Discovering The Hague (Den Haag): A Comprehensive Travel Guide

The Hague, known as Den Haag in Dutch, is a city of great historical significance and contemporary vibrancy. As the political heart of the Netherlands, it offers a unique blend of governmental institutions, cultural attractions, and a captivating seaside setting. This comprehensive travel guide will provide you with insights into the best places to visit, the ideal time to plan your trip, exciting activities to enjoy, transportation options, dining experiences, famous street stalls to savor local cuisine, accommodation recommendations, and essential travel tips to make the most of your visit to The Hague.

Places to Visit in The Hague

1. Binnenhof: The Binnenhof is the center of Dutch politics, housing the Dutch Parliament and Prime Minister’s office. Explore this historical complex, with its iconic Ridderzaal (Knight’s Hall) at the heart.
2. Mauritshuis: The Mauritshuis is a world-renowned museum featuring Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, including Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” and Rembrandt’s “The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp.”
3. Noordeinde Palace: This royal palace is the working palace of King Willem-Alexander but is also open for visitors to explore the beautiful palace gardens.
4. Peace Palace: Visit the Peace Palace, home to the International Court of Justice. Take a guided tour to learn about its role in international diplomacy.
5. Scheveningen: The Hague’s seaside district offers beautiful beaches, a long pier with dining options, and the SEA LIFE Scheveningen aquarium.
6. Escher in Het Paleis: This museum is dedicated to the works of the famous Dutch artist M.C. Escher and features an impressive collection of his optical illusion art.

Best Time To Visit The Hague
The Hague is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:

Spring (April – June): Spring is a wonderful time to visit, with pleasant weather and blooming gardens. The city comes alive with colorful flowers, especially in parks like the Keukenhof.

Summer (June – August): Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather. It’s ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying the beaches. However, expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Autumn (September – November): Early autumn is a great time to visit. The weather is still pleasant, and cultural events and festivals take place.

Winter (December – February): Winters are milder than many European cities, but it’s the low tourist season. It’s a great time to explore museums and historical sites without the crowds.

Things to Do in The Hague
The Hague offers a diverse range of activities for travelers. Here are some must-try experiences:

1. Explore the Beach: Spend a day at Scheveningen Beach, where you can relax in the sun, swim in the North Sea, or take a stroll on the iconic pier.
2. Bike Ride: Rent a bicycle and explore the city’s picturesque streets and parks. The Hague has an extensive network of bike lanes.
3. Visit Madurodam: Madurodam is a miniature park showcasing scaled-down replicas of famous Dutch landmarks and cities. It’s a fun and educational experience for all ages.
4. Panorama Mesdag: Explore the mesmerizing Panorama Mesdag, a cylindrical painting that depicts a 360-degree view of the Dutch coast.
5. International Cuisine: The Hague is home to a diverse population, and you can enjoy a wide range of international cuisines, from Indonesian to Surinamese and Middle Eastern.

How to Get Around in The Hague
The Hague offers several transportation options to help you get around the city:

1. Trams and Buses: The city has an efficient tram and bus network, making it easy to explore different neighborhoods. The trams are a popular mode of transport for both locals and tourists.
2. Bicycles: The Hague is a bike-friendly city with dedicated bike lanes and bike-sharing programs. Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the city.
3. Walking: Many of The Hague’s attractions are located close to one another, making it a pedestrian-friendly city. Walking is a great way to discover hidden gems.
4. Trains: The Hague is well-connected to other Dutch cities via the Dutch railway system. The Central Station (Den Haag Centraal) is the main train station.
5. Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are available for convenient point-to-point transportation.

Where to Eat in The Hague
The Hague boasts a diverse culinary scene with options for all tastes and budgets. Here are some dining recommendations:

1. Seafood: Given its coastal location, The Hague offers a variety of fresh seafood. Try herring, kibbeling (fried fish), and seafood platters.
2. Indonesian Cuisine: Explore Indonesian cuisine at local restaurants. Rijsttafel, a feast of small dishes, is a must-try culinary experience.
3. Pancakes: Enjoy Dutch pancakes at pancake houses. These can be savory or sweet, with a wide range of toppings.
4. International Dining: The city is home to a diverse international community, so you’ll find cuisine from around the world. Explore Middle Eastern, Thai, Italian, and other international flavors.
5. Street Food: Discover local street stalls and food markets for quick and delicious bites. Try Dutch snacks like bitterballen (deep-fried balls with a creamy center) and patat (fries with toppings).

Famous Street Stalls in The Hague
Exploring the street food scene in The Hague is a delightful experience. Here are some famous street stalls to visit:

1. Friterie Par Hasard: Try some of the best fries in the city at this popular stall. The fries are served with a variety of toppings and sauces.
2. Haringkar: Don’t miss the chance to taste raw herring, a Dutch delicacy, at one of the haringkars around the city.
3. Haagsche Hopjes: Sample traditional Dutch coffee candies, Haagsche Hopjes, at local confectionery stalls.
4. Stroopwafel Stall: Enjoy freshly made stroopwafels, a sweet treat made of thin waffles with a caramel-like syrup filling.
5. Binnenhof Food Trucks: If you’re visiting Binnenhof, the food trucks often offer tasty snacks and drinks.

Where to Stay in The Hague
The Hague offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences:

1. Luxury Hotels: Experience world-class hospitality at luxury hotels like Hotel Des Indes, Hotel van Oranje, and Hilton The Hague.
2. Mid-Range Hotels: You’ll find comfortable and well-equipped mid-range options such as Novotel Den Haag City Centre and Parkhotel Den Haag.
3. Boutique Hotels: For a unique and stylish stay, consider boutique hotels like Hotel Pistache and The Collector Hotel.
4. Hostels: Budget travelers can opt for hostels like The Golden Stork or Kingkool The Hague Hostel.
5. Vacation Rentals: Airbnb and other vacation rental platforms offer a variety of apartments and homes for a home-away-from-home experience.

Travel Tips for The Hague
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip to The Hague, here are some travel tips:

1. Weather Preparedness: Be prepared for changeable weather, and pack layers to adapt to varying conditions.
2. Language: While Dutch is the official language, English is widely spoken, and you’ll find many signs and menus in English.
3. Public Transportation: Consider purchasing an OV-chipkaart for convenient access to public transportation.
4. Cash and Cards: Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases.
5. Museums and Attractions: Some museums and attractions may require advance reservations, so check their websites and book tickets if needed.
6. Respect Local Customs: When visiting religious sites or monuments, dress modestly, and follow local customs and rules.
7. Safety: The Hague is generally safe, but like any city, be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
8. Explore Beyond the City: While The Hague offers plenty to see and do, it’s also a great base for day trips to nearby cities like Delft, Leiden, and Rotterdam.

In Conclusion
The Hague is a city of immense cultural significance, political importance, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring its historical landmarks, savoring its culinary delights, or simply enjoying its relaxed atmosphere, The Hague offers an unforgettable travel experience. By following the tips and recommendations in this travel guide, you’re sure to make the most of your visit to this charming Dutch city.