tourist doctor the hague

Leidsestraat 76 1017 PD Amsterdam

Opening times

Monday - Friday: 09:00 - 18:00 Saturday: 09:00 - 13:00

Phone number

+31 20 308 6226

Searching for a tourist doctor in The Hague? The Hague? 

Whether you are ill, in need of a medical prescription or a medical statement, our tourist doctor in The Hague is at your disposal. No waiting times!

Why Thetouristdoctors.com

No need to worry with our doctors, here is why:

The various services we offer.

Visit our doctors at our clinic.

Not able to visit? Choose our e-consultation.

Consult the doctor for a new or a repeat prescription.

What you can expect

Consultation pre-booked appointment

Consultation walk in, medication prescription service, prescription refill service, e-consultation: telephone or video, health declaration / certificate / statement, medical test for work application, immigration & visa medical, fit-to-fly certificate.

How it works?

In 3 simple steps we help you on your way back to health.

Book your appointment

The assessment will take place during your visit at our clinic or e-consultation.

Treatment and prescription

Treatment by our doctor and/or medication prescription.

The consultations at The Tourist Doctors are covered by European Health Insurance Card  (EHIC scheme) and  AON Student Insurance .

Costs incurred for medical treatment by our doctors are usually reimbursed by most insurance companies around the world. You can view our rates here .

Customer experiences

“Hice el examen médico con el Dr. Faloun y fue muy sencillo. El doctor fue muy amable...”

Pedro Canteiro

"J'ai fait l'examen médical avec le Dr Faloun et ça s'est vraiment bien passé. Le docteur était vraiment sympathique... »

Marie Julliette

“Did the medical with Dr. Faloun and it was really smooth. Doctor was really friendly ...”

Ajay Cheema

About the tourist doctors.

Each of our team members is an experienced and specialized tourist doctor in The Hague  and ready to offer you quality health care. All of our doctors are registered in the BIG register, the Dutch register for health specialists.

We understand that your holiday in The Hague  should be carefree. Unfortunately, health problems can arise during your stay. That is why our tourist doctors are ready to help you immediately with our consultations, advice and guidance.

Even though our doctor’s practice is called Thetouristdoctors.com, everyone can contact our general practitioners for medical care. We serve tourists , expats , students and business travelers .

With our online booking system you can conveniently and quickly schedule an appointment. Book your appointment here or call +31 20 – 308 6226 to speak to a tourist doctor .

European Health Insurance Card  and  AON Student Insurance cover practice consultations costs. Other cost such as medical treatments provided by our clinic are well covered by the most travel-, health- and expat insurances.

Please bring you physical  EHIC or AON insurance card with you or a digital (photo ) one for a smooth process and so that you don’t have to pay for your consultations in advance!

Anyone in or outside Amsterdam who wants to be seen by a doctor (GP) can contact or visit us, such as tourists, expats, students and business travelers.

You can visit our doctors in our practice for any matter on the following days:

• Monday – Friday: 09:00 – 18:00
• Saturday: 10:00 – 13:00

You can consult our doctors for any matter by phone or video on the following days:

• Monday – Sunday: 09:00 – 21:00

A telephone or video consultation is a full consultation including a medical prescription if necessary. If you still want to consult the doctor in person after this consultation, a separate appointment can be made for this. Click here to book an appointment.

At all our clinic, a standard doctors appointment is 10 minutes, which is usually plenty of time for most health issues. However, should you require more, that is no problem at all. The different services we provide, require appointment times that may vary. Our walk in clinic can also accept last minute appointments if necessary. You can book your appointment now online.

Yes, you will receive a recognized receipt from us that you can submit to your health insurer for reimbursement.

Most international debit- and major credit cards as well as cash (euro) are accepted in our practice. You will receive well documented receipts for submitting reimbursement request at your insurance.

Yes. You can book an appointment online either for regular appoints or e-consultations by phone or video.

No. A scheduled appointment is needed. However you can schedule an appointment online in a few steps at very short notice. This will take less than 5 minutes.

You can schedule an appointment online in 3 simple steps. Go to our bookingpage. Fill in your information and choose your appointment type and preferred day and time. You booking will be confirmed by email. Book your consultation here .

Book your doctor's appointment in The Hague

Do you have any health concerns that need a doctor’s attention? Do not wait any longer and schedule an appointment immediately with a tourist doctor in The Hague.

You can also call us for advice!

Monday-Friday 09:00 – 18:00

Saturday 09:00 – 13:00

info@ thetouristdoctors.com

09913425901

NL862353312B01

• Terms and conditions​

Ask the doctor directly

GP FAMILY PRACTICE

Welcome to the GP family practice of the International Health Centre The Hague. Our team of medically trained doctors assistants, nurse practitioners, POH-GGZ’s (psychologists) and doctors (general practitioners) are here to assist you with all aspects of your health care whilst in The Netherlands.

Call us on 070 306 5100 to schedule an appointment or speak to one of the doctor’s assistants. Phone lines are open on weekdays from 8:00 to 11:00 and from 11:30 to 12:30 for regular IHCH GP services and for acute life threatening emergencies from 08:00 till 17:00 under the emergency option. Please note that we are currently dealing with a large amount of phone calls. We apologize for any delay in service.

For medical questions and reliable medical advice you may find the following website useful: https://gpinfo.nl/ 

For urgent out-of-hours medical care during weekends, holidays or evening times, there is an emergency GP service available in each region of the Netherlands ( Huisartsenpost in Dutch). For the Hague, this is the Hadoks Acute Zorg which can be reached by calling 070 346 96 69. Emergency out-of-hours a ppointments take place at HMC Westeinde, HMC Antoniushove or Haga Ziekenhuis.

You will need to be registered in our practice in order to receive medical care. Medical consultations are by appointment only. Please click here to register with us . After your registration, we may invite you for an intake . This is designed to acquaint you with our Centre and to discuss your medical history in order to assess your health and medical care needs.

In the Netherlands, General practitioners (GP)/family doctors ( Huisarts in Dutch) make up the central part of the health system. For non-life threatening health or medical related concerns, you should always consult your GP first. Should you require specialist care, the GP can refer you to the appropriate specialist or the hospital where necessary. For more information about the Dutch Healthcare system, click here . Note that if you have Dutch health insurance, a GP referral is required for specialist care, in order for your insurance to cover your specialist healthcare costs.

Home visits

If you are too ill or physically unable to come to the IHCH, arrangements can be made for a doctor to visit you at home*. This may be the case if you have a disability and are housebound. * For IHCH patients living more than 10km away from our Centre, unfortunately we are not able to provide home or emergency visits. For information about billing and reimbursement of our GP service click here.

General Practitioners

General practitioners in the Netherlands are proficient in many medical areas, including:

• Medical care of babies and children 
• Gynaecological check-ups: pap smears, STD checks, etc.
• Placing and removal of intra-uterine devices (IUDs)
• Electrocardiograms (ECGs)
• Dermatological check-ups
• Minor operations under local anesthesia
• Wound care, including suturing or stitching
• Palliative care of terminally-ill patients (at home)

BOOKING APPOINTMENTS:

Depending on what your medical needs are, we can arrange for you to have additional time for your appointments if needed. We can book appointments for 5, 10 or 20 minutes depending on urgency, needs, whether it is a short follow-up, phone consultation or an emergency. Therefore it is important that you let us know what you are coming for and if you have more than one medical concern you’d like to address, so we can ensure you have enough time with the doctor.

REPEAT PRESCRIPTIONS:

If you require a regular repeat prescription for a chronic medical condition you can request it online by clicking here . Within a few days you should receive a notification to let you know that your medication is ready for pick-up.

Note however that not all repeat prescription requests are granted, and some require a medical consultation. Examples include blood pressure, heart, or diabetes medication, as a yearly check up is required. Anti-depressants or anti-psychotic drugs may also warrant a prior appointment and antibiotics and antivirals cannot be prescribed without prior consultation with a doctor.

Doctor’s Assistants

Our doctor’s assistants are trained medical professionals that can perform triage and address certain medical needs. When making an appointment, the doctor’s assistant will ask several questions about your medical problem. By doing this, they can estimate the urgency of your medical needs, and how much time is needed for the appointment. The assistants are also educated to give you advice about your medical issue.

You can make an appointment with one of our doctor’s assistants for certain medical problems such as:

• Flushing the ear
• Wound dressing
• Removal of stitches
• Vaccinations
• Blood pressure measurement
• Cryotherapy for benign skin conditions (e.g. warts, fibromas etc)

After consulting one of the GP’s our doctor’s assistants can also perform:

• 24h blood pressure measurements
• Nebulization
• Infection parameters (e.g. CRP and Urine test)

Additional services

• Lifestyle, obesity and nutrition consultations : Our specialist GP offers a multidisciplinary clinic together with a physiotherapist, psychologist and dietician in order to obtain the best results
• Psychological support : POH-GGZ’s (psychologists) work in the GP practice to support patients with mental health concerns
• Abdominal ultrasounds : Among our team we have a specialist GP that performs abdominal ultrasounds if medically indicated
• Diabetes & Cardiovascular clinics : The GP practice is also made up of specialized cardiovascular and diabetes nurses that help care for patients with hypertension, (pre)diabetes type 1 and type 2, high cholesterol, overweight conditions and cardiovascular risk factors. They work together with GP’s and internal medicine specialists.

News & Developments

• Important Information Regarding Service Changes November 17, 2023
• Flu epidemic December 22, 2022

Get in touch

Find out more.

