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The Hague

Netherlands

About The Hague

The Hague (Den Haag) is the seat of the Dutch government, the royal residence, and the international city of peace and justice — home to the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. Despite not being the capital, it functions as the Netherlands' political center.

Beyond politics, The Hague surprises visitors with world-class art museums, elegant boulevards, and — uniquely among major Dutch cities — its own beach at Scheveningen. It's a refined, cosmopolitan city that feels distinctly different from Amsterdam or Rotterdam.

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Quick Tips

  • Currency: Euro (EUR). Cards accepted everywhere including the beach pavilions at Scheveningen.
  • Transport: Excellent tram network connects the city center to Scheveningen beach in 20 minutes. Use an OV- chipkaart or contactless payment.
  • Tipping: Rounding up or 5–10% is the norm. Not mandatory.
  • Beach: Scheveningen is just a short tram ride away. The beachfront boulevard is lined with restaurants, bars, and the iconic Pier. Don't confuse it with Kijkduin, the quieter beach to the south.
  • International vibe: With 150+ international organizations, The Hague is incredibly diverse. You'll find excellent Indonesian, Surinamese, and international cuisine.

Interesting Places to Visit

Mauritshuis

A small but extraordinary museum housing Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring," Rembrandt's "The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp," and other Dutch Golden Age masterpieces. An intimate, world-class collection in a beautiful 17th-century mansion.

Binnenhof

The 13th-century parliamentary complex at the heart of Dutch politics. The Gothic Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights) hosts the King's annual address. Guided tours are available. The Hofvijver pond in front offers one of the most photographed views in the Netherlands.

Scheveningen Beach

The most popular beach resort in the Netherlands. A wide sandy beach with a pier, lighthouse, and numerous beach pavilions (strandtenten). Great for a sunset walk, seafood dinner, or surfing. The SkyView observation wheel on the pier offers coastal panoramas.

Madurodam

A miniature park featuring 1:25 scale replicas of famous Dutch landmarks, buildings, and infrastructure. Great fun for families and a quick way to "see" the whole of the Netherlands in an hour. Interactive exhibits bring Dutch history to life.

Escher in The Palace

A museum dedicated to M.C. Escher in a former royal palace. Mind- bending optical illusions, impossible staircases, and tessellations displayed across grand palace rooms. The interactive top floor lets you step into Escher's world.

Peace Palace (Vredespaleis)

Seat of the International Court of Justice and a symbol of international peace. The stunning neo-Renaissance building can be visited by guided tour on weekends. Beautiful gardens surrounding the palace are open to the public.

Panorama Mesdag

The world's largest 360° cylindrical painting, depicting the seaside resort of Scheveningen in 1881. Standing on the central platform, you're completely immersed in the panoramic illusion. A unique and unforgettable experience.

When to Visit

The Hague's seaside location gives it a distinct character through the seasons:

🌸 Spring (March – May)

Lovely time to visit. Mild (8–17°C), flowers blooming in the formal gardens, and Scheveningen's beach pavilions start opening.

  • King's Day celebrations (April 27)
  • Japanese Garden in Clingendael Park (limited opening)
  • Kite festival at Scheveningen beach

☀️ Summer (June – August)

Beach season (17–24°C). Scheveningen buzzes with activity. Outdoor festivals, concerts on the beach, and long summer evenings make this peak season.

  • Scheveningen fireworks festival (August)
  • The Hague Jazz Festival
  • Beach bars and surfing at Scheveningen

🍂 Autumn (September – November)

Cooler (6–15°C) with fewer tourists. TodaysArt festival brings cutting-edge art and music. The Prinsjesdag ceremony in September is a uniquely Dutch spectacle.

  • Prinsjesdag — royal carriage procession (September)
  • TodaysArt Festival
  • Museum season with major exhibitions

❄️ Winter (December – February)

Cold (1–7°C) and atmospheric. The Royal Christmas Fair and New Year's bonfire at Scheveningen (one of Europe's largest) are winter highlights.

  • Royal Christmas Fair at the Grote Kerk
  • New Year's bonfire at Scheveningen
  • Cozy museum visits and warm cafés

Where to Eat (Affordable & Good)

The Hague's international community brings a fantastic variety of cuisines at all price points:

Simonis aan de Haven$ – $$

Fresh-from-the-North-Sea fish in the Scheveningen harbor. The kibbeling (battered fried fish) is among the best in the country. No-frills setting, just excellent seafood at fair prices.

Garoeda$ – $$

One of the oldest Indonesian restaurants in the Netherlands, serving authentic rijsttafel since 1949. The Hague has the best Indonesian food outside Indonesia, and Garoeda is a prime example.

Haagse Bluf$

Named after the local expression, this no-nonsense spot near the Grote Markt serves great Dutch bar snacks — bitterballen, kaas soufflé, and frikandellen. Perfect with a cold beer on the terrace.

Walter Benedict$ – $$

A beloved brunch spot in the Zeeheldenkwartier neighborhood. Excellent eggs Benedict (obviously), fresh juices, and house-baked pastries. Cozy interior and a loyal local following.

Lieverd$$

Modern European cuisine in the trendy Zeeheldenkwartier. Creative seasonal dishes, natural wines, and a relaxed atmosphere. The three-course dinner menu is great value for the quality.

De Bierkade$ – $$

Craft beer bar along the scenic Bierkade canal with an impressive selection of Dutch and Belgian brews. Excellent cheese and meat platters to pair. Lovely canal-side terrace in summer.

Warung Mini$

Tiny Surinamese takeaway joint with a cult following. The roti and bara with pom (a Surinamese potato-like dish) are incredible. Cheap, filling, and authentic. Often a queue — always worth the wait.