The Hague City Center
The Hague: Netherlands' political heart, a city of international justice, art, and charming canals. Explore history and modern diplomacy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, outdoor dining
The Hague City Center
Best Time
Pleasant weather, outdoor dining
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The Hague: Netherlands' political heart, a city of international justice, art, and charming canals. Explore history and modern diplomacy.
"The Hague feels like a big city with all its offerings, yet retains a small-town sense of community."
🚲 Bike Tours are a Must!
Explore the city like a local with a guided bike tour. Learn history and discover hidden gems.
☕ Cozy Cafe Hopping
Discover charming cafes like Joe & The Juice for a quick bite or relaxing break.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Binnenhof Complex
Hofweg
The historic heart of Dutch politics, featuring stunning architecture and centuries of history. A must-see for understanding the nation's governance.
Mauritshuis Museum
Plein 29
Home to masterpieces like Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring'. Immerse yourself in Dutch Golden Age art.
Peace Palace
Carnegieplein 2
An iconic symbol of international law and justice, housing the International Court of Justice. Admire its grand architecture.
Canal-side Cafes & Boutiques
Bierkade, Nobelstraat, Oude Molstraat
Charming streets lined with cozy cafes and unique shops. Perfect for a leisurely stroll and soaking in the city's ambiance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Political Heart
Navigating The Hague Center
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚲 Bike Tours are a Must!
Explore the city like a local with a guided bike tour. Learn history and discover hidden gems.
☕ Cozy Cafe Hopping
Discover charming cafes like Joe & The Juice for a quick bite or relaxing break.
🏛️ Museum Day Pass
Consider a museum pass if you plan to visit multiple institutions like the Mauritshuis.
🛍️ Vintage Shopping Gems
Hunt for unique finds at vintage clothing stores in the city center.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚲 Bike Tours are a Must!
Explore the city like a local with a guided bike tour. Learn history and discover hidden gems.
☕ Cozy Cafe Hopping
Discover charming cafes like Joe & The Juice for a quick bite or relaxing break.
🏛️ Museum Day Pass
Consider a museum pass if you plan to visit multiple institutions like the Mauritshuis.
🛍️ Vintage Shopping Gems
Hunt for unique finds at vintage clothing stores in the city center.
🎶 Jazz in the Gracht
Enjoy live music along the canals for a magical evening. Bring chairs and snacks!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The Hague's unique blend of political significance, rich history, and vibrant cultural scene. Many highlight the city's welcoming atmosphere and the engaging nature of guided tours, particularly bike tours. While the city offers a sophisticated experience, some find it less bustling than Amsterdam.
"My recent trip to Den Haag was fantastic, and a big highlight was the DaHaag Bike Ride with Jurjen! Jurjen isn't just a guide, he's a passionate advocate for both the environment and the city itself. It was immediately clear how much he cares about The Hague (Den Haag).
The tour itself was informative and engaging. Jurjen did a fantastic job of weaving Den Haag's background history into the ride, while also highlighting the city's unique character. He pointed out how Den Haag manages to feel like a big city with all its offerings, yet retains a small-town sense of community. This really resonated with me.
Jurjen's passion went beyond interesting facts – he talked about his own involvement with the city on a local level, and his genuine desire to inspire others to care about The Hague as much as he does. In fact, Jurjen's insights were so valuable, I'm bummed I didn't have more time to explore the city with him. On my next trip to the Netherlands, you can bet I'll be reaching out to Jurjen for another tour and a chance to learn even more about Den Haag."
Nicole Ogertschnig
"Yur made the big city of Den Haag feel very welcoming. His enthusiasm for the history and the present was felt in each of his stories as we stopped along the trip to discuss what we are seeing. We were lucky enough to witness the rehearsal for Prinsjedag and all its traditions.
… and later that evening at Prinsjenacht we serendipitously ran into Jur and he graciously toured us through the live music scene in The Hague, which was just as fun.
Our family highly recommend others to join Yur to explore The Hague.
Dank je wel & Tot Ziens!"
N L
"Despite the pouring rain, I had a fantastic bike tour with Jurjen. He is knowledgeable, entertaining and knows everybody in town. I highly recommend this tour!"
Lora Bruyn Martin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by train from Amsterdam Centraal to Den Haag Centraal, which takes about 50 minutes. Taxis and ride-sharing services are available from the station to your final destination within the city center. +1
Yes, the city center is very walkable, with many attractions, shops, and restaurants within easy reach of each other. Public transport, including trams and buses, is also efficient for longer distances.
Walking and cycling are highly recommended for exploring the city center. Public transport (trams and buses) is also convenient. Consider a day ticket for unlimited travel.
