Is The Hague worth visiting? Yes, absolutely. The Hague was one of the biggest surprises from my travels in the Netherlands. Many visitors focus on Amsterdam, but I found The Hague offered a great mix of history, culture, and coastal scenery. I enjoyed exploring the elegant streets, visiting world-class museums, and then heading to the beach at Scheveningen. It felt like several destinations rolled into one city.
The Hague is the political capital of the Netherlands and home to the Dutch government, parliament, and many international organisations. Located on the North Sea coast, the city is known for its historic buildings, cultural attractions, beautiful parks, and nearby beaches. It offers a different experience from other Dutch cities, combining a cosmopolitan atmosphere with easy access to the coast.
In this guide, I’ll cover the top reasons why The Hague is worth visiting and share some useful travel tips and advice to help you plan your trip. Whether you’re interested in history, museums, architecture, or relaxing by the sea, keep reading to discover the many reasons why The Hague is worth visiting.
Table of Contents
Top Reasons You Should Visit The Hague
1. Political and Historical Significance
As the seat of the Dutch government, The Hague is steeped in political and historical importance. Landmarks like the Binnenhof, the Dutch parliament, and the Peace Palace make this a fascinating destination for history buffs.
I toured the Binnenhof, where centuries of Dutch political history come to life within its gothic halls and courtyards. The nearby Peace Palace, with its grand architecture and role as the home of the International Court of Justice, left me in awe of the city’s global significance. Don’t miss the visitor centre at the Peace Palace for an in-depth look at its work.
2. World-Class Art and Museums
The Hague boasts an impressive array of museums, including the renowned Mauritshuis, home to Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring.” The Escher in Het Paleis museum offers a more modern twist with its fascinating collection of optical illusions.
Standing face-to-face with Vermeer’s masterpiece in the Mauritshuis was a highlight of my visit. The museum is compact, making it easy to explore in a couple of hours. For a lighter, whimsical experience, Escher in Het Paleis is a must—kids and adults alike will be mesmerised by Escher’s impossible creations.
3. Scheveningen Beach
A visit to The Hague wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Scheveningen, the city’s seaside district. With its wide sandy beach, pier, and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a fantastic place to relax.
I spent an afternoon strolling along the promenade, indulging in fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant. The ferris wheel on the pier offers stunning views of the coastline, especially at sunset. Scheveningen is also great for water sports like windsurfing and kiteboarding if you’re feeling adventurous.
4. Diverse Culinary Scene
The Hague’s multicultural population is reflected in its food scene, with everything from Indonesian rijsttafel to French fine dining. The city’s cafes and markets also offer delicious local treats.
I had an incredible meal at Restaurant Garoeda, where the Indonesian flavours transported me to Bali. For something more casual, the Haagse Markt, one of Europe’s largest open-air markets, is a foodie’s paradise. Whether you’re craving stroopwafels or sambal, The Hague delivers.
5. Beautiful Parks and Green Spaces
The Hague is a green city, with parks and gardens that provide a peaceful escape from the urban buzz. Clingendael Park, with its Japanese Garden, is a particular gem.
I visited in spring when the Japanese Garden was in full bloom. The tranquil atmosphere and vibrant colours made it the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll. Westbroekpark, known for its rose garden, is another highlight, ideal for picnics or a lazy afternoon with a book.
6. International Atmosphere
As the home of numerous international organisations and embassies, The Hague has a cosmopolitan vibe. It’s a city where cultures blend seamlessly, creating a diverse and inclusive atmosphere.
I loved the mix of languages I heard while wandering through the city, from Dutch to English to Indonesian. The international community brings a global flair to The Hague, evident in its restaurants, shops, and events.
7. Compact and Walkable
Despite its political significance, The Hague feels surprisingly compact and manageable. Most major attractions are within walking or biking distance, making it easy to explore.
I found the city’s layout intuitive, with wide streets and excellent signage. Renting a bike was a breeze, and cycling to the beach or through the city centre felt safe and enjoyable. Public transport is also reliable for longer journeys.
8. Impressive Modern Architecture
While The Hague has plenty of historical charm, it also boasts striking modern architecture. The New Babylon complex and De Rotterdam are prime examples of the city’s forward-thinking design.
The juxtaposition of old and new is striking, with modern skyscrapers rising next to centuries-old buildings. This mix makes The Hague visually dynamic and appealing for architecture enthusiasts.