• Departments
• Patient Guide & FAQs
• Billing & Cancellations
• Our policies, your rights and responsibilities

Copyright by International Health Centre the Hague 2023. All rights reserved.

Privacy Overview

Alléén voor spoed buiten openingstijden

• 070 - 346 96 69

Personal family doctor care

General practitioners practice de residentie, making an appointment.

Before you contact us, would you please answer the following questions. This will help you determine within a minute whether you need to see a doctor.

Should I go to the doctor?

Opening hours.

We are available by phone on all weekdays throughout the year starting at 8:00 am. Between 10:00 and 10:30 and between 12:00 and 13:30 the assistants have time for consultations and breaks. Between 16:00 and 17:00 please call only for emergencies.

Locations and phone numbers

Registration.

PLEASE NOTE: you must inform your current GP that you have registered with us and that you give permission for your file to be sent safely.

Registration form

Dutch health insurance.

If you have Dutch health insurance we will charge all costs for our services directly to your insurer. Most costs are fully covered. Certain procedures, prescribed medication, blood tests etc. are settled with your obligatory own risk.

No Dutch health insurance

We charge a fixed fee which is set by the Dutch Healthcare Regulatory Institutions for every service based on time spent. Payments can be made directly through our payment terminal or by invoice. In most cases you can reclaim the costs with your health insurance.

2024 Tariffs

• Less than 5 minutes € 17,96
• Between 5 minutes and 20 minutes € 35,91
• More than 20 minutes € 71,83
• No Show: If you do not cancel an appointment for a consultation and you do not show up we charge € 50,- for the time reserved.

Thank you for your help and understanding!

Like many GP practices, we too face a shortage of staff due to illness and vacancies. This means that waiting times on the phone can be long. We hope for your understanding. You can help us by ordering prescriptions through the website or the prescription line. Asking your non-urgent questions by e-mail or the patient portal can also help us. You can also visit the site of gpinfo.nl or thuisarts.nl where you will find many answers to your questions.

Flu and pneumococcal vaccinations

This year, as last year, the flu and pneumococcal vaccinations will be given at the Maranatha Church, 2nd Sweelinckstraat 156, The Hague.

• Indicated patients will receive their invitation letter between Sept. 27 and Oct. 5.
• Patients aged 66 to 69 are eligible for pneumococcal vaccination this year.
• Please come on the date listed on the invitation letter. You do NOT need to call us for this.

Prins Hendrikstraat 129

In the “Zeeheldenkwartier” right in between the Koningsplein en the Prins Hendrikplein. You can get there easily using the Koningin Emmakade – Waldeck Pyrmontkade and the Zoutmanstraat.

• Telefoon 070 - 345 06 50

Sweelinckplein 45

On the corner of Sweelinckplein and Reinkenstraat in the middle of the Duinoord neighborhood. We are easily accessible via Groot Hertoginnelaan, Laan van Meerdervoort and Koningin Emmakade.

• Telefoon 070 - 345 45 22

Huisartsenpraktijk De Residentie is aangesloten bij het Nederlands Huisartsen Genootschap en Hadoks.

Adres en contact

Prins Hendrikstraat 129 2518 HN Den Haag

Sweelinckplein 45 2517 GP Den Haag

• Tel: 070 - 345 45 22
• Fax: 070 - 346 71 89

Openingstijden

Alle werkdagen geopend tussen: 08:00 – 17:00 uur (Vanaf 16:00 uur alleen spoed)

Spoed buiten openingstijden

• Tel: 070 - 346 96 69

Snelle links

• Afspraak maken
• Inschrijven
• Afmelden gemaakte afspraak
• Online regelen
• Studenten huisarts
• Samenwerkingsverbanden

© 2024 – Huisartsenpraktijk De Residentie

Sweelinckplein - zomersluiting

Locatie sweelinckplein is gesloten op onderstaande dagen..

Tonny Simons

Coördinator griepvaccinaties & Administratief medewerker Werkzaam op: Dinsdag.

Tonny Simons werkt als Coördinator griepvaccinaties & Administratief medewerker

On this page you will find all information about our Travel Clinic in The Hague. Do you have any questions? Take a look at our frequently asked questions . Is your question not listed? Please contact us. We are happy to help you.

Hofweg 9 2511 AA Den Haag

The Travel Clinic in The Hague is located in the heart of the city center across from the Binnenhof. There are a few parking garages in our immediate vicinity so we recommend that you use one of these (such as the Spui garage).

Opening hours

Make an appointment for travel advice/vaccination. The shop is open from Monday to Saturday from 08:30 AM to 16:30 PM. We are closed on public holidays.

Travelers Guide to Healthcare in the Netherlands

• January 10, 2022
• Lauren Stuttaford

The Netherlands is a long-time favorite among travelers and expats, beloved for its remarkable landscape, canals, culture, and laid-back atmosphere. Informally called Holland, the Netherlands is situated in Western Europe and consists of 12 provinces, and even has territories in the Caribbean – with the four largest cities being Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and Utrecht.

If you are planning a trip, this guide to healthcare in the Netherlands will tell you everything you need to know to stay safe and informed during your stay.

• Healthcare Basics
• Cost of Healthcare in the Netherlands
• Seeing a Specialist
• Drugstores and Pharmacies
• Hospitals and Clinics in the Netherlands
• Emergency and After-Hours Healthcare
• Tips for Tourists

Healthcare In the Netherlands – The Basics

Boasting one of the highest quality healthcare systems globally, the Dutch have built a tightly managed market to achieve universal healthcare, resulting in a very accessible healthcare system that can be accessed via public or private health insurance. This is very different from the more socialized system seen in other European regions.

Public Healthcare

In the Netherlands, everyone (whether a visitor or resident) is entitled to healthcare services provided that they have health insurance. It is mandatory for all Dutch residents to possess basic public health insurance, and individuals who don’t have it will be penalized and automatically enrolled in an insurance plan with higher premiums.

However, certain groups are exempt from this obligation, including:

• Children under the age of 18 who are covered by their parent/guardian’s insurance.
• Temporary visitors from the EU/EEA/Switzerland who are eligible for healthcare coverage under the EHIC.
• Temporary visitors from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland who must obtain private health insurance.

The basic Dutch insurance package covers the costs of nearly all common healthcare needs, such as GP and specialist services, medication, and maternity care. Nonetheless, some treatments are not covered, including cosmetic procedures and some dental care.

Cost of Healthcare In the Netherlands

The cost of health insurance for a Dutch citizen averages around 1,400 Euros per year, although individuals with lower incomes can receive government assistance to reduce their payments. Employers also contribute to the insurance scheme to cover children’s costs.

About 75% of the Netherlands’ healthcare system costs are financed by public funds, and insurers operate as non-profits.

A doctor’s consultation in the Netherlands typically costs between 30 and 50 Euros. Payment methods accepted in the country include iDEAL, which is an online bank transfer system and the most popular online payment method, as well as MasterCard, VISA, PayPal, and pay-later options like Klarna and AfterPay.

Doctors And Specialists In the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, GPs, or huisarts, play a pivotal role in the healthcare system. They are typically the first point of contact for any health concerns, routine health issues, pediatric and gynecological examinations, and referrals to other healthcare services such as hospitals and specialists.

Because Dutch GPs offer such a broad range of services, patients are less likely to be referred elsewhere or prescribed medication compared to other countries. For example, GPs perform routine OB-GYN check-ups, including pap smears and IUD insertion or removal.

To see a doctor in the Netherlands, you need to make an appointment, or afspraak, either online or by phone. Some clinics have designated walk-in consultation times, or in-loop spreekuur, typically reserved for short, simple questions and ailments, which are usually in the morning. When making an appointment, the GP’s assistant may ask a few questions to assess your situation and determine if you need to come in the same day or later. They may also provide medical advice since they are medical professionals.

If you want to find a GP in the Netherlands who speaks your language, download the Air Doctor app for Android or Apple .

In the Netherlands, most healthcare professionals can communicate in English proficiently. Some medical clinics specifically cater to English-speaking patients, and independent doctors or primary care clinics are easily accessible in all residential areas. These clinics typically operate from 8 AM to 5 PM.

Specialists usually treat patients in hospitals or specialty clinics. Note: When you have a doctor’s appointment, it’s important to bring your appointment confirmation, health insurance card, and identification card. Waiting times may exceed your scheduled appointment time, but consultations usually last for about 15 minutes.

After-hours healthcare services are available at GP Posts, which are walk-in centers that are managed by nearby hospitals and operate between 5 PM to 8 AM. Nearly all GPs work for a GP Post and are required to provide at least 50 hours of after-hours care each year to maintain their registration. GP co-ops are a group of private physicians who collaborate to provide better after-hours care and share the responsibility, rather than each doctor offering the service 24/7 throughout the year.

Seeing A Specialist

In the Netherlands, you can’t seek treatment directly from a specialist; a referral from a general practitioner (GP) is necessary. After obtaining a referral, you can schedule an appointment with the specialist of your choice. Most specialists operate as contractors rather than employees and work in a hospital setting instead of a specialized clinic. When you arrive at the hospital, locate the “Poliklinieken” sign and proceed to the appropriate department.

Gynecologists

As previously noted, general practitioners (GPs) in the Netherlands are responsible for providing all basic gynecological services. Although specialist and private OB-GYNs are available, they are not as prevalent as in other countries. If you require gynecological care, it’s recommended that you consult with your GP first. Following an assessment, they will determine whether specialist attention is necessary and provide a referral accordingly.

Dental services are privatized in the Netherland, and with the exception of children under the age of isn’t covered by basic insurance policies. Typically, dentists or tandarts work in individual practices, although there’s a growing trend of dentists working in larger practices.

