The Hague – Out and about in The Hague

The Hague is a mix of political allure, cultural treasures, cozy terraces and hidden spots that you quickly walk past if you don’t know them. From royal buildings to hippie shopping streets, from courtyard-courtyards to the sea within walking distance. We can regularly be found in The Hague ourselves and are happy to share our favorite tips for really getting out there!

The most famous sights of The Hague

The Hague has plenty of well-known tourist attractions, but these are more than worth visiting.

The Binnenhof and Ridderzaal

No visit to The Hague without the Binnenhof, the political heart of the Netherlands. Did you know that the Binnenhof is one of the oldest parliament buildings in the world? On the side of the Binnenhof you will find the beautiful Hofvijver where you can take a lovely stroll. Right now, the entire Binnenhof is under renovation due to a major renovation, but if you climb the watchtower that stands next to the Hofvijver, you can see everything from above.

Peace Palace

The Peace Palace is an impressive structure with a deeper meaning. This palace houses the International Court of Justice and is a symbol of peace worldwide. You can admire the building from the outside, or if you really want to get into the atmosphere, take a tour of the beautiful interior with its impressive library and picturesque halls.

The Gevangenpoort, horror the Hague way

Do you like a little horror? De Gevangenpoort is a unique place where you go back in time to the prison of the 13th century. See the cells where important political prisoners were held and learn all about the criminal law of the past. A subject with fascinating depth, especially for those who want to discover The Hague’s dark past.

Japanese Garden

In the middle of The Hague, in Park Clingendael, lies a beautiful piece of Japan: the Japanese Garden. This serene oasis is very beautiful and delicate. Stroll past bamboo, boulders and silence. Because of its fragility, the Japanese Garden is only open twice a year, a few weeks in spring and a few weeks in autumn. This only makes a visit extra special.

Museum de Mesdag

Are you a lover of art? If so, Museum de Mesdag is definitely worth a visit. The 19th century collection of painter and collector H.W. Mesdag is impressive. And the special thing? The museum is located in his former residence. You walk through the rooms as if Mesdag himself still lived there.

The Mauritshuis

Mauritshuis houses one of the finest art collections in the Netherlands. From Vermeer’s “Girl with the Pearl Earring” to paintings by Rembrandt. The building itself, a 17th-century palace, is already a work of art in itself.

Where to eat and drink in The Hague

The Hague offers an overwhelming array of eateries from all walks of life.

Coffee and goodies

Start your day with a delicious cappuccino and fresh pastries in one of the many coffee houses. Bookstor is a fine place for a cup of coffee and a treat. Or make yourself comfortable and take a seat in one of the cozy corners on the Denneweg, a former artists’ street full of galleries, stores and cafes.

Lunch and dinner

The Hague is bursting with restaurants. From sophisticated French cuisine at LaSalle, fusion at Fouquet or Italian at La Passione, to authentic sushi at Oni or Noh. For those who love tapas, Triana comes highly recommended. And want to try something different? At BØG, you’ll be introduced to New Nordic Cuisine.

Want to really pamper yourself? Hotel des Indes serves a refined high tea in a stately setting, perfect for a romantic afternoon or girlfriends’ day out.

Terraces and drinks

The Plein is the epicenter of The Hague’s terrace paradise. Surrounded by culture and politics, you’re in the middle of life here. Berger, Cloos, Plein 19, the terraces merge into one big cozy whole, ideal for people-watching. The Plaats is also a great place to sit with a view of the Hofvijver.

Grandcafé Haagsche Bluf says it has the most beautiful terrace in The Hague. Hidden above the shopping area, it makes you feel completely different.

Anna Palownaplein is less known but perhaps for that reason it has an extra atmosphere. Here you will find local guests rather than tourists. Spots like Wicked Wines and Publique are doing well.

For real locals: the small sidewalk cafes of special businesses in alleys like Prins Hendrikstraat, Molenstraat and Denneweg. Minimal, authentic, 100% The Hague. Places like Juni, Walter Benedict and Brasserie Meys.