9. Family-Friendly Attractions
From interactive museums like the Madurodam Miniature Park to the family-friendly beach, The Hague is an excellent destination for travellers with kids.
I spent a morning at Madurodam, which offers a miniature version of the Netherlands complete with moving trains and windmills. It’s both educational and fun, making it a hit with children and adults alike.
10. Year-Round Appeal
Whether you visit in summer for the beach or winter for cosy indoor activities, The Hague offers something for every season. Its mild climate ensures you can enjoy outdoor attractions even in the cooler months.
I visited in autumn and found the city’s golden-hued parks and less-crowded attractions particularly charming. The Hague’s versatility means it’s worth considering no matter when you’re planning your trip.
Travel Tips for Visiting The Hague
What to Do in The Hague
The Hague ended up being one of my favourite cities in the Netherlands. It has grand historic buildings, excellent museums, and even a beach, which gives it a very different feel from Amsterdam and Rotterdam. I liked how it combined city attractions with a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
- Visit Madurodam Miniature Park – This was one of my favourite experiences because it gives you a fun way to see miniature versions of famous Dutch landmarks.
- Explore the Mauritshuis Museum – Seeing masterpieces like Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring made this one of the highlights of my trip.
- Take a Walking Tour of The Hague City Centre – I found this a great way to learn about Dutch politics, history, and the city’s royal connections.
- Visit the Peace Palace and International Court Area – This is a unique experience that helped me understand why The Hague is known as the international city of peace and justice.
- Join a Bike Tour Through The Hague and Scheveningen – Cycling between the city centre and the beach was one of the most enjoyable ways to explore.
- Take a Food Tour Around The Hague – I discovered several local dishes and neighbourhoods that I would have missed on my own.
When to Visit The Hague
I think the best time to visit The Hague is from May to September. The weather is generally pleasant, outdoor cafés are busy, and you can enjoy both the city and Scheveningen Beach. Summer is ideal if you want to spend time by the sea, while spring offers fewer crowds and blooming parks. Winter is quieter but still enjoyable thanks to the museums and cosy restaurants. Personally, I would choose June because it offers a good balance of pleasant weather and manageable visitor numbers.
How to Get to The Hague
The Hague does not have its own major international airport, so most visitors arrive through Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. Direct trains run frequently from Schiphol to The Hague and take around 30 minutes. Rotterdam The Hague Airport is another option for some European routes. The city is also connected by excellent rail services from other Dutch cities. Personally, I think arriving via Schiphol and taking the train is the easiest option because the connection is quick and very straightforward.
Where to Stay in The Hague
- Hotel Des Indes – Located in the city centre, this historic luxury hotel is one of the most famous places to stay in The Hague.
- Hilton The Hague – Situated near many major attractions, this hotel combines comfort with a great location.
- voco The Hague – A stylish hotel in the heart of the city that offers easy access to shops, restaurants, and museums.
- Boutique Hotel Corona – Located beside the Binnenhof area, this hotel is ideal for sightseeing.
- Leonardo Royal Hotel Den Haag Promenade – A good mid-range option between the city centre and Scheveningen Beach.
- easyHotel The Hague City Centre – One of the better budget choices, offering a central location at an affordable price.
Getting Around The Hague
The Hague has an excellent public transport system made up of trams and buses that connect the city centre with Scheveningen Beach and surrounding neighbourhoods. Cycling is also very popular, and there are bike lanes throughout the city. The HTM app can help with tickets and route planning, while OVpay allows contactless payments on public transport. Personally, I think the tram network is the easiest way to get around because it is fast, reliable, and connects all the main attractions.
How Long to Spend in The Hague
I think two to three days is ideal for The Hague. Two days gives you enough time to visit the museums, explore the city centre, and spend some time at Scheveningen Beach. A third day allows you to slow down and explore more neighbourhoods or take a nearby day trip. Personally, I would stay three days because I enjoyed having time to experience both the city and the coast without rushing.
Conclusion
So, is The Hague worth visiting? Without a doubt. From its fascinating museums and historic landmarks to its international atmosphere and beautiful beaches, there are plenty of reasons to spend time here. The Hague offers a unique combination of culture, history, and coastal charm that sets it apart from other destinations in the Netherlands. If you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands, The Hague is a city that deserves a place on your itinerary.