Additional dental care can be covered by purchasing supplementary insurance policies. Dentists generally publish their rates on their websites, and insurance companies have comparable lists outlining the amount of coverage for each service.

Dental surgeons are often affiliated with hospitals, while orthodontists generally operate in private practices. If you require specialized care, such as pediatric dental services, a referral from a regular dentist is necessary.

If you are unable to reach a dentist, you can contact an emergency dentist, known as a spoed tandarts. These emergency clinics are located in major cities throughout the Netherlands and are open 24/7, catering to both residents and tourists.

Drugstores And Pharmacies

In the Netherlands, drugstores (drogist) sell things such as non-prescription medications, toiletries, and cosmetics. While, pharmacies (or apotheeks) sell prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and at-home medical equipment. Pharmacists in the Netherlands can provide advice on medications and minor ailments. There is always at least one 24-hour apotheek open in the area. To locate the nearest out-of-hours pharmacy, you can check the list display in the pharmacy window or call 020 694 8609 .

If you receive a prescription from your doctor, you must visit a nearby pharmacy or apotheek to obtain your medication. Pharmacists in the Netherlands typically have a good command of English and can explain the correct way to take your medication as prescribed.

Hospitals In the Netherlands

The Netherlands has many hospitals which offer excellent medical care – the three main types of hospitals are:

• Academic Hospitals: University medical centers allied with major Dutch universities. These facilities have a variety of researchers and specialists working within them and, as a result, can provide more specialized care.
• Teaching Hospitals: Work with university medical centers to aid in the training of nurses and medical interns. These offer more specialized treatments, and interns may accompany doctors during procedures.
• General Hospitals: These hospitals offer standard (but very good) healthcare for less specialized problems. If necessary, patients will be referred to more specialized facilities.

Children’s wards are available in all hospitals in the Netherlands, but there are also hospitals solely dedicated to children’s healthcare. Certain children’s hospitals and wards permit parents to stay overnight.

In most cases, hospitals require a referral letter from your GP, except in the case of an emergency. If you are admitted as an in-patient, you may be in a shared room or ward with up to six beds, with people of mixed genders. It is advisable to bring your own clothes and toiletries.

During your initial visit to a Dutch hospital, you should register at the front desk and provide basic information. You should also submit your referral letter and any crucial information from your GP at the counter. This will be forwarded to the specialist before you enter, and will be recorded in the hospital’s system and a small plastic card known as a ponsplaatje or electronische patiëntenpas. These act as a type of passport for your medical history and to send your bills to your insurer, and you should carry it with you whenever you visit the hospital.

Specialist appointments in hospitals typically last no more than 5 to 10 minutes, as the objective is simply to determine if further diagnosis and/or treatment are required. Following this, you may need to schedule a new appointment, undergo tests, or be referred to a different specialist.

After hours (5 PM – 8 AM), local hospitals provide GP services known as huisartsenpost. These services may be utilized for non-life-threatening but still semi-urgent medical conditions. You can contact them for advice, and if they believe you require an in-person doctor visit, they will give you an appointment, usually within an hour or two.

Some hospitals in the Netherlands have on-site pharmacies where you can obtain your prescription following treatment, rather than having to go to another pharmacy.

It is critical to note that visiting hours at hospitals in the Netherlands are strictly enforced and should be followed.

List of Hospitals In The Netherlands:

Note these are only some of the hospitals in the hubs of the Netherlands.

• Vrije Universiteit Medisch Centrum (VUMC)
• Antoni van Leeuwenhoekziekenheuis (AVL)
• Academisch Medisch Centrum (AMC)
• Het Oogziekenhuis Rotterdam
• Sint Franciscus Gasthuis
• Haaglanden Medisch Centrum (HMC) campuses: HMC Westeinde, HMC Bronovo, HMC Antoniushove
• Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht
• General Diakonessenhuis
• St. Antonius Ziekenhuis

Emergency And After-Hours Healthcare

If you are in the Netherlands and encounter a life-threatening situation, it’s best to dial the emergency number: 112 for assistance.

When it comes to less urgent medical assistance, you can call:

• Huisartsenpost
• Or the Central Doctor’s Service ((+31)205923434) if you do not need an ambulance but need urgent medical advice and are either not registered with a GP or cannot reach yours.
• Emergency dentists for dental emergencies

Tips For Tourists In the Netherlands

It’s best not to call the Netherlands “Holland”, since Holland is a region in the Netherlands, and those who reside outside of Holland may take offense if referred to as “Hollanders” instead of “Netherlanders.”

The Netherlands is one of the most low-context cultures in the world, and it is reflected in how Dutch people interact with you – since they are direct, clear, and blunt.

When Dutch people speak English, they use short pauses to allow others a chance to join the conversation. So, you might find you won’t get a word in! You aren’t being cut off on purpose; you just need to be aware of this and reset the length of time you wait before you start speaking.

Dutch people take punctuality (especially in a business context) very seriously and expect the same in return. If you are running late, call to explain and request that they wait or reschedule. In the same light, commitments are taken seriously, so don’t make promises or offer if you can’t deliver on them.

When dealing with Dutch medical providers, be straightforward about your needs and expectations. They are direct, and doctors in the Netherlands are often blunt. Do not take this as them being unfriendly; they simply want to ensure they understand symptoms and treatment options. Communicating with them in the same way means you’ll have a better chance of being heard. Don’t hesitate to exaggerate because that will equal you getting the help you need.

Some Useful Phrases:

Some useful phrases to learn are:

• Please call 112: Bel 112! (bel ayn ayn tway)
• Get a doctor: Haal een dokter! (haal ern dok-ter)
• I am ill: Ik ben ziek! (ik ben seek)
• Where is the hospital?: Waar is het ziekenhuis? (wahr is het see-kern-hoais?)

If you are a tourist in the Netherlands and would like to speak to a medical professional connected to an international network of doctors, you can make an appointment on the Air Doctor app right now and have an in-person or virtual consultation within minutes.

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Jenny Cohen Derfler

Air dr ceo & co-founder.

Jenny is the CEO and one of the Co-Founders at Air Doctor. She spent more than 20 years at Intel, most recently as general manager of its manufacturing facility in Israel and before that in various engineering and manufacturing roles in Silicon Valley. Air Doctor is her second startup having previously founded electric vehicle company ElectRoad.

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Going to a doctor in the Netherlands? Here’s the ultimate guide

Feeling a bit under the weather lately? Going to a doctor in the Netherlands can be a tricky business. If you are just as clueless as we were once — fear not.

There are some things to keep in mind during your first visit to the doctor in the Netherlands .

Going to the doctor in the Netherlands: What is a huisart s?

Dutch can be a complicated language: even though the word  huisarts  might sound like some artwork you have back at your house, that’s hardly the case.

Your General Practitioners (GP’s) are called huisarts  here.

It is always better to register with a GP right away because it might be hard to get a medical appointment without having one. And who wants that? Better safe than sorry.

Agreed? Good. Then read on to learn all about it: from scheduling an appointment to seeing a specialist!

Is this an emergency?

Regardless of your situation, if you’ve had an accident or see someone who needs urgent help, you should call the emergency number 112 as quickly as possible.

It is free of charge. State your name, tell them where you are and what is going on. Then, the emergency services will decide whether to send an ambulance or not.

READ MORE | Dutch Quirk #104: Be prescribed only paracetamol by every Dutch doctor

Where to go?

Now that you know what a  huisarts  is and that you need to one to make a doctor’s appointment, let’s get things going: How to find one and where to go?

The Dutch have made it fairly easy to navigate how to get to your local doctor. Simply go to the Ik zoek een huisarts website and enter your postcode. God bless the Internet. 🙌

The website is only available in Dutch , so, unfortunately, you’ll have to rely on your Google Translate extension for it!

If you prefer things to be simpler, a Google search with the city you live in and the word ‘ huisarts ‘ may also work.

Making an appointment with a doctor in the Netherlands

You can make an appointment by calling your  huisarts  office directly. If you prefer to go the digital way, most offices also have their own websites where you can pick and choose an appointment timeslot.

As an alternative, you can see when doctors have their consultation hour ( spreekuur)  where you can drop by without any appointments.

If you have a rather urgent problem, then these appointments are the way to go. But, what do you do if you just have a few simple questions? Then you can give your GP a call for a consultation over the phone. Nice!

Your chosen huisarts  might want to have a consultation appointment with you to go over your medical history.

Not only is it good for you to get to know your GP, but also a good moment to ask about some of the questions you might have about the whole health care system in the Netherlands.

Doctors in the Netherlands and the antibiotics: What’s going on?

One of the things to keep in mind is that Dutch doctors might react differently to your health problems than the way you are used to.

Antibiotic resistance  is taken very seriously in the Netherlands and seen as one of the biggest threats to our modern-day life.

So if you are coming from a country where antibiotics are seen as a magic pill that solves your every problem, you might get surprised when your huisarts  shrugs and tell you to take a Paracetamol and get some rest.

Breathe in and breathe out, they might have a point there. Dutch doctors, therefore, only prescribe antibiotics if they diagnose you with a bacterial infection and not a viral one (such as the flu).

When it’s time to see a medical specialist

Okay, now let’s get to the real deal. What happens if you need to see a specialist? You will first need a referral from your huisarts . Your GP then decides whether to send you to see a specialist.

BUT, keep in mind that you can choose to see a specialist at any time. GP’s are there to help you but if you feel like you would like to see someone else, you always can.

