tourist map the hague

Map of The Hague — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of The Hague, The Netherlands for travelers! Check out The Hague’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting The Hague? See our The Hague Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in The Hague. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our The Hague map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in The Hague by categories
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• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
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• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 19 attractions in The Hague

Peace palace.

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Mauritshuis

Louwman museum, panorama mesdag, escher in the palace, kunstmuseum the hague, landgoed clingendael, lange voorhout, circustheater, westbroekpark, the pier skyview, museum beelden aan zee, jorplace beach hostel scheveningen the hague, haagse toren, noordeinde palace, top 10 restaurants in the hague, restaurant zheng.

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Restaurant ñ, restaurant basaal, walter benedict, baladi manouche, little v den haag, transportation in the hague, nearby airports, amsterdam airport schiphol, highways and major roads.

• A4 (Amsterdam-Rotterdam-Rijnmond-The Hague)
• A12 (Utrecht-Den Haag-Rotterdam)
• A13 (The Hague-Rotterdam)
• A44 (Delft-Leiden-The Hague)
• A15 (Rotterdam-Nijmegen)
• N44 (Wassenaar-Den Haag)
• N211 (Westland-The Hague)
• N222 (Westland-The Hague)
• Lozerlaan (The Hague)
• Laan van Hoornwijck (Rijswijk-The Hague)

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Explore nearby places

• Scheveningen
• Leidschendam
• Honselersdijk
• Voorschoten
• Schipluiden
• 's-Gravenzande
• Zoeterwoude
• Berkel en Rodenrijs
• Bergschenhoek

All related maps of The Hague

• Map of Voorburg
• Map of Scheveningen
• Map of Rijswijk
• Map of Leidschendam
• Map of Wateringen
• Map of Kwintsheul
• Map of Delft
• Map of Poeldijk
• Map of Honselersdijk
• Map of Delfgauw
• Map of Wassenaar
• Map of Pijnacker
• Map of Monster
• Map of Voorschoten
• Map of Ter Heijde
• Map of Schipluiden
• Map of Naaldwijk
• Map of De Lier
• Map of Zoetermeer
• Map of 's-Gravenzande
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• Map of Berkel en Rodenrijs
• Map of Leiden
• Map of Katwijk
• Map of Rijnsburg
• Map of Oegstgeest
• Map of Maasland
• Map of Benthuizen
• Map of Bleiswijk
• Map of Bergschenhoek

The Hague throughout the year

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The Hague Map: The Attractions

Peace Palace

Scheveningen Pier

Grote Markt

Noordeinde Palace

Maurice House

Panorama Mesdag

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18 Top Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in The Hague

Written by Bryan Dearsley and Lura Seavey Updated Dec 24, 2023

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

The Mauritshuis

Explore the many buildings of the historic binnenhof, visit escher in the palace (escher in het paleis), take a virtual trip to the seaside at panorama mesdag, step back in time in the ridderzaal: the knights' hall, feel like a giant at madurodam, kunstmuseum den haag, see the dream cars at the louwman museum, the peace palace, take a walk in the park at landgoed clingendael, see the seaside at scheveningen and the pier, hike through haagse bos and visit huis ten bosch, the prison gate museum (gevangenpoort), the grote of sint-jacobskerk, take a quick trip to duivenvoorde castle, drievliet amusement park, visit lisse, 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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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.

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Large detailed tourist map of The Hague

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10 Most Popular Attractions in The Hague

By Carl Austin · Last updated on November 6, 2023

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

10. Japanese Garden at Clingendael [SEE MAP]

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

9. Peace Palace [SEE MAP]

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

8. Gemeentemuseum Den Haag [SEE MAP]

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

7. Louwman Museum [SEE MAP]

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

6. Escher in Het Paleis [SEE MAP]

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

5. Madurodam [SEE MAP]

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

4. Panorama Mesdag [SEE MAP]

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

3. Mauritshuis [SEE MAP]

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

2. Scheveningen Boulevard [SEE MAP]

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

1. Binnenhof [SEE MAP]

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

Best Time to Visit the Hague

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

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

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

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

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23 Unmissable Things to Do in The Hague

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

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

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

Read more: Where to stay in The Hague – a hotel guide with recommendations for the best places to stay in The Hague per neighbourhood, per type of traveller and per budget Things to do in Scheveningen – exploring the best attractions and the hidden gems of The Hague’s seaside resort

How to get to The Hague

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

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

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

Wherever you are staying in the Netherlands The Hague could be the perfect destination for a day trip. My preference would be to visit The Hague by train, as the train station is conveniently located in the centre of the city and it has been renovated recently.

Pro tip: Buy your train tickets online with the Dutch Railways (NS) for hassle-free travel. On the website of NS you can also check for any discounts .

However I have visited The Hague many times by car, with my favorite place to park being Q Park Maliveld, just a few hundred metres from the city centre.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Top things to do in The Hague

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

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

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

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

Practical info

Address: Lange Voorhout 74, 2514 EH Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 12,50 EUR; kids (13-17 yoa) – 9,50 EUR; kids (7-12 yoa) – 6,50 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 11:00 till 17:00 Website: www.escherinhetpaleis.nl

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

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

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

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

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

Address: George Maduroplein 1, 2584 RZ Den Haag Admission fee: day ticket – 22,50 EUR; a family (or friends) of 4 – 18,75 EUR; kids (0-2 yoa) – free of charge Opening times: daily, from 10:00 till 17:00 Website: www.madurodam.nl

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

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

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

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

Address: Zeestraat 65, 2518 AA Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 16 EUR; kids (13-18 yoa) – 12 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 10:00 till 17:00 Website: panorama-mesdag.nl

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Plein 29, 2511 CS Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 19,5- EUR; kids (under 18 yoa) – free of charge Opening times: Monday, from 13:00 till 18:00; Tuesday-Sunday, from 10:00 till 18:00 Website: www.mauritshuis.nl

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Address: Korte Vijverberg 7, 2513 AB Den Haag Admission fee: adults – 15 EUR; kids (6-17 yoa) – 5 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Friday, from 10:00 till 17:00; Saturday-Sunday, from 12:00 till 17:00 Website: www.haagshistorischmuseum.nl

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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🎨 What to do in The Hague

Embark on a journey of exploration in The Hague with a variety of activities that cater to all interests and budgets. From cultural discoveries to outdoor adventures, there's something for everyone in this dynamic city.

