The Hague – What to do and see in this City? A Detailed Guide

The Hague is the third-largest city in the Netherlands and located in the province of South Holland. It is not only the Netherlands’ judicial capital, but also home to many interesting attractions, such as the Peace Palace, the Mauritshuis, and the Dutch government buildings. Whether you’re looking to visit some of the city’s world-famous museums or take in its diverse culture, there’s something for everyone in this charming city.

Historical Places

The Hague has long been a center of culture and history. The city’s most famous site is the Peace Palace, which was built in 1913 and is a symbol of international justice. The Peace Palace houses several international courts, such as the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. In addition to the Peace Palace, The Hague also has other historical attractions, such as Binnenhof, which is a fortress-like complex that houses the Dutch parliament. In addition, The Hague is also home to several royal palaces, such as Huis ten Bosch and Noordeinde Palace. These royal palaces are open to the public for guided tours on certain dates.

Museums

The Hague is a city full of museums, ranging from modern galleries to traditional art collections. The Mauritshuis is one of The Hague’s most popular museums, featuring a wide selection of Dutch and Flemish masterpieces. The museum holds works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and many more. In addition, The Hague is home to museums dedicated to other topics, such as the Museum van Bommel van Dam, which is an interactive museum devoted to the history of The Hague. The Hague also hosts several contemporary art galleries, such as Gemeentemuseum Den Haag and Toneelschuur Haarlem.

Beaches

For those who love spending time at the beach, The Hague has several sandy beaches located along its coastline near Scheveningen. Scheveningen is a popular beach resort area that draws visitors from all over Europe. The beach itself is lined with restaurants and shops and offers activities like windsurfing and beach volleyball. In addition to Scheveningen, The Hague also has other beaches located near Kijkduin and Hoek van Holland.

Shopping

Shoppers can find just about anything they are looking for in The Hague. The city has numerous shopping malls, such as Woonmall Leidschenveen, The Mall of The Hague and Leidsestraat. In addition, The Hague also has a pedestrian-friendly shopping district along the famous Grote Marktstraat. This district offers plenty of boutique stores selling Dutch fashion and accessories as well as eateries and cafes.

Nightlife

The Hague offers plenty of options for night owls looking for a good time. The city is home to bars and nightclubs such as Fever Club and Go Short Bar, which offer an array of drinks and lively entertainment. For comedy fans, The Comedy Club is a great option for laughs; this stand-up comedy club often features popular international comedians. In addition, The Hague’s theatres hold a wide range of performances, from musicals to plays to operas.

Food

The Hague has a wide range of gastronomic delights; visitors can choose between traditional dishes like poffertjes (Dutch pancakes) to exotic international cuisine. Popular restaurants include Zand Cafe (known for its veggie-friendly offerings) and Mallaga (an Italian restaurant). Visitors looking for a lighter meal can also find plenty of cafes offering delicious pastries, sandwiches, and salads.

Conclusion

The Hague has something for everyone; from its world-famous historical sites to its vibrant shopping districts and delicious restaurants. Whether you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life or an exciting night out on the town, you can find it all in The Hague. Just make sure to book your visit before your time runs out!

Insider’s Guide to The Hague: Uncovering the City’s Hidden Gems

If you’re planning a trip to The Hague, you’re in for a delightful treat. While the city is famous for its scenic beauty and historic buildings, there’s so much more to it than meets the eye. As a seasoned local, I am excited to share with you some of the city’s best-kept secrets. Here is a detailed guide to off-the-beaten-path attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, and local history, so you can explore The Hague like a true insider.

The Hague’s Gems: Local Attractions You Can’t Miss

While The Hague has a plethora of popular tourist attractions, there are plenty of hidden gems that only locals know about. Start your day early with a visit to the Westbroekpark and Petting Zoo. It’s a great place to relax, have a picnic, and pet the adorable animals. Next, explore the vibrant MingleMush food hall, with its mouthwatering international cuisine and playful atmosphere. Finally, take a walking tour of the extraordinary Peace Palace Library, which boasts an impressive collection of international law books and rare documents.

Taste the City: Dining Spots Serving Up Local Cuisine

The Hague’s food scene is bursting with authenticity. The city’s seafood cuisine is a must-try. Head to the historic harbor of Scheveningen for fresh herring, deep-fried squid, and other seafood specialties. There are also tons of great Indonesian restaurants in The Hague due to the city’s colonial past. Try Toko Frederik or Toko Bandung for the best Indonesian cuisine in town. Don’t forget to finish off your meal with warm, gooey stroopwafels, a beloved Dutch treat.

Live Like a Local: Cultural Experiences You’ll Always Remember

There’s no shortage of cultural experiences in The Hague. If you’re interested in art, visit the newly renovated and expanded Mauritshuis museum, home to Vermeer’s famous painting “Girl with a Pearl Earring.” For music lovers, head to the legendary Paard music venue, where you can experience a lively night of live music and dancing. Lastly, don’t miss out on the annual Scheveningen fireworks festival, where you can see spectacular displays of light and sound.

A Glimpse into the Past: Stories from The Hague’s History

The Hague’s history is fascinating and often surprising. One of the city’s most famous landmarks, the Binnenhof, began its life as a medieval castle and has since served as the seat of government in the Netherlands. Also, the Prison Gate Museum, a former prison, tells the history of Dutch justice in an experiential way. Finally, the Maurits house and the Hofje van Nieuwkoop are two of the most historic and well-preserved buildings in The Hague, both of which tell intriguing stories of Dutch architecture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Suggestions for Unique Experiences

One of the best off-the-beaten-path experiences in The Hague is the “Biking with Blossoms” tour, where you can cycle through the city’s blooming fields of tulips and daffodils in the spring. Another hidden gem is the Art Deco Waldeck hotel, where you can enjoy a meal in the restaurant or stay overnight in one of their unique rooms. Lastly, take a stroll along the Lange Voorhout, a beautiful tree-lined street that is home to art galleries, bookstores, and charming cafés.

In conclusion, The Hague is a city full of surprises, and this insider’s guide has only scratched the surface. From hidden attractions to authentic dining and cultural experiences, there is so much to discover here. I hope this guide inspires you to explore The Hague’s rich history and charm, and leads to an unforgettable travel experience.