The Hague

A Royal adventure awaits!

There’s a lot more to The Hague than politics. In fact, did you know that it’s the only city with a beach on the North Sea coast? Enjoy the busy city life taking in art, culture and designer boutiques before hopping on a 20-minute tram journey and feeling the sea breeze of Scheveningen beach.

Much like Amsterdam, The Hague is bursting with fantastic art galleries and museums. It might be a small museum, but there’s plenty to discover in the Mauritshuis including the iconic ‘Girl with the Pearl Earring’ by Johannes Vermeer. ‘Escher in the Palace’ is a permanent exhibition in the former palace of the Royal family. The exhibition is home to work by optical illusionist Maurits Cornelis Escher and as part of the museum experience, you can even create your own optical illusion! You can easily lose track of time when you pay a visit to the Kunstmuseum Den Haag, housing the world’s biggest Mondrian collection, seven period rooms, modern art by Claude Monet and Pablo Picasso, plus much more.

There’s no shortage of shopping experiences in The Hague. Pop into the Denneweg and Frederitkstraat and browse a mecca of high street and haute couture stores before rewarding yourself with an exquisite dining experience in one of The Hague’s many fabulous restaurants. Have a stroll around Hofkwartier and find a treasure trove of alleyways filled with shopping treats and delightful culinary experiences.

No trip to The Hague is complete without a visit to The Peace Palace which is one of the most photographed buildings in the city. The International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration are just two of the institutions that reside in the building. You can book a guided tour and learn of its history and architecture. Top tip – Guided tours are only available on select weekends, so check in advance when planning a visit.

With over 500 stalls, The Hague Market is the largest outdoor market in Europe and you can pick up food, flowers, clothes and computer goods.

Like many other Dutch cities, The Hague has its own canals. Cruise along on a boat tour or travel at your own pace by hiring your own boat. If you’re fortunate enough to visit the city in August, then you’re in for a treat as that is when the annual Jazz in the Canal festival takes place. Musicians play on waterside stages and pontoons in the canals.

One of the best things about The Hague is the convenience of experiencing both city and beach vibes in one day. A short distance from the city, travel to Scheveningen Beach and enjoy a relaxing walk along the beach and pier or try something more challenging with surfing and ziplining. 

Discover the magic of Holland in an hour when you visit Madurodam, an interactive theme park featuring stunning, miniature replicas of famous buildings, windmills and flower bulb fields as well as attractions to take part in. Another theme park to explore is Drievliet which offers fun for all the family with shows and attractions. Top tip – The Drievliet has irregular opening times so be sure to check opening times when planning a trip.

Round off a busy day in The Hague off with a visit to The Hague Tower. It’s one of the tallest buildings in the city. Treat yourself to a tipple of your choice at the Skybar (which is on the 40^th floor) and savour the panoramic views of the city.

The Hague is a busy hive of activity throughout the year with markets and festivals, so check out what will be happening when you’re planning your visit so you don’t miss out!

It’s a city that’s rich in culture, history and breathtaking experiences. Book a trip to The Hague and look forward to outstanding art, architecture, sweeping landscapes and memories that will last a lifetime!