Best Budget Activity in The Hague:

The Peace Palace Visitor Centre : Explore the iconic Peace Palace, home to the International Court of Justice, through guided tours and exhibitions.

Best Mid-Range Activity in The Hague:

Mauritshuis : Immerse yourself in Dutch Golden Age art at this renowned museum featuring Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring" and Rembrandt's masterpieces.

Best Luxury Activity in The Hague:

Scheveningen Beach Club : Indulge in a luxurious day at the beach with exclusive cabanas, gourmet dining, and pampering spa treatments.

Recommendations:

-Visit Madurodam to explore a miniature replica of the Netherlands -Take a boat tour on The Hague's picturesque canals -Enjoy a cycling tour through the city's scenic parks and coastal areas

🍽️ Where to eat in The Hague

Discover The Hague's diverse culinary scene and treat your taste buds to a mix of traditional Dutch dishes and international flavors. Don't miss out on trying the delicious local specialties like herring, stroopwafels, and Indonesian rijsttafel.

Best Budget Restaurant in The Hague:

Mediterranean-inspired dishes

Best Mid-Range Restaurant in The Hague:

Modern European cuisine with panoramic views

Best Luxury Restaurant in The Hague:

Exquisite Asian fusion cuisine

-Black Smoke Den Haag for BBQ lovers -Bøg for Scandinavian-inspired cuisine

Best Budget Bar in The Hague:

Local craft beers

Best Mid-Range Bar in The Hague:

Signature cocktails

Best Luxury Bar in The Hague:

Fine selection of wines and champagnes

🏰 What to see in The Hague

Uncover the rich history and architectural wonders of The Hague by visiting its iconic landmarks that showcase the city's cultural heritage. From royal palaces to historic museums, these must-see attractions capture the essence of The Hague's charm and allure.

Home of the International Court of Justice and symbol of global peace and justice.

The political heart of the Netherlands with historic buildings like the Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights).

A prestigious art museum housing masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and other Dutch Golden Age painters.

Iconic seaside landmark offering panoramic views, attractions, dining, and entertainment.

Miniature park showcasing scaled-down replicas of famous Dutch landmarks and cities.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in The Hague

Indulge in a delightful shopping experience in The Hague, where a blend of trendy boutiques, bustling markets, and upscale stores awaits fashion enthusiasts and bargain hunters alike.

Best Budget Shopping Place in The Hague:

Haagse Markt : Discover a vibrant open-air market with a variety of products at affordable prices, including fresh produce, clothing, and international goods.

Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in The Hague:

De Passage : Step into the oldest shopping arcade in the Netherlands, boasting elegant shops, cafes, and an enchanting ambiance perfect for leisurely shopping.

Best Luxury Shopping Place in The Hague:

Aert van der Goesstraat : Explore this chic street lined with high-end fashion boutiques, designer stores, and upscale lifestyle shops for a glamorous shopping spree.

-The Fred for a fashion-forward district with boutique stores and trendy designer labels -The Hague's city center for a mix of well-known brands, department stores, and specialty shops showcasing local products.

🚍 Getting Around The Hague

Public transport.

The Hague offers a well-connected network of public transportation options, including buses, trams, trains, and metros. The OV-chipkaart is the smart card system used for all public transport in the Netherlands. The cost of a single journey varies based on distance, but a disposable chip card for a 1-hour journey costs around €3. The Hague's public transport operates from early morning until around midnight, with night buses available during the late hours.

Main Transportation Hubs

The key transportation hubs in The Hague include The Hague Central Station, The Hague Hollands Spoor Station, and various tram and bus stops throughout the city. The Hague Central Station serves as a major railway station with connections to domestic and international destinations. The Hollands Spoor Station offers regional and national train services. For bus and tram services, the main hubs are located at Centraal Station, Hollands Spoor, and Laan van NOI.

Rental Services

🚗 Car Rental: Several car rental companies operate in The Hague, including popular ones like Hertz, Avis, and Europcar. Prices typically start at €30 per day for a compact car. 🚲 Bicycle Rental: Cycling is a popular mode of transportation in The Hague, and rental companies like Swapfiets and Donkey Republic offer daily rentals starting at €10 per day. This eco-friendly option allows for easy exploration of the city's bike-friendly infrastructure.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Lets explore the best things to do in The Hague :

1. Mauritshuis Museum

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

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

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

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

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

2. Madurodam Model City

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

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

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

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

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

3. The Binnenhof

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

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

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

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

Guided tours are also available of the House of Representatives.

4. Ridderzaal

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

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

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

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

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

5. Mesdag Museum

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

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

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

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

6. The beach and promenade

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

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

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

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

7. Drievliet Amusement Park

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

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

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

8. Peace Palace

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

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

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

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

9. The Hague Tower

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

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

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

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

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

10. Grote of Sint Jacobskerk

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

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

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

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

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

11. Gemeentemuseum Den Haag

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

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

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

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

12. Landgoed Clingendael Park

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

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

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

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

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

13. The Prison Gate Museum

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

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

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

14. Palace Noordeinde

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

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

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

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

15. Lange Voorhout

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

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

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

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

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

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Public transport

The common way of travelling by public transport in the Netherlands is by using an 'OV Chipcard'. The OV Chipcard is a chargeable card that can be bought at a regular price of € 7.50, for instance at vending machines inside metro and railway stations, in tobacco shops or in supermarkets.

Checking in and out

Make sure you 'check-in' with your OV Chipcard at the start of your ride, and don't forget to 'check-out' when leaving. When using the Intercity Direct (the high-speed train), make sure to check-in an extra time at a supplement post on your departure platform.

Single tickets

If you are just planning to use public transport occasionally, you could also decide to buy single tickets inside the bus, tram or at vending machines inside metro and railway stations. Single tickets are also available for journeys by train. Please note that travelling is slightly cheaper with the OV Chipcard, compared to buying single tickets.

Planning your journey

All information about trains in the Netherlands can be found on NS (de Nederlandse Spoorwegen). For a detailed planning of your public transport journey — including other public transport such as buses, trams and metro — use 9292 .  

From Schiphol Airport (AMS) to The Hague

There are frequent trains from Schiphol Airport to The Hague Central station, or to The Hague HS (Hollands Spoor) station. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes and costs about € 10 (one way). Plan your journey and find the exact prices on NS .

The train is the most convenient option (compare: a taxi takes as much time as the train and is likely to cost more than € 100).

See the official website of Schiphol Airport for further information on the various ways of getting to The Hague.

From Rotterdam-The Hague Airport (RTM) to The Hague

Bus / metro.

Take bus 33 for about € 2 and get off at Meijersplein Metro, Rotterdam. From there, take metro line E to The Hague Central station, for about € 4. This journey will take you approximately 40 minutes. Plan your journey on 9292 .

A taxi to The Hague city centre costs about € 60. Taxis can be found in front of the airport, or use an app for ordering (for instance Uber).

See the official website of Rotterdam-The Hague Airport for further information on the various ways of getting to The Hague.  

Events in The Hague

King's day.

On the 27th of April we celebrate the day of birth of the King. Everyone is in orange on King's Day . This may be one of the more special days of the year to be in The Hague, but note that it can be very crowded!

Parkpop Festival

Every year on the last Sunday of June, you can attend the free music festival Parkpop . As of 2021, it is organised at the Malieveld (Du), next to The Hague Central station. Here you can enjoy artists of all sorts, doing hip-hop, indie and more. Check out the official website (Du) for the latest news about the program.

Theatre Festival De Parade

De Parade is a theatre festival which travels through the Netherlands every summer, making stops in the largest cities of the country. In The Hague, the festival can be visited in the Westbroekpark – get directions . The festival offers concerts, numerous cool acts and theatre performances. Above all, De Parade is known for its wonderful festival atmosphere, with plenty of food stands and bars to keep you going. Learn more about De Parade and book your tickets on the official website (Du).

Little Princes' Day

The third Tuesday in September is called Little Princes' Day (in Dutch: ‘Prinsjesdag’). Prinsjesdag represents the start of the new parliamentary year. On this day, part of the city is inaccessible, as the King and Queen travel by a Golden or Glass Carriage between Noordeinde Palace and the Binnenhof .

Museum Night

Nearly all cultural institutions in The Hague open their doors during the Museum Night, which usually takes place on a Saturday night in October. Check out the official website for further information about the date, prices and the program.  

Local pages

A canaltour is a nice way to see The Hague from a different perspective. Ooievaart is one of the better-known companies offering guided tours.

Doing business in the Netherlands

Doing business in another country should be seamless and without surprises, like in your home country. Unfortunately this is not always the case. Should you have any questions about doing business in the Netherlands, do not hesitate to contact Jerry Maguire . Whilst Jerry Maguire focuses on advising clients on finance and taxes, they will be able to help you with all kinds of practical questions about doing business in the Netherlands, or more specifically in The Hague.

Find an overview of the parties in The Hague per day at Partyflock .

Check if it will rain today in the Netherlands at Buienradar (Du).

Real estate

Find real estate for rent or for sale throughout the Netherlands at Funda .

Rules and fines

The Netherlands is known as a very tolerant country. A country where it is allowed to smoke marihuana about anywhere, although it is formally not legal. But beware, the Netherlands has a number of surprising rules in place, which are strictly enforced. The official website (Du) of the Public Prosecution Service offers a list of violations and the applicable fines.

Taxi apps like Uber work well in The Hague.

Tourist office

The Hague Info Store (THIS) is the name of the official tourist office of The Hague. THIS has several information points, like on weekdays at Rotterdam-The Hague Airport, or on any day of the week in the city centre at Spui 68 ( get directions ). The tourist office is always ready to help you further, or have a look on their official website to learn more about The Hague.

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The Hague Tourist Map

Visiting The Hague and clueless where to start. Here's something that can help you out. This is an extensive map of attractions in The Hague.

To begin with, this is a detailed interactive tourist map of the The Hague which can be zoomed in for you convenience.

Easing the task of planning a trip to The Hague, this map highlights everything that you need to cover while exploring the city.

This map gives a detailed information of the streets, lanes and neighborhoods of The Hague. You can get information about various public transit systems available in The Hague using special icons.

The binocular icon that you see in the The Hague map are the various attractions and must-visit places to visit The Hague.

You can click on the icon to obtain a detailed address of the tourist attraction you want to visit.

Use The Hague map of attractions as you plan your journey to The Hague and rest assured, you'll have a great trip!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Brief History of The Hague

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

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

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

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

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

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

Map of The Hague Itinerary

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

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

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

Where to Eat in The Hague

1. refuel at grand cafe walter benedict.

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

2. Dine at The Penthouse

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

3. Have a feast at Encore by Simonis

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

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

4. Cocktails and Chill at Jamey Bennett

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

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

Visit the Best Museums in The Hague

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

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

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

6. Admire Masterpieces at Gemeentemuseum

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Book your guided tour here 

Where to Relax and Have and Adventure in The Hague

10. relax at the beach in scheveningen.

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

What to See in The Hague’s Historical Centre

11. explore the beautiful binnenhof complex.

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

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

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

12. See an official Dutch Residence at Palace Noordeinde

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

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

On warm days, this is a great picnic spot.

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

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

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

Guided tours must be booked via their website. 

14. Stroll along Lange Voorhout

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

15. Step back in time at The Prison Gate Museum

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

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

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

Where to Shop in The Hague

16. visit the hague market.

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

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

17. Shop in Style at De Haagse Passage

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

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

Where to Stay in The Hague

Best Accommodation in The Hague for Sightseeing

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

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

Hotel Boutique Hotel Corona

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

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

Getting to The Hague

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

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

Got more time? Take a day trip from The Hague

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

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Over to you!

