The Hague Travel Guