars and transport. Visited this during a Christmas trip to Amsterdam as I’m a petrolhead and was very impressed with this museum which has to be one of the best in the world for fans of automobiles etc. It is situated in a lovely area close to a park, which is good for walking. My wife who isn’t really interested in cars loved this Museum as well as there is so many unique cars and other things of interest, we are returning in 2 weeks to the Hague and plan to visit the Museum again as you need at least 6hrs to do it justice.

October 6, 2019 at 2:10 am

Thanks for this super helpful

October 9, 2019 at 8:34 pm

Had a horrible time at Warung Bude Kadi!, Went in June. We waited more than two hours for a rijs taffle with only five other tables full, but after the too-long wait, we ended up with only five small plates that didn’t have enough food for each of us to get a sample. There was not enough rice to serve two, much less the four of us, although they charged us for four full meals. This place was astronomical cost, and horribly slow and incompetent, and we left hours later with all of us still hungry. Not good food and not cheap. Incredibly bad service. Don’t eat here!!!

October 10, 2019 at 1:54 am

If multiple people have rijsttafel, it can be a really long weight there and I prefer coming for lunch tbh. Sorry to hear that you had a poor experience! The normal dishes (not rijsttafel) are reasonable.

November 9, 2019 at 2:50 pm

If you live in The Hague try Onefit, a fitness app that gives you access to 100+ sport locations. Sports include fitness, yoga, climbing, skiing, surfing, running, fight sports etc etc. You can also visit three sauna’s.

Wearepublic is a nice app if you like concerts/theater, for a small fee you can visit a lot of cultural events.

I personally like Toogoodtogo a lot, an anti-foodwaste app which allows you to get excess food for minimal price. Its a surprise every time what you are going to get.

June 21, 2022 at 11:02 pm

Your suggestions for The Hague were awesome for our recent visit in late May. We found Woeng Kee and loved the dim sum. We did depend on the photos in selecting menu items since they didn’t have an English menu, but our choices were great. Thanks for all your inout.

December 1, 2022 at 9:06 pm

Glad to hear! I will be updating this with new fines, but Full Moon City has an English menu for sure! Thankfully, the photos and symbols usually help even if you are unsure!

September 6, 2022 at 12:13 pm

My husband and I are so intrigued about the Haag thanks to your guide, we are planning to visit in a few days . We where looking at the Marina Beach Hotel as a possible stay. Would you recommend that Hotel?

December 1, 2022 at 8:43 pm

I have heard good things about it, but it is not as well known as say the Kurhaus.

July 27, 2023 at 8:41 pm

Thanks Karem This is so useful! We just recently moved to The Hague and would love to know if you have any tips for how to meet people, make friends, etc..? Thanks!

December 12, 2023 at 4:27 pm

Hi Yasmina,

Welcome to The Hague! I’m glad you found the information helpful. To meet people and make friends, consider attending local events, joining facebook groups, apps like meetup, or participating in language classes. Expat networks and volunteer opportunities are also great avenues for connecting with both locals and fellow newcomers. Don’t hesitate to explore your new surroundings and initiate conversations—it’s a fantastic way to build connections:) Wishing you a wonderful time in The Hague!

Your Wanderlustingk Team

August 1, 2023 at 8:28 am

terimakasih infonya menarik sekaliiii

December 12, 2023 at 4:31 pm

You’re welcome! I’m glad you found the information interesting. Terima kasih!

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10 Most Popular Attractions in The Hague

Filled with wonderful old buildings, The Hague, known as Den Haag in Dutch, fits many visitors’ pre-conceived notions of how a city in the Netherlands should look. Though not the capital, it is the seat of the Dutch government and is referred to as the International City of Peace and Justice because so many organizations such as the World Court devoted to world peace can be found here. This bustling city of old-world charm is home to numerous museums that house some of the world’s greatest art collections, The Hague also is known for its seaside atmosphere, with great beaches to be found at Kijkduin and Scheveningen, a fishing village in an earlier life.

10. Japanese Garden at Clingendael [SEE MAP]

Clingendael Park is considered the most impressive park in The Hague, a place that is home to many beautiful gardens. But this four centuries old garden is best known for its Japanese Garden, created in the 20th century by a baroness who brought back items, such as sculptures and bridges, from her many trips to Japan. The garden contains lush vegetation, including mosses, an island with turtles and a stone crane – the turtle and crane are symbols of long life. The Japanese Garden is a popular The Hague attractions because it’s the only one from this time period in the Netherlands.

9. Peace Palace [SEE MAP]

The Hague is known as the International City of Peace and Justice. Nothing says this more than the iconic Peace Palace, which celebrated its 100th birthday in 2013. Steel magnate Andrew Carnegie funded the building of the Peace Palace, and it remains the property of the Carnegie Foundation today. This Hague landmark houses several important international organizations, including the World Court, Permanent Court of Arbitration and the Peace Palace Library. Guided tours of the facility are available on weekends. A visitor center, with information available in seven languages, is open every day, however.

8. Gemeentemuseum Den Haag [SEE MAP]

Gemeentemuseum Den Haag is a multi-faceted museum that includes exhibitions not only by well-known artists but also exhibitions on fashion, ceramics and music, among others. Considered one of the most beautiful museums in the Netherlands, the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag’s contemporary arts division has the largest collection of Mondrians, including Victory Boogie Woogie, in the world. Visitors say the Art Deco building that houses the museum also is worth a closer inspection. The museum, also known as the Municipal Museum, is outside the city center, but easily accessible by bus.

7. Louwman Museum [SEE MAP]

After looking at masterpieces on canvas, visitors may want to look at another type of masterpiece: antique and classic cars. The Louwman Museum contains more than 250 antique and classic autos, including vehicles dating back to 1886 as well as early motorcycles. Top cars include a Jaguar XKD 606 that won Le Mans in 1957 and a Laconda that won in 1935. The entire collection is considered one of the oldest and most beautiful private collections of classic cars in the world. The museum also has a collection of automobile related art, such as posters.

6. Escher in Het Paleis [SEE MAP]

Maurits Cornelis Escher is considered one of the world’s greatest graphic artists, though he died in 1922. He was a master at drawing optical illusions. Escher’s masterpieces include Air and Water, in which birds become fish, and Waterfall, with water flowing upwards. The gallery of his art works is housed in the Palace Museum, which was once a winter residence for Dutch queens. The permanent exhibition includes a virtual reality display that allows visitors to more fully experience his unique artworks.

5. Madurodam [SEE MAP]

The smallest city in the Netherlands, Madurodam is a 1:25 scale model of a Dutch city. It features traditional Dutch buildings and famous landmarks from around the country. Buildings, markets, canals, windmills, Schiphol Airport, the Port of Rotterdam, Dam Square, the Delta works are all perfectly replicated to the smallest detail. Instead of being a static miniature city, Madurodam is actually full of life. The windmills turn, airplanes land at the airport, trains run through the park and the boats are floating. Popular with both young and old, it is one of the most visited attractions in the Hague.

4. Panorama Mesdag [SEE MAP]

Panorama Mesdag definitely has lots of wow! factor. It’s a gigantic circular mural that is 14 meters (46 feet) high and more than 120 meters (280 feet) in circumference. It is a painting of the sea, dunes and the village of Scheveningen as it was in 1881. It was pained by Hendrik Wilhelm Mesdag, one of the most important painters from The Hague School. The mural is so huge, a special building was constructed to house it. Panorama Mesdag is the oldest 19th century mural that is still on the site it was built on.

3. Mauritshuis [SEE MAP]

Mauritshuis Museum provides an amazing opportunity to view some of the finest paintings from the Dutch Golden Age of Painting. It is home to 841 works by great artists such as Hans Holbein the Young, Frans Hals, Rubens (Night Scene), Rembrandt (Self-Portrait) and Vermeer (Girl with a Pearl Earring). The museum is housed in a 17th century Dutch Classicist house that belonged to a nobleman. This little known museum (outside the Netherlands, that is) attracts about a quarter million visitors a year.

2. Scheveningen Boulevard [SEE MAP]

Scheveningen Boulevard is a wide boulevard that runs along the beach at Scheveningen, once a sleepy fishing village and now a seaside resort. One top attraction is the Scheveningen Pier, a promenade that dates back to the early 20th century; today, it is an entertainment and shopping complex. The Kurhaus also is a must-see; it’s a large hotel that started out as a bathhouse in the 19th century, and has since played host to famous people from Churchill to Bon Jovi. The Sculptures by the Sea focuses on international sculpture works. It is notable because it’s built underground instead of atop the sand dunes.

1. Binnenhof [SEE MAP]

Binnenhof is a 13th century castle that makes a mighty impressive home for the top government offices in the Netherlands. It’s where both houses of Parliament meet and houses the Ministry of General Affairs and the office of the Dutch prime minister. Once a series of buildings that were joined together, Binnenhof is famous as the oldest house of parliament in the world still in use today. The gothic structure is located in The Hague’s city center next to the Hofvijver pond. In the center stands the Ridderzaal or Knight’s Hall, the centerpiece of the castle, today used for ceremonial purposes. The Knight’s Hall is accessible in guided tours.

Best Time to Visit the Hague

The seat of the Dutch government, The Hague lies along the North Sea, just a forty-minute train journey southwest of Amsterdam. Summer is when most people visit as the weather is warm and you can sunbathe and swim at its popular seaside resort Scheveningen.

From June to September, temperatures average 19 to 21°C (66 to 70°F) with huge events like Parkpop and the Tong Tong Fair taking place. During these sunny months though, the city is quite crowded and expensive as are nearby day trip destinations like Delft and Leiden.

Hotel prices also rise in April as the Koningsnacht celebrations are so massive. Otherwise it and May are pleasant times to visit with many coming to see its beautiful blooming daffodils or all the tulips at Keukenhof.

As Den Haag is full of parks, autumn can also be lovely due to all the colourful leaves on the trees. Both it and the winter are by far the rainiest periods of the year though with the days also being shorter and gloomier.

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Things to Do in The Hague, The Netherlands - The Hague Attractions

Things to do in the hague.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Mauritshuis Royal Picture Gallery

2. Escher in The Palace

3. Louwman Museum The Hague

4. Madurodam

5. Museum Panorama Mesdag

6. Kunstmuseum Den Haag

7. Peace Palace

8. Binnenhof & Ridderzaal

9. museum Beelden aan Zee

10. De Pier Scheveningen

11. Scheveningen Beach

12. Japanese Garden

13. Van Kleef & Zoon

14. Skyview De Pier

15. Prison Gate Museum

16. De Passage

17. Museum Bredius

18. Haagse Bos

19. Lange Voorhout

20. Westbroekpark

21. Nationaal Monument Oranjehotel

22. Hofvijver

23. Kinderboekenmuseum

24. AFAS Circustheater Den Haag

25. Landgoed Clingendael

26. Het Plein

27. The Hague Tower

28. SEA LIFE Scheveningen

29. Haagse Markt

30. Fotomuseum den Haag

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Home » Europe » Netherlands » 20 Top Things to Do in The Hague, Netherlands

20 Top Things to Do in The Hague, Netherlands

By Author Laura Longwell

Posted on Last updated: December 1, 2023

With magnificent gardens, world-class museums, and a lively culinary scene, The Hague is a gorgeous and culturally rich destination. This city in the Netherlands has nearly 800 years of history and the monuments and sites to go along with it. There is never a shortage of interesting and fun things to do in The Hague.

The Hague (Den Haag) is the home of the Dutch royal family and the seat of government for the Netherlands. It is not only the location of the country’s parliament, but it also plays a critical role in the maintenance of world peace and justice with the presence of several international courts, some of which are open to visitors. Add in the nearby seaside, art, and live music throughout the squares and you have a city full of activities for every traveler’s interests.

We spent several weeks exploring what to do in The Hague and developed this list of some of our favorites.

Visit the Peace Palace

See the binnenhof, relax in the plein, appreciate art at mauritshuis, wander the canals, appreciate escher in het paleis, enjoy noordeinde palace & garden, indulge at van kleef distillery, grab a drink at grote markt, explore street fairs and festivals, find a hofje, sample beer at kloosterbrouwerij haagsche broeder, get outside at landgoed clingendael, try indonesian food, get beachy at scheveningen, stroll lange voorhout, visit prison gate museum, explore chinatown, eat at minglemush, visit delft.

The Peace Palace (Vredespaleis) is the most photographed building in The Hague. It is home to the International Court of Justice, the Permanent Court of Arbitration, and other institutions. Some of the most important disputes in the world are settled here. Just standing in front of it, it feels like an important place.

Largely financed by steel magnate and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, the construction of this Gothic and Neoclassical building began in 1907. Its materials come from around the world with marble from Italy, wood from Brazil and the US, and ornamental iron railings from Germany. To see the features up close, you need to book a guided tour , which is available on select weekends.

The Visitors Center has a detailed exhibit about the Peace Palace, its courts, and the international peace conferences that led to its founding before World War I. If you’re short on time, get an audio guide and watch the featured movie for a good overview.

The Hague is the Dutch seat of government, and much of that activity takes place in the Binnenhof in the city center. This collection of buildings alongside the picturesque Hofvijver pond dates to the 1200s.

The Binnenhof is the oldest House of Parliament in the world. The most notable buildings in the complex are the Gothic Ridderzaal, or Knights’ Hall, where the Dutch Monarch opens Parliament every year, and the official residence of the Prime Minister, which is located in the North Wing. Take a spin through the courtyard and admire the buildings and ornamental fountain.

To see the Binnenhof, the Peace Palace, and other important sites with an expert guide, consider this walking tour .

Hanging out in the Plein is what to do in The Hague on a nice day. Lined with trees and historic buildings, this square is a great location for dining al fresco because of the string of cafes and bars that comes alive on the weekends and in the evenings.

There are occasional pop ups or promotional events as well, so there is often something unique to see. In the evenings, the Plein becomes one of the city’s nightlife hubs thanks to its trendy clubs.

A grand 17 th -century count’s residence is the setting for one of the most important museums in The Hague, Mauritshuis. It houses over 200 works of art from the Dutch Golden Age, including pieces from masters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Rubens, and Frans Hals.

Walking through the floors of the Mauritshuis feels like visiting the most glorious private collection ever. There is no cavernous, sterile gallery space here. Instead, the lavish interior provides nearly as many unique details as the works themselves.

Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and View of Delft along with Rembrandt’s Anatomy Lesson are among the most notable artworks in the collection. A guided tour and the museum’s free app can provide additional details and stories about the works.

Most people associate canals in the Netherlands with Amsterdam, but many other cities like The Hague, Delft, and Utrecht have them, too. In The Hague, many of the canals were filled in beginning as far back as the 17 th century to help with sanitation concerns, but they have since been restored.