Do you have a question about visiting The Hague? Ask me below! Let me know using the comments section below or join me on social media to start a conversation.

Thanks for reading and I hope you enjoyed this post.

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Michele creates language learning guides and courses for travel. What separates her from other instructors is her ability to explain complex grammar in a no-nonsense, straightforward manner using her unique 80/20 method. Get her free guide 9 reasons you’re not fluent…YET & how to fix it! Planning a trip? Learn the local language with her 80/20 method for less than the cost of eating at a tourist trap restaurant Start learning today!

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

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

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

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29 awesome things to do in The Hague in 2024

The Hague has it all!

The city of peace and justice is always bustling with life, so it’s no surprise that there’s an excess of things to do in The Hague. Ready to discover the third-largest city in the Netherlands? We got you.  

From beautiful beaches, dunes, and parks to high rises and international organisations, the administrative capital of the Netherlands has the perfect combination of gezellig village vibes and urban, globalised, big-city energy. 

The Hague has something for everyone — including you. 

1. Admire the beautiful Hofvijver

2. fill your belly in chinatown , 3. take a break in the palace garden, 4. go for a stroll in zuiderpark , 5. get the best city-wide views from the grote kerk tower, 6. watch the sunset from scheveningen, 7. get baffled by europe’s biggest panorama painting at panorama mesdag, 8. experience the dutch masters at mauritshuis, 9. have a snack at the world’s smallest fries store, 10. take a bike ride to the dunes, 11. borrel with the locals at plein, 12. join the hipsters at bierkade, 13. get lost in haagse bos, 14. take a day trip to another iconic dutch location, 15. soak up the art at kunstmuseum den haag, 16. eat pizza at grote markt, 17. admire the mighty peace palace, 18. float away on a canal cruise, 19. park your bike and do a walking tour, 20. have a picnic in clingendael park, 21. get a real haagse bier, 22. feel like a giant in tiny madurodam, 23. discover the hague’s dark side at the prison gate museum, 24. stuff yourself at a food hall , 25. let optical illusions confuse you at escher het paleis, 26. go wild at the trampoline church, 27. try the fancy-schmancy stores at passage, 28. go second-hand shopping in zeeheldenkwartier, 29. enjoy a historical liqueur tasting.

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Located in the very spot where The Hague first came into existence, Hofvijver is an unmissable and unskippable sight on any trip to storktown. 

The large, square lake is the perfect place for a photo shoot. Across the water is the world’s oldest functioning parliament building, and in the background is the towering modern centre. 

READ MORE | Spotlight on! The Hague shines in magical light festival

Can you spot the prime minister’s office? It’s the little tower next to Mauritshuis Museum, nicknamed Het Torentje (simply, “the tower”)! 

💰 Price: €0 ⏰ Opening hours: N/A 📍 Location: Lange Vijverberg, 2513 AC Den Haag

The characteristic lanterns and gates of Chinatown create a fun ambience as you wander its streets. 

In addition to the obvious Chinese influence, the area has several Indonesian restaurants, as well as other ethnic minority stores and cafes. 

READ MORE | The Hague Market: the vibrant open market of the Netherlands

You’ll see a bubble tea shop wherever you turn, and affordable beauty salons which are popular among students. 

💰 Price: Regular Dutch restaurant prices depending on your order ⏰ Opening hours: N/A 📍 Location: Wagenstraat 43-63, 2512 AP Den Haag

The Palace Garden, or Paleistuin , is a beautiful green pocket in the centre of The Hague. The park is a popular hangout spot where residents practice yoga, play games, and feed the birds in the little pond. 

READ MORE | 7 things you didn’t know about The Hague

Pack a picnic basket and take a relaxing break on the grass; you’ll kill two tourist-birds with one stone and get to admire the King’s working palace at the same time!

💰 Price: €0 ⏰ Opening hours: Every day, 8 AM until 6 PM 📍 Location: Prinsessewal, 2513 EE Den Haag

If small parks like Paleistuin make you yawn, fear not, The Hague has Zuiderpark up its sleeve, too! 

The sprawling park is located slightly outside the city centre (20 minutes by public transport and 15 minutes by bike), but the huge fields are well worth a visit. 

READ MORE | Barbecuing in the Netherlands: how do the Dutch do BBQs?

Running tracks, flowers, lakes — it’s the perfect spot for a stroll or a couple of hours in the sun. Zuiderpark is also a popular festival venue, and for the little ones, visit the nearby petting zoo!

💰 Price: €0 ⏰ Opening hours: N/A 📍 Location: Loevesteinlaan, Den Haag

Although it’s a bit of a stretch, one can argue that the great church of The Hague dates back all the way to the 1200s! 

READ MORE | We promise that these photos of The Hague are the best you will see

Today, the huge building is not used as a church but as an event venue. The most interesting activity the old building has to offer is to climb up the many steps with a knowledgeable tour guide — and get the best city view for the Insta. 

💰 Price: €7.50 for adults, €5.50 for children  ⏰ Opening hours: March – November, Thursday – Sunday, 12 PM – 4 PM. December – February, Saturdays and Sundays, 12 PM & 4 PM.  📍 Location: Rond de Grote Kerk 12, 2513 AM Den Haag

Scheveningen Beach is the most popular beach in The Hague, and it has lots to offer . Grab a drink at one of the many (!) beach bars, go bungee jumping at the pier, or take a ride on the Ferris wheel — you’ll never get bored at a Scheveningen beach day.

READ MORE | Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Scheveningen: What’s going on?

It’s also a popular spot for surfing or simply hanging out in the sand on a summer evening. Make sure to catch the sunset in the ocean for a magical end to the day. 

💰 Price: €0 ⏰ Opening hours: N/A 📍 Location: Strandweg 34, 2586 KM Den Haag

Hendrik Willem Mesdag is one of the most celebrated 19th-century Dutch painters out there  — he even has a museum named after himself. 

But the Panorama Mesdag is not your average old museum. Sure, it’s got a nice exhibition with tons of beautiful, Dutch art but it’s also got a very special feature. The building was built for the sole purpose of housing the grand “Scheveningen Panorama”!

