What is the Hague and what makes it such an important city?

The Hague is the royal city of the Netherlands, located in the province of South Holland. Many people know The Hague as the international city of peace, justice, and security and it is truly one of the most important cities in the Netherlands. Being the political capital of the country and the seat of the government, this city of 500,000 inhabitants has a great influence on the Dutch society.

The Hague’s importance lies in its political, economic and cultural prominence. This cosmopolitan city is home to an impressive variety of international organizations such as the International Court of Justice, Europol, Eurojust and the Permanent Court of Arbitration as well as many international companies. The Hague also has a reputation for having one of the best universities in Europe, Leiden University and The Hague University of Applied Sciences, which attract students from all over the world to study and work there.

The Hague is also an important cultural and heritage centre, home to several iconic landmarks, museums and picturesque parks. Visiting The Hague means a journey through time – to learn about the history and culture of The Netherlands. A visit to Museon’s Science Museum or Escher Museum, and a stroll through The Peace Palace gardens offer a great opportunity to get to know this global city.

The city also hosts a range of globally recognized events and festivals every year, such as The Hague Festival, International Film Festival Rotterdam and “Life I Live Festival’. This makes The Hague an attractive destination for tourists from all over the world because they get to experience both the city’s prestige and culture at high level combined with distinct hospitality. All in all, it’s no wonder that The Hague is one of the most renowned cities of The Netherlands!

For people who want to experience what The Hague has to offer, there are plenty of opportunities to explore. Visitors can find accommodation from affordable hostels to luxurious five-star hotels, or rent an Airbnb apartment. There are also many interesting activities available like exploring museums or visiting multimedia exhibitions, windmill tours or attending fashion shows. Food lovers will find something for every taste: from street food to Michelin-star restaurants.

When it comes to safety and security, The Hague is one of the safest cities in the Netherlands. Since it is home to many international organizations which must be secured 24/7, the Hague’s security level is higher than other cities in the Netherlands. As a result, crime rates tend to be much lower than in other cities.

In conclusion, The Hague is certainly one of the most important cities in the Netherlands and a great place to experience both Dutch culture and international influence. With its rich history and innovative international organizations, The Hague is a great destination for sightseeing, shopping, partying or even starting a new business. It’s also one of the safest cities in its country due to its prime security measures enforced by its government and international organizations working there. For more information, visit thehague.nl, which is an official website with all relevant information about The Hague.

The city being referred to in this blog post is The Hague, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city located in the western part of the Netherlands. Often overshadowed by Amsterdam, this city is often overlooked by travelers but is bursting with culture, history, and architectural marvels. This insider’s guide will provide you with a comprehensive travel plan for visiting The Hague and the must-visit experiences.

Attractions to Visit

The Hague is home to many tourist attractions that every traveler must visit. Some of the top attractions in The Hague are:

Mauritshuis:

This museum is home to a vast collection of Dutch Golden Age art from celebrated artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Rubens. It is a must-visit for all art lovers.

Scheveningen Beach:

If you are looking for seaside fun and want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Scheveningen Beach is the perfect escape.

Binnenhof and Ridderzaal:

The Binnenhof and Ridderzaal is a historic 13th-century complex of buildings that currently houses the Dutch Parliament. It is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture and a must-visit for history buffs.

Delectable Dining

The Hague is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine. You can experience the best of Dutch and international cuisine in The Hague. Some of the top dining spots are:

Bodega De Posthoorn:

This restaurant is famous for its seafood and serves a selection of Dutch delicacies.

The Penthouse:

Located on the top floor of The Hague Tower, this restaurant offers a fine dining experience with a breathtaking view of the city.

Buurman&Buurman:

This unique restaurant offers a DIY experience, allowing customers to cook their meals on a hot plate at their tables.

Cultural Experiences

There are many cultural experiences to explore in The Hague. From museums to theater shows, The Hague offers a delightful cultural sparkle. Some cultural experiences to consider are:

Panorama Mesdag:

This museum houses a unique circular landscape painting that is over 120 years old. It is a one-of-a-kind experience that depicts a 360-degree view of The Hague.

Peace Palace:

A vast number of international disputes are settled at this iconic palace. Visitors can tour the palace and learn more about how the Peace Palace impacts global peace and security.

Zuiderparktheater:

Located in the heart of Zuiderpark, this outdoor theater hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including Shakespeare plays, concerts, and dance performances.

Local History

The Hague has a rich history and legacy that is worth exploring. Some historical sites to visit are:

Panorama Mesdag:

This museum is also home to a unique 18th-century building that was once the living quarters of its founder, Hendrik Willem Mesdag. It provides a glimpse of Dutch living in the late 19th century.

Escher in the Palace:

This museum hosts the works of M.C. Escher, a Dutch graphic artist known for his mind-bending lithographs, woodcuts, and etchings.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

For a unique and off-beat experience, try visiting these hidden gems in The Hague:

Electric Boat Company:

Rent a private electric boat to explore the canals and waterways of The Hague.

De Papiermakerij:

This unique shop specializes in paper crafts and printing. Visitors can receive instruction on how to make paper crafts and try their hand at printing.

International Fireworks Festival:

One of the biggest events in The Hague is the annual International Fireworks Festival, with countries from all over the world showcasing their fireworks displays.

The Hague surely is a city that packs a punch despite being surrounded by bigger cities. With its rich history, culture, and amazing local cuisine, it is definitely a place you don’t want to miss while in the Netherlands.