Now, it’s possible to walk along the canals, take a canal cruise , or even rent your own boat to enjoy the waterways at your desired speed. If you happen to visit at the end of August, you can also see the annual Jazz in the Canal festival in which musicians play on waterside stages and on pontoons in the canals.

When I was a teenager in the ‘90s, I think everyone I knew had a t-shirt or a poster with drawings by M.C. Escher. The unique perspectives and the graphic, bold nature of his work have appealed to me since then, so I jumped at the chance to visit the museum dedicated to him— Escher in Het Paleis .

The museum houses some of M.C. Escher’s most famous works, including Drawing Hands and Hand with Reflecting Sphere along with about 150 other woodcut prints, geographic tessellations, and other mind-bending pieces. The exhibits trace Escher’s journey from a reluctant student to a famous artist, providing insight into his life and process. On the museum’s second floor, visitors have the chance to explore optical illusions for themselves.

The museum building is an attraction in and of itself—it’s the former winter palace of Queen Emma of the Netherlands. There are original furnishings and photos of the Queen Mother’s life, which adds a unique layer, almost like a second museum.

Noordeinde Palace in the city center is a “working palace” for the King—you’ll know he’s there if the flag is raised. The building itself is modest from the outside, but locals love it because of the Palace gardens.

On warm days, a visit here is one of the best things to do in The Hague. With a lush garden full of trees, hedgerows, flowers, and a pond, it’s the ideal location for a picnic or just relaxing outside. It also has a view of the Royal Stables and a great location near one of the canals. If you’re feeling adventurous, see if you can find the semi-secret entrance.

Trying genever (jenever) is a must when you visit the Netherlands. We first discovered genever in Amsterdam several years ago and love sampling it whenever we can. This clear liquor flavored with juniper and spices—similar to gin—has been made by the Dutch for over 400 years, and Van Kleef Distillery is the place to try it.

The only genever distillery remaining in The Hague, Van Kleef is part tasting room, part museum. In the exhibits, visitors can learn about the long history of genever and the distillation process. The most fun part is tasting, and you can sample old and young genevers alongside the distillery’s bitters, vodkas, and large selection of liqueurs.

The Grote Markt (literally “main market”) in the city center is more compact than many market squares in other European cities. But, what it lacks in size, it makes up for in atmosphere.

The square is ringed by bars, cafes, and clubs, so it is often full of people enjoying happy hour or lounging at night and on weekends. The middle of the square has regular events and popups year-round, and there is often live music thanks to the square’s location in the heart of the city’s music scene. We particularly enjoyed VaVoom Tiki Room here, the only tiki bar in The Hague.

Many weekends of the year the city is filled with different types of special events. There are major festivals that draw from around the region and smaller street fairs that have fewer attendees but lots of fun.

In May, you’ll find the Sniester festival, which brings over 70 performers to Grote Markt and Paard in the Hague’s Pop district. August and September, respectively, bring the International Fireworks Festival and the Kite Festival in Scheveningen.

Throughout the late spring and summer, over 75 stalls fill Lange Voorhout for the twice-weekly antique and book market. A smaller but similar market happens Thursdays on the Plein in the winter. There is also an Easter market, a Christmas market, and regular food markets.

Cities throughout the Netherlands have charming, hidden courtyards surrounded by almshouses. From outside, it’s often impossible to tell that these complexes—known as hofjes—are even there.  

Hofjes started in the Middle Ages as a way to provide housing, often for low-income, single adults, and that tradition continues in many Dutch cities today. The hofjes are generally private property, but the courtyards are sometimes open to the public during select times. We visited the lovely ‘t Hooftshofje, but there are others to choose from. If you’re lucky enough to visit one, make sure to be respectful, as they are people’s homes.

The tradition of monks brewing beer goes back hundreds of years, but at Kloosterbrouwerij Haagsche Broeder , the practice is a little more recent. In 2006, one of the brothers of St. John began brewing as a hobby and the others joined him. That brewery turned into a small business.

The current brewery has a small capacity but regularly churns out porters, saisons, stouts, barrel-aged specialties, and more. If you’re able to visit the brewery shop in the city center, take a quick trip upstairs to see the chapel.

Landgoed Clingendael is the 16 th -century estate just a few minutes from the heart of the city. The considerable grounds have ponds, walking trails, and a café. Visitors can also see the manor house and several gardens, including the rose garden and the azalea and rhododendron garden, making it a lovely place to spend an afternoon.

Our favorite part of visiting one of the most beautiful parks in The Hague was the Japanese Garden. It was created in 1910 by a previous owner of the estate using stone lanterns, sculptures, bridges, and other pieces brought from Japan.

Because of its fragility, the garden is only open a few weeks each spring and fall. Put the Japanese Garden at the top of your list of things to see in The Hague, if your visit aligns with its opening time.

Some of the most traditional food in the Netherlands is Indonesian, and it’s a must-try in the Netherlands. The food of the former Dutch colony has lots of different flavors and textures.

A great way to try a lot of options is by sampling the rijsttafel , a Dutch word that literally means “rice table.” You’ll receive small portions of at least a dozen items like satay, egg rolls, and vegetables.

As soon as the weather gets sunny (and often even before then), crowds begin to flock to Scheveningen, one of the top places to go in The Hague. The beach resort on the North Sea is just 15 minutes by tram from center city, which means you can explore the city attractions in the morning and have your toes in the sand in the afternoon.

At Scheveningen, you can spend your time relaxing or walking along the beach or checking out all the different activities available. Walk through the Art Nouveau-style Kurhaus, the beautiful hotel along the beach, or wander the pier, which has a Ferris wheel, shopping mall, and even bungee jumping and zip lining. Surfing and windsurfing are also enormously popular.

If all of that sounds like too much activity, scope out a good spot to hang out at one of the seaside restaurants. There are dozens to choose from, and many offer music, cocktails, and some of the seafood specialties the Netherlands is known for like herring and kibbeling.

If you’re feeling adventurous, a surf lesson is a fun way to experience Scheveningen.

In the old city center of the Hague is Lange Voorhout. For 700 years, this tree-lined street has been home to city residents, and it later welcomed statesmen and nobles as a fashionable area where people came to be seen.

Today, the area is still upscale, but it has a quieter elegance. The boulevard is lined with regal hotels, embassies, and galleries, and the adjoining park is typically filled with people out for a stroll. It’s a lovely place to come for people watching and a quiet afternoon or evening walk.

One of the unusual points of interest in The Hague is just beside the Binnenhof at the Prison Gate. Constructed in 1296, it was converted into a prison for the Court of Holland in 1428.

The Prison Gate Museum ( Rijksmuseum De Gevangenpoort ) is filled with the stories of the unfortunate souls who found themselves here due to debt, political conspiracies, assassination plots, and other unsavory activities. Once inside, they were often subjected to torture to encourage confessions. The instruments of that torture—stocks, branding irons, and other devices—are all on display.

As you walk through the old spaces and original cells of this interesting museum, you’ll learn all about the history as well as the intrigue of escape plots, murders, and other tales of 400 years of “justice” in The Hague. 

Two striking gates mark the unmistakable entrances to Chinatown. A neighborhood filled with restaurants, supermarkets, and specialty stores, this is the place to go for anything Asian. There is a mix of Chinese, Japanese, Indonesian, and Thai cultures present in the food, decorations, and items sold here.

Woeng Kee and Full Moon City are popular for dim sum. St. Anny Tea House is the best choice for pastries, and Asian Street Food by Momiji has a little bit of everything, including fruit teas.

MingleMush is all about fun. Right outside Den Haag Centraal Station (the central railway station) this food hall brings together flavors from all over the world. The 15 food stands include Hawaiian poké bowls, Polish specialties, tapas, and lots of other dishes. Our favorite was the amazing Pad Thai at Lime Leaf & Red Pepper. There are also three on-site bars with different specialties, which make MingleMush a great stop for coffee, a cocktail, or a specially crafted gin and tonic. 

In addition to the food and drinks, there’s almost always something going on here. Whether it’s the arcade games, jazz, swing dancing, or kids crafts, there are lots of things to keep you entertained.

Only about 15 minutes from The Hague, Delft is a fun place to explore for a few hours. It’s most well-known for its Delft Blue pottery, which has been produced in the same way for centuries. A short walk will take you to Royal Delft (De Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles), a 17th-century pottery factory where you can see historic pieces and watch artisans paint the earthenware in its famous shade of blue.

The center of Delft is small and easy to get around, so it’s possible to stroll along the canals and see some of the city’s highlights in a short amount of time. The 17 th -century Delft City Hall is stunning and ringed by cafes that provide a great view. For a lesson in the royal history of the Dutch, don’t miss Nieuwe Kerk which houses the tomb of William of Orange.

Laura Longwell is an award-winning travel blogger and photographer. Since founding Travel Addicts in 2008, she has written hundreds of articles that help over 3 million people a year get the most out of their travel. In that time, she has visited nearly 60 countries on 5 continents, often returning to favorite destinations over and over again. She has a deep love of history, uncovering unexpected attractions, and trying all the good food a place has to offer.

In addition to Travel Addicts, Laura runs a site about her hometown of Philadelphia—Guide to Philly—which chronicles unique things to do and places to see around southeastern Pennsylvania. Her travel tips and advice appear across the web.

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Visiting The Hague in 24 Hours: A complete Guide

As a political science major at University, a trip to The Hague has been on my to-go list for quite some time. Yet standing there in the centre of it all, it was still surreal to me to be standing where the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court reside. I had just one night in The Hague for my book signing tour in the Netherlands , so I was determined to hit the ground running and see as much as I could within 24 hours. So with that, here’s what to see and do in The Hague in 24 hours!

How to Visit The Hague in 24 Hours

I told many Dutchies I encountered of my plans to visit The Hague but every single one of them looked at me in confusion. “Den Haag” is how to say it in Dutch, so I would suggest you use this term as it warranted a much better reaction!

Although not the capital of The Netherlands (a title that belongs to Amsterdam), The Hague is indeed the seat of the Dutch parliament and as previously mentioned, the judicial capital of the world. With such a strong international identity, I wasn’t surprised to see this spill out into all aspects of life in The Hague – not least the fantastic little Italian restaurant I found near to my hotel! With stunning stately architecture and cute little cafes/boutiques to discover, I had my work cut out to see in the city in such a short space of time.

Checking In: Hotel Des Indes

For my one night stay, I checked in to the ultra-luxe bucket list hotel, Hotel Des Indes . As part of the Leading Hotels of the World, this hotel has a strong clientele of men in suits and ladies dressed without wrinkles (in their clothes – an unattainable luxury for someone living out of a suitcase).

The hotel is in a great location for exploring, especially if you’re anything like me and plan to find all the great eats around town. A short walk away you will stumble upon Frederikstraat, home to many cute cafes, restaurants and tiny boutiques as you continue to wander along.

Sights & Attractions Not to be Missed

The Hague is deceptively large and there’s much to see, so be ready to hit the ground running!

Binnenhof –  Surrounded by moats, Binnenhof was once a castle and now the seat of Dutch parliament. It is probably the most impressive building in all of The Hague, centrally located and with great restaurants nearby.

Plein –  The most elegant square in the city centre and a great central point to begin your explorations.

Peace Palace –  Home of the International Court of Justice.

Paleis Noordeinde –  The royal palace, used as the office of King Willem-Alexander since he became king in 2013.

Eats & Drinks

How I managed to fit so much in to my two half days in The Hague one will never know, but believe me when I say I found some great eateries!

De Bakkerswinkel – Got a huge portion of yoghurt + granola here for breakfast one morning. They also have a house cat!

FOAM – This is a great little vegan find on Frederikstraat. They do superb smoothies!

Barista Cafe –  Probably the best coffee in town (even if its the only one I tried). But yeah, it was good!

Delicious Sweetness –  Cute little patisserie I picked up a couple of macarons from. The macarons were nice enough, but I knew I could find better!

Patisserie Jarreau –  Hands down the best macarons in The Hague – unsurprisingly by a French pastry chef!

Day Trips from The Hague

If you have more time or are planning a larger trip of the Netherlands, I would highly recommend taking a day trip to Delft (the cutest little town to ever exist) and Leiden (ten minutes by train and another pretty city in the Netherlands).

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

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Tourism in The Hague

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Hotels in The Hague

Some places remain etched in your heart forever. The Hague is one of them. City of peace and justice. City and beach. New styles and old masters. Stores and palaces. Exotic cuisine and Dutch fishing port. International justice and street wisdom. Discover The Hague.

Grandeur in the Royal City

The Hague offers her visitors a combination of both beach pleasure and modern city life in a historical setting. Once little more than a country house near a pond, The Hague developed into a city of international character and importance. The Hague is synonymous with international law, peace and diplomacy. It even is the second UN city in the world, as it is home to the International Court of Justice, the only legal body of the United Nations outside of New York. As a result of its rich history, current seat of the Dutch government and international character, the city has an allure of grandeur. Wide lanes, an abundance of parks and palaces emphasize this once again. Moreover, with 400 hectares of greenery the city is one of the greenest in Europe.

Discover the city by foot

Promenading is anything but strange in the city. Strolling along the centuries-old Linden trees at Lange Voorhout, parading through the Hofkwartier with its remarkable shops and galleries, ambling past the Royal Lake with its view of the Dutch Parliament and eight centuries of history or beside the 10-kilometre-long city coastline. The Hague city centre is also a pedestrian zone, so travel by public transport or park your car in one of the city's underground car parks and enjoy a leisurely walk into the city. En route, do not forget to step into one of over 100 tiny courtyards with picturesque homes, beautiful fruit trees and absolute silence and the city seems far away.

Seaside city

Distances can be covered easily: the city has an extensive public transport network and the beach is a stone's throw away from the city centre. Your journey from the city centre to the beach just takes you 15 minutes by tram or bike. This is where shoes and suits are exchanged for flip-flops and a cold beer at the sea side of Scheveningen. Or where kite surfers mount their boards and beach volleyball players battle for world titles in the Beach Stadium.

Best hotel deals

In the hague.

Mövenpick The Hague  ★★★★

Close to the best attractions, shops, and dining

This hotel has an excellent location score of 9.7

Hotel Indigo The Hague  ★★★★

Located opposite the Royal Palace Noordeinde

Rooms are equipped with a spa-inspired bathroom

Staybridge Suites   ★★★★

Situated in the real heart of The Hague

All Suites are offering a fully equipped kitchenette

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near The Hague

Top things to do, museum & attractions.

The Hague offers a world-class range of museums, theatres and festivals throughout the entire year. One example is the Mauritshuis, which exhibits a comprehensive collection of great (usually Dutch) masters. Or visit the Municipal Museum, known for its vast collection of paintings by Piet Mondriaan, including the celebrated 'Victory Boogie Woogie'. More interested in festivals?