READ MORE | Panorama Mesdag: A look at the biggest painting of the Netherlands

The painting, depicting the beach in The Hague in the late 1800s, measures 14 metres in height and 40 metres in diameter. It’s a super cool optical illusion that makes you feel like you’re standing on top of Scheveningen’s highest dune. 

💰 Price: €15 for adults, €12 for children ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM until 5 PM.  📍 Location: Zeestraat 65, 2518 AA Den Haag

If the great Mesdag didn’t satisfy your thirst for Dutch masters, do not worry. The Mauritshuis museum is packed with astonishing Dutch art, and it’s all located in a beautiful, old building right in the centre of The Hague. 

You’ll get the chance to see the oh-so-famous Girl With The Pearl Earring and plenty of other Dutch masterpieces. 

READ MORE | Forgotten women painters of the Dutch Renaissance and Golden Age

It’s absolutely a must-see attraction on any visit to The Hague, nay, to the Netherlands!

💰 Price: €19 for adults, €0 for children ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM until 6 PM. Monday, 1 PM until 6 PM.  📍 Location: Plein 29, 2511 CS Den Haag

Okay, it might not be the smallest in the world, but it’s a nickname amongst locals, and it sounds about right. Either way, no trip to the Netherlands is complete without a full meal consisting of just fries (for some reason)!

Kleinste Winkeltje is so small that it’s always a pleasant surprise when you realize you can actually go inside. The little fries shop serves steamin’ hot, deliciously salty fries with more mayo than you can possibly imagine. 

READ MORE | ‘Friet’ or ‘patat’? The ultimate guide to Dutch fries

But beware, the portions are insane, so either come with a very empty stomach or someone to share it with.

💰 Price: regular Dutch snack bar prices, depending on the order ⏰ Opening hours: Monday, closed. Tuesday, 12 PM until 8 PM. Wednesday & Friday, 12 PM until 7 PM. Thursday & Saturday, 12 PM until 9 PM. Sunday, 12 PM until 7 PM.  📍 Location: Papestraat 1A, 2513 AV Den Haag

Okay, so you’ve got the fries part covered, now you have to experience the other key part of Dutch culture: biking ! 

There’s no better place to go for a super-Dutch bike ride than the dunes in The Hague. From the north of the city to the south — you can easily spend a full day in the beautiful landscape. 

READ MORE | See the magical summer flower gardens and the Dutch dunes in a unique way

Our best tip is to go south to Westduinpark — the largest nature reserve in The Hague has very few tourists, and you’ll have a good chance of spotting the Scottish Highland Cows that reside in the area. 

💰 Price: €0 ⏰ Opening hours: N/A 📍 Location: 2566 GC Den Haag

At the core of The Hague, between the old centre and the new part of the city, you’ll find a big square (conveniently) called Plein (“square”).

READ MORE | What do you call a person from The Hague? The origin story of Hagenees vs Hagenaar

Plein is a well-known favourite for the weekly Dutch concept of borreling . With tons of pubs and a great outside area, Plein’s fairy-light-covered trees make for the perfect spot to enjoy a cold Dutch beer .

💰 Price: regular Dutch pub prices, depending on the order ⏰ Opening hours : Monday to Sunday, time depends on a specific location (average opening hours are 10 AM until 2 AM) 📍 Location: Plein 17A, 2511 CS Den Haag

Arguably one of the most gezellige (cosy) streets in The Hague, Bierkade is another great borrel location. 

The street actually has borreling in its blood. The canal was once used as the main transportation line of beer back in the days when The Hague was not allowed to produce the essential beverage itself. 

READ MORE | Is Dutch beer the best in Europe? The Netherlands is the top exporter, once again

It’s the ultimate hipster spot, and the view of the lantern-lit canal in the evening is simply priceless. 

Stop by De Kade for a wide array of nature wines, De Paas for the best beer experience the city has to offer, or Kai 13, Basaal or Ethica for a delicious dinner. 

💰 Price: regular Dutch snack bar prices, depending on the order ⏰ Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, time depends on a specific location 📍 Location: Wagenstraat 193, 2512 AW Den Haag

If you’re looking for some greenery (not like that, actual nature this time) on your trip to The Hague, Haagse Bos is a great option. 

Located super close to the centre, this park-meets-forest crossover is the perfect place for a stroll or a picnic. It’s great for bikers and pedestrians and accessible to people of all ages. 

READ MORE | Hiking in The Hague: 11 nature spots for the outdoor adventurer

Can you spot another one of the King’s palaces (yup, he has more than one) in the middle of the forest? It’s worth sneaking a peek at the fairytale-like building through the trees! 

💰 Price: €0 ⏰ Opening hours: N/A 📍 Location: Bezuidenhoutseweg, Den Haag

Although you can easily spend a week in The Hague alone, the city is also super conveniently located for day trips. 

Being a relatively small country, any city in the Netherlands is easy to access. But from the Hague, you can reach classic Dutch tourist destinations like the Keukenhof tulip field , the great dunes, or the old canals of Amsterdam in no time. 

READ MORE | Public transport in the Netherlands: the complete guide

Only 10-15 minutes away by train, you’ll find the absolutely iconic Dutch cities of Delft and Leiden . The two old university towns are a must-see for anyone interested in classic Dutch architecture and cosy canal views — without drowning in tourists as you do in Amsterdam. 

If you find yourself missing a more urban vibe, you can head south and take a day trip to Rotterdam , only 20 minutes away. The city is modern and pulsating with life, quite different from anything else you’ll see in the Netherlands!

💰 Price: between €2.90 and €5.70 for one-way train tickets to Delft, Leiden, or Rotterdam ⏰ Opening hours: N/A 📍 Location: Up to you!

Located in a grand and truly unique art deco building, Kunstmuseum Den Haag is one of the best museums in the city. 

From Mondrian to Monet, contemporary and less contemporary, photography, architecture, period rooms, and much more — Kunstmuseum has been described as a “modern palace of the arts” for a reason!