Once you have the referral papers, it’s always better to ask your insurance company if they wish to see the referral.

It’s mostly handled between the hospital and your insurance provider but it never hurts to be sure (if you wish the costs to be covered, that is).

After the referral from your huisarts , you can now go ahead and make an appointment with the specialist. If you have a specific specialist in mind already, you can also ask for your referral to be made directly to that person, so all works out well!

What happens if you go to a doctor in the Netherlands and don’t have health insurance (yet)?

If you have just recently applied for health insurance and you haven’t got an insurance number yet, you can always visit your huisarts (happy news!). In the Netherlands, a GP cannot refuse to give you the care you need.

Do keep in mind that being without insurance, you would have to pay the costs yourself.

But it’s not all doom and gloom, as soon as you receive your insurance number you can send the bill to your insurance company to get the money back.

How has your experience with doctors been in the Netherlands? Tell us in the comments below!

Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in January 2018 but was updated for your reading pleasure in August 2022. 

13 COMMENTS

Although not bad at all, this article really didn’t cover the essentials about primary care in the Netherlands. The author is mistaken about let’s just say ‘how to see a medical specialist’. You may ‘wish’ to get a federal, a general practioner is the absolute gate keeper on that one. Of course you can always switch to another GP, but you cannot refer yourself. But the thing I missed the most; the ‘huisarts’ only covers office hours in his or her normal practice. A lot of goreigners and dutchies do not know the difference between the SEH (spoedeisende hulp) and the HAP (huisartsenpost) It would have been quite helpfull for a lot of people if this part of the GP’s work was explained. (correct then, that is) Just some food for thought…

my smartphone auto-corrected referal to federal and I missed that one. (line 5) I cannot change it myself so instead another comment. sorry.

[…] called triage, from the French “classify” and essentially, I think this is what your doctor (huisarts) does. He sees you, makes you wait and suck it for a few days (with advice to drink a lot and take […]

the question, I have a friend currently working in North Holland -he requires his appendix removed-the doctor wants payment upfront, is this normally? He asked about payments and was told no.

[…] a service to you (even with a gym membership this may be necessary). You may need to switch doctors, dentists and schools, so this is something that should be a priority to sort […]

[…] need health insurance in the Netherlands anyways – but the good news is that a visit to the doctor in the Netherlands  (‘huisarts’) won’t come out of your own-risk […]

[…] finding a school, applying for a BSN number (think of it as a Dutch social security number), signing up with a doctor, and dealing with taxes.  But also think of how to find good spots to eat in Leiden and how to […]

worst “controlled” system in all world. If you can choose between Nederland and other country then I would choose defiantly any other country. Try to imagine that everything is going via “huisarts” you are not free to choose to go to see specialist without GP (huisarts) referral. If you call for appointment you will be number 10 in row waiting and when it is your turn “GP assistant” will listen to your medical problem and she will decide if you “need” to see GP or not. IT’S CRAZY. Remember it’s about your health and here in the Netherlands you will be completely left in cold. In hospital they even have “nurse specialist” who replaced the “internist” can you believe that?? GP send you to a “nurse specialist” instead to a specialist! I am done with this country!!!!!! Medical system is completely controlled by government and they don’t allow “private clinics” to exist so if you have money in this country it’s not goin to help you because you are not free to choose medical help that you prefer! Worst system in world!!!!

Completely agree with your comment. As an expat this is TERRIBLE for me, people here do not care about their health at all, doctors are not teach to practice PREVENTIVE medicine, which saves lifes. It really sucks and one of the reasons I’ll leave this country asap.

I agree with you totally. However, if a Dutch person hears this instead of accepting it they would say: “ok bye we do not want you in this country” 😂

I’ve had excellent experiences here and dreadful ones. On the whole, it seems like a pretty good system, at least compared to the US where a lot of people can’t even afford to see a doctor.

I feel totally unsafe with the medical system in the Netherlands and the ignorance of GPs who they think they can treat anything. The visit to a specialist can take weeks and some are very bad on their diagnoses.

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General Practitioners (GPs) & Doctors in the Netherlands

The first point of contact in getting healthcare in the Netherlands is to register with a doctor ( huisarts in Dutch) or general practitioner (GP).

How to find a GP in the Netherlands

It is important to register with a huisarts when you arrive in the Netherlands. If you have not registered with a GP and you then become ill, you may have difficulty finding a nearby doctor who is taking patients, as their practice may already be full.

How to find a doctor near you

To search and find a doctor near you, go to the ZorgkaartNederland website. You can also visit your Gemeentehuis (town / city hall) and ask for a gemeentegids (a booklet issued by your municipality containing information about doctors, sports groups, day care , etc.), which will have a list of all the local GPs. There is also a listing in the Yellow Pages ( Telefoongids / Gouden Gids) under Artsen – Huisartsen.

Please note, you may not be able to register with the GP of your choice as they are not accepting new patients or you live too far away from the practice.

Online doctor's offices

Certain providers in the Netherlands are now offering telemedicine services, which allow you to access health professionals from the comfort of home. For example, you can find an English speaking doctor on Mobidoctor for an online consultation, 7 days a week, from 9am to 9pm (no need for any insurance).

The role of the GP in the Dutch healthcare system

In the Netherlands, the GP holds a central role when it comes to healthcare. If you have any questions regarding your physical and mental health, your GP is the first one to ask.

As well as answering any health questions you may have, a GP in the Netherlands can also perform minor surgical procedures and carry out pediatric and gynecological examinations. Generally, a GP does not provide dental treatments .

Medical training of a GP in the Netherlands

 A GP in the Netherlands is a specialist in healthcare; they have received a general six-year medical education and three years of specialist training. By law, a GP is required to regularly update their skills, and they will also have to re-register every five years.

Furthermore, a GP is your link to any specialist you may require, as they are trained to determine whether you need the help of a specialist.

How to register with a GP in the Netherlands

When you have found a GP to your liking, you will need to register with said GP. Some GP practices allow you to register online. Generally, you will need the following documents when you register with a GP: valid ID, BSN and health insurance details.

Your GP may wish to have a consultation appointment with you to go over your medical history. This is a good opportunity to have any questions about healthcare in the Netherlands answered. Also, if it’s your first visit, you should also bring along your medical records you have from your home country and, if applicable, a list of medications you are using.

When do you see a GP in the Netherlands?

You can make an appointment with your GP for various reasons, such as:

• You have urgent medical needs (call 112 in the case of life-threatening situations)
• You have questions or you need advice regarding your health or that of your child
• For physical complaints and / or mental health issues
• For first aid and minor surgical procedures (stitches etc.)
• You need support and treatment for a chronic disease
• For preventative medicine (vaccines etc.)

How do I make an appointment with a GP?

There are various ways you can get an appointment with a GP in the Netherlands:

Making appointments with a GP by phone

You can call your GP directly to make an appointment. The GP assistant will ask you questions to assess your situation and whether you need to come in the same day or a few days later. They can often provide you with advice as well, as they are a medical professional.

You may also be able to consult the doctor over the phone in the case of simple questions. Some GPs even offer specific telephone consultation hours.

Making appointments with a GP by e-consultation

Some GP practices offer e-consultations. This means you can ask your GP questions via a secured internet connection . Please note that not all questions are suitable for an e-consultations, especially if they are urgent and if there is a physical exam necessary.

Walk-in consultation hour

Many practices have a spreekuur (walk-in consultation hour), usually early in the morning, where you can speak to your doctor without an appointment. This is usually reserved for short, simple questions and ailments.

Home visits

Some GPs also make house calls if you are too ill to visit, usually after hours or during a specifically allotted time. If you want your doctor to make a home visit, let the GP assistant know. Together with the doctor, they will discuss whether it is necessary.

What do I do when my GP is not available?

It’s possible that you may not be able to reach your GP. Perhaps they are on holiday and the practice is closed. Find out what to do in a situation like this:

Emergency dokterdienst

If your doctor is away, they will leave an answering message with the number of another doctor and possibly the number of the emergency dokterdienst . The actual doctor varies from area to area, so the service will give you the name and number of a doctor on duty near you, or have the doctor call you.

Huisartsenpost

Your other option is to call your local huisartsenpost . The huisartsenpost will tell you whether you should come to the emergency huisartenpost in hospital or whether you should wait for your own doctor to return. For more see emergency numbers .

What to expect at your GP appointment?

Generally, an appointment usually takes place during office hours and lasts between 10 to 15 minutes. If you think you need more time, you can discuss this with the GP assistant when making the appointment.

Making appointments with a specialist

If you wish to see a specialist in a hospital , you will need a referral from a general practitioner. You will also need to show this referral to your insurance company if you wish the costs to be covered. Once you have a referral, you can make an appointment with the specialist directly. If you know the specialist you wish to see, you may request a referral to that person.

Government health checks

The Dutch government offers various (voluntary) free health checks as part of the population screening programmes:

Mammogram (breast cancer)

Women between the ages of 50-75 get an invitation to have a mammogram done every two years to check for breast cancer.

Cervical smear test (cervical cancer)

Women between the ages of 30-60 receive an invitation every five years to have a cervical smear test done by their GP to check for cervical cancer. It’s possible to self-test as well.

Faecal test (bowel cancer)

People between the ages of 55-75 will get an invitation to have their faeces tested for bowel cancer.

Complaints about your doctor?

Are you not satisfied with your doctor? First, you should discuss your concerns with your doctor. If that fails, you can submit a complaint with the complaints officer. Find out more about health care consumer rights .  

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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.