Go out for some shopping! 

The convivial, historic city centre is great for shopping. The shopping centre around the Spuistraat and Grote Marktstraat is open seven days a week. Just a short distance away from this well-trodden part of the city centre and its recognisable fashion brands lies an unexpected side to The Hague: the old, atmospheric Hofkwartier houses original, trendy shops.

From fish to Indonesian food

The trendy and authentic fuse together in the restaurants of The Hague to create a rich diversity of world cuisines. Every culinary wish can be met: from a quick snack or tapas at a pavement café to leisured dining with expert advice by your sommelier. For hip restaurants why not stroll down the Avenue Culinaire, Prinsestraat or Denneweg. For a sunset dinner the seaside resort of Scheveningen is the only place to be.

Relaxing at the beach

The beach at Scheveningen is like a magnet. And not just during a long walk along a tranquil beach with a fierce sea or a bike ride through the adjacent dune area. The beach is the perfect venue for a variety of beach sports, from kite flying and bungee jumping to surfing. Or simply building sandcastles and sunbathing in a deckchair.

Politics & Royal Palaces

The political and royal heart of the Netherlands beats in The Hague. The Binnenhof, since 1446 the meeting place of the States-General, and Knights’ Hall are some of the country’s best-known sites for political affairs. The Hague not only is the political capitol, it also accommodates Royal palaces, including Noordeinde Palace, the working palace of the Dutch monarch, and Huis ten Bosch Palace. If you are interested in politics and the Royal family, then The Hague definitely is your city.

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Home » Travel Guides » The Netherlands » 15 Best Things to Do in The Hague (The Netherlands)

15 Best Things to Do in The Hague (The Netherlands)

The Hague or Den Haag serves as the main seat of government for the Netherlands but is not the countries capital.

It is the third largest city in the country behind Amsterdam and Rotterdam and plays an important role in the politics and economy of the Netherlands.

The main development of Den Haag was during the 1200’s when the Binnenhof was constructed (which still stands today) and served as a royal hunting residence.

In future years the city saw Spanish occupation and has always served as a political base for the country since the 1600’s.

This wonderful and modern city retains much of its historical charm with important buildings like the Peace Palace and the Ridderzaal, but also embraces new technologies and its role in international politics.

The museums, beautiful parks and fascinating architecture make The Hague an extremely popular destination second only to Amsterdam.

Lets explore the best things to do in The Hague :

1. Mauritshuis Museum

The Mauritshuis Museum is an art museum that is located in the centre of Den Haag next to the Binnenhof.

The building was constructed in 1636 in a Dutch Classicist style.

The collection of art inside the museum is extensive and contains some famous works from the likes of Rembrandt, Vermeer and Rubens.

Over 800 objects are included in the collection and the majority of which come from the Dutch Golden age.

The collections are separated into different sections such as “At home in Holland”, “A generous gesture” and “Highlights from the past”. The museum is continually obtaining new works and displays several temporary exhibitions periodically too.

2. Madurodam Model City

The Madurodam Model City is an extensive attraction that contains a huge scale model representation of various parts of the Netherlands.

All of the buildings, vehicles, people and tress etc are recreated to a 1:25 scale and with an unbelievable amount of detail.

The park opened in 1952 and has seen changes and renovations over the years to incorporate new technologies and revamp the models.

Sections of the model city include the Rijksmuseum (Amsterdam), the Binnenhof, Schiphol Airport, the seaport of Rotterdam, Dutch tulip fields and of course windmills.

This is a truly delightful place and perfect for all the family to enjoy.

3. The Binnenhof

This large complex serves as a meeting place for several political groups in the Netherlands including the Ministry of General affairs.

The Binnenhof is the oldest parliament building still in use in the world.

Originally constructed in the 1200’s, not much is known of the complex’s early history however it soon became in an important place for political meetings throughout the 1600’s.

Today you can enter the Binnenhof and its ground, and admire the stunning architecture and history of the buildings including the fabled Hall of Knights where the Ridderzaal stands.

Guided tours are also available of the House of Representatives.

4. Ridderzaal

The Ridderzaal is the central focal point of the Binnenhof and stands in the wonderful Hall of Knights courtyard inside the complex.

The building is used as a place where the Dutch parliament is opened by the prime minister, and also hosts royal receptions.

The structure is built in a Gothic style with two large symmetrical towers standing either side of the arched entrance.

The interior of the Ridderzaal is highly decorative with some wonderful stained glass windows, and a central ornate throne.

The courtyard outside the Ridderzaal is also quite beautiful and is surrounded by a three sides of arches and in the centre is a Neogothic fountain that dates back to the 1600’s.

5. Mesdag Museum

The Mesdag museum is contained within the house of the notable painter Hendrik Willem Mesdag.

The museum showcases a fine collection of art that Hendrik and his wife collected over the years, centring mainly on famous Dutch painters from The Hague.

The museum and its counterpart building that holds the Mesdag panorama are located in the centre of The Hague and are in close proximity to the other important museums.

A main centrepiece of the Mesdag museum is a large panoramic painting that is around 120m in circumference – The painting shows the beaches of The Hague from the late 19th Century.

6. The beach and promenade

The Scheveningen seaside resort is one of the most famous in the Netherlands and is a great place to explore.

The beach stretches for miles right from the Hook of Holland right up to the port of Ijmuiden.

On the beach you will find an extensive promenade, golden sands, a fabulous pier complete with Ferris Wheel, and an array of shops, amusements, bars and restaurants.

Laze on the golden sands, splash in the sea, sit and enjoy a drink or an ice cream on the promenade, or even take a ride on the huge Ferris wheel that takes 20 minutes to complete a full rotation!

7. Drievliet Amusement Park

The Drievliet theme park is a fantastic place for the whole family and will provide hours of fun and excitement.

The park features several hair-raising rollercoaster’s including the Formule X and the Twistrix, a log flume, many water games, a haunted castle and so much more! Aside from the fabulous rides, there are also a range of fairground stalls, a restaurant, and small food and drink vendors.

This really is a great place and located to the south eastern part of The Hague, it is an ideal place for a day trip.

8. Peace Palace

The Peace Palace is a building for the administration of law and houses several different bodies including the International Court of Justice.

The building was constructed in 1913 and features a fantastic and detailed neo-renaissance design with a large bell tower and ornate arched front facade.

The interior of the palace is quite lavish and contains many fine statues and busts of notable people like Gandhi and Nelson Mandela.

There is a visitors centre and tours are available of the building and also of the elaborate gardens that surround the palace.

9. The Hague Tower

The Hague Tower is a large Skyscraper that is located near Den Haag HS railway station not far from Chinatown.

The building is mainly office blocks but also contains a restaurant and night club, and a viewing platform.

The building stands at 132m and is the third tallest building in The Hague.

From here you can enjoy fantastic panoramic views of the city and even see as far as the Hook of Holland and watch boast coming in from the North Sea.

The elevator ride takes 40 seconds an there is also a reception with a informative movie, and a cafe where you can enjoy a drink and a snack in the clouds.

10. Grote of Sint Jacobskerk

The Church of St. James is a notable religious building that stands proud on the Torenstraat in the old town centre.

This is one of the oldest buildings in The Hague and it was constructed in the 15th century.

The centrepiece of the exterior is the tall bell tower that features a detailed Carillion and a mechanical clock with 15 bells.

The interior features some fine wooden carving including the pulpit, and a set of detailed and colourful stained glass windows that commemorate various religious figures throughout history.

There is also the grave of Jacob van Wassenaer Obdam who was a notable Dutch navy commander.

11. Gemeentemuseum Den Haag

This is one of the most important museums in Den Haag and contains a large collection of artwork, as well as a fascinating building designed by H.P. Berlage.

The structure lies not far from the main promenade and the building itself is an architectural marvel with a quirky and striking design.

Inside, there are several different collections including art, a print room, fashion and music.

The art collection includes works from Degas, Monet, Picasso and Mondriaan (The Mondriaan collection is the largest in the world).

12. Landgoed Clingendael Park

This wonderful park is only open at certain times in the year owing to its fragile and extremely well maintained Japanese Garden.

The Clingendael is a 17th century manor house and the parkland surrounds it in the district of Wassenaar.

The park and garden is truly sublime and it was been a protected area of The Hague for many years.

Inside you can find the amazing Japanese Gardens that really do transport you into a different culture with Japanese themed pavilions and entrance gates and some beautiful species of plants and trees.

If you happen to visit the Hague when the garden is open then it should not be missed!

13. The Prison Gate Museum

This is an old prison that was used to house people who had committed atrocious crimes from as early as 1420. The museum gives you an insightful and chilling look at crime, punishment and the justice system throughout the years and what an old cell block and prison would have looked like.

A guided tour is included in the ticket price and these are available in both Dutch and English – English tours are only available on Sundays however.

For an interesting and revealing look at the history of crime and punishment throughout history, the Prison Gate Museum is a great place to visit.

14. Palace Noordeinde

The Noordeinde Palace is a palatial building belonging to the Dutch royal family and is one of the three official palaces they own.

In its early years, the palace actually operated as a medieval farmhouse around 1500. After this it was converted into a palace and has seen many different royal owners over the years.

In later years the once residential palace, was turned into an actual working palace where the Dutch Royalty conduct many of their affairs of state.

It is really interesting to see this grand structure with its imposing iron gates and impressive design.

15. Lange Voorhout

This is a beautiful street in the centre of Den Haag located in the old city centre and provides a fantastic place to walk, admire and relax.

The street is quite wide and has two roads and a central section both lined with a fine array of trees.

18th century buildings line the street and there are many important building here including the Escher Museum embassies of the UK and US, a monument to Prince Bernhard of Saxe-Weimar-Eisenach, and the Supreme Court of the Netherlands.

15 Best Things to Do in The Hague (The Netherlands):

• Mauritshuis Museum
• Madurodam Model City
• The Binnenhof
• Mesdag Museum
• The beach and promenade
• Drievliet Amusement Park
• Peace Palace
• The Hague Tower
• Grote of Sint Jacobskerk
• Gemeentemuseum Den Haag
• Landgoed Clingendael Park
• The Prison Gate Museum
• Palace Noordeinde
• Lange Voorhout

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10 Interesting Things to Do and See in The Hague (Den Haag)

The Hague or Den Haag is a city in Netherlands situated on the coast of the North Sea. It is a beautiful beach town with palaces, museums, art galleries, beaches, forests and historical buildings among best places to visit in The Hague . The origin of the city is traced back to 1230 when Count Floris IV began development of a mansion alongside Hofvijver. The area was granted city rights in 1806. There are wonderful things to see in The Hague from several eras of the city’s development. The history and culture of the city is well preserved.

The city is home to the Royal Family and also the seat of Netherlands’s government. Many of the historical buildings which are integral part of The Hague sightseeing , are actually government offices. There are also several palaces and mansions associated with the Royal Family among Den Haag attractions .

The city is also has a great collection of artworks from ancient, renaissance, modern and contemporary times. There are several art museums to explore when you visit Den Haag concerning different periods of time and different artists.

Among all The Hague attractions , the coastal ones are perhaps the most popular. The beaches in The Hague are considered some of the best ones in the Netherlands. You get to enjoy a variety of beaches when you visit Den Haag. The beaches are hotspots for entertainment, general hobnobbing, dining, partying, dining and so on. Some of the most fun things to do in Den Haag at the beaches include kitesurfing, surfing, water-sports, hiking and boat cruise. The huge 19th century arcade is one of the finest The Hague tourist attractions .

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Table of Contents

Top 10 Tourist Places to Visit in The Hague (Den Haag) in 2 Days (Trip Itinerary)

1. st. james’ church (grote or sint-jacobskerk).

This church is one the oldest buildings in the city and among the best places to visit in The Hague. This iconic protestant church is known for its historical and cultural significance as well as for its gothic architecture. You would need about an hour for this church when you visit The Hague.

2. Binnenhof (Inner Court)

This historical building complex houses several government offices. It has been at the center of several historical and political decisions. It is a beautifully designed building and you would need an hour to tour this building during The Hague travel.

3. Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights)

This 13th century building, also known as Hall of Knights, serves as the city center. The building features gothic design features and is renowned for its architecture among The Hague attractions. You will need an hour for this building.

4. Mauritshuis (Maurice House)

This art museum exhibits the Royal Cabinet of Paintings. You will come across some of the most wonderful things to see in The Hague at this gallery. You will need about 2 hours for this place.

5. Panorama Mesdag

This art museum is dedicated to the life and works of artist Hendrik Mesdag. It is an integral part of The Hague sightseeing for art admirers. You will need about an hour for this place when you visit Den Haag.

6. Peace Palace (Vredespaleis)

This building houses International Court of Justice and the Peace Palace Library. It is one of the most magnificient The Hague tourist attractions. The palace is built with Neo-Renaissance style of architecture. You will need an hour for this palace.

1. Louwman Museum

This museum exhibits the automobile collection of P.W. Louwman family. You will several historical and iconic cars and motorcycles at this place. It is among the most popular places to visit in Den Haag.

2. Madurodam

This miniature park is among the most fun things to do in Den Haag. You will get to see miniature models of several major landmarks and models of famous cities from around the world. You will need about 2 hours for this park.

3. Gemeentemuseum Den Haag / Kunstmuseum Den Haag

This art museum exhibits an amazing collection modern art by several internationally known artists. It is also known among den haag attractions for having the largest Mondrian collection in the world. You will need about 2 hours for this art gallery.

4. Scheveningen Boulevard

The boulevard is adjacent to one of the best beaches in The Hague. The boulevard is a place for entertainment, leisure, dining, street food and so on. You can easily spend a couple of hours at this boulevard.

If you want to explore more places to visit in The Hague, check out the sections below.

Things to do in the hague, monuments, museums & historical places to visit in the hague.