READ MORE | The Best Museums for Children and Book Lovers in The Hague

Plan your visit well, though, or else you’ll easily spend the whole day wandering the halls of the museum. 

💰 Price: €17.50 for adults, €0 for children ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 AM until 5 PM 📍 Location: Stadhouderslaan 41, 2517 HV Den Haag

Sure, Grote Markt is a popular spot to go out for drinks, but much more importantly, you can also get pizza there. 

Every Sunday at Bakplaats (part of De Boterwaag), you can get two pizzas for the price of one, and it’s seriously delicious, too! 

If you’re just looking for a quick snack after a night out, you can also opt for the takeaway single-slice version — it’s much yummier than the basic Dutch snackbar cuisine and only costs around €6.

💰 Price: between €13 and €17.50 for a one-person pizza ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesday & Wednesday, 11 AM until 1 AM. Thursday & Friday, 11 AM until 1:30 AM. Saturday 10 AM until 1.30 AM. Sunday 10 AM until 10 PM. 📍 Location: Grote Markt 8, 2511 BG Den Haag

The Hague is called the city of peace and justice for a reason, and no visit is complete without seeing the beautiful Peace Palace.

The Peace Palace houses the Permanent Court of Arbitration, the United Nations International Court of Justice and The Hague Academy of International Law. 

READ MORE | 11 of the best free things to do in The Hague

Unfortunately, for security reasons, the building only allows guided tours on a very limited number of dates a year. 

However, dedicated fans of international law who show up early in the morning on a day a session is open for audiences have a chance at getting inside.

For the less die-hard fans, the visitors’ centre is also a good option, which is open most days, free of charge. 

💰 Price: visitors’ centre is €0 (but donations are appreciated), a guided tour is €16.50 ⏰ Opening hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 12 PM until 5 PM 📍 Location: Carnegieplein 2, 2517 KJ Den Haag

The Hague might not be widely known for its canals, but don’t worry, you can still get the peak tourist experience you came to the Netherlands for. 

Learn about the fascinating history of The Hague, and admire the city’s cosy streets and green pockets from the water.  

READ MORE | A boat tour in The Hague – Why it’s a great idea

De Ooievaart is a favourite when it comes to canal cruises. They offer two types: one that takes you all the way to Delft by boat and one that takes you all through The Hague.

💰 Price: €13.50 for adults, €9.50 for children ⏰ Opening hours: Daily, upon request, 12 PM and 5 PM 📍 Location: Bierkade 18B, 2512 AB Den Haag

The Hague city centre is highly compact and walkable, so a walking tour is the perfect way to see a lot in a short amount of time. 

The city is also packed with fascinating history, so you’ll easily get all your educational needs covered for the rest of your Dutch vacation. Opt for a guided tour , or stick with the classic guided Free Walking Tour — either one takes you through all the city’s most important highlights. 

💰 Price: €0 for Free Walking Tour The Hague, donation based ⏰ Opening hours: Summer : Daily 10:30 AM, including an extra 1:30 PM spot on Saturdays and Sundays. Winter: Depending on demand and availability.  📍 Location: Plein 29, 2511 CS Den Haag (starting point FWT The Hague)

There’s no shortage of parks in The Hague, but if you have to narrow it down to just one, Clingendael should be your choice. 

The large, peaceful grounds make you feel like you’re in an Austen novel — and it’s the perfect spot for a picnic.

READ MORE | Need some peace and quiet this Autumn? Visit the Japanese Garden in The Hague

There’s even a lovely Japanese garden and several fields with farm animals nearby. The perfect park for anything from a run to a date or a family outing!

💰 Price: €0 ⏰ Opening hours: N/A 📍 Location: Clingendael, 2244 VH Den Haag

In the centre of The Hague, you can find the old (but still functioning) monastery De Haagsche Broeder. 

You can admire the chapel and visit the concept store, and you can also buy real Haagse beer from the Kloosterbrouwerij (the monastery brewery)! 

These monks take their beer seriously, and you can purchase a wide array of their craft online or in the store.

💰 Price: €13.50 for a fancy-looking beer pack  ⏰ Opening hours: Friday and Saturday, 2 PM until 8 PM. 📍 Location: Oude Molstraat 35, 2513 BA Den Haag

Madurodam is a staple of any trip to The Hague. In short, it is a 1:25 scale model of the Netherlands, so you can explore (almost) the entire country in as little as an hour (but feel free to take longer). 

The park receives about half a million visitors every year and is a favourite among tourists (and locals) of all ages. It’s the perfect mix of history, geography, art, and fun! 

💰 Price: €18 for adults, €0 for children up to two years ⏰ Opening hours: Monday to Sunday, 9 AM until 6 PM. 📍 Location: George Maduroplein 1, 2584 RZ Den Haag

If you’re in the mood for something dark and gloomy, why not dive into the dark side of The Hague at the Gevangenpoort Museum ? 

Once the gate to the city of The Hague, the 13th-century building is an attraction in itself. 

The museum covers everything about the history of crime and justice in the Middle Ages, and the interactive exhibitions take you through everything from old torture chambers to different standards of cells. Spooky, but very interesting! 

💰 Price: €15 for adults, €7.50 for children, €0 for children up to 4 years old ⏰ Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 10 AM until 5 PM. Saturday and Sunday, 11 PM until 5 PM. 📍 Location: Buitenhof 33, 2513 AH Den Haag

The Hague has recently been acknowledged for its street food, and a visit to one of the many food halls is bound to be a success. 

Foodhallen Centrum, Foodhallen Scheveningen, and MingleMush are great examples of the variety and quality of international cuisines you can find in The Hague. 

READ MORE | The Hague among 20 best European street food cities (WTF?)

These places will have something for everyone (trust us, of all cultures and pickiness levels) and leave you with a good impression of the international and entrepreneurial spirit of the Netherlands. 

💰 Price: Varies depending on the specific vendor ⏰ Opening hours: Depends on specific food hall, but generally 12 PM until 10 PM 📍 Location: Haagsche Bluf 40, 2511 CN Den Haag (Foodhallen Centrum)

Maurits Cornelis Escher is a world-famous graphic artist from the Netherlands, born in the late 1800s. 