Shopping in The Hague

Old and New Passage

Hidden between the busy shopping streets is the Oude en Nieuw Passage, a charming covered passage full of hidden treasures. This historic gallery exudes the character of old The Hague and is home to a mix of small boutiques, vintage stores and original stores. It is the ideal place to escape the busy shopping traffic and wander around at a more leisurely pace. The passage exudes a nostalgic atmosphere and offers an atmospheric counterpart for those who want to keep things a bit more bohemian and authentic.

Noordeinde and Hoogstraat

Noordeinde feels a bit more exclusive and is full of designer brands and haute couture. Enjoy walking around and shopping!

The Hoogstraat is more than just a shopping street. Here, buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries stand next to modern boutiques. Luxury brands and unique niche stores are both welcome here. Also stroll through the small alleys – that’s where the real gems are hidden.

Molenstraat, Denneweg and Frederikstraat

Want something a little less mainstream? Molenstraat, Denneweg and Frederikstraat are full of vintage stores, galleries, antique stores and concept stores. Together, these three streets form a very interesting shopping route where you can browse plenty for that one special vintage find or special art objects. But you can also go here for a cozy lunch, dinner or good cup of coffee.

Frederik Hendriklaan

Frederik Hendriklaan, also known as De Fred, is a must for lovers of design and contemporary fashion. This street in Statenkwartier is known for its selection of boutiques, where you will find both well-known and emerging designers. This shopping street has a local and relaxed character, better than in the busy big shopping streets. A nice place to stroll around and make new discoveries without being in a hurry.

The Hague by the sea in Scheveningen

What is The Hague without the sea? Scheveningen is just a short streetcar or bus ride away and definitely deserves a place in your visit.

Scheveningen is one of the most charming coastal cities in the Netherlands. The boulevard with its legendary Pier (built in 1961!) is not to be missed. Walk across it, enjoy the view of the sea and take the perfect photo with the North Sea in the background. Also take a look at the Pier’s website, as there is plenty to do here throughout the year.

The beach and the beach pavilions are the heart of Scheveningen. You can spend hours here. In summer the beach pavilions are in full operation, cozy wooden tents where you can put your feet in the sand while enjoying a cocktail, a snack or just ice cream. Spots like Copacabana, Solbeach and Beachclub Twins and countless other pavilions welcome you to pamper you throughout the day.

Want to be active? Scheveningen is ideal for water sports. Kitesurfing, surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, it’s all possible. There is also plenty for families: building sandcastles, swimming and in summer the beach is always doing something special.

Keizerstraat runs perpendicular to the sea and is a characteristic state with nice cafes, stores and boutiques. It is busy, cozy and has a nice village feel.

In Scheveningen’s inner harbor, enjoy the sight of the many boats and life on the water. Preferably from one of the restaurants surrounding the harbor while enjoying a delicious snack and drink. On Second Harbour, for example, you have a beautiful view from the terrace of SusieQ.

Cultural activities

Royal Theatre

The Royal Theatre is architecturally a masterpiece from 1804. Shimmering chandeliers, red velvet seats, and a magical atmosphere once the lights dim. Whether you go to theater, music or cabaret – an evening here always feels special.

Korzo Theatre

Located on Prinsestraat, Korzo Theater positions itself as a theater and makerspace where artists and audiences meet. The program is diverse and experimental, including performances, open classes and festivals such as Rewire. Korzo stands for art forms that push boundaries and make visitors “move,” both literally and figuratively. A perfect place for those looking for avant-garde theater and contemporary performance.

Art Museums

Besides Mauritshuis and Museum de Mesdag, there are others to explore: Museum Bredius for lovers of old masters, or Kunstmuseum Den Haag for modern and contemporary work.

Staying in The Hague

Whether you like luxury or more of a budget-friendly option, The Hague offers it all. Hotel des Indes is the top of the pops for those wanting to go to a star hotel, but there are also more affordable options. Look for accommodation close to the city center so you can get to everything on foot or by public transportation.

Credits photos: OpstapmetLisa