• Mauritshuis
• Kunstmuseum den haag
• Peace Palace
• Escher in Het Paleis
• Panaroma Mesdag
• Museum Voorlinden
• Louwman Museum
• The Hague Old Church
• Nooreinde Palace
• Museum Beelden aan Zee
• Vermeer Centrum Delft
• RKD Netherlands Institute of Art History
• Royal Library
• Gevangenpoort
• Nieuwe Church
• De Mesdag Collection
• Kasteel Duivenvoorde
• The Codart Foundation
• Fotomuseum den haag
• The Hague’s historic museum
• Children’s Book Museum
• Pulchri Studio
• Museum Bredius
• Huis van het Boek
• Huys Clingendael
• Atlantikwall Museum Scheveningen
• Prince William V Gallery
• Muzee Scheveningen
• GEM Museum of Contemporary Art
• Haags Openbazaar Vervoer Museum
• Museum Maluku
• Huygens Hofwijk
• Museum Swaenstyen
• Wetlands Museum
• Museum Sophiahof
• Landgoed Clingendael
• Louis Couperus Museum
• Delft Windmill de Roos
• Galerie Helder
• West den haag
• Museum de Voorde
• Dutch Museum of Freemasonry
• Royal Stables
• Stichting Haags Bus Museum
• National Monument Oranjehotel
• Yi Jun Peace Museum
• Museum Bescherming Bevolking
• Museum Tram Station
• Waalsdorpervlakte Bourdon Bell
• Stitching Design Museum Dedel
• Kunstzaal van Heijningen

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in The Hague

• Westduin Park
• National Park Hollandse Duiden
• Hofvijver Lake
• Ackrdijkse Plassen Nature Reserve
• Park Sorghvliet

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in The Hague

• Madurodam Park
• Duinrell Amusement Park
• Drievliet Family Park
• Sea Life Scheeningen
• The Pier Skyview
• Legoland Discovery Center
• Westbroek Park
• The Holland Casino
• Kikkerachtbaan
• Japanese Garden
• Estate Ockenburgh
• Scheveningse Bosjes
• Butterflies at the Vliet
• Stichting Dierenpark Wassenaar

Shopping in The Hague

• Den Haag Market
• The Quarters
• Grote Marktstraat

Beaches in The Hague

• Scheveningen Beach
• The Sand Engine Beach
• Strandtent Solbeach Scheveningen
• Scheveningen Strand
• Barbarossa Beach
• Blue Lagoon
• Beachclub Indigo
• Strandt Kijkduin Beach

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventure in The Hague

• Snowboarding
• Kitesurfing
• Bungy Jumping

Sightseeing in The Hague

• Het Strijkijzer
• Scheveningen Lighthouse
• The Hague Municipality

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in The Hague

• Toko Frederik
• Warung Bude Kati
• Bacco Perbacco
• Full Moon City
• Falafel en Hummus
• Dekxels B.V.
• Jr’s Cuisine
• Baladi Manouche
• Buddha Bowl
• Walter Benedict
• The Penthouse
• De Basiliek

Where to Stay in The Hague?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-range and Budget Hotels in The Hauge. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in The Hague (Den Haag).

Luxurious Hotels

• Hotel Des Indes The Hague
• Boutique Hotel Corona
• Movenpick Hotel The Hague
• Inntel Hotels Den Haag Marina Beach
• NH Atlantic Den Haag
• Grand Hotel Amrath Kurhaus The Hague Scheveningen
• Leonardo Royal Hotel Den Haag Promenade
• Carlton Beach
• Hilton The Hague
• The Hague Marriott Hotel

Mid-Range Hotels

• Babylon Hotel Den Haag
• Ibis Den Haag City Centre
• Ramada by Wyndham The Hague Scheveningen
• Park Centraal Den Haag
• Andante Hotel
• Best Western Plus Plaza Den Haag City Center
• Mercure Hotel Den Haag Central
• Stadsvilla Mozaic Den Haag
• NH Den Haag
• Hotel Pistache

Budget Hotels

• The Golden Stork
• easyHotel Den Haag City Centre
• Hotel Hague Center

Custom Tours Package in The Hague

How to reach the hague.

The closest airport to reach The Hague is Rotterdam The Hague Airport. You can get direct flights from London , Jersey, Lisbon , Edinburgh , Valencia , Geneva , Split , Salzburg , Ibiza, Rhodes and many more. You will get buses and cabs from the airport to get to places in the city.

You can get direct trains to visit The Hague from Amsterdam , Cologne , Berlin , Frankfurt , Prague , Moscow , Basel, Copenhagen , Antwerp , Brussels , Rotterdam and more. The bus network connects you to several towns and cities in the Netherlands as well as neighboring countries.

If you are planning to visit Den Haag by road, you should head for routes A4, A44, A13 or A12.

You can get ferries to reach Den Haag from Harwich in England and Hook in Holland.

Image Reference

• St. James’ Church (Grote or Sint-Jacobskerk) – Delphinidaesy / Flickr
• Binnenhof (Inner Court) – Rudy and Peter Skitterians / PixaBay
• Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights) – Miguel Vicente Martínez Juan / Flickr
• Mauritshuis (Maurice House) – R Boed / Flickr
• Panorama Mesdag – Hans / Flickr
• Peace Palace (Vredespaleis) – Sammy Six / Flickr
• Louwman Museum – Zairon / Wikimedia Commons
• Madurodam – KuiperCompagnons / Flickr
• Gemeentemuseum Den Haag / Kunstmuseum Den Haag – Roel Wijnants / Flickr
• Scheveningen Boulevard – Olga Kropman / PixaBay
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Mustafa Natalwala

Mustafa is a content writer and digital marketing expert at WideWorldTrips.com His mainly interests are into travelling, photography, film-making

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• Netherlands

41 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in The Hague

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Super famous artwork… Royal castles… Antiquated churches visited by emperors and artists… And a gorgeous soft-sand beach.

It’s not too often that a European city offers an overwhelming amount of art and historic architecture when there’s a pretty shoreline on its doorstep — it’s usually one, or the other.

Be that as it may, once you get a load of the amalgamation of things to do in The Hague , you’ll be pleasantly surprised to learn that this important Dutch city boasts a mix of all three, with plenty of must-see attractions centered around each of these.

Well-known as a political hub of the country; many of the grand, centuries-old prestigious buildings now host parliament offices, some of which were once palaces!

Famed for its art galleries; gape over masterpieces in person (such as the ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’) and visit quaint pottery towns like iconic Delft. Add to your cultural sightseeing agenda a trip to one of its legions of fascinating museums.

Feast on the freshest seafood down at Scheveningen Boulevard, enjoy high tea in the sky or learn a new skill whilst you’re on vacation like how to surf!

Also known locally as Den Haag , the city is lively, but the smell of sea salt still always fills the air. It’s a perfect destination for all sorts, whether you’re after a romantic culture-infused weekend or a family-friendly getaway on the Netherlands’ North Sea coastline.

1 – Gape over famous art at The Mauritshuis

Art appreciators; we all have that one piece of work that has the ability to capture your heart and for many, it’s the iconic Girl with a Pearl Earring by the Dutch Master, Johannes Vermeer.

If it’s been on your Wish List for the longest of times, here’s your chance to marvel at the painting up close and personal at The Mauritshuis.

Whilst it may not be the biggest art museum in the world, it wins over crowds with its impressive collections of Dutch and Flemish artists (predominantly from the 17th century), with over 250 artworks within its collection.

Speaking of, Rembrandt, Judith Leyster, Jan Steen, Peter Paul Rubens, Rachel Ruysch and Frans Hals are some of the other maestros with their art on display.

Among the portraits, landscapes and still lifes, there are also sculptural pieces, as well as furniture dating to the 1600 and 1700s.

Not only a place to marvel over some of the greatest art of the last centuries — cue Rembrandt’s ‘The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp’ — but the gallery building itself dates back to the same time of the artists, constructed by 1644 by Count Johan Maurits (hence its name).

• The Mauritshuis tickets

2 – Climb up The Hague Tower of the Grote Kerk

Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh and Napoleon with a visit to the historic Grote Kerk (also known as Sint-Jacobskerk) and climb its 288 steps to the top of The Hague Tower.

The original construction of the place of worship began back in the year 1256 when first, all that was built was a wooden chapel. By 1335, a small stone church was envisioned and work began, and between 1420 and 1424, its famed hexagon-shaped tower was erected.

In the next 50 years that followed, the Van Assendelft chapel and the high choir were added.

Circa the 20th century, restoration efforts were made to the centuries-old structure, and today, climbing up the Hague Tower (as it became affectionately known and catapulted into a symbol of Den Haag) is well-favored by the tourist crowds… especially for its insane views of the city!

As you amble up the 92-meter-tall structure, learn interesting information about The Hague Tower as well as its church, like why it has a hexagon design and the different wars it endured.

• The Hague Tower tours

3 – Grab a bird’s eye view on the SkyView de Pier

Swap city views for oceanic vistas and enjoy a leisurely ride on the SkyView de Pier gondola, swooping in a circle 50 meters above sea level.

Comfortably seated inside the enclosed cable cart, book out an entire private gondola if you’re planning a special event, or, for another romantic touch there is an exclusive high tea where you can enjoy a pedestal of pastries, tea and a glass of prosecco!

(Booking in advance is essential and high tea is available from 12 PM to 4.30 PM only.)

Located on the seaside at the end of the pier along Scheveningen Boulevard, the wheel was constructed eight meters from the ground here (but reaches 50 meters at its highest point).

Zoot around a couple of times and lap up the views of the North Sea and rides last between 12 and 15 minutes.

Next to the SkyView is a terrace with a beach bar, and further along the boulevard discover more attractions like the outdoor sculptures known as SprookjesBeelden aan Zee, a weekend market and restaurants.

• SkyView de Pier tickets

4 – Walk in the footsteps of the royals at Noordeinde Palace

Pretend to be (Dutch) royalty meandering the hallways and seeking out the artwork inside the Noordeinde Palace — one of the three official residences of the Dutch Royal Family (two of which are located in The Hague, including Noordeinde).

Whilst the current king and queen (King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima) don’t reside at this palace, it is utilized by the royal family for all work-related matters, state of affairs and other prestigious events.

As such, visitors are not allowed to enter inside Paleis Noordeinde, however, its Paleistuin, i.e. the Palace Garden, is open to the public.

Acting as a park, meander through perfectly manicured flower beds and hedges, and there is a pond and a few fountains inside which add to the regal feeling — plus, it’s completely free to enter!

Looking for romantic things to do in The Hague? There are even a few vendors that have picnic baskets available, decked with light snacks and a bottle of wine.

Next door to the park is the Royal Stables and both make for super pretty pictures.

Gifted to the Royals in 1609, the Palace is a five to nine-minute drive from the royals’ home, Huis Ten Bosch and the famous Mauritshuis is right in front (about four minutes away).

5 – Spend the day at the best museums

It’s true Den Haag is well-known for its political institutes and favored for its seaside position, but the seemingly endless epic museums and galleries are a major draw-in for travelers!

Chronicle the life and works of Maurits Cornelis Escher at the Escher in Het Paleis . Spy over 125 of his works on full display, including his famous prints, and timelines pertaining to his life story. The museum building is also rather special — built in 1760, it was a former royal residence up until 1990.

Artists, art aficionados and scholars all have their personal favorite medium of choice. If yours happens to be sculptural works, head directly to the Museum Beelden aan Zee . Curation began in the 60s and today, it’s a one-of-a-kind museum in the Netherlands, only showcasing contemporary international sculpture.

On the hunt for some big names? From Piet Mondrian (a major feature here) to Picasso to Kandinsky to Monet, the illustrious Kunstmuseum is an institute with an affinity for abstract art tenfold… and its art deco style building adds even more character.

Moving from your art museums to the more unique kind, the Louwman Museum shines a light on the automobile industry between the 19th and 20th centuries, exhibiting more than 275 cars.

Still a popular mode of transport throughout the country, step back in time at the Hague Public Transport Museum and scope 30 once-used trams from the years 1905 to 1993.

Retelling and capturing stories of the past, the Historical Museum of The Hague focuses on Den Haag’s history via a showcasing of art, artifacts and other memorabilia.

As its name suggests, the Fotomuseum den Haag highlights photography art. Its displays comprise both current contemporary photography as well as photographs taken by some famous Dutch artists.

Explore a rather gruesome period at The Prison Gate Museum — located at the main gate of a former castle. Learn horrific stories and tales about the Torture Chamber and more… if you have the stomach for it!

• Escher in the Palace Museum tickets

6 – Explore the entire country at Madurodam Miniature Park

As much as we’d love to spend our lives traveling every single city in the world, most of us aren’t afforded the time – hello, reality.

However, there is a way to “sightsee” the whole of the Netherlands in a few short hours and that’s at the Madurodam Miniature Park — a replica of the country, just in mini-size form, on a scale of 1:25 to be exact!

Both adults and kids will love this attraction and the park is divided into various sections to make navigation easier.

Explore the capital city at ‘Discover Amsterdam;’ see the 15th-century town hall in Gouda, the Woudagemaal steam pumping station in Lemmer, St. John’s Cathedral in Den Bosch, and more at the ‘Architectural Highlights’ section; unravel royal homes in ‘Beautiful Palaces;’ pretend to be a pilot at ‘Fly over the Netherlands’ and scope out the political epicenter at ‘Discover Our Kingdom.’

Building and structural highlights to see include the Mills Kinderdijk, Church Westerkerk, Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank Museum, Amsterdam’s ‘De Jordaan’ neighborhood, the Royal Palace (in The Hague), Dom Tower in Utrecht, Basilic Sint-Jan in Den Bosch and Peace Palace.

Apart from the miniature renditions, there are other interactive activities to get involved in.

Get cheese-lifting at ‘Discover Dutch cheeses’ or watch a show, for example, The Court of the Netherlands or Nieuw Amsterdam .

• Madurodam Miniature Park tickets

7 – Buy amazing pottery in Delft

Ever spotted those fancy white and blue plates or pots at your grandparent’s house or in a collector’s store/gallery? Well, there’s a name for the famous pottery, and depending on a few factors, some are worth thousands!

Whilst you’re in The Hague, you can actually visit the town of Delft which is where Delft Blue earthenware originates from… visiting actual factories and shops that sell the products first-hand! The most famous is the Royal Delft.

Just short of 30 minutes from Den Haag, there are plenty more things to discover in the cute Dutch town. Walking tours are a great way to tick off landmarks and attractions in a short space of time, with a guide leading the way.

On another artsy note, Delft rose to fame in latter years as it served as the home to one of the most well-known painters from the Dutch Golden Age, Johannes Vermeer.

Listed among the top 10 technological and engineering universities in the world, the Delft University of Technology is also the biggest and oldest public technical varsity in the country. For the longest time, art, science and history have reigned supreme in this town!

Other must-visit sites and attractions include the Nieuwe Kerk, Oude Kerk, Prinsenhof, the Delft City Hall, the Delft Canals, the Vermeer Center and more.

8 – Tour one of the world’s oldest parliament buildings, Binnenhof and Ridderzaal

Straddling the Hofvijver and smack bang in the heart of The Hague, the Binnehof has certainly stood the test of time, and just thinking about the amount of historical events and important people that have walked through its doors over the centuries is enough to give one goosebumps.

Originally constructed as a castle in the Gothic architectural style of the 13th century, some 300 years later the complex became the country’s political center where it has remained ever since.

(The Prime Minister’s office is inside the Binnenhof and any matters relating to the States-General and Ministry of General Affairs happen here.)

Walk its ancient famed halls, rooms and various sections during guided tours, but certain parts of the political complex are closed off.

Mosey around the Ridderzaal also famously known as the ‘Hall of Knights,’ and look out for the King’s throne. Within this inner courtyard be shown around the First Chamber of Parliament dating to the 17th century and the House of Representatives.

The buildings aren’t the only striking features to investigate… Walk over to the Hofvijver, also known as the Court Pond (interestingly man-made) and take in the views, hunt down the neo-Gothic castle fountain, and then move outside the Binnehof to the Torentje dating to the 14th century (now the Prime Minister’s office).

Important and useful to know; the Binnehof is currently undergoing renovations until 2026 and some offices have been relocated for now.

• The Hague walking tours

9 – Join the Hop-on Hop-off Tram Tour

Chugging on for nearly 70 years, jump onboard the hop-on hop-off tram and get to tour the city at your own pace — plus save a few extra euros here and there on transport costs!

How does it work? Following a designated route around Den Haag, once you have purchased your tram ticket (either as a one-day or 48-hour pass), enjoy the freedom of moving from one hotspot to the next and jumping off the tram when you please.

Once you’re done sightseeing a certain area, landmark or attraction, head to any of the tram’s pickup points and board the iconic yellow rail vehicle without paying a cent again to ride the public transport.

You can do so as many times as you like throughout the day — or over two days if you’ve bought a 48-hour ticket.

The tram has a specific route that it follows, running between 10.15 AM and 5 PM. Move through Gravenstraat, Centrum, Centraal Station, Malieveld, Madurodam, Nieuwe Duinweg, Kurhaus, Zwarte Pad, Keizerstraat, World Forum, Vredespaleis, Mauritskade, Kneuterdijk and Kerkplein.

A few points of interest that you’ll cover on this route are the Binnehof, Scheveningen, Peace Palace, the Old City Hall, the Children’s Book Museum, the National Library of the Netherlands, among others.

This is an awesome way to check out the city, especially if your time is limited!

• hop-on hop-off tram tours in The Hague

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10 – Get onto the ice or snow at De Uithof

If you’ve ever visited the Netherlands in winter (even autumn), you’ll know how bitterly cold the country can get, so it’s no surprise to hear there are ice-skating and skiing options in The Hague. Having said that, it is a major city after all, so where are these activities possible you wonder?

Introducing De Uithof — an indoor ice rink and snow track that’s been in operation since 1970!

On the rink, enjoy good ol’ fashioned ice skating fun and there is a skating school here if you want to sharpen up your skills, as well as the IJSHockey Clinic.

Not only limited to skating, there are other super fun ice activities to try out like curling, classic Dutch games such as eisstockschiessen (ice stock sport), sledding, shuffleboard shooting and riding an ice bike, or challenge your friends to a hilarious match of bumperball.

Added to the ice rink in 2000, the snow track is where the skiing and snowboarding action kicks off! Here, discover a ski school, the freestyle park for the advanced and pros, or join one of the snow games, for example, ski runs, tug-of-war and relay races, and even get to go tubing!

Off the ice (and snow) there is more to try, so families usually have a blast at this adventure arena! From sumo wrestling to bungee soccer, archery, arrow tag, laser tag, karting and so much more, you’ll probably want to spend the entire day here.

11 – Embark on a sightseeing boat tour

Both the canals and the beach in The Hague are treasured facets that make this city so special, and what better way to experience either water bodies than on a boat tour?

If you’re keen on ambling along the canal systems, enjoy a 1.5-hour cruise through the man-made channels where you’ll become educated on some local history, veering under 30-odd bridges.

Be steered through varying neighborhoods that showcase the different working classes of Den Haag.

Fascinatingly, the canals were constructed in the 17th century, but it was only from 1910 that the waterways were actually filled!

A second option is boat tours down at Scheveningen Beach where you can lap up the ocean views instead of the inner city.

• boat tours in The Hague

12 – Stop to smell the roses at Clingendael Park

From French gardens to Japanese ones… Undergoing many different designs and add-ons since the original manor first popped into existence in the 16th century, Clingendael Park is one of the prettiest gardens in the city.

Plus, its interesting past makes it even more alluring… From the residence’s time of inception, multiple amendments and additions have occurred to the property, particularly its gardens.

Starting out in a French design, the landscape was then manicured to suit the typical English gardens of the time. Later it was decided to convert the space into a traditional Dutch park — cue the box hedges and fruit trees.

Then, at the start of the 20th century, its famed Japanese Gardens were added to the park, with actual elements shipped in from Japan such as lanterns, sculptures, plants, water casks and even small bridges.

Fast forward to the 21st century and the Japanese Gardens remain — but important to know, they only open up for a few weeks every year in springtime when the cherry blossoms (i.e. sakura trees), azalea and rhododendron are in bloom.

Behind the house is a kids’ playground, as well as a picturesque rose garden.

13 – Spruce up your social feeds at Youseum Westfield Mall of The Netherlands

Get your best selfie game ready and don your funkiest outfit for a trip to the imaginative and unique Youseum — located inside the Westfield Mall of The Netherlands.

What’s the deal? Unlike any museum around town, this entire gallery space has been laid out with 30 super cool interactive installations, so cool in fact you’ll find the urge to snap endless pics alongside them… Which is kinda the point of this entire thing after all!

There’s no denying the significance social media plays in our current society, and Youseum has taken note, recreating a world made for Instagram and TikTok users, more specifically, content for users.

Pose for a picture in a pink ball pit whilst swinging on a disco ball, feel like you’re in Brooklyn, NYC inside the classic laundry room, or stroll a hallway of mirrors…

There are 15 curated areas and you can also download any pictures taken during the experience by Youmuseum for free afterward — many of the rooms include their own photo-taking elements which are a part of the installation.

• Youseum Westfield Mall of The Netherlands tickets

14 – Feel the thrills on the rides at Drievliet

For more than 70 years and counting, Drievliet has been providing all of the thrills, excitement, fun and adventure for families, kids and adults!

Opening up in 1951, it’s your classic amusement park with tons of rides to choose from (you could easily spend half the day here, if not, longer), divided into various categories.

The spooky Ghost Museum, the freefalling Chute, the Hot Air Balloon Wheel, the riveting Dynamite Express, the swinging Pirate and the Grand Prix bumper cars are some of the 19 family-friendly attractions.

Designed solely for the wee ones; children have all the fun on rides such as the Merry-go-round, Jolly Jumper, Cauldron Carousel, Singing Stable, Old McDonalds Tractor Ride, Tugboats, Jumping Dogs, Dive dune, Zeebonkenhonk playground and more!

But if you’re here for a serious adrenaline rush, head to the thrill-inducing rides like the sideways-spinning Jellyfish, be catapulted from side to side on the Nautilus, zoom down the Copper Mine at 60 kilometers per hour, and squeal and laugh as you move from zero to 70 kilometers per hour in just two seconds on the Formula X rollercoaster!

Some of the attractions involve water, so make sure you pack the correct clothing, and even a spare pair to change into afterward.

Apart from the rides, there are more things to do at Drievliet. Catch a Jungle Show at the Jungle Theatre, step into different realities at Cinemagic 5D or enjoy a variety show at the Parktheater.

15 – Step into the natural splendor of Vlinders aan de Vliet

There’s something so utterly romantic — and magical — about the idea of hundreds of butterflies fluttering around you… If you hail from a country where nature is limited, visiting Vlinders aan de Vliet is a pretty incomparable experience.

Feel as if you’re in a sort of fairy wonderland at this tropical butterfly park, and although not massively large, the hundreds of butterflies that you see here are super captivating.

Created inside a greenhouse garden, the space has purposefully been designed to replicate a humid, tropical climate. This is because the species here are not the usual type that you see around the European continent, and the setup is to best replicate their actual natural habitats.

Entomologists and those who have a passion for the creatures, some of the Lepidoptera (scientific name) to spot include the blue morpho and passion flower butterfly (both found in South and Central America); the striking Ornithoptera (the second largest butterfly in the world); the owl butterfly (i.e. the Caligo); and the Atlas moth from Asia.

The butterfly haven brings in pupae (eggs) from around the world and then the creatures hatch naturally inside the garden, designed with specific plants that these winged species usually lay their eggs on.

Apart from the butterflies to see, there is also a small fish pond and some caged-off areas that reptiles like snakes and iguanas call home.

16 – Book a fun jet boat tour

Waterbabies and those with some serious sea legs, why opt for an ordinary cruise on the water when you can enjoy the excitement of a jet boat tour? — Where twists and turns across waves are a guarantee!

Zooting around Scheveningen Beach for 45 minutes (where your speedboat departs from), get to sightsee from a different angle out at sea, and be driven past ocean attractions where you can photograph landmarks from a unique viewpoint, for example, Scheveningen Lighthouse and the Pier.

If you’re not super comfortable riding boats out at sea, we suggest you skip this excursion… Thanks to the speedboat’s two Yamaha 250-horsepower engines, you’ll be flying across the water up to speeds of 100 kilometers per hour!

The ride lasts 35 minutes and before even boarding, a 10-minute safety briefing is mandatory. Gear like a life vest is provided, but make sure you bring a spare pair of clothing in case you catch a few splashes en route, and waterproof anything you don’t want to get wet!

• jet boat tours in The Hague

17 – Make it out of an escape room

Do you think you have what it takes to be the next Sherlock Holmes or Detective Conan? Suitable for older kids, teens and adults, if you’ve yet to try out an escape room, now is your chance!

It’s time to put on your thinking hats and decide for yourself with Operation Exit .

Entering an old mansion with 60 minutes on the clock, it’s up to your team to crack the mystery of the missing jewel believed to be hidden within its walls. But beware of Baron Van Hagesteijn and his many traps set up to stop you!

As you crack each riddle/clue, automatically be granted the next until you’ve solved all the mysteries, finally making it out alive, ahem, we mean, successfully…

Using modern technologies, Amaze Escape Events is a second awesome escape room option — but they do things slightly differently.

Instead of a real-life setting, you’ll play the game in a virtual reality and there are multiple VR escape rooms to take your pick from depending on what grabs your attention!

Escape the Lost Pyramid , Beyond Medusa’s Gate , Prince of Persia: The dagger of time , Huxley , Incarna: Chapter 1 – The Training and Incarna: Chapter 2 – Dimensional Break are the current VR escape room games.

If you’re a mega fan of virtual reality activities, there is also a VR Arcade here together with a VR Zombie Shooter zone to play.

• escape rooms in The Hague

18 – Photograph the stunning Peace Palace

With so many palaces and castles still in existence around Den Haag, it’s hard to imagine that a) Peace Palace is just over 100-odd years old and b) it was never built or used as a state home.

Nope, instead, this impressive piece of architecture was initially constructed for the purpose of housing the ‘largest library in the field of international law and peace’ as well as the Permanent Court of Arbitration after the first Hague Peace Conference took place between 26 countries back in 1899.

Acting as the indefinite home for both ever since, this monumental building is now also home to the United Nations International Court of Justice and The Hague Academy of International Law.

Tourists love taking photos of its grand exterior, and if you’re here at the right time, Peace Palace opens up for visitors a few times a year — and you can bet the interiors are magnificent!

Decked out in paintings in the various rooms, sculptures that line the hallways (and some in the garden) and silk tapestries (in the Japanese room), the artwork to see inside the building adds the cherry.

Inside the Library’s Reading Room, dive into a world of law literature, and some of its most prestigious works are prints by Erasmus and Hugo Grotius.

Its garden was established to also reflect the feelings of peace, with water being a key feature. Designed by a British garden architect, the grounds feature a rose garden, as well as multiple statues and artistic features.

19 – Study our oceans at Sea Life Scheveningen

For lovers of the ocean and travelers looking for awesome things to do in The Hague with kids, Sea Life Scheveningen hits the spot and is an excellent way to learn more about our magnificent aquatic creatures, as well as our oceans.

Divided into nine sections that are categorized by continents and creatures, there are over 45 various aquarium spaces in total to make your way through.

Keep your eyes peeled for the spotted dogfish inside the North Sea Aquarium; learn about anemones with a hands-on experience at the Touch Pool; and meet friends like the unusual mudskipper or a caiman inside the Amazonia space.

Discover life amongst the coral reefs in the Tropical Area; stroll through the awe-inspiring Ocean Tunnel alongside Napoleon wrasse and green turtles, and get to meet jellies, seahorses, otters and penguins in their own individual sections.

You’ll need about an hour or so to get through the entire aquarium, perfect if you’re here with tiny tots — we know how quickly kids can tire out and want mom and dad to carry them around.

• Sea Life Scheveningen tickets

20 – Enjoy a koffie on Lange Voorhout

Once thee place to be centuries ago amongst the noble and rich and famous, in the 21st century Lange Voorhout is an idyllic avenue adorned with tall linden trees, cute streetside cafes and small local markets every now and then.

Back in the day, like way, way back, the homes of the town’s wealthiest residents lined the L-shaped streetside and many of these have been converted into offices and embassies.

It’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee under the rustling leaves, do some people-watching and reimagine life in the 14th century.

Sometimes city events are held here, and every other weekend, small flea markets set up shop, like the Antique and Book Market. The iconic Escher in Het Paleis is located at the end of the street and it makes for a nice relaxing break after you’re done investigating the museum.

The setting also changes with the seasons; snow-laden in winter and dotted with fallen purple petals in spring.

21 – Try new things during a Food Tour

One for the foodies or anyone who just loves Dutch food, treat your senses and palette to a couple of hours of all things related to the local cuisine during Food Tours!

The best part about this excursion is you not only get to sample various snacks, aperitifs and baked goods but your guide shares insightful titbits about the city, people, culture and its history.

It’s a win-win situation really because you get to do a round of sightseeing as you move from one local eatery/cafe/bar to the next, walking past landmarks such as Noordeinde Palace, Binnenhof, Ridderzaal, Grote Kerk and even Standbeeld Haagse Harry.

Depending on what suits you, there are food tours that last 2.5 hours or some that are half-day ventures, roughly four hours.

Stopping at artisanal bakeries, delicacy stores, pubs and cafes, break to taste classic traditional eats, and enjoy a chat with the locals.

Visit over five different food-centric locations, and nibble on both sweet and savory delights, as well as favorite Dutch drinks.

• food tours in The Hague

22 – See the Netherlands’ largest painting at Panorama Mesdag

If you have a strong affinity for the ocean and artworks that represent such scenes, the Panorama Mesdag museum will sweep you off your feet — and not just because it’s the permanent home of dozens of pieces by renowned Dutch artist, Hendrik Willem Mesdag and his wife (also an artist) Sina Mesdag-van Houten.

Making his way into the history books, Mesdag is famed for his seascape paintings, cumulating to fame during the 1870s. His most iconic, without a doubt, was his work titled ‘Panorama of Scheveningen.’

It’s right here at Panorama Mesdag that you can witness the 14-meter-tall masterpiece, with a circumference of 120 meters, in the flesh. Adding even more awe, this very gallery was started by the husband and wife, and their family home was once its neighbor.

Finished in 1881 using a circular shaped canvas, the artwork is kind of trippy when you witness it up close, perhaps because of its immense shape and size.

It forms part of the museum’s permanent collection — amongst which plenty more of the Mesdags’ works are featured.

Guided tours are available, for example, the Mesdag Highlight Tour. Gain insider knowledge about the life, work and times of the family, as well as behind-the-scenes introspect relating to the Panorama of Scheveningen .

Traveling with kids? They’ll love the Panorama’s Scavenger Hunt!

• Panorama Mesdag tickets

23 – Cycle your way through the city with a bike tour

Known as “bicycle country” and the bicycle capital of the world , join the locals and zip off on a bike tour around The Hague.

As an integral part of Dutch culture, any city that you visit in the Netherlands is cyclist-friendly and some say there are more bicycles than residents in the country!

Tour around with ease (there are dedicated bike lanes on the main roads) and enjoy a round of sightseeing the pukka local way.

Westbroekpark, Kurhaus of Scheveningen, the Binnenhof, Noordeinde Palace, Peace Palace, Mauritshuis, The Royal Stables, Lange Voorhout and The Passage are some examples of the landmarks and attractions that these expeditions cover, and varying bike tours veer to specific locales.

Ranging from 2.5 to three-hour endeavors; bikes are included so all you need to bring along is yourself.

If you’ve already done all of your sightseeing in Den Haag, consider opting for a professionally guided 2.5-hour bike tour through Delft.

• bike tours in The Hague

24 – Lap up a night out at the event venues

The Hague is one heck of a cultural treat — from museums to palaces to galleries and, and, and… Add a few more culture-filled bounties to your list with a night of theater at one of the city’s best event venues.

Operating since 1904, what was once an actual circus ground was later converted into the AFAS Circus Theater (hence its name). Over 100 years later, the theater is now owned by Stage Entertainment, and since the 90s, some of the biggest shows have held the stage from The Phantom of the Opera to The Lion King , The Sound of Music , Miss Saigon and now Aïda .

Open for theatrical productions and doubling as a congress and business events center, the World Forum The Hague plays host to music concerts, plays, musicals, standup comedy shows and dance recitals like the ballet.

Founded in 1964 and rising to fame in the cabaret world, today the intimate Theater Pepijn The Hague favors stand-up (check out its Breakfast Comedy Club) and alternative artists and shows.

Plus, the supper theater is extra alluring donned with a cabaret library and vintage finishes.

25 – Dine on fresh seafood at Scheveningen Beach

Flowing between the Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Germany, Belgium, France and Great Britain, dip your toes into the North Sea’s chilly waters down at Scheveningen Beach — if you’re brave enough, try swimming in the ocean in the summer months.

Considered one of the only truly authentic coastal towns in the country, the 4.5-kilometer stretch of sandy shores is divided into four sections.

The main tourist beach where Scheveningen Boulevard is built is Nooderstrand (North Beach), running from the pier to the harbor. Super popular in the summer for sunbathing and beach activities, there are many restaurants and bars here, especially if you’re in the mood for the freshest seafood!

To the north end of the pier is Zwarte Pad Strand (Black Path Beach) and summertime calls for epic beach parties here!

Zuiterstrand (South Beach) is ideal for travelers seeking to escape the crowds, and Kijkduin Beach is famed for its soft sand dunes, also boasting a quieter reprieve than the main beaches.

Whilst you’re in the area, in between the city center and the beach stopover at Westbroekpark which flourishes in the warmer seasons. Stroll through its pretty rose garden and you can walk through the park to the beach areas.

Hire out an old-school rowing boat and float across the pond, grab a cuppa at the authentic tea house, and there is a restaurant here as well as playgrounds for kids.

26 – Shop The Hague’s best markets

Who doesn’t love a trip to a fabulous market? The Hague certainly has a couple of goodies up for show!

Introducing one of the biggest outdoor markets in Europe, and the largest in the Netherlands, easily mill away the hours at De Haagse Markt (also known as The Hague Market).

Opening up shop four times a week from 9 AM to 5 PM (on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays), hundreds flock to browse its stalls where international and exotic goods feature high.

Shop for affordable fashion, accessories, homeware, furniture, flowers and so much more, and its fresh produce offering is amazing, from the likes of cheeses to seafood to herbs and spices.

De Grote Markt , this shopping haven is where to come if you’re searching for some trendy things to buy or cool souvenirs and its food-game is strong!

Also known as a place to enjoy live music, sweet sounds always fill the market square and the area surrounding the De Grote is famous for its music venues and bars — and sometimes, events and festivals are held here.

27 – Then, hit up the boutiques at Passage

For those that prefer to do their shopping in an orderly fashion indoors, get lost in branded heaven at the country’s oldest shopping mall, first opening its doors in 1882!

Close to 150 years old, De Passage has since undergone renovations and refurbishments to give it a more modern feel, yet facets of the building’s old-school charm have still been retained.

Today, it hosts a wide range of department and boutique stores and is right next to De Grote Markt.

Looking for fashion, books, shoes, electronics or souvenirs? There are over 20 shops inside, including local and international brands, such as Mango, Ray Ban, Van Os tassen en koffers, Nespresso and Distrikt Nørrebro.

Feeling peckish or in desperate need of a coffee refuel? 8tea5, Hometown, Smoothie Company, Hop & Stork, and more have got you covered.

If you’re not much of a shopper but your other half is, you can appreciate its grand architecture in the interim, like the gorgeous glass rooftop and sculpted façades.

28 – Eat, shop and repeat in Chinatown

One of the beautiful things about traveling is the diversity of cultures that you get to experience. It’s always a super cool discovery when you learn more about different ethnicities and backgrounds that you weren’t necessarily expecting to see!

The moment you make your way into lively Chinatown The Hague , you’re guaranteed to uncover a world of color, culture and cuisine unlike most places in the city, and the Chinese-Asian district has something for everyone.

Dine at Chinatown Dim Sum, Kimchi House Korean Restaurant, Momiji Ramen, Viet Street Food, Dayang Indonesisch Restaurant, Poke & Avocado ‘s-Gravenhage, Kaa Lun Palace and plenty more mouth-watering restaurants, with flavors from around Asia.

Stock up on authentic ingredients, herbs, spices and fresh produce from the supermarkets and specialty stores, or treat yourself to a massage, a new hair-do, or get your nails done. There are even a few acupuncturists around.

Shopaholics; stroll into the various interesting boutiques and pick up silk fabrics, jewels and oriental homeware.

When it’s Chinese New Year or the Chinese Moon Festival, the streets transform into a parade of celebration!

29 – Taste traditional Dutch liquor at Van Kleef Distillery

Have you ever tasted a tumbler of jenever before? Similar to gin, it’s actually a traditional Dutch drink, and the Van Kleef Distillery are specialists in the liquor.

Producing bottles since 1842, step back in time during a tour of the antiquated distilling house where you’ll get to sample traditional liqueurs and liquor from the barrels, and apart from jenever, Van Kleef also manufactures vodka, korenwijn (corn wine), gin and bottled cocktails.

The original distillery is no longer open, but guests can still visit the once-used factory which now acts as a museum. Scope out old distilling equipment like copper stills, barrels, and drankorgels (old-school holding booze racks).

There are two different types of tastings to choose from.

During the 1.5-hour Van Kleef Proeverij Tasting, kick things off with a short history lesson followed by an eight-glass tasting, accompanied by snacks to line the tummy.

Or, opt for a fun one hour and 45 minutes Van Kleef Cocktail Tasting experience and see what you think of their special Van Kleef “Vaccin” concoction (made from ginger liqueur and limoncello) as well as five other interesting cocktails.

30 – Snap pics next to murals during a street art tour

With so much art to discover in abundance in Den Haag, its creativity doesn’t end and so it only makes sense that the street art scene is a prevalent one.

Under the expertise and guidance of a local, be shown the hottest murals and graffiti-laden walls during a Street Art Tour.

As a smart (and convenient) way to cover more ground than on foot, these ventures are by bike — which is way more popular than any mode of transport in the Netherlands anyway.

Ranging between two and 2.5 hours, cycle past building walls spluttered in artworks by local artists, ranging from small-scale to oversized murals, particularly around the urban-cool De Binckhorst area.

An up-and-coming industrial trendsetting neighborhood, the district heaves with art! During these special bike tours, uncover hidden street art that only residents know about.

Your super knowledgeable guide will also share information about the artworks, and fascinating facts about the artists behind them.

• street art tours in The Hague

31 – Learn something at the National Monument Oranjehotel

Are you fascinated with all things World War? A trip to the National Monument Oranjehotel might just send shivers down your spine — especially if you have family directly affected by the injustices of WWII.

A very special type of history museum, you could call this a living museum, converting original cells where prisoners were held during the German invasion.

Dubbed the nickname ‘Oranjehotel’ during the war, this particular prison was where German soldiers detained more than 25,000 innocents, whether it be Jews, Jehovah’s Witnesses, members of the Resistance and anyone working on the black market during World War II.

Whilst no longer serving as a Nazi prison, the Scheveningen jail was still in use up until 2009!

After years of abandonment, it was decided to convert the former Nazi interrogation and persecution point into a memorial, to remember, respect and commemorate the lost lives. The Commemorative Centre opened up in 2019.

Investigate a permanent exhibition and learn more about prison life, daily regimes, the families inflicted, the occupation and the Resistance. There is a short video on display as well as photographs, documents and other video clips.

Through an audio tour, listen to eerie stories from prisoners, as well as personal letters and memoirs being narrated. You can also take a guided look at Cell 601 — where prisoners spent their last night on D row before execution… You can even spot actual inscriptions that they carved into the walls…

It’s a somber yet eye-opening experience for all.

• National Monument Oranjehotel tickets

32 – Visit the Vermeer Centrum Delft

Step inside the mind of the artist behind The Girl with a Pearl Earring at the Vermeer Centrum Delft, and take a deep dive into the life and works of one of the Netherland’s most acclaimed artists of the 17th century.

Born in Delft and where the artist spent his last days, the exhibition is dedicated to celebrating the artist and his life’s work. In fact, the current museum site was the former Guild of St. Luke building where Vermeer worked as Dean for the institute of artists.

At the Centrum, you won’t see any originals, however, all 37 paintings created by Vermeer are exhibited as reproductions in chronological order, and to exact scale.

Moving from one painting to the next, an audioguide provides more insight into each work. There is also a multitouch table and a short film for you to learn more about the man, his personal life as well as the Guild.

Make your way to the recreated studio where you’ll get an understanding of how Vermeer worked, as well as why he was known as the ‘master of light.’ There are guided tours through the museum, as well as free guided tours every Sunday.

Got the little ones with you? Get involved in the fun Kids’ Treasure Hunt – In search of Vermeer!

• Experience Johannes Vermeer tickets

33 – Go climb at Klimmuur

Here’s one for all you rock monkeys; lace up your climbing shoes at Klimmuur and tackle the climbing wall — with two epic locations in The Hague.

Both centers offer two types of climbing lessons.

Cover the basics of belaying and sport climbing in one hour during a Climbing Introductory Lesson, or for a more extensive session, book the Basic Climbing Course including four two-hour lessons, and you will also receive an independent climbing certificate afterward.

At The Hague de Uithof’s location, there are both indoor and outdoor climbing walls, reaching up to 21 meters.

Expect to find walls of all shapes and sizes. Indoors offers 140 routes, separated by 45 ropes and outside are 25 routes divided by 16 ropes. There is also a boulder wall reaching 4.5 meters high for those keen on bouldering.

The Hague Hollands Spoor’s climbing wall is situated inside a climbing hall and so is its Beest Boulders section. The center sports over 100 routes laid out with 36 ropes. The bouldering hall is next level here with a whopping 180 boulders!

A great activity for all ages, the climbing walls are suitable for children with dedicated sessions for kids available.

34 – Meander around Het Plein

Bustling with people, cute cafes and locals enjoying an Aperol Spritz or glass of vino, Het Plein is situated right in the middle of the city’s old town, right outside the Binnehof.

Interestingly, the town square once belonged to the ancient castle, and the space was where the grounds’ gardens were set up.

Thanks to its location right outside the Binnehof, the area is well-maintained and the buildings surrounding Het Plein suit this atmosphere. It’s also in the perfect position to many must-see attractions and so the square is always abuzz.

Pull up a chair at one of the lovely restaurants or street cafes for a bite to eat or a coffee and find yourself people-watching before you know it.

As the sun begins to set, the fairylights come on and the eateries transform from daytime spots to lively nights cafes and bars, and it becomes a serious vibe!

Sometimes, there are small flea markets set up here too.

In the center of the square, spot the statue of William the Silent, standing proudly here since 1848.

35 – Book a surf lesson

Take full advantage of The Hague’s coastal positioning and learn the basics of surfing 101 with a surf lesson session down at Scheveningen Beach.

As you’re just starting out, most surf lessons for beginners are between 1.5 to two hours, starting on the shoreline and ending in the water.

Limited to small groups so each individual gets enough personal attention and focus, begin with the fundamentals, such as learning how to position yourself on the board, going from paddling position to standing using your knees, how to paddle, ride the wave and curve your board.

Listen carefully to the safety instructions too before you enter the North Sea. Once you’re ready and comfortable it’s time to hit the ocean and go surfing — and not to fear, your guide is there to help give you a push when needed.

For this activity, you need to know how to swim well and have some level of fitness. All surfing gear and equipment is included in the lesson. The North Sea can reach super icy temperatures and so wetsuits and surf caps are provided to keep you warm.

If you are set on spending the entire day learning how to surf, there are a few full-day surf options — check out Aloha Surfschool.

• surf lessons in The Hague

36 – Sightsee alternatively with scavenger games

Traversing from one city landmark and attraction to the next is not everyone’s cup of tea. If you’re vacationing with a partner who isn’t the biggest fan, consider these super fun city Scavenger Games as an alternative — so everyone is left feeling happy.

How does it work? Using your mobile phone, you’ll be given a set of riddles that need solving. The catch? You’ll only receive each new riddle once you solve the previous one, and each puzzle you will find at a different location.

Every location is in fact, an iconic or unique city landmark!

Designed as an interactive game, be introduced to fun facts and hidden city gems as you move from one destination to the next. Each scavenger hunt is strategically planned to lead you throughout the city, maneuvering through a few secret alleyways.

Ranging from 1.5 to two hours, there are various games to choose from, each one differing slightly in theme and the sights to cover.

For example, pick a hunt that focuses on the typical must-see Den Haag highlights, opt for a round centered on the Old Town, or trace the stories of the Dutch Resistance heroes with a history scavenger hunt.