He produced some of the strangest and most confusing pieces of art the world has seen, and a visit to the Escher Museum in The Hague is bound to extract a few laughs. 

The museum is centrally located in an old palace, so the surroundings are also worth some attention if you’re able to take your eyes off the surreal and beautiful art, that is. 

💰 Price: €11.50 for adults, €8.50 for children between 13 and 17 years old, €6.50 for children between 7 and 12 years old. ⏰ Opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 11 AM until 5 PM 📍 Location: Lange Voorhout 74, 2514 EH Den Haag

Yep, you read that right. As is the case all over the Netherlands, The Hague has quite a few decommissioned churches that are now used for anything but church service, it seems.

If you have kids (unfortunately, it’s only open for those up to 12 years), you can let them have a bouncy day in church and jump on dozens of indoor trampolines at Planet Jump !

And don’t worry about hitting the ceiling — the church roof is certainly high enough. 

💰 Price: €8 per hour ⏰ Opening hours: Wednesday, 12 PM until 6 PM. Friday, 12 PM until 8 PM. Saturday, 10 AM until 8 PM. Sunday, 10 AM until 6 PM.  📍 Location: Stadhoudersplantsoen 28, 2517 JL Den Haag

The Passage was modelled after its sister in Paris in the late 1800s. The building was intended as a beautiful shopping venue for The Hague’s finest — a purpose it fulfils to this day. 

The impressive old construction also has a modern wing, giving the shopping experience the best of both worlds. 

Come for a tasty treat at Hop & Stork chocolate store, explore the extensive Nespresso section, or browse the fashionable boutiques—there are tons of things to keep you occupied. 

For Christmas, the Passage is also a popular Insta-spot, as the great Christmas tree lights up its old halls.

💰 Price: up to you! ⏰ Opening hours: Monday, 11 AM until 6 PM. Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, 9.30 AM until 6 PM. Thursday, 9.30 AM until 9 PM. Sunday, 12 PM until 5 PM.  📍 Location: Passage 72, 2511 AA Den Haag

Zeeheldenkwartier is a poorly kept secret in The Hague, and it’s quickly becoming one of the hippest parts of town. 

READ MORE | Where to live in The Hague? Guide to the neighbourhoods of The Hague

The neighbourhood was established in the late 19th century and has a rich history. Today, it’s best known for its relaxed atmosphere, cosy neighbourhood vibe, hip café, and shopping culture. 

Take a stroll and get a new second-hand outfit!

💰 Price: up to you! ⏰ Opening hours: regular Dutch retail opening hours, depending on specific store 📍 Location: Prins Hendrikplein 3, 2518 EV Den Haag

Van Kleef distillery in The Hague has a vast history, an interesting museum, an extensive shop, and fascinating activities. 

It’s the oldest remaining distillery in the city (founded in 1842), offering a cosy atmosphere and a magically quaint garden overflowing with greens and flowers. 

The distillery offers a liqueur tasting and a cocktail tasting, and if you’re lucky with the weather, it’ll all take place out in the charming garden — accompanied by two house cats! It’s the perfect date idea and, more importantly (in true Dutch style), the perfect excuse to day drink. 

READ MORE | The Historical Museum of The Hague: discover the fascinating history of The Hague

If you manage to keep your attention sharp after many a taste, you’ll also learn quite a bit about Dutch (and The Haguean) history. Win-win!

💰 Price: €23 for their basic tasting & short tour package ⏰ Opening hours: Saturday, 12 PM until 1:30 PM & 2 PM until 3:30 PM. Sunday, 2 PM until 3:30 PM.  📍 Location: Lange Beestenmarkt 109, 2512 ED Den Haag

Although it doesn’t get as much attention as its big brother Amsterdam , The Hague is packed with things to do and should not be underestimated. Fascinating history and real, gezellig Dutch culture await you if you take the trip to the coast of the Netherlands! 

Which attractions will you visit in The Hague? Do you have any suggestions to add to the list? Tell us in the comments below!

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Meet The Hague

A unique travel guide, history, peace & art.

Home to the UN’s International Court of Justice , the workplace of the king and the oldest houses of parliament in the world, the city is steeped in history. With this comes some of the most beautiful architecture in the Netherlands. This historic culture-fest is the perfect place for art galleries, like the famed Mauritshuis. There are so many things to do and sights to see in The Hague.

With shops and markets aplenty, The Hague is a great place to do a spot of shopping in the Netherlands. Shop luxury boutiques in the royal district or browse international stores in the impressive Amsterdamse School building. Pick out fresh, local food in the bustling, multicultural Haagse Market or browse the endless stalls for a souvenir from your visit to The Hague.

Beach Vibes & Nature

Going to the beach might not be what you’d typically expect to do in The Hague. But in the Netherlands, The Hague is known for its beaches! It’s next to a great stretch of coastline with the bustling Schveningen Strand and pier, the quiet Zuidstrand and huge Zandmotor - or Sand Engine. Visit a dune-filled reserve for a nature break away from the city. The Hauge’s got coastal delights on its doorstep, discover them in our travel guide.

The The Hague Guide

Our top slow travel picks

Things to do in the hague.

• Beelden aan Zee
• The Sand Engine
• The Hague Canals
• Museum Voorlinden

Nature and Green Horizons

Get outdoors in the hague.

• Westduinpark
• Scheveningen Beach
• Clingendael Estate
• Clingendael Park
• Westbroekpark
• The Celestial Vault

Interesting cultural spots

Learn something new.

• The Prison Gate Museum
• Escher in Het Paleis
• Het Noordeinde
• The Hague's Historic Museum
• Royal Stables
• Atlantic Wall Museum
• Van Kleef Museum and Distillery
• The Courtyard
• Beelden aan Zee Museum

Discover nearby cities

To further explore, explore the map.