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Hospitals in The Hague region

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In the event of a medical emergency, call 112.  Most larger hospitals have Accident and Emergency services. Look for signs for ‘Spoedeisende hulp’, ‘SEH', or ‘eerste hulp’. 

SEH Hagaziekenhuis  Charlotte Jacobslaan 10  2545 AB, Den Haag  070 210 20 60 

SEH HMC Westeinde  Lijnbaan 32  2512VA, Den Haag  070 346 96 69 

Under Dutch law, any public or private health organisation is required to help an incoming patient in case of an emergency. Your nationality or your insurance status does not matter. You will have to identity yourself with an ID before you can receive treatment. If you are rushed to the hospital and are not able to present an ID, you will have to identify yourself officially within two weeks of your hospital visit. 

Services are intended for serious situations only in case of accidents. If you end up utilising these services for non-urgent assistance, you may have to cover the costs yourself.  

Out of hours GP care 

If you need to speak to or visit a GP out of hours, you can contact the Hadoks service. They have two help points in the City of The Hague (‘huisartsenpost’): 

Hadoks Hagaziekenhuis  Charlotte Jacobslaan 10  2545 AB, Den Haag  070 210 20 60 

Hadoks HMC Westeinde  Westeinde 150  2512 HH, Den Haag  070 346 96 69 

If you need medical assistance in The Hague, Rijswijk and Leidschendam-Voorburg, call SMASH GP Centre for Emergencies at +31 (0)70 346 96 69. 

If you need medical assistance in Delft, call GP Centre Delft at +31(0)15 251 19 30. 

Emergency dental care 

If you need dental assistance in The Hague, Rijswijk and Leidschendam-Voorburg, call Dental Emergency Services Haaglanden at +31 (0)70 311 03 05. 

If you need dental assistance in Delft, call the Dental Emergency Services Delft at +31 (0)15 212 22 68 

You may also be interested in our information about Dutch health insurance , General Practitioners , and or the Dutch healthcare system . You may also want to check out our service partners that work in health for internationals. 

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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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The Hague Travel Guide: Travel Tips and Resources

If you’re traveling to the Hague, you might need this travel guide! The Hague is the world’s justice capital—yes, THE WORLD as the city is home to over 150 international organizations; hence, you can easily pick up on its cosmopolitan vibe.

The wide avenues and a gorgeous coastline are enough to lure you into the city and explore its wonders. 

How to Get to Hague

Get to the city via  Rotterdam The Hague Airport   with a good selection of international connections. 

You can also get to the  Hague by train  via two main rail stations—Den Haag Centraal and Den Haag HS. Both train stations have international and regional connections. 

You can also get here by bus from other Dutch cities; or you can also get here via car as it’s connected by toll-free motorways to Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Rotterdam. 

The Weather in Hague

The best time to visit The Hague is in the summer, which is June to August. April is a great time to see the daffodils blossoming as well, but you can push your travel to a later date, perhaps late in April to see the tulips in bloom. 

If you’re coming here during. the spring in autumn, despite the pleasant weather, there is always a chance of rain; hence, it’s best you are prepared!

It can get cold and wet in the winter, so make sure you layer up and have all your essentials with you during this time. 

How Much Does It Cost to Travel to the Hague? 

Prepare to spend an average of $330 per day on your vacation in the city. The average hotel price in the city for two is around $120 while a meal can cost you at least $30 and $24 on local transportation. 

How To Get Around the Hague

You can get around the city via public transport, whether via bus or tram. The buses and trams here run on HTM. Of course, it wouldn’t be a Dutch city without bikes. 

rent a bike

Cycling is a popular way to get around the Netherlands, and yes, you can rent a bike to get around The Hague!

If you’re tired and tempted to get a taxi ,  don’t worry; there are plenty, but it will cost you more. Try an  Uber  instead, or perhaps,  rent a car ? 

Are you looking for the cheapest car rental deals in the Hague?

Where to Stay in the Hague

There are plenty of places to stay in The Hague. If you want to  book a hotel in The Hague , you will find plenty of choices. Get a taste of the sea in your hotel room at  Hotel Mimosa,  a beautiful boutique hotel with beach-themed rooms, perfect for its seaside surroundings. 

Looking for a more luxurious stay?  Stay at the  Paleis Hotel , a four-star hotel that is located a few meters away from the Noordeinde Palace. 

If you’re on a tight budget, you can  rent a hostel in The Hague  as well. The Golden Stork, is located on Bierkade where you can find the city’s most famous landmarks and cultural hotspots.  Kingkool the Hague  is another hostel you might want to try, which is located in the city’s historic centre. 

You can also  rent a place through Airbnb  or if you’re going with a large group, you can also check out the  holiday homes  in the city. 

Hostels in the hague

We have three of the best-rated hostels in the Hague here! 

What to Do in the Hague

There are a lot of things you can do in the city. For one, you shouldn’t miss the  Binnenhof , which is the former castle of the Counts of Holland.

It is the center of the country’s government, and you can tour the palace! Get a chance to walk through the First Chamber House of Parliament and take a tour of the Ridderzaal, home to the royal throne and is the “place-tobe” for state ceremonies. How grand!

The  Madurodam  is a sight to behold. The miniature park is the most visited tourist attraction in The Hague because each model here looks exactly the most important Dutch castles, public buildings, and industrial projects. 

Do you want to take in some of the beautiful art pieces in the city? Then you’re going to appreciate the Dutch paintings from the Golden Age at the  Mauritshuis . 

Kick off the shoes and lounge by the beach at the  Scheveningen Strand —one of the country’s most popular clean beach resorts. 

Are you ready to explore The Hague? Browse our topics here at Ask The Dutch Guy for more!

The Hague Netherlands- 9 FAQs by Tourists

Scheveningen in The Hague (Best Things to Expect)

Best Places to Visit in the Hague for a 2-Day Tour

One Day In The Hague -The Best Itinerary for First Time Travelers

Visit the Hague – Your Best 3-day Itinerary

The 5 Best Things to Do in the Hague for Free

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Costs incurred for medical treatment by our doctors are usually reimbursed by most insurance companies around the world. You can view our rates here .

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Each of our team members is an experienced and specialized doctor  and ready to offer you quality health care. All of our doctors are registered in the BIG register, the Dutch register for health specialists .

We understand that your stay in The Netherland  should be carefree. Unfortunately, health problems can arise during your stay. That is why our doctors are ready to help you immediately with our consultations, advice and guidance.

Our doctors are easy to consult. Request a call back or call  +31 6 1647 0552 to consult the doctor directly .

European Health Insurance Card  and  AON Student Insurance  cover practice consultations costs. Other cost such as medical treatments provided by our clinic are well covered by the most travel-, health- and expat insurances.

Please bring you physical  EHIC or AON insurance card with you or a digital (photo) one for a smooth process and so that you don’t have to pay for your consultations in advance!

At all our clinic, a standard doctors appointment is 10 minutes, which is usually plenty of time for most health issues. However, should you require more, that is no problem at all. The different services we provide, require appointment times that may vary. Our walk in clinic can also accept last minute appointments if necessary. You can book your appointment now online.

Yes, you will receive a recognized receipt from us that you can submit to your health insurer for reimbursement.

Most international debit- and major credit cards as well as cash (euro) are accepted in our practice. You will receive well documented receipts for submitting reimbursement request at your insurance.

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15 Amazing Things to Do in The Hague

Updated April 15, 2024

// By Margherita

Get ready to be surprised by The Hague/Den Haag! This Dutch city is a wonderful alternative to Amsterdam, with cool museums, canal houses, a walkable historic centre, and even 11 km of beaches with stunning beach houses! Here are 15 cool things to do in The Hague to get you started! 

Would you like to explore The Hague with no hassle? Here are some wonderful tours!

• Private Day Trip to The Hague from Amsterdam – also including Rotterdam!
• The Hague Highlights Bike Tour – discover the city on two wheels like a true Dutch!
• The Hague City Discovery Game – explore The Hague as you solve clues
• The Hague Private Walking Tour – take your time on this private tour!
• The Girl with the Pearl Earring, the Hague and Delft – see The Hague and one of the world’s most famous paintings
• Escher in the Palace – get your tickets in advance and skip the line to see this amazing Escher exhibition!

This is probably the most cliched ever way to start a blog post, but this time it needs to be done.

If I say The Hague, what comes to your mind? If you asked me, I would say government buildings, the International Court of Justice , and that’s about it. I imagined it as a drab, government-focused city, with not much to see and do – and naturally, I saw very little reason to visit. 

Then, in March, we spent three days in The Hague – and we were very pleasantly surprised. The city, known as Den Haag in Dutch, is packed with things to see and do – unusual museums, buildings, canals, and naturally, the famous Peace Palace , housing the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. 

With over tourism hitting Amsterdam more and more each year , The Hague is the perfect alternative to Amsterdam for a Dutch city break.

To make matters even better, The Hague has 11 km of beaches. Yes, I had no idea The Hague was so close to the beach – my bad!

Weather in The Hague/Den Haag

I can’t say we’ve been lucky with the weather during visit to The Hague. The city is located in the southern part of the Netherlands, by the coast. You’ll find typically Northern/Central European weather – with cold winters and warm, but not boiling hot summers, and abundant rain year round. 

On top of that, The Hague’s coastal location also means that it’s windy pretty much every day. The windiest period of the year lasts between October and March, when the city beaches become a popular kitesurfing location, despite the cold. 

During our visit in mid-March, we had cloudy skies with frequent rain showers and a temperature ranging between 0°C at night and 12-13°C during the day, with very, very strong winds , touching 90 km per hour. However, this didn’t stop us from enjoying the amount of amazing attractions in The Hague!