Parking in the city center can be challenging and expensive. It's advisable to use public transport or park at a P+R (Park and Ride) facility on the outskirts and take public transport into the center.
Absolutely! The Hague is a perfect day trip destination from Rotterdam. The train journey is short, around 20-30 minutes, making it easy to explore the city's highlights.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
For popular museums like the Mauritshuis, booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to avoid queues, especially during peak season.
The Binnenhof is a working government complex. While parts are accessible, guided tours are often required for specific areas. Check the official Dutch Parliament website for current access and tour information.
While the exterior is impressive, access to the interior of the Peace Palace typically requires booking a guided tour in advance. Check the Peace Palace website for availability and fees.
Many of The Hague's charms are free to enjoy, such as walking along the canals, exploring charming streets like the Nobelstraat, and admiring the architecture of government buildings from the outside. 
You can purchase public transport tickets at ticket machines at tram and bus stops, at HTM (The Hague's public transport company) shops, or via their mobile app.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Hague offers diverse culinary delights, from Indonesian cuisine and Kenyan delicacies
to delicious burgers
The Hague has a strong Indonesian culinary heritage. Look for restaurants serving dishes like nasi padang and ayam penyet for an authentic taste.
Yes, many restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan options. Look for places with diverse menus or dedicated plant-based offerings.
The Bierkade, Nobelstraat, and Oude Molstraat are known for their lively atmosphere with numerous cafes and restaurants, perfect for evening outings.
Absolutely! The Hague boasts a wide array of international dining options, including Japanese ramen,
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the charm of the canals, historic architecture like the Binnenhof, and the vibrant street art. The Peace Palace and the Mauritshuis also offer stunning photographic opportunities.
The Hague city center, with its mix of old and new architecture, bustling streets, and unique characters, provides excellent opportunities for street photography. Consider exploring areas like the Zeeheldenkwartier.
Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for capturing the city's architecture and canals. Weekday mornings are also great for fewer crowds.
Photography policies vary by museum. The Mauritshuis generally allows non-flash photography for personal use, but it's always best to check the specific museum's guidelines before visiting.
Photographing the Binnenhof complex from the outside offers a glimpse into Dutch politics. You might also capture images related to international organizations like the Peace Palace.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more active experience, consider a bike tour that can be tailored to family needs, allowing you to cover more ground and see different parts of the city.
🚶 Solo Travelers
Solo travelers can enjoy the vibrant cafe culture, perhaps stopping at places like Joe & The Juice for a relaxed break, or exploring the diverse dining options, from Indonesian cuisine to gourmet burgers.
The city's blend of political significance and cultural attractions provides plenty to see and do, ensuring you won't get bored. 🛍️ Budget Travelers
+1 Utilize public transport with a day pass for cost-effective travel between different areas. Look for affordable dining options like falafel stands
or enjoy a picnic with items from local markets. Many cafes offer reasonably priced coffee and snacks. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hague: Political Powerhouse and Cultural Hub
Beyond its political significance, The Hague boasts a rich cultural scene. The Mauritshuis museum houses an unparalleled collection of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, including Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring'. The city also offers a vibrant contemporary art scene, with galleries and street art scattered throughout. The city center itself is a delight to explore, with picturesque canals, charming streets like the Nobelstraat and Oude Molstraat, and a plethora of cozy cafes and boutiques perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
+1For those interested in understanding the Netherlands' governance and its role on the world stage, The Hague is an essential visit. It offers a unique perspective on Dutch history, politics, and its commitment to international law, all within a beautiful and accessible urban environment. The city's ability to feel both grand and intimate is a recurring theme in visitor experiences.
Culinary Delights in The Hague City Center
Burger enthusiasts will rejoice at the variety of gourmet burger spots, such as Frenchie's Burgers, known for their fresh, handmade patties with a French twist.
Ramen lovers can rejoice with the opening of Ramen Kitanoya, bringing authentic Japanese ramen to the city center. Beyond these specific cuisines, the city center is dotted with charming cafes like Joe & The Juice Exploring the food scene in The Hague is an integral part of the visitor experience. Many travelers highlight the diverse culinary options as a major draw, with recommendations often circulating on social media and travel forums. Whether you're seeking a quick bite or a sit-down culinary journey, The Hague's city center promises a delicious exploration.
Exploring The Hague's Artistic and Cultural Side
For those who appreciate urban art, The Hague offers a growing street art scene. Guided street art tours can reveal vibrant murals and graffiti art hidden throughout the city, providing a different perspective on its cultural landscape.
Visitors often express delight at the unexpected artistic discoveries they make in The Hague, from grand museums to quirky design spaces and lively street performances. The city's cultural offerings are diverse and engaging, ensuring there's always something new to inspire and captivate.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit