What is The Hague?

The Hague is the third largest Dutch city and the seat of government of the Netherlands. Sitting directly on the North Sea, The Hague is the most internationalised city in the country and home to a variety of international organisations, embassies, and foreign visitors. It is also known for its beautiful parks, beaches, and ocean views.

The Hague is the political heart and the international capital of the Netherlands. The Hague is where the government of the Netherlands is based, and the seat of the Dutch government. This means that all of the major political decisions and important meetings in the Netherlands take place in The Hague. The Dutch Parliament, ministries, international organisations and courts are all based in The Hague.

The Hague is also home to a number of international organisations, including the International Court of Justice, the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, Europol and Eurojust, as well as numerous multinational companies. This makes The Hague an important hub for international business, trade, and investment in Europe.

The Hague is known for its picturesque parks and interesting architecture. Its historic city centre is home to a variety of squares, narrow cobblestone streets and elaborate Gothic churches. In addition to its many cultural attractions, The Hague boasts an abundance of green spaces, including the “Het Groene Hart’ which covers an area spanning several municipalities in the region. The iconic Binnenhof palace and Noordeinde Palace are also located in The Hague.

The Hague also offers a wide range of activities for visitors and locals alike, ranging from cultural attractions to shopping, entertainment and sports. Numerous museums, galleries and other cultural institutions can be found in The Hague, offering something for everyone. Shopping enthusiasts will find department stores and boutiques in the city’s centre as well as two large weekly markets offering fresh produce from local farmers. Traditional Dutch pubs, international restaurants, theatres and cinemas line The Hague’s many streets.

Overall, The Hague is an amazing city that makes for a great vacation destination. With its unique mix of international organisations, culture, nightlife and nature it truly has something for everyone. Visitors come from all over for business, pleasure or both.

To learn more about The Hague visit Holland.com, which offers detailed information about the city’s attractions and activities.

An Insider’s Guide to The Hague: Local Attractions, Dining Spots, Cultural Experiences, Local History, and Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

The Hague, also known as Den Haag in Dutch, is the third-largest city in the Netherlands and is located on the country’s western coast. As the seat of the Dutch government, The Hague is recognized worldwide as an international city of peace and justice. It is also a city of rich history, culture, and beautiful landscapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the Netherlands or a seasoned traveler, here is an insider’s guide to The Hague that will make your visit a memorable one.

Top Local Attractions

The Hague is home to numerous local attractions that captivate visitors all year round. Here are some of the must-visit local attractions in The Hague:

The Peace Palace

The Peace Palace is a stunning red-brick building constructed in 1913 that houses the International Court of Justice. Visitors are allowed to tour the Peace Palace and take in its magnificent architecture and historic significance.

Madurodam

Madurodam is a miniature park and tourist attraction that showcases scaled-down replicas of famous Dutch landmarks, including windmills, castles, and buildings. It is perfect for both adults and children.

The Hague Municipal Museum

The Hague Municipal Museum is a space dedicated to contemporary art, including visual arts, music, dance, and theater. It hosts new temporary exhibitions regularly while its permanent collection consists of works of modern art and graphic design.

Dining Spots

The Hague has a great dining scene that offers visitors a wide variety of local and international cuisine. Here are three top dining spots to try during your visit:

Restaurant Bernini

Located in the heart of The Hague, Restaurant Bernini offers a sophisticated dining experience with dishes inspired by Mediterranean cuisine. This is a great place for brunch or dinner with an upscale atmosphere.

Set Genki Tei

Set Genki Tei is a cozy Japanese restaurant known for its sushi, sashimi, and udon noodles. This spot is excellent for a quick and casual meal.

The Foodhallen

The Foodhallen is a food court-style establishment that offers a wide variety of street-style food options. It has something for everyone, ranging from local favorites such as Bitterballen (meatballs) to international cuisine like burgers and fried chicken.

Cultural Experiences

The Hague is a city, full of unique cultural experiences. Here are the top cultural attractions to add it your itinerary:

Escher in Het Paleis

Escher in Het Paleis is a museum dedicated to the life and works of Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher. The museum is located in a royal and classical palace that adds to the beauty of the experience. This is an art museum experience like no other!

The Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis

The Royal Picture Gallery Mauritshuis contains a collection of famous Golden Age paintings that include works from Rembrandt, Vermeer and Frans Hals. There is also rotating contemporary art exhibits. This is a must-see for any art lover visiting the Dutch capital.

Local History

The Hague is a city with rich history to explore. Here are some top historical sites to visit while you’re in the city:

Binnenhof and Ridderzaal

Binnenhof and Ridderzaal are national landmarks and important political structures located in The Hague. They host the offices of the country’s Prime Minister and House of Representatives, but visitors can take guided tours through the medieval castle, admire the Hall of Knights, and enjoy a stroll in the surrounding park.

Scheveningen

Scheveningen is a seaside resort that has been a popular vacation spot for over a century. It is here where visitors will find an idyllic beach, a long promenade full of activity and outstanding seafood places where you can dine while enjoying the spectacular view.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those who have more time in The Hague or are looking for something a bit more exclusive, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions to explore:

Westduinpark

Westduinpark is a beautiful, natural park on the outskirts of The Hague that offers stunning landscape views, sand dunes, and small wildlife opportunities in abundance. It is an ideal location for biking, hiking, jogging, or just a romantic picnic.

Electric boat rental in The Hague

Renting an electric boat in The Hague is a great way to experience the city in a different way. You can sail on waterways, navigate through canals and visit sites along the way at your own pace while enjoying a unique perspective of The Hague.

Conclusion

To summarize, The Hague is a city full of captivating attractions, fantastic dining, unique cultural experiences, rich local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions. Whether it’s your first time visiting the Netherlands or you’re a seasoned traveler, The Hague offers a lot to explore and discover.