So, let’s have a look at 14 fun things to do in The Hague , even when it’s super windy!

Want to explore the Benelux area more? Check out our 20 Fun Things to do in Luxembourg post!

Would you like to discover The Hague in one fun minute? Here’s our cartoon video!

Free Things to do in The Hague/Den Haag

1) visit the binnenhof.

‘This is where my city was born’ said our guide Remco as we reached the Binnenhof , a complex of buildings right next to the Hofvijver ,  a small lake in the centre of The Hague. 

The Binnenhof started out as a small homestead by the lake, which was purchased by the count of Holland in the 13th century and slowly grew into a small keep.

A few decades later, the count built the Ridderzaal , one of the largest non-religious Gothic buildings in Europe. Ridderzaal means ‘riders hall’ , as its original purpose was to welcome riders visiting the court of the counts of Holland. 

What is now the city of The Hague grew around the Binnenhof. From residence of the counts it became the administrative centre of the country, housing the meeting place of both houses in the Dutch parliament, the Prime Minister’s office and the Ministry for General affairs.

The Ridderzaal still stands proud , dominating the complex, and it is used by the Dutch monarch to deliver the annual speech opening Parliament.

Visiting the buildings in the Binnenhof costs money, but walking around the complex is definitely one of the best free things to do in The Hague. 

Are you a castle fan? Discover the best castles in Luxembourg!

2) Walk Along the Canals

Did you know The Hague also has canals? The city has about 10 canals, dug in the 14th century for transportation and defence purposes. However, The Hague is not known for its waterways , probably because similarly to many other cities in Europe like my very own Milan , many canals were filled over the 20th century to improve sanitation in the growing city. 

In 2004, part of The Hague canal system was uncovered, and now it is possible to sail or walk along it. If you want to go sailing, naturally you’ll need a ticket, but walking along the canals won’t cost you a cent, and it’s surely a great free activity to enjoy in The Hague. 

A good place to start is Lange Voorhout , the street where you’ll find the wonderful museum Escher in the Palace ( another great thing to do in The Hague – more on it later!)

From there, head towards Maliestraat , right next to the most beautiful canal in The Hague. You can follow Nieuwe Uitleg,  a road creating a ring around the canal, then turn right on to Hooikade . At the end of that street, cross the street and follow the canal on your left, running parallel to the Mauritskade .

Keep walking along Mauritskade all the way to the end. Then, turn left until you get to a canal with a bridge with a bike covered in flowers, a tribute to a young girl who died in a bike accident. 

Follow that canal past Prinsessewal , until you reach the end. On your right there will be another short canal named Veenkade, where you’ll find bars and an ice cream shop that all have floating terraces on the canal. Can you imagine a better end to this canal walk?

This itinerary will take you about 2 hours, depending on how often you stop for pictures, and it’s a wonderful free thing to do in The Hague!

3) See the Peace Palace

This was, by far and away, my favourite thing to do in The Hague. The Peace Palace is the reason why The Hague is known as the City of Peace and Justice – the complex was built around 100 years ago, to provide a home for the Permanent Court of Arbitration , established at the end of the 19th century to provide an alternative solution to war for disputes between countries. 

Construction was sponsored by the American steel magnate Andrew Carnegie, and the Carnegie Foundation still owns and manages it. Nowadays, besides the  Permanent Court of Arbitration , the Peace Palace accommodates the International Court of Justice , the Library of International Law , and the Hague Academy of International Law. 

We were lucky to tour the interiors of the Peace Palace. Tours last approximately an hour and a half and include a visit of the Permanent Court of Arbitration and the Permanent Court of International Justice, as well as the artworks located in the corridors and hallways, all gifts from various city governments.

One of the coolest places is the Japanese Room , the secondary room of thePermanent Court of Arbitration, taking its name from the stunning silk tapestries gifted by the Japanese government. 

The Peace Palace can only be visited when courts are not in session. You can get info about dates and book tours on the official website – but please be aware that tours may be cancelled if court sessions are scheduled or moved last minute. 

However, you can always see the Peace Palace from outside for free. The imposing neo-Renaissance building is clearly visible through the fence, looking a little bit like Hogwarts. Don’t you think? 

4) Walk Around the City

The Hague is a wonderful place to walk around aimlessly , getting lost its streets and marvelling at its architecture.

The Hague is divided in two parts, one built on sand, and one built on clay. The two parts of the city are divided by  Laan van Meerdervoort,  the longest street in Europe.

The richer people live on the sandy part, the northern half of the city, and call themselves Hagenaar , whereas the southern half of the city built on clay is home to Hagenees , working class people.

A good place to wander around are the shopping streets around  Spuistraat and Grote Marktstraat.  You’ll find many department stores like HEMA, a Dutch institution, and upmarket de Bijenkorf. Right next to that there’s a cool shopping building decorated with Art Nouveau storks, the symbol of The Hague.

5) Check out De Passage and try a Hopje

Another fun free thing to do in The Hague is walking down De Passage , the only remaining covered shopping arcade built in the second part of the 20th century in the Netherlands. 

De Passage was originally built to house luxury stores, and still remains faithful to this ‘upmarket’ soul. If you want a small souvenir typical of The Hague , grab some Hopje from Hop & Stork, one of the best coffee shops in town.

Hopje coffee-flavoured sweets were born by mistake, after a coffee-loving baron was forbidden by his doctor to drink coffee, and tried to find a way to do it anyway. He left a mixture of coffee and sugar on the stove simmering for too long, until it hardened up into caramelised lumps.

The result was so good, that he commissioned a local baker to recreate his ‘mistake’ – and from then onwards, hopje have become The Hague’s most beloved sweet export. 

5) Visit The Hague’s Two Stations

The Hague is also unique in the sense that it has not one, but two central stations – both of which are really cool in a different way, and visiting them is another unusual free thing to do in The Hague. 

If you’re coming from Amsterdam or from Schiphol airport, more than likely you’ll be arriving at Den Haag Centraal, the largest of the two located right in the city centre. The station was recently renovated and it is now a modern steel and glass building, with a mini food court, as well as some cafés and restaurants on the upper floor.

We especially liked Station Huiskamer , meaning ‘the station’s living room’, a cozy café with couches and working spaces, and a views over the trains.

The second station is Den Haag HS, about 20 minutes walk from the centre, with trains to Antwerp, Brussels and other Dutch cities. The building dates back to 1843, when the station was opened.

Den Haag HS is less busy than Centraal station, and worth visiting to appreciate the 19th century architecture of the station building. There’s also a spectacular royal waiting room, which can be visited once a month joining a guided tour. 

Are you a fan of train travel? Read about our winter rail journey from Finland to France!

Museums in The Hague

6) the mauritshuis.

If it’s windy or rainy in The Hague , as it often is, there’s no need to worry about finding things to do – there are many museums to choose from!

If you only had time to visit one museum in The Hague , we highly recommend the Mauritshuis , housing an impressive collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings.

The best known and most popular artwork is undoubtedly the Girl With The Pearl Earring by Vermeer , but there are many more to see, including some impressive still lifes and paintings depicting daily life in the Netherlands in the 17th century.

If you are visiting this year you can also visit the Rembrandt and the Mauritshuis exhibition, with all 11 Rembrandt paintings in the museum collection on show, including the famous The Anatomy Lesson. 

7) Escher in the Palace

Even if the name Escher doesn’t ring a bell, you’ll be familiar with the Dutch graphic artist’s mathematically-inspired prints and illustrations . Escher in the Palace (Escher in Het Palais) is a museum dedicated to Escher’s artwork, located in a former royal palace dating back to the 18th century. 

The exhibition displays original wood blocks used by the artist, as well as a selection of prints, including some of Escher’s earliest depicting Italian landscapes. The exhibition was designed especially to display Escher’s work – don’t miss The Waterfall , example of the artist’s ‘impossible perspectives’, the Drawing Hands , and the three Metamorphosis , with a sequence of tessellated images morphing into one another in a circle.  

Skip the line and get your Escher in the Palace ticket in advance!

8)  Museum Voorlinden

The Mauritshuis may be The Hague’s big ticket museum, and Escher in the Palace is definitely worth a visit for the scenic palace setting, but in my opinion the coolest museum in the Hague is Museum Voorlinden , a contemporary art gallery opened in 2016. 

Museum Voorlinden is set in a private estate, in a modern building with large windows providing plenty of natural light, really enhancing the artwork on display. Part of the museum houses temporary exhibitions – at the time of our visit in mid March, there was one titled ‘Less is More’ , about minimal art, and an exhibition dedicated to Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama was due to open within a few days. 

Yet, Museum Voorlinden is best known for its Highlights , a selection of large-scale, immersive art installations like Leonardo Elrich’s Swimming Pool , where visitors can access the bottom of the pool and see other visitors watching them from above, and Open Ended , a maze made of steel plates.

Visiting Museum Voorlinden was definitely one of our favourite things to do in The Hague – don’t miss it!

The Hague Beaches

9) scheveningen.

The long, sandy beach resorts of The Hague are probably what sets it apart from other Dutch cities. Where else can you spend the morning visiting museums, and then hop on the tram for an afternoon on the beach?

Beaches in The Hague cover a length of 11 km , divided between two different beach resorts – the first to be established and largest of the two is Scheveningen , about 5 km north from the city centre. 

Scheveningen is best known for its pier, opened in 1959 after an existing pier was destroyed during World War II. The pier was renovated in 2015, and it now includes a covered shopping centre with restaurants, cafés and entertainment opportunities. 