Known as the international city of peace and justice, The Hague is rich in history! Did you know? It’s been the location of the UN’s World Court, bringing in some of the most important international leaders since it was established in 1945. With strong connections all over the world, it makes locations like the Peace Palace and Het Binnenhof an incredible sight to see. We’d say this city is one of the best kept secrets of the Netherlands, with its own sandy beaches, iconic Dutch masterpieces, and hip hangouts.

When to go?

The best time to visit The Hague is in the spring and summer months, when you can witness the blossoming of the flowers in April and May, and go swimming in the beaches of Scheveningen from June to August!

What you need to know about The Hague

One of the biggest cities in the Netherlands!

Referred to as Den Haag in Dutch, The Hague is the country’s 3rd largest city after Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Considering it’s the seat of the Dutch government and residence to the Royal family, this place is clearly important. You can walk by the Dutch King’s workplace at Palace Noordeinde , visit the International Court of Justice, or take a scenic break in the Palace Garden.

International vibes

It’s also the most international city in all of the Netherlands! Did you know? There are over 100 different nationalities living in The Hague, which helps give the city such a unique vibe. Culture, food, and traditions all mix together and thrive in this beachy town. You can witness this amazing diversity firsthand at The Hague Market, one of Europe’s largest multicultural markets.

Let’s go to the beach!

One of the most iconic parts about the Hague is it’s massive beach area. Dive in during the summer months, or have a family picnic in the fall. At the seaside you can visit the Atlantic Wall Museum where the Germans built underground bunkers, stroll through the dunes, try out kiteboarding, or check out The Hague’s Arcade (Passage in Dutch) - the UNESCO shopping arcade site meant to mimic the “high-class” shopping experience from Paris.

All the practical info you need to travel to The Hague!

Getting There

The nearest airports to The Hague are Rotterdam The Hague Airport and Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, both providing international and domestic flights.

Various international cities around Europe have trains that go to Den Haag Central Station.

The highway A4 connects The Hague to Amsterdam, A13 to Rotterdam, and A12 to Utrecht.

Getting Around

Park and Ride facilities are located around the city where you can park and leave your vehicle, and then take public transport or rent a bike to get into the center.

Buses and trams are easily accessible throughout the city. The most popular bus operators are HTM, HTMbuzz, Arriva, and Connexxion.

Fast and smooth cycling routes are paved throughout the Hague, making it easy to explore with a rented set of wheels!

Tourism Office

The Hague Information Store at Central Station

(Koningin Juliana Plein 10-50)

tel. 06-55376853

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Tourist Tram The Hague

The Tourist Tram is a unique Hop-on Hop-off connection in The Hague between city and beach with original, historic The Hague trams. During the tour along the many tourist attractions and sights you will learn everything about The Hague via an audio tour. With a ticket you can get on and off unlimited during the route until the last Tourist Tram goes to the depot again.

Route  The Tourist Tram runs between the city center of The Hague and the beach of Scheveningen. The tram starts right in the center of The Hague at the stop Gravenstraat (postal code 2513 AL Den Haag) and after a tour through the city center it runs via the Malieveld and miniature city Madurodam to the Kurhaus and Scheveningen. On the way back, the tram takes the route via the Scheveningseweg and the Peace Palace back to the center. During the route, the tram passes many tourist attractions and sights, such as Museum Escher in Het Paleis, Binnenhof, Mauritskade, the Peace Palace, Kunstmuseum Den Haag and Scheveningen and the Kurhaus. From the Kurhaus stop you can walk to the beach and highlights such as De Pier and Museum Beelden aan Zee in a few minutes. In total, the route has sixteen stops where you can get on and off.

The Tourist Tram is recognizable by the historic PCC trams in the classic Hague color scheme cream-green and the inscription Hof-on Hop-off.

Times and duration The Tourist Tram The Hague is a Hop-on Hop-off tram connection between the center of The Hague and the beach and is operated with historic trams from the 1950s.

In 2024, the Tourist Tram will run on the following days: 

• From Saturday March 30 to Sunday October 13: 'all Saturdays and Sundays
• Extra operating days on Monday April 1 ( Easter Monday), Thursday, May 9 (Ascension Day), and May 20 (Whit Monday) 
• The tram does not run on April 27, June 1, 2 and 29 and September 14 and 15 

Check the Tourist Tram website for times. The tram runs every 30 minutes between 10:15 and 16:45 from the center of The Hague to the beach of Scheveningen. During the route along the many tourist attractions and places of interest you will hear interesting stories about The Hague via an audio tour. You can hop on and off as many times as you like in a day.

Multilingual audio tour Every seat on the Tourist Tram comes with an audio tour that explains the sights along the route. The audio tour is available in ten languages: Dutch, English, German, Spanish, French, Italian, Russian, Chinese, Japanese and the Hague dialect. With Haags, the Hop-on Hop-off tram offers Dutch visitors an extra introduction to The Hague in a humorous way. Headphones are included in the price.

Historic Trams The Hague Public Transport Museum (HOVM) uses historic trams for the Hop-on Hop-off connection. These original Hague trams, type PCC, were built from the 1950s. The vehicles have a classic Hague color scheme: cream-yellow with green piping. The interior also breathes the atmosphere of that time. The route of the Hop-on Hop-off tram has an even longer history. The very first tram connection in the Netherlands, then a horse tram, was opened in 1864 and ran from The Hague to Scheveningen. At the time, people thronged to go along with this then new and special means of transport.

Tickets There are two types of tickets for sale for the Tourist Tram:

• Adult -  €16.00
• Child (4 to 12 years) - €5.00
• Child (0 to 4 years) - Free

You can buy the tickets when boarding the tram (only debit and credit card), or in advance online on the website of the Tourist Tram  or various online ticket agencies. 

A hostess or host welcomes you in every Tourist Tram and answers all your questions about the tram ride.

Timetable Tourist Tram

Extra information about the timetable

Route & Highlights

Extra information about the Route & Highlights

Events at this location

The Hague Tourist Map

$ 15.00

Description:

The Hague Tourist Map Folded Paper

A tourist map of the city, showing Sights, attractions, Museums, Parks, Theatres, Hotels and more.

Folded size 250mm x 120mm

Flat Unfolded Size 770 x 885mm

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