The Hague (Den Haag): Government city with cultural sites

Visitor Fee

Visiting The Hague itself is free, but certain attractions and museums may have entry fees:

• Mauritshuis Museum (Home to Girl with a Pearl Earring by Vermeer) – €19.50
• Binnenhof (Dutch Parliament Complex) – Free outdoor access, guided tours available
• Madurodam (Miniature Holland) – €22.50
• Peace Palace – Guided tours available at varying prices
• Escher in Het Paleis Museum – €11.50
• Panorama Mesdag – €15.00
• Scheveningen Beach – Free

Transportation

The Hague is well-connected by various transport options:

• By Train: The city has two major train stations – Den Haag Centraal (The Hague Central Station) and Den Haag HS (Hollands Spoor), with direct trains from Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Schiphol Airport.
• By Tram: The Hague has an extensive tram network that connects different parts of the city and nearby areas like Scheveningen Beach and Delft.
• By Bus: Public buses serve both the city and surrounding towns.
• By Bicycle: As with most Dutch cities, cycling is a popular way to explore The Hague. Bike rentals are available.
• By Car: While driving is an option, parking in the city center can be expensive and limited.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Rotterdam The Hague Airport, about 20 km away. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is about 45 minutes by train.

Things to Do in The Hague

1. Visit the Binnenhof – The historic Dutch Parliament complex, one of the oldest active government buildings in the world.
2. Explore the Mauritshuis Museum – Famous for its collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Rembrandt’s masterpieces.
3. Walk Around the Peace Palace – Home to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and a symbol of global peace and diplomacy.
4. Enjoy Madurodam – A miniature version of the Netherlands, showcasing famous Dutch landmarks on a small scale.
5. Relax at Scheveningen Beach – The most famous North Sea beach in the Netherlands, ideal for sunbathing, water sports, and dining.
6. Visit Panorama Mesdag – A 19th-century 360-degree painting that offers a unique view of 19th-century Scheveningen.
7. Discover Escher in Het Paleis – A museum dedicated to M.C. Escher, featuring his mind-bending optical illusions and mathematical artworks.
8. Walk Through Noordeinde Palace – One of the official residences of the Dutch Royal Family.
9. Visit Gemeentemuseum (Kunstmuseum Den Haag) – A modern art museum featuring works by Piet Mondrian and other renowned artists.
10. Explore the Historic City Center – Stroll through the charming streets filled with boutiques, restaurants, and historic buildings.

Why People Enjoy Visiting The Hague

• Rich History & Culture – A blend of medieval landmarks, royal palaces, and world-class museums.
• Political & Diplomatic Importance – Home to the Dutch government, embassies, and international institutions.
• Coastal Beauty – Scheveningen Beach offers a perfect escape with its long sandy shores and lively promenade.
• Art & Architecture – From Vermeer’s paintings to Escher’s illusions, the city is full of artistic treasures.
• Peace & Justice Hub – The Hague is known for international law and diplomacy, with the Peace Palace being a global symbol.
• Family-Friendly Attractions – Places like Madurodam and Sea Life Scheveningen make it a great destination for families.

How Old is This Place?

The Hague has a history dating back to the 13th century. It began as a hunting lodge built by Count Floris IV of Holland around 1230, which later developed into a government center. By the 16th century, The Hague became the political and administrative capital of the Netherlands. Over the centuries, it has grown into a global city known for governance, international justice, and cultural heritage, making it nearly 800 years old.

List of Activities

• Guided Tours of the Binnenhof & Peace Palace – Learn about Dutch politics and international justice.
• Cycling Tours – Explore the city and surrounding areas by bike.
• Beach Activities at Scheveningen – Surfing, sailing, beach volleyball, and more.
• Shopping at De Passage & Noordeinde – Visit luxury boutiques and department stores.
• Boat Tours & Canal Cruises – Enjoy scenic boat rides through the city’s canals.
• Museum Visits – Discover Dutch art, history, and modern exhibitions.
• Seasonal Events & Festivals – The Hague hosts music, film, and cultural festivals throughout the year.

Additional Nearby Attractions

1. Delft – A picturesque city famous for Delft Blue pottery and its connection to Johannes Vermeer.
2. Leiden – A historic university city with canals, museums, and botanical gardens.
3. Rotterdam – A modern architectural hub with attractions like Markthal, Cube Houses, and Erasmus Bridge.
4. Kinderdijk – A UNESCO-listed site with 19 historic windmills.
5. Hoek van Holland – A seaside town with scenic walking trails along the coast.
6. Duinrell Amusement Park – A family-friendly theme park and water park located near Wassenaar.
7. Meijendel Nature Reserve – A beautiful coastal dune landscape perfect for hiking and cycling.

The Hague is a fascinating blend of history, politics, culture, and coastal charm, making it a must-visit destination in the Netherlands. Whether you're interested in art, governance, international law, or simply relaxing by the beach, The Hague offers something for every traveler.