At the end of the pier you’ll find the Skywheel , the best known Scheveningen landmark. There’s also a bungee jump and a zipline, connecting the bungee platform to the upper pier deck.

When we visited in March, Scheveningen was deserted, with only a few souls braving the wind and cold. In summer, beach bars line the promenade and you’ll find people skating, cycling and braving the chilly waves of the North Sea. You can also try your hand at riding the waves – book a surfing lesson!

10) Kijkduin

Scheveningen is indeed a happening place – if peace and quiet are what you’re after, you’d better head to Kijkduin , the smaller of the two resorts which is a little further from the city centre, surrounded by sand dunes. 

The vibe at Kjikduin is definitely more low-key and family friendly compared to Scheveningen. There are a few beach clubs, mostly cafés and restaurants, but don’t expect much action if you’re visiting in March as beach bars in The Hague are taken apart in winter and reassembled in summer – except for Havana Beach , open year round. 

There’s also one more reason to visit Kijkduin , which is really one of the coolest and most unusual things to do in The Hague – but I’m not ready to reveal it just yet. Read on, and you shall find out!

Unusual Things to do in The Hague

11) visit the prison gate museum.

In the 1400s, The Hague wasn’t the peace and justice-loving city it is these days. The Prison Gate museum (Museum de Gevangenpoort) reveals visitors how the concept of crime and punishment evolved over the centuries, when justice wasn’t administered in courts, and confessions were extorted through torture.

The museum is not far from the Binnenhof and includes the largest collection of instruments of torture , like branding irons, hand clamps and flogging benches, and the cell block where prisoners used to be incarcerated and tortured. This is not for the faint of heart, but it’s definitely a must if you’re looking for unusual points of interest in The Hague.

12) Visit the Haagse Markt

Market lovers, did you know that Haagse Markt is the largest outdoor market in Europe? Besides its size, what makes this market special is the variety of goods on offer, including food from all over the world.

It’s a great place if you’re looking for street snacks, with food reflecting the multicultural side of The Hague – within a few stalls you can find Dutch kibberling , Surinamese donuts, Turkish snacks, empanadas from the Caribbean and more.

The market is located in between Transvaal and Schilderswijk , the two most multicultural neighbourhoods in the Hague. A market has taken place for centuries in the same location, and in the late 19 th century it was already well known for exotic goods coming from the Dutch colonies and beyond.

Nowadays, the market is a great destination for food lovers , but you can also find clothes, flowers, household goods and pretty much anything you can imagine.

The Haagse Markt takes place four days a week – on Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday, from 9 am to 5 pm.

13) Eat at the Highest Restaurant in Town

The Hague Tower (Haagse Toren) is the 5th highest building in The Hague, and it is nicknamed  Het Strijkijzer (the Flatiron) as it was inspired by the famous New York building. 

You may expect this kind of building to house luxury offices or apartments – but this is when The Hague surprises you with its democratic soul , as the Hague Tower contains 300 studio flats for students and first-time property owners, and only 50 luxury apartments. 

The 42nd floor of Hague Tower is also where you’ll find The Penthouse , the highest restaurant in the Netherlands. You can start your evening with a cocktail at the Sky Bar, then take your pick from the creative, international dishes found on the menu.

Or better still, do what we did and opt for the Journey , a surprise menu with the daily specials.

14) Stay in Beach Huts

By now, you will have gathered that The Hague has 11 km of beaches , since I repeated it about three times in the course of this post. I loved all the things we did and saw in The Hague – seeing The Girl With The Pearl Earring, Escher’s artworks, visiting the Peace Palace, eating tasty food while looking at The Hague city lights from above… and more.

Yet, my best memories from The Hague are from the Haagse Strandhuises (The Hague beach houses) on Kijkduin beach, our home away from home in The Hague. The beach houses are located on an isolated stretch of beach, surrounded by sand dunes, with the sound of the wind and waves singing you to sleep.

The beach houses are compact, but they include everything you need to enjoy your stay on the beach, including heating, TV, super fast wifi, a small kitchen and even a cart to carry everything you need across the beach. The front of the beach houses is completely covered in windows looking out to sea , and there’s also a small veranda where you can sit and enjoy the view – if the wind doesn’t blow you away!

To make matters even better, the beach houses are made with natural materials and powered by sustainable energy. Even when it’s super windy, the feeling of being surrounded by the elements is simply magical, and you’re guaranteed to have a comfortable night sleep.

How to Get to The Hague from Amsterdam 

The Hague is only 52 km from Amsterdam , and the closest airport is Amsterdam Schiphol, only half an hour away by train.

Travelling between Amsterdam and The Hague by train is super easy , with departures every half an hour from Amsterdam to The Hague central stations, with trains taking under an hour and tickets cost €12.20 . There are even more frequent trains travelling via Leiden or Schiphol airport, but you will need to change trains.

Rotterdam is also very close to The Hague , about 36 km away. Train between the two cities depart every 10 minutes, cost €5.10 and take less than half an hour.

Many thanks to Stefan, Remco and Danielle from The Hague Marketing for welcoming us!

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EUROPE , THE NETHERLANDS · February 2, 2021 Last Updated on March 15, 2024

THE HAGUE CITY GUIDE FOR EVERY TYPE OF TRAVELLER

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Original letters from Oscar Wilde, the world’s oldest book museum, a trippy M.C. Escher optical illusion museum and a date with “The Girl with The Pearl Earring”. These are just some of the unique experiences only on offer in The Hague.

The Netherlands’ third city is an unsung gem quietly courting adoration beside Amsterdam’s revelry and Rotterdam’s bustle. The quietest of the three, The Hague is serene, spacious and has an 11-kilometre white sand beach called Scheveningen (Sh-keh-veh-nin-ghen).

This delightful Dutch coastal city can best be described as gezellig (a Dutch concept akin to the Danes’ Hygge). It’s “the judicial capital of the world”, the seat of the Dutch government and parliament, and the residence of the current king Willem-Alexander and his much-adored Argentinian-born wife Maxima.

Whether you wish to savour art from the Dutch Golden Age, sip on fine Malbec at a sky-high restaurant or bungee jump over the North Sea, this city will deliver.

Here’s The Hague travel guide for every type of traveller!

For Beach Lovers

The Hague has much to offer water lovers. There’s a wave for surfers of all levels in Scheveningen and beginners can grab a bite, do a spot of shopping and get lessons at Hart Beach surf shop and school.

There are endless rolling dunes for beach walks and the stunning Panorama Mesdag Museum, a 360-degree painting of the dunes and Scheveningen village as it was in 1881.

Scheveningen also hosts an annual European fireworks festival and in previous years, you’d find thousands (around ten) diving into the ice-cold North Sea for the annual Unox-sponsored New Year’s Day dive .

The Unox brand provides brave divers with warm orange hats before the dive, and hot soup afterwards. Lekker!

Scheveningen has been referred to as “the Santa Monica of Europe” and The Hague is the only big city with a beach directly on the North Sea coast.

Come here for a spattering of beachside restaurants and bars or take a walk on the pier (De Pier). There’s an open-air deck, too, and you can also bungee jump over the sea if that tickles your fancy.

For Art Lovers

Mauritshuis.

No trip to The Hague is complete without a visit to the Mauritshuis  museum, which is a stone’s throw from Binnenhof, the world’s oldest parliament building that’s still in use (yet another unique feat in The Hague). You can actually see into the Prime Minister’s office right from one of Mauritshuis’ rooms.

The Mauritshuis building itself is a masterpiece and was owned by Count Johan Maurits of Nassau-Siegen, who was the governor-general of the then-Dutch colony of Brazil.

Visit Mauritshuis to see works from Dutch masters like Jan Steen, Rembrandt and Carel Fabritius’ The Goldfinch, star of a 2019 Hollywood movie of the same name.

The jewel in the museum’s crown is undoubtedly Vermeer’s “The Girl With The Pearl Earring” , which has been at the Mauritshuis for over 100 years. It was bought for two Guilders (less than $1) at a market and was only discovered to be a Vermeer after it was cleaned.

“The girl” is one of the world’s most famous paintings. Much like the Mona Lisa, she invites intrigue due to the ambiguity of her gaze.

Lighting and the way she’s painted means some see her eyes as green, others see brown, her emotions aren’t immediately discernible and her pearl earring probably isn’t a pearl at all.

Tickets need to be reserved in advance via the Mauritshuis website . It is also possible to make an impromptu visit and reserve any last-minute slots that are available.

The M.C. Escher Museum

The Hague is also home to the M.C. Escher museum, Escher in the Palace , which fans of the artist’s mathematically inspired optical illusions will find particularly pleasing.

Escher is one of the most famous graphic artists in the world and a visit to this permanent exhibition is a thoroughly regal experience being set in the former winter palace of Queen Mother Emma of the Netherlands.

Prepare to be amazed by his mind-bending works including House of Stairs, Convex and Concave, and Drawing Hands.

For History And Culture Lovers

The palaces.

The Hague is a city of palaces. The Dutch royal family have three official residences, two of which are in The Hague: Paleis Huis ten Bosch in the Haagse Bos forest, and Noordeinde.

The Koninklijke Schouwburg (the Royal Theatre) was originally built as a palace for Prince Karel van Christiaan van Nassau-Weilburg.

Feel free to catch a play there in the most regal of settings. There is a small selection of shows in English and some that aren’t spoken at all so don’t let a lack of Dutch skills hold you back.

The Peace Palace

The Peace Palace (Vredespaleis) , is the home of two of the most important courts in the world: the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), though deceptively, it is not actually a palace.

