Things To Do
in The Hague
The Hague is the seat of government and home to grand palaces, courts, and international institutions. Its historic center blends medieval roots with elegant 17th-century architecture around the Binnenhof and Hofvijver. The city sits on the North Sea coast, offering sandy Scheveningen beaches, a lively harbor, and a thriving cultural scene.
With world-class museums, diverse dining, and efficient cycling and transit, The Hague pairs governmental gravitas with coastal leisure.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of The Hague, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the Binnenhof, the heart of Dutch politics. Visit the Mauritshuis to marvel at masterpieces by Vermeer and Rembrandt, immersing yourself in the rich art history of the Netherlands. Take a moment to enjoy a local breakfast at a nearby café, savoring traditional Dutch pastries and coffee.
After lunch, head over to the Peace Palace, a symbol of The Hague's international significance, and take a guided tour to learn about its history and the work of the International Court of Justice. Wander through the nearby gardens, where you can relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. As the afternoon winds down, visit the Escher Museum, where the mind-bending artworks of M.C. Escher will captivate your imagination.
For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at one of The Hague's fine dining restaurants, focusing on local seafood specialties. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the canals, enjoying the illuminated bridges and historic buildings reflecting in the water. Conclude your evening with a drink at a cozy bar in the city center, soaking in the local nightlife.
Begin your beach day with a fresh breakfast at a seaside café in Scheveningen, enjoying views of the North Sea. Spend the morning lounging on the sandy beach or taking a refreshing swim in the water, letting the gentle waves wash over you. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a paddleboard or trying your hand at windsurfing.
After a morning of relaxation, grab lunch at one of the beachfront restaurants, sampling Dutch herring or other seafood delights. Spend the afternoon exploring the vibrant promenade, with its shops and attractions, including the iconic Pier of Scheveningen. You could also take a scenic walk along the beach to the nearby Kijkduin area for a quieter experience.
As the sun begins to set, find a spot on the beach to watch the breathtaking colors of the sky. For dinner, choose one of the beachfront restaurants offering fresh seafood while enjoying the sound of the waves. Afterward, stroll along the beach or enjoy a beach bonfire with friends, making memories under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $9-12 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $120-180 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich political history and grand architecture
- Coastal access with easy day trips to dunes and beaches
- Excellent museums, diverse dining, and walkable center
- Coastal winds can be chilly even in summer
- Tourist crowds around Scheveningen in peak season
- Parking in the city center can be expensive
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de dichtstbijzijnde tramhalte?" - Where is the nearest tram stop?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Heeft u vegetarische opties?" - Do you have vegetarian options?
Places to Visit in The Hague
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic political complex with reflective water, grand facades, and atmospheric arches—perfect for architectural shots.
A pristine 17th-century courtyard behind the museum, ideal for classic, sunlit photos among stone and greenery.
The historic palace housing Escher’s optical masterpieces; intricate perspective play makes striking images.
Wide ocean views, boardwalk activity, and dramatic skies—great for sunset and motion shots.
Elegant streets and royal-adjacent architecture that lends a refined urban backdrop.
Food in The Hague
The Hague Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Raw herring served with onions, a classic Dutch street food; try it fresh from a stall with an easy bite-and-chew experience.
Must-Try!
Breadcrumb-coated croquette filled with ragout; a popular snack often enjoyed with mustard and a quick beer.
Comforting mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables and usually served with sausage; a hearty winter staple.
Thick-cut fries topped with mayo, onions, and rich peanut sauce or satay; a distinctive Dutch street treat.
Mini fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar and butter; a beloved sweet treat, especially in markets and fairs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of Europe’s largest and most diverse markets, offering produce, spices, textiles, and international bites across multiple stalls.
Casual beachfront stalls offering fresh fish, fries, and light snacks with sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch people value straightforwardness; be polite but concise in conversations and requests.
Yield to pedestrians, ring your bell when passing, and use dedicated bike lanes where available.
A light handshake is common on first meetings; maintain a respectful and friendly tone.
Safety
Tipping in The Hague
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% at full-service restaurants is common.
Cash is accepted, but card payments and contactless methods are universal; many places also support mobile payments and iDEAL for online purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh blossoms; many outdoor cafes reopen fully and city gardens come alive.
Beach season on Scheveningen with long days; perfect for outdoor dining, boat tours, and sunset walks.
Comfortable temperatures with a chance of rain; dune walks and museum visits are ideal for indoor/outdoor balance.
Cool to cold with occasional frost or light snow; enjoy indoors museums, cozy cafés, and holiday lights downtown.
The Hague at Night
Hiking in The Hague
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive dunes and woodlands near Wassenaar; popular for long walks and birdwatching.
Coastal dunes adjacent to The Hague offering varied trails and sea views.
Airports
How to reach The Hague by plane.
Major international hub about 40-45 minutes by train from The Hague; frequent trains connect to Central Station and Den Haag Centraal.
Smaller regional airport located close to The Hague; convenient for domestic and select international routes; easy taxi or tram connections to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population with a strong sense of regional identity and urban culture.
Faculty, diplomats, and foreign workers contribute to a cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Diverse cultural influences reflected in cuisine, markets, and events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played; local clubs offer opportunities to watch or join games.
A popular sport with clubs in the region; several facilities host local and regional games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting The Hague.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Dutch menus offer vegetarian options; look for 'vegetarisch' on menus, and opt for shared plates or veggie versions of local classics.