• scavenger games in The Hague

37 – Play and create at Legoland Discovery Centre Scheveningen

Loved for decades by both young and old, LEGO® toys were first manufactured in 1932 and have continued to win the hearts of parents, children and even adult players ever since.

So much so, there are now dedicated Legoland Discovery Centres including the one in Scheveningen!

A fantastic way to encourage the development of fine and gross motor skills, your kids will go dippy at the playground centered around all things LEGO®.

Divided into different sections, there is plenty to see and get involved in within the interactive setup, meshing the theme of ‘build, play and learn.’

Combining over 1 million colorful blocks and featuring 2,500 minifigures, Miniland is a replica of The Hague’s highlights including its most famous buildings and monuments.

Visit Master Wu, undergo your own training and construct your own fighting figurine at NINJAGO® Training Zone; or use your hands and pretend to be a mechanic building your own car made from LEGO® at the Build & Test zone.

The LEGO DUPLO® Park is specifically for the little ones, and the space is filled with the larger DUPLO® blocks. The Pirate Adventure – Soft Play is also just for children.

Board the Imagination Express and enjoy a ride through the LEGO® city, and catch a LEGO® movie at the 4D Cinema.

There are creative workshops to join under the guidance of a buildmaster, or for the young at heart, there are special Adult Nights where no kids are allowed in.

• Legoland Discovery Centre Scheveningen tickets

38 – Explore the Museon Omniversum

Travelers besotted with all things science, the Museon Omniversum is calling your name!

Open both day and night, the interactive science museum places an emphasis on exploring people, our Earth and all things sustainability through exhibitions, displays and hands-on features.

Temporary exhibitions follow themes from the likes of the Dinosaur Age through to space travel; or hunt down the permanent expos honing in on topics like the Romans, prehistory, satellites, volcanoes and the North Pole. One of the biggest is the ‘One Planet Expo.’

The museum owns an extensive collection of objects pertaining to all things nature, technology and culture constantly on rotate, showcasing a handful at a time like telescopes, vintage interference devices, skeletons, fossils and so much more.

Planetarium shows, live concerts and science films all happen inside the Dome. Depending on the time of visit, uncover different day and night programs.

39 – Spin the slots at Holland Casino Scheveningen

Feeling lucky? To be enjoyed responsibly, show off your poker skills at the Holland Casino Scheveningen or arrive for some good ol’ fashioned gambling fun.

Expect to find all the classics such as roulette, blackjack, bingo, poker and baccarat, as well as dozens of slot machines.

Speaking of, there are the traditional spinning reel slots as well as modernized video slots to play, including the timeless fruit machines, or slot games involving poker, roulette and bingo tactics.

Boasting a wonderful location next to the seaside, don’t forget to take a break and there is a great dining option to unwind at — or spend your winnings.

Don’t be surprised to see live performances adding ambiance to the evening, and the casino has a strict dress code of ‘stylish and well-groomed.’ Identification is mandatory and no one under the age of 18 years old is allowed inside.

40 – Save the Fine Dining for a date

Fancy an evening (or afternoon) of fine dining? A spectacular idea for date night, get a taste of some of Den Haag’s best restaurants.

Calla’s is gorgeous, from the food presentation to the simple yet elegant interiors. Headed up by chef Ronald van Roon, the one-star Michelin restaurant offers both set and a la carte menus for lunch and dinner service, featuring tons of fresh produce straight from their garden.

Grab a seat around the chef’s table on the ground floor, or take a romantic seat upstairs.

Focusing on Italian cuisine but incorporating French cooking techniques, Restaurant de Basiliek matches it with a fabulous vino menu featuring selections from around the world.

Decide if you’d like to sample a tasting menu (you have the option to choose specific dishes for this from the a la carte menu) or leave it up to the culinary pros and opt for the three-course Chef’s Menu or the six-course Amuse Menu.

Warm and inviting, Restaurant Basaal is the place for plates of modern Dutch food. Using authentic flavors but presenting dishes in a contemporary fashion, the menu changes with the seasons.

There is both indoor and outdoor seating available.

41 – Party at the hottest nightlife spots

Let your hair down after a long day of city exploring and sightseeing and lap up the nightlife vibes of The Hague. Depending on your mood, take your pick of bars, clubs and comedy venues.

De Gekke Geit is your typical youthful bar setup, where the crowds that flitter in are usually backpackers or groups of friends on the prowl for a fun night out.

If live music is more your thing, De Zwarte Ruiter is located in the Grote Markt and has been winning over the crowds since 1988! An institution in its own right, it opens as a coffee shop in the day and transforms into a venue for gigs when the sun disappears.

Dancing queens and kings, shake it off at PIP Den Haag . Expect a typical nightclub setting with local and international DJs on the decks, and they also host other alternative events.

In the mood for a lighthearted affair? The ComedyCity Theatre is one of the only true comedy clubs in the city, open from Thursday to Saturday — and many of the standup acts are international.

Ever visited a proper authentic tiki bar? Lively, colorful, ambient and serving delicious rum cocktails, grab a drink, or four, at Den Haag’s only tiki bar, VaVoom Tiki Room .

How to get to The Hague?

For international travelers flying directly into the Netherlands, there are two options for how to get to The Hague.

There is no airport in the city, so you will land at either Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (a one-hour drive from Den Haag) or Rotterdam The Hague Airport (45 minutes from The Hague via car).

Eliminate the hassles of organizing transport to your final destination with pre-booked airport transfers available from both airports.

Once you’ve landed and are ready to leave the airport, your private driver will be waiting outside the gates holding a sign with your name on it. Be transported in a comfortable vehicle directly to your stay, with no need to worry about figuring out taxis or public transport.

Where to stay in The Hague?

Nothing beats the feeling of returning to an amazing stay when you’re traveling aboard. Here are some of the loveliest hotels in The Hague.

Fusing old-school charm with modern-day comforts, The Collector boasts an excellent central location, yet the hotel’s surrounding area is nice and quiet — a perfect option for couples.

The 4-star Park Centraal Den Haag takes cues from different decades, effortlessly combining a variety of design styles to give it a grand art deco feel.

Another option with a fabulous positioning; Boutique Hotel Corona is set within a 17th-century building but offers guests contemporary interiors, and rooms and suites are well-equipped.

Stylish, comfortable and with all the luxury finishes, voco The Hague, an IHG Hotel lives up to its 4-star reputation.

With pops of color and art filling the rooms and hallways, the Boutique Hotel De Salon is ideal for those that prefer a more intimate stay and has an undeniable romantic air about it.

Bright, light and cozy, the Stadsvilla Hotel Mozaic Den Haag is great for families and offers multiple room options including a family suite.

• best hotels in The Hague

Visiting The Hague on a budget?

There’s nothing wrong with saving a few extra pennies here and there when on vacation — it just means more money for shopping or dining out.

For example, free walking tours in The Hague are one way of doing so, and there are a few options to take your pick from in The Hague, ranging from two to 2.5 hours ventures.

With a local expert on all things Den Haag leading the way, be shown the top city attractions, must-see sights and important landmarks without paying a dime. Hear fascinating anecdotes and insider titbits while learning something new at the same time during the free city tour.

Attractions like the Binnenhof, Mauritshuis, Escher in Het Paleis, Chinatown, Lange Voorhout, Grote Markt and Noordeinde Palace are some of the places that these tours cover.

Where to go next?

This wonderful country has so much to offer, with each town and city boasting something different and unique about it. There are many other fun things to do in the Netherlands, so if time affords you, explore some of its other incredible cities.

Under one hour away from Den Haag, there are plenty of fun things to do in Rotterdam — the second largest city in the Nederlands.

Photograph impressive architecture from bridges like the Erasmus Bridge to the beautiful Grote of Sint-Laurenskerk church. Go abseiling or ziplining down the Euromast Tower, hunt down the abstract Cube Houses (Kijk-Kubus), enjoy a Rotterdam boat tour and shop the urban-cool The Markthal market.

It’s kind of a sin to leave the capital city off your travel itinerary when you’re in the Netherlands, and you’ll discover a multitude of fun things to do in Amsterdam .

Conveniently situated one hour and 15 minutes away, visit its stew of different museums from the Anne Frank to the famous Sexmuseum, take the tram through town, go beer tasting at the Heineken Experience brewery, visit its iconic districts, and stop by at least one coffee shop is a must — if even just to peek inside.

Final thoughts

From ice-skating and skiing with the kids to visiting iconic museums, shopping, street art spotting and boat tours through the canals, this is an incredible city!

Take full advantage of the beach in summer, or revel in its perfect European wintery moments.

Have you traveled to Den Haag before? What were some of your best travel memories during your time here, or your favorite things to do in The Hague? Share with us in the comments, we love hearing your travel stories. As always, happy travels!

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Overtourism in the Canaries is our fault — we have no imagination

Residents in the canary islands are staging a protest against high numbers of visitors — but will this really put us off.

I was 36 years old when I went to Tenerife for the first time. I’d spent three decades avoiding it, having gobbled up the stereotype that it was full of sunburnt Brits on package holidays hogging loungers. What a wally I was. It was one of the best holidays we’ve had once we’d escaped the chain hotels clogging the Costa Adeje — all big skies, rolling waves, terracotta towns and beers for less than a quid in deserted village plazas.

Clearly, I’m not alone. Tourism figures from the Canary Islands, which also include Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria and La Palma, show that 14 million visitors landed on their shores in 2023 — about seven times the number of residents. Recent data from the Advantage Travel Partnership, representing travel agents, shows that 17 per cent of all bookings by its agents over the Easter holidays were for Tenerife.

Next week residents of Tenerife and Lanzarote will stage a protest against overtourism, which has caused “widespread and growing unrest”, according to Ecologistas en Accion, the environmental group organising the demonstration. It claims that water is scarce, housing is unaffordable and the islands are overcrowded, and there have been reports of anti-tourism graffiti. “The Canary Islands have a limit,” the group says.

Ivan Cerdeña Molina, a Tenerife resident who is helping to organise the protests, told The Olive Press newspaper that those taking part had “nothing against” individuals and their ire was directed at the travel industry, which is “growing and growing and using up so many resources, and the island cannot cope”.

This epidemic of global swarming is a common problem for the most enticing travel destinations. Many, including the Canaries, reap huge financial benefits from the fire hose of visitors. Ecologistas en Accion’s report notes that about 800,000 Canarians, or 34 per cent of them, are engaged in tourism; globally tourism employs about 8 per cent of the workforce.

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“Overtourism can have a really corrosive impact on destinations, local communities and the visitor experience,” says Justin Francis, chief executive of tour operator Responsible Travel. “What can help is spreading tourism more evenly throughout the year and ensuring that it really benefits local people.” He recommends switching from a hotel to a home stay or a local-owned B&B or hotel, as well as using local restaurants and guides.

This spring Venice is trialling its €5 day-trip tax , while Amsterdam wants to bar stag groups from the city centre ; Bali, meanwhile, is still groaning under the weight of Eat, Pray, Love influencers. Nominal tourism taxes have been introduced in various places across the world, but — apart from in Bhutan, which charges £80 a day — none has proved much of a deterrent.

It’s also a good opportunity to remind ourselves that other destinations are available (and not just at peak times, though I know that’s easier said than done with school-age children). The number of tourists visiting the Portuguese island of Madeira is a fraction of the figure for the Canaries, while less than a million made it to Cape Verde, off the coast of Senegal, last year. Alternatively, try mainland destinations such as the Alentejo region of Portugal, Halkidiki in Greece, or Costa de la Luz in Spain. There are some easy “dupes” too — swap Venice for Padua; Amsterdam for the Hague; Santorini for Tinos; Bali for Lombok.

Next month I’m flying to Porto Santo, near Madeira, which has prompted quizzical looks from most people I’ve told. As well as feeling smug at going somewhere that few others have been, it’s always nice to feel welcomed rather than merely tolerated.

While watching an ice-hockey match in Tampere, the fun second city of Finland, I was eyeballed by surprised locals who asked what I was doing there — as much as I enjoyed our week in Tenerife, nobody there stopped me to ask that.

Will you continue to holiday in the Canaries? Let us know know your thoughts in the comments below

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Amsterdam apartments the most expensive in Europe; Rotterdam & The Hague in top five

Amsterdam is at the top of HousingAnywhere's European ranking of the most expensive medium-term rental homes. Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht are also in the top ten of the apartment category in the International Rent Index, AD reports .

HousingAnywhere, a Rotterdam-based international provider of medium-term rental properties, looked at the rents for over 67,000 homes in 28 European cities in the first quarter of this year.

Amsterdam topped the ranking in all three categories with an average rent of 2,276 euros per month for an apartment, 1,740 euros for a studio, and 963 euros for a room.

When it comes to apartments, Rotterdam and The Hague are in fourth and fifth place, after Rome and Paris. The average rent for an apartment is 1,795 euros per month in Rotterdam and 1,790 euros in The Hague. Utrecht is in seventh place (1,746 euros) after Munich.

Rotterdam and The Hague both saw significant apartment rent increases in the past year. According to HousingAnywhere, apartment rents increased by 15.8 percent in Rotterdam and 25.6 percent in The Hague compared to a year ago.

The results shocked the Woonbond, the Dutch association for tenants. “We already knew that rents were high, but the fact that we come out as the winner, or actually the loser, is sad news,” said Maarten Wiedemeijer. “This research confirms that excessively high rents are charged in the private sector, which must be restricted.”

The Woonbond hopes that parliament will quickly pass Housing Minister Hugo de Jonge’s Affordable Rent Act . The law regulates the rent of mid-market rentals in the private sector.

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• >> Sports
• >> Golden Knights

Knights have plenty to play for as they await playoff opponent

The Golden Knights have three games remaining to find out whom they will face in the first round of the playoffs, starting with the Colorado Avalanche on Sunday.

It’s a waiting game now for the Golden Knights.

This one might not be finished until the last moments of the regular season.

The Knights have punched their ticket to the Stanley Cup playoffs for the sixth time in seven years and will defend their Stanley Cup title. Vibes are good, and morale is at its apex.

Three games remain in the regular season, and the Knights’ focus turns to rounding out their game. That journey continues Sunday against the Colorado Avalanche at T-Mobile Arena.

“You don’t want to go into the playoffs not knowing your game or having question marks about your game,” defenseman Brayden McNabb said. “That’s what these next few games are for us.”

This upcoming stretch will also determine whom the Knights face in the first round.

The Knights hold the second wild card in the Western Conference, while trailing the Los Angeles Kings by one point for third place in the Pacific Division.

Los Angeles’ lead entering Saturday was one point. The Kings played late against the Anaheim Ducks.

A top-three division finish would mean a matchup against the Edmonton Oilers or Vancouver Canucks. Finishing in the second wild card results in a Western Conference Final rematch against the Dallas Stars.

