What To See In The Hague: A Complete Guide For Tourists

Situated on the western coast of the Netherlands, The Hague has become a popular tourist destination, offering many attractions and opportunities to explore. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, quaint narrow streets and international diplomatic activity. With so much to do and see, here is a complete guide for tourists to make the most of their visit to The Hague.

Where to Stay

The Hague is home to a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxurious 5-star hotels to budget hostels. Visitors looking to stay close to the city center have a variety of international chains such as Marriott and Hilton as well as independent hotels to choose from. Bakers and Bread Stayers Hotel and AppartCity are two options for those looking for value accommodation in the city center. On the other hand, visitors looking for a beachfront stay may choose to stay at Ibis Styles Den Haag Scheveningen near the beach or Holiday Inn Express Den Haag – Parliament near the city center. For those who prefer more of a quiet stay, renting a house in one of the outlying areas would be an ideal choice.

Places to Visit in The Hague

When visiting The Hague, there are many must-visit attractions that make up this beautiful city.

Museums

The city has several museums with each one offering a unique experience. The Mauritshuis is a classic museum where you can admire the work of masters such as Vermeer, Rembrandt and Rubens. The Hague Historical Museum takes visitors through the history of The Hague, while the Panorama Mesdag offers a captivating look at Dutch life in the 19th century.

Architecture

The Hague features some impressive architecture that tourists should not miss. The Noordeinde Palace is a royal palace located in the city center and is home to the King’s office. The Hofvijver is a beautiful lake located just outside the palace, which dates back to 1250 and is surrounded by several important buildings and monuments. Other notable sights include the Grote Kerk and Binnenhof, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Beaches

The Hague boasts two lively and attractive beachfronts with plenty of activities to keep tourists entertained. Scheveningen Beach is the most popular stretch for families, featuring a wide range of activities such as paragliding and water sports. Kijkduin also offers plenty of activities such as beach volleyball and live music venues.

Day Trips from The Hague

The Hague is ideally situated for visitors who wish to explore other parts of the Netherlands. Rotterdam is located just over an hour away by car and features a wide range of attractions, including the Markhal and the Erasmus Bridge. Amsterdam is located just over two hours away and offers various attractions such as the Rijksmuseum, Anne Frank House and Dam Square. Delft, Utrecht and Leiden are also nearby and offer interesting day trips for visitors.

Eating Out

The Hague is home to several excellent restaurants. For those looking to sample Dutch food, De Bakkerswinkel Korte Poten has an extensive menu featuring traditional Dutch dishes such as tulip lamp chop with mashed potatoes or mackerel fillet with rosti potatoes. For those looking for something more international, La Sirene greets visitors with its excellent French cuisine and sushi lovers should check out Jumbo Sushi on Lange Voorhout.

Conclusion

The Hague is a city full of history and culture that is worth exploring. With so much to do and see, visitors can expect to have an enjoyable experience during their visit. From luxurious hotels to budget hostels, The Hague offers something for every traveler. Be sure to take advantage of all that this beautiful city has to offer! For more information on things to do in The Hague you can also check out the Dutchreview guide.

The Hague: A Local’s Guide to the City

Welcome to The Hague, a city that has captured the hearts of many travelers seeking breathtaking architecture, rich history, delicious food, and a spirited culture. As a local, I may be biased, but I believe that The Hague is one of the most extraordinary cities to visit in Europe. In this insider’s guide, I’ll show you the hidden gems, must-see attractions, local cuisines, cultural experiences, captivating stories, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your stay unforgettable.

Local Attractions: Unexpected Gems in The Hague

Of course, The Hague is home to many iconic attractions like the Binnenhof, the Peace Palace, and the beach at Scheveningen. However, the city has many underrated sites that are worth exploring. For history buffs, Frederik Hendriklaan is a street that houses many unique vintage shops and cozy cafes. The street Schilderswijk is a neighborhood with intricate street art that tells the stories of the local community. For families with children, an all-time favorite is Madurodam, a miniature park that showcases famous Dutch landmarks.

Dining Spots: From Traditional to Trendy

The Hague has an exciting culinary scene that caters to everyone’s tastes. The city has many Michelin-starred restaurants like Restaurant Calla’s, which offers exquisite French cuisine with a Dutch twist. However, if you are looking for something more local, try out the traditional Dutch snack of ‘bitterballen’ at Frites Atelier or ‘haring’ (raw herring) at Simonis. And if street food is your forte, check out the Food Truck Festival Trek, where you can indulge in international and local delicacies while enjoying live music.

Cultural Experiences: A Celebration of Art, Music, and Customs

The Hague has a vibrant cultural scene with important museums like the Gemeentemuseum and Mauritshuis that offer a unique insight into Dutch art history. Additionally, The Hague is home to many festivals like Parkpop, the largest free pop festival in the Netherlands, and the Tong Tong Fair, where you can dive into the culture of the former Dutch East Indies. And if you want to experience a local custom, visit the popular Scheveningen pier, where you can catch a mystical sunrise or sunset while overlooking the sea.

Local History: Intriguing Stories from The Hague’s Past

As one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, The Hague has a rich and diverse history that reflects in the city’s architecture and cultural heritage. One such fascinating example is the Peace Palace, home to the International Court of Justice, where countries come to resolve disputes peacefully. Another lesser-known site is the Prison Gate Museum, where you can walk in the footsteps of notorious criminals like the famous French spy Mata Hari.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: A Unique Experience

If you have extra time, I recommend renting a bike and exploring the outskirts of The Hague. The area near Kijkduin is a beautiful dune landscape where you can wander and spot unique wildlife like the famous Dutch Highland cattle. Or visit the beautiful beach town of Katwijk, where you can stroll the traditional fish market and visit the charming lighthouse. If you are looking for something spooky, take a ghost tour of the city, where you can hear fascinating stories and legends from the city’s past.

Final Thoughts

I hope this insider’s guide has given you some inspiration for your trip to The Hague. Remember, the city has so much to offer, and there is still much to explore. The Hague is a city that has something for everyone, whether you are a history lover, art enthusiast, or foodie. So pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with The Hague- I guarantee you won’t regret it.