The statuesque building is the global home of world peace and was financed by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.

The first stone was laid in 1907 shortly before World War One and world leaders were requested to donate decorations and building materials for this temple of peace – and they did.

Today, the Peace Palace is an astounding collection of artefacts and adornments from all corners of the globe: marble from Italy, wood from El Salvador, vases from China, a fountain from Denmark and a Faberge egg from Tsar Nicholas II in Russia that was so large that a special train track needed to be built to bring it in.

In the Japanese Room, where members of the Permanent Court of Arbitration hold their meetings, the walls are covered with refined silk and golden tapestries made by over 48,000 Japanese weavers over several years and they are a stunning sight to behold.

Guided tours are available and must be booked in advance. Tours are led in and around the palace (including the lovely gardens) and the Great Hall of justice.

Museum Meermanno (Huis Van Het Boek)

A bibliophile’s dream, Huis Van Het Boek is the oldest book museum in the world. It’s located in the former residence of Baron Van Westreenen van Tiellandt, an avid book collector.

The house became the property of the state after the Baron passed away and it opened to the public as a museum in 1852.

The museum showcases Western book history from all periods including handwritten medieval manuscripts and fragments of a Latin Bible.

The museum also has one of the world’s most impressive miniature book collections and proudly owns one of the first printed copies of Oscar Wilde’s final work, “The Ballad of Reading Gaol”, where coincidentally; half of an original letter signed by Oscar Wilde himself was found.

This and many other priceless pieces of history may be enjoyed at this impressive 18th-century Herenhuis building. To secure your spot, timed entry tickets must be purchased online on the museum’s website .

For Food Lovers

Raw herring.

While in The Hague, indulge in some of the edible splendours that the Netherlands is recognised for including raw herring, traditionally served with raw onions. The dish is traditionally eaten by picking up the herring by the tail and gradually sliding it into the mouth.

You can sample raw herring at any of the many iconic street-side fish stalls or stalletjes, which are typically awash with patriotic red, white and blue colours alongside Dutch flags.

You can also have yours cut into pieces or with bread but don’t ask to have your herring with mayonnaise on top – it’s not a burger. Also, watch out for the birds (meeuwen); they’re cunning, fast and they want your meal just as much as you do.

The Penthouse

Spoil yourself and go up to the tallest restaurant in the Netherlands, The Penthouse . This spot sits pretty on the 42nd floor of The Hague Tower in the Holland Spoor neighbourhood.

As you take in the scenery while going up in the lift, there’s also sign that tells you “you’re pretty”. Once you arrive, there are fabulous views wherever you’re seated and you can also step out onto the deck to feel the wind in your hair and further inspect your surroundings.

The North Sea can be spotted as well as the city of Delft, which is about 11 kilometres away. Sunset is a popular time to dine here so if that’s when you’d like to visit, be sure to reserve well in advance.

Seasonal local products influence the menu and you can take your pick of three, four or five courses. Each course is paired with a decadent wine from a different region. The menu itself is in English and Dutch and includes a witty back-story about each of the wine pairings.

Fries With A Twist

The Dutch are known for their love of French fries (“patat” or “frites”) and you can expect to find a vendor selling these soft-in-the-middle, crispy-on-the-outside wonder sticks on almost any corner you turn. You’re also spoilt for choice toppings-wise.

The mainstay combination is patat met (fries with mayonnaise) or patatje oorlog (fries with mayonnaise, sate sauce and onions), which translates as “war chips”.

Sate sauce, a spicy mixture of peanuts, kecap manis, ginger, chilli and turmeric, is widespread in the Netherlands due to the sizeable Indonesian population in the country. Look past the curious name and try this oddly harmonious marriage.

For a gourmet helping of patat, look no further than the posh friterie known as Frites Atelier where things are turned up a notch.

The potatoes are sourced from the province of Zeeland and embellished with fancy toppings like pulled pork and piccalilli, braised beef in old brown beer and grated Comté cheese with homemade truffle mayonnaise, all topped with samphire salt.

Van Kleef Museum, Jenevers And Liqueurs

One of the absolute highlights of my most recent trip to The Hague was a jenever tasting at Van Kleef , the Hague’s last standing distillery and museum.

The experience was elevated from culinary outing to history lesson with the presentation of The Hague’s very first telephone book.

Van Kleef used to produce medicines, perfumes and liqueurs including jenever, and it was once one of the most important businesses in the city.

In The Hague’s first phone book which was published in 1893, there were only 126 local telephone numbers and Van Kleef’s was number 1 – before the king’s.

One of Van Kleef’s most famous customers was the painter Vincent van Gogh, who lived on the very same street (Lange Beestenmarkt) for a few years while working at his uncle’s international art trade company.

The tasting sessions take place in the ever so quaint back garden and include thorough explanations of jenever and it’s illustrious history. Many are none the wiser of gin’s roots, which lie in Dutch distilleries like Van Kleef.

When Dutch Stadtholder William of Orange married into the English throne by wedding Mary Stuart, he brought along his national drink, jenever, which was far from painless to pronounce in his new surroundings. It was shortened to “jen” which is the “gin” we know today.

You can also pick up a bottle in the shop and sample some local liqueur flavours like “Kruìde Baggâh” and “Tears of the bride”, named to denote the bittersweet sobs of women about to leave their families after finally finding freedom.

My absolute favourite liqueur, however, is the purple-hued Volmaakt Geluk, which has a saucy back-story that I’ll let you discover when you visit The Hague yourself.

Where To Stay In The Hague

Hotel des indes.

Hotel Des Indes is a grand property in the former city palace of Baron van Brienen, a counsellor of King William III who needed entertainment quarters in the centre of the city.

Des Indes feels like stepping into the Old World with high ceilings and a fabulous bar to boot (which is also stocked with Van Kleef goodies). Try the gin-soaked Mayflower cocktail or order a surprise drink and the mixology masters will whip up something that’s not on the menu.

Hotel Des Indes is part of the illustrious Leading Hotels of the World Group  and its amenities include a spa, sauna, swimming pool, gym and private dining spaces.

The Old World feeling continues in the rooms where black and white photos of old greats adorn the walls and vintage wooden chests make up the cupboards while kingly drapes hover over the bedding.

There are nifty little touches all around like the Delfts Blauw (Delft’s Pottery) vases which display the room numbers and all four floors tell a rich story.

Des Indes’ wall of fame shows a who’s who of important dignitaries and famous faces that have lodged here including European royalty, Theodore and Eleanor Roosevelt, Audrey Hepburn and the spy Mata Hari.

It’s a temporary residence for many new ambassadors in the Netherlands who are often picked up by horse and golden carriage and taken to the nearby palace for the traditional ceremony to present their credentials to the king.

It is also the place where Anna Pavlova, one of the most famous ballet dancers of all time, took her last breath.

Hotel ‘t Sonnehuys

If you’ve got tickets for a dazzling show at Scheveningen’s AFAS Circustheatre, you couldn’t lodge any closer than ‘t Sonnehuys.

The townhouse hotel is ideally located 5 minutes walk from the beach, the pier and the boulevard to fulfil all your seaside shopping and dining needs. It’s also close to the Tram 9 route to get into the centre of The Hague in no time.

‘t Sonnehuys has sea view rooms, it’s consistently high-rated and the lovely proprietor is always on hand to ensure it truly feels like your home away from home.

The Hague is great to explore on foot, by bike, by mouth; in winter, in summer, for leisure, for history seeking or for beaching. Do it!

To plan the perfect Netherlands trip, be sure to read our Ultimate Guide to Amsterdam !

We hope that this article has helped inspire you to visit The Hague. If you have any questions about the destination or have your own travel tips to share please leave these in the comments below.

Want to share your own travel tips by guest writing for We Are Travel Girls? Go to our Contribute page for guidelines and to submit your article.

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Read More About The Netherlands

• The Ultimate Travel Guide To Amsterdam
• 12 Things To Do In Amsterdam On A Budget
• How To Spend One Day In Amsterdam

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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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Spijkenisse

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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Medical plane crashes in North Carolina, injuring pilot and doctor on board

A unc health plane crashed at raleigh-durham international airport (rdu) at around 10 a.m. wednesday, injuring dr. paul chelminski and pilot art johnson.

A small medical plane crashed at a North Carolina airport on Wednesday, injuring the pilot and a doctor on board.

The aircraft came to a complete stop in grass after crashing at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) at around 10:10 a.m. ET. The doctor and the pilot were taken to a separate hospitals, according to UNC Health .

The general aviation aircraft was arriving at the airport from Wilmington, North Carolina, the Raleigh-Durham Airport Authority said in a statement to USA TODAY.

The Federal Aviation Administration issued a ground stop, halting planes from departing from the airport and diverting arriving flights to other airports. The stoppage was lifted around 11:30 a.m.

There are conflicting reports about the plane type. The FAA told USA TODAY its aircraft registry lists the aircraft type as a single-engine Socata TBM-700 while the tail number records say it's a TBM-850.

Physician identified as Dr. Paul Chelminski

The physician on the plane has been identified as Dr. Paul Chelminski , who is in internal medicine at UNC Health. He was taken to UNC Hospitals in Chapel Hill and has since been released, UNC Health news director Alan M. Wolf said.

Chelminski, a professor of medicine and pharmacy, was returning from Wilmington after giving a lecture at the Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

The pilot, identified as Art Johnson, was taken to Duke University Hospital in Durham and was in fair condition, Wolf added.

The National Transportation Safety Board is expected to investigate the accident.