The Hague

Written by Felix Schmidt, Lorraine Aust
02/09/2025
A stunning view of the Binnenhof with the modern skyline of The Hague, Netherlands.
Chantal Lopez, Pexels

The Hague presents itself as a captivating destination, seamlessly blending its significant role as the Dutch administrative and international legal capital with the refreshing allure of a coastal city, offering a sophisticated urban experience alongside expansive sandy beaches.

When seeking places to socialize, Scheveningen stands out as a vibrant beach resort, particularly in summer, with numerous beach bars and clubs. In the city center, Plein is a bustling square filled with cafes and restaurants. The Zeeheldenkwartier offers a trendy atmosphere with its cozy pubs, unique cafes, and creative spaces. For diverse culinary and cultural experiences, Chinatown is a lively area. Additionally, the city's food halls, such as Foodhallen Centrum and Scheveningen, provide excellent spots to enjoy a variety of international cuisines and mingle.

Top 7 Things to do in The Hague

The Hague offers a blend of immersive cultural experiences, historical explorations, and relaxing coastal pursuits.

1. Explore the Mauritshuis

Step into the Mauritshuis, an intimate 17th-century mansion housing a world-renowned collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings. It is here that you can stand before iconic masterpieces like Johannes Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' and Rembrandt's 'The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp'. The curated collection provides a profound insight into Dutch artistry, making each room a discovery.

Cost: Adult entry is approximately €19.00. Students typically receive a discount. Free entry with a valid Museum Card. Consider a combination ticket with Escher in Het Paleis for potential savings if visiting both.

Transport: The Mauritshuis is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from The Hague Central Station (Den Haag Centraal) or by various tram and bus lines to the Buitenhof stop. A single tram or bus ride using an HTM ticket costs around €1-€2.

2. Discover Escher in Het Paleis

Wander through the former Winter Palace of Queen Emma and immerse yourself in the mind-bending art of M.C. Escher. This permanent exhibition features over a hundred and twenty of his famous prints, showcasing optical illusions and impossible architectural designs. The regal setting of the palace provides a striking contrast to Escher's imaginative and often playful works, creating a truly unique visual experience.

Cost: Adult entry is €13.50. Youth (13-17 years) pay €10.50, and children (7-12 years) pay €7.50, with children under 6 entering free. Combination tickets with Mauritshuis or Panorama Mesdag are often available through online platforms.

Transport: The palace is conveniently located on Lange Voorhout and can be reached by tram lines 15 or 17 to the Korte Voorhout stop, or tram 1 to the Kneuterdijk stop. A standard HTM ticket for a single journey would apply.

3. Stroll through the Binnenhof

Experience the heart of Dutch democracy by walking through the historic Binnenhof. This complex, housing the Dutch Parliament and the Prime Minister's office, is steeped in centuries of history. While exploring the courtyards, you can admire the Gothic architecture of the Ridderzaal (Knight's Hall) and enjoy views of the Hofvijver pond. The outdoor areas are freely accessible, offering a glimpse into the country's political heritage.

Cost: Strolling through the Binnenhof complex is free. Guided tours of certain historical buildings, including the Ridderzaal, are available through ProDemos Visitor Centre, and typically incur a fee. (Specific tour prices for 2025 should be checked directly with ProDemos).

Transport: The Binnenhof is in the city center, a short walk from Den Haag Centraal Station and easily reached by numerous tram and bus lines to the Centrum stop. A short tram ride from Den Haag HS Station costs €1-€2.

4. Visit the Peace Palace

Discover the global symbol of peace and justice at the Peace Palace, home to the International Court of Justice and other legal institutions. While interior access is largely restricted for security, the Visitors Centre offers an informative audio tour, detailing the Palace's history and its role in international law. You can also explore the beautifully maintained gardens on a guided tour, appreciating the architectural grandeur and the significant gifts from various nations that adorn the grounds.

Cost: Entry to the Visitors Centre is free, although donations are welcomed for educational programs. Guided tours of the palace interior cost approximately €16.50, while a garden tour is around €12.50. Children under 8 can join tours for free.

Transport: The Peace Palace is accessible by tram line 1 (towards Scheveningen Noorderstrand) or tram line 17 (towards Statenkwartier) to the Vredespaleis stop. It is also a key stop for the HTM 1-Day public transportation ticket.

5. Relax at Scheveningen Beach and Pier

Escape to Scheveningen, The Hague's vibrant beach resort along the North Sea. Stroll along the expansive sandy beach, breathe in the fresh sea air, and walk out onto the iconic pier. Here, you can find a variety of entertainment, from beach bars and restaurants offering fresh seafood to a Ferris wheel providing panoramic views and even opportunities for bungee jumping or surfing. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, water sports, or simply enjoying a sunset over the ocean.

Cost: Access to the beach and pier is free. Activities like the Ferris wheel, bungee jumping, and surf lessons incur separate charges. A single tram ride from The Hague city center to Scheveningen costs between €1-€2.

Transport: Frequent tram services, such as lines 1, 9, and 11, connect the city center directly to Scheveningen. Buses, like line 22, also provide easy access. A taxi ride from the city center typically costs between €17-€21 for a 5km journey.

6. Explore Madurodam

Step into a charming miniature world at Madurodam, where the Netherlands' most famous landmarks, cities, and landscapes are recreated in intricate detail at a 1:25 scale. You can wander among tiny canals, historical buildings, and bustling city scenes. This interactive park is a delight for all ages, offering an educational and entertaining way to experience the country's highlights in a single visit, complete with moving trains and windmills.

Cost: Online flex tickets cost approximately €22.50, while tickets purchased at the counter are €24.50. Children under 3 years old enter for free. A family and friends ticket for 4 guests is around €75. On-site parking costs €12.50.

Transport: Madurodam is easily accessible by public transport. Tram line 9 and bus line 22 stop directly outside the park entrance. The HTM 1-Day Ticket or the Tourist Day Ticket (South Holland) are convenient options.

7. Marvel at Panorama Mesdag

Immerse yourself in a truly unique artistic experience at Panorama Mesdag, home to Europe's largest 360-degree cylindrical painting. This vast artwork, created by Hendrik Willem Mesdag, transports you to the seaside village of Scheveningen as it was in 1881. From the central viewing platform, you feel completely surrounded by the detailed depiction of the sea, dunes, and village life, creating an impressive optical illusion that subtly changes with the light.

Cost: Adult entry is approximately €18.00. Children aged 0-12 years enjoy free admission, and students receive a discount, paying around €12.00. The Museum Pass is also accepted for free entry.

Transport: Panorama Mesdag is located at Zeestraat 65, easily reachable from the city center on foot or by a short tram ride. Various tram and bus stops are within walking distance.

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