“Our game’s not going to change a ton on the opponent,” coach Bruce Cassidy said. “We’ve got to play and play to our strengths. We’re trying to get our game in order before worrying about who we’re playing.”

Colorado is the first team on that list, and the Knights might be heading into the Sunday matinee reaping the benefits of rest.

It will be the second game of a back-to-back for the Avalanche after they lost 7-0 at home to the Winnipeg Jets on Saturday. Colorado’s bid for home-ice advantage in the first round took a hit with the shocking defeat.

This could be viewed as a measuring-stick game between the last two Stanley Cup champions. Cassidy said it would be difficult to pinpoint that.

“For us, it’s more about keep building our game,” Cassidy said. “Beat a good hockey club tomorrow and play how we want to play.”

Goaltender Adin Hill will start for the Knights and try to get back on track after losing three of his last four starts. Hill allowed five goals on 25 shots Wednesday in his first start since a lower-body injury kept him out since March 23.

Defenseman Alex Pietrangelo (illness) and left wing William Carrier (upper body) are also not expected to play.

The Knights still have much to play for even though their first goal has been accomplished.

“We punched our ticket to the dance, which is the first part,” right wing Keegan Kolesar said. “After that, you want to be playing your best hockey going into it.”

Knights’ projected lineup

Ivan Barbashev — Jack Eichel — Jonathan Marchessault

Chandler Stephenson — Tomas Hertl — Pavel Dorofeyev

Brett Howden — William Karlsson — Anthony Mantha

Paul Cotter — Nicolas Roy — Keegan Kolesar

Noah Hanifin — Nic Hague

Brayden McNabb — Shea Theodore

Ben Hutton — Zach Whitecloud

Contact Danny Webster at [email protected] . Follow @DannyWebster21 on X.

Who: Avalanche at Golden Knights

When: 12:30 p.m. Sunday

Where: T-Mobile Arena

TV: TNT (alternate broadcast featuring Warner Bros. cartoon characters on truTV)

Radio: KKGK (1340 AM, 98.9 FM)

Line: Knights -115; total 6½

Tickets for the Golden Knights’ Stanley Cup playoffs first-round series go on sale to the general public at 10 a.m. Tuesday, the team announced.

Former Golden Knights goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury, now with the Minnesota Wild, started what might have been his final game in Las Vegas on Friday at T-Mobile Arena.

The Golden Knights scored three goals in the first 8½ minutes against former teammate Marc-Andre Fleury and clinched their sixth playoff berth in seven seasons.

The Vegas Golden Knights announced on Friday that the team will once again help local residents by giving away free gas.

Golden Knights captain Mark Stone has not played since Feb. 20, when he suffered a lacerated spleen. He has 16 goals and 37 assists in 56 games this season.

Former Golden Knights goalie and fan favorite Marc-Andre Fleury could retire at season’s end, which would make Friday’s game his last in T-Mobile Arena.

The Golden Knights signed one of their newest players to an eight-year contract extension Thursday, the team announced on X.

Word has emerged that the NHL has been working on contingency plans in case the Arizona Coyotes move this summer.

Opponents said T-Mobile Arena was the most difficult rink to play in as part of the NHL Players Association’s annual poll.

The Golden Knights couldn’t keep up with the host Edmonton Oilers on Wednesday and were unable to clinch a postseason berth.

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On a remote island, a test of wills between the Philippines and China

An aerial view taken on March 9, 2023, shows Thitu Island in the South China Sea. Jam Sta Rosa/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

An aerial view taken on March 9, 2023, shows Thitu Island in the South China Sea.

THITU ISLAND, South China Sea — Life is simple here, the residents of this tropical island like to say, except for one constant nuisance: China.

From dawn to dusk, Chinese coast guard ships sail around the island, tailing Philippine vessels nearby. At night, Chinese fishing vessels glow on the horizon with intensely bright lights used to attract shoals of fish.

"I get so annoyed with China, because this island is ours. But they still come close with their boats sometimes and act very aggressively," says Erwin J. Dela Cruz, an officer of the Philippine coast guard stationed on Thitu Island.

Less than a mile long, Thitu is one of the largest of the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea , some of which are no more than a sliver of exposed reef. But their diminutive size belies their strategic importance: the islands sit in the middle of rich fishing grounds and next to critical maritime trade routes.

Chinese Ship Deployment Roils South China Sea

In addition to the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan and Malaysia are a few other claimants of the islands and the territorial waters around them. However, China is by far the main territorial competitor and claims nearly all the waters in the South China Sea, despite a 2016 international tribunal ruling in the Hague that rejected nearly all of its claims .

Will Hague Tribunal's South China Sea Ruling Inflame U.S.-China Tensions?

China's claims are now spurring neighboring countries to bolster regional security partnerships. Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. says he is planning for an agreement on security and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea with President Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at a White House summit Thursday.

This past Sunday, the Philippines, the United States, Australia, and Japan also held a joint patrol around the Spratlys. China countered with its own maritime patrol.

Biden is hosting Japan's Kishida. But the Nippon Steel deal is not on the agenda

Since the early 2000s, China has been expanding rocky reefs and sand bars that speckle the waters of the South China Sea in order to strengthen its claims over the waters that surround them. It has also deployed extensive coast guard and fishing fleets to chase off challengers.

The U.S. and the Philippines agree to a larger American military presence

In recent months, these standoffs between China and the Philippines have become even more pitched, particularly around a submerged reef called Second Thomas Shoal. On multiple occasions, Chinese coast guard ships shot high-pressure jets of water at Philippine resupply boats, and last December and early March , boats from both countries have collided near the shoal.

Resident Rolly Dela Cruz, getting ready to go spearfishing off the coast of Thitu Island. On the horizon, several Chinese fishing boats are floating, using bright lights to attract fish. Emily Feng/NPR hide caption

Resident Rolly Dela Cruz, getting ready to go spearfishing off the coast of Thitu Island. On the horizon, several Chinese fishing boats are floating, using bright lights to attract fish.

Enter Thitu — an island that the Philippines calls Pag-asa , while China calls it Zhongye. It is the only civilian-inhabited island of the Spratlys, and its approximately 250 full-time residents see their quiet existence as both an escape and an act of resistance. By continually occupying the spit of sand, they hope to keep it in the hands of the Philippines.

"[China] really wants to take the island but there is just one problem for them: We are here, the civilians are here. So that is a big obstacle for them. They will violate human rights," says Larry Hugo, a fisherman who lives on the island.

A sea stirred by geopolitics

Hugo, 45, says he prefers to spend most of his time on the water in good weather rather than on land.

From his perch on his small boat, he has had a front-row seat to the geopolitical tensions that have transformed the waters around Thitu.

Like most of the island's residents, who have resettled from other parts of the Philippines, Hugo is originally from Palawan province. When he first moved to Thitu in 2009, encroaching Vietnamese fishing boats were their biggest headache, he and others interviewed by NPR say. Hugo accused the Vietnamese of using cyanide to kill and harvest fish , poisoning and killing off coral reefs that once ringed the island.

Fisherman Larry Hugo, 45, in his home on Thitu Island, which the Philippines calls Pag-asa. Emily Feng/NPR hide caption

Fisherman Larry Hugo, 45, in his home on Thitu Island, which the Philippines calls Pag-asa.

Later, Chinese fishermen also began plying Thitu's waters, occasionally hauling off live corals and endangered giant clams . The destruction in reef habitats have led fish stocks around Thitu to drop by more than two-thirds in numbers since 1993, according to the Philippines' Kalayaan municipal government, which oversees Thitu.

In The Tussle For The South China Sea, A Mayor Tries To Protect His Island

In 2011, the Chinese coast guard began sailing near the island, sometimes chasing off Thitu fishermen who came too close to their vessels, residents say. Hugo started filming the Chinese boats with his cellphone.

In 2014, he shared videos showing the construction of Subi Reef, a small sandbar China has expanded to allow boats to dock and built buildings on . Hugo alerted the Philippine navy but did not receive the response he expected: "The Philippines government told me to stop sharing these videos on social media because they said it could damage Manila's friendship with China," he says.

Since then, the Philippines' more China-friendly policies under the previous government have done an about-face under the country's current President Marcos, who has made defending Manila's territorial claims of the Spratly Islands a priority.

U.S. Rejects Beijing's Maritime Claims In South China Sea

"The Filipinos had the gumption to say, stop, and we're not going to allow this anymore," Philippine Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro told NPR in March. "Who believes that China has indisputable sovereignty over the whole of the South China Sea by way of history? Nobody except them."

In 2021, Hugo posted another video of the Chinese coast guard blocking his boat. It went viral.

"I am happy the [Philippine] government is now doing what it should," Hugo says.

The Two-Way

Chinese official on tribunal ruling: 'it's nothing but a scrap of paper'.

China has repeatedly said the Philippines has no legitimate claim to the island it calls Zhongye, nor to other Spratly land features or the waters around them. China says it is blocking Filipino resupply boats because they are carrying construction materials, not food.

To counter the Chinese presence, the Philippines built a new coast guard station on Thitu last year. Its air force and marines also sent more officers to the island to serve two-month stints patrolling the waters and keeping tabs on Chinese vessels.

The island changed hands through history

Life on Thitu has the feeling of tropical Jamestown or a moon colony — a splinter community trying to replicate a new society, under hostile conditions.

Only until last year did the local government install 24/7 electricity and pave Thitu's main road with concrete. Most families live without running water. Almost no native vegetation grows on the island, so residents rely on resupply boats that arrive every few months. The nearest town, in Palawan, is at least a 30-hour boat ride away, in good weather.

Only the very patient and hardy stay long on Thitu.

One Result Of China's Buildup In South China Sea: Environmental Havoc

Thitu and its nearby reefs, islands and atolls have been claimed many times over by competing colonial powers and geopolitical rivals. In the 1930s, the French and the newly established Republic of China verbally sparred over control of them. In the 1950s, Thitu was briefly declared free land by Tomas Cloma, a Filipino entrepreneur, before being occupied by the Republic of China, which now governs Taiwan.

Briefly imprisoned, Cloma was forced to sell his rights to Thitu to the Philippine government, which then occupied Thitu from 1974 to the present day. The first permanent residents started arriving in the mid-1990s.

"Sometimes I was sad, sometimes very lonely," says Judy Masagnay , a local government employee who was assigned to the island in 1997, one of only seven people residing on the island then.

In 2002, the Philippines began recruiting civilians to live full-time on the island to strengthen its territorial claim. It offered subsidies for free food and water to entice families. But there is no getting around the fact that there is very little to do on Thitu; circumnavigating it on foot takes only about 40 minutes.

"Drink!" fisherman Gerald Fernandez says, laughing, when asked what he does in his free time. The strains of a raucous beer-fueled karaoke session filter through the small island on a Wednesday evening, though they must turn off the speakers by the 10 p.m. nightly curfew.

Roberto Del Mundo, the mayor of Kalayaan municipality, which includes Thitu, says relations with China were quiet when he began his air force posting on the island in 1987. Now he is pessimistic about the prospect of Chinese-Filipino relations.

Roberto Del Mundo, the mayor of Kalayaan municipality, which includes Thitu. Emily Feng/NPR hide caption

Roberto Del Mundo, the mayor of Kalayaan municipality, which includes Thitu.

"I think it will come to war," Del Mundo says. "Maybe tomorrow or next year."

China has also threatened military aggression against what it sees as foreign meddling in its backyard.

"If the concerned parties intend to escalate tensions in the South China Sea and undermine China's territorial and sovereign integrity, then they will become the [People's Liberation Army's] target," a Chinese state-run tabloid declared this week, after sending a naval and air force patrol in disputed waters.

"Naturally, we have no pretensions to sparking conflicts or whatnot," Defense Secretary Teodoro said to NPR about China in March. "However, when that big thing tries to try to lay claim to territory of a smaller, proud nation whose future generations' survival depends on its ability to explore and exploit what is within its rights under international law ... we will stand up."

Plans to grow, but land and resources are limited

The Philippines is kicking it up a notch in its quest to make the island it calls Pag-asa fully Filipino: It wants to make it a utopian getaway for intrepid tourists.

"Civilianize the place, contrary to militarization," says Ken Hupanda, a Kalayaan tourism employee who wants to launch more regular boat tours to the Spratlys. He is also planning to hold a sea urchin eating contest to help rebrand the island this May. "We believe the only effective way to manage this area of the Philippines is to put more civilians [here]."

In the last decade, the Philippines has also tried to make Thitu more family-friendly, filling in an eroding airstrip and building a health center, while subsidizing more teachers for the more than 80 school-age children who live full time on the island.

"The [Philippine] mainland can be three days by boat away, so if something happens, you need to be able to make your own decisions here," says Nasreen H. Guarin, the resident midwife, who also works as a dentist, nutritionist and sometimes pediatrician for the island.

Leah Valdez Natural, 50, in her front yard. Emily Feng/NPR hide caption

Leah Valdez Natural, 50, in her front yard.

The conditions are rudimentary enough that pregnant women are advised to carry their babies to term on the Filipino mainland. Only two children are known to have been born on the island — including the fourth child of resident Leah Valdez Natural, who says she was too busy to step away from her work trying to grow dragonfruit on Thitu during her pregnancy.

Now 50, Valdez Natural says she wants to live out the rest of her days on Thitu. "We stand for the West Philippines Sea. As a Filipino, not as a Chinese community. We are Filipino community. That's why we need to develop it for [the] Philippines," she says.

China is also doubling down on its presence in the Spratlys. It has spent much of the last decade fortifying its toehold in the region. Del Mundo, the mayor, says China is also building three more artificial sand bars near Thitu.

Yet the Filipinos are not going anywhere. Enticed by the subsidies of free rice and water, more families are clamoring to move to the island, which the municipal government estimates can only sustain a maximum of 350 people, due to land and water constraints. Construction workers stationed on the island say they have been tasked with building more houses and creating a sheltered port to accommodate bigger ships.

A quiet residential street on the island of Thitu, or Pag-asa as it is called in the Philippines. The Philippine government subsidizes the island's permanent civilian population. Emily Feng/NPR hide caption

A quiet residential street on the island of Thitu, or Pag-asa as it is called in the Philippines. The Philippine government subsidizes the island's permanent civilian population.

This Easter, the island brought in a Catholic priest and held its first-ever Mass. The coast guard hosted a dinner for residents and played acoustic guitar to entertain residents, one of the efforts to normalize life on the island.

"I want to live forever if I am strong. But if my body becomes weak, I will return to the mainland because Pag-asa does not have a cemetery," laughs Hugo, the fisherman.

• The Philippines
• spratly islands
• south china sea
• South China Sea islands dispute
• South China Sea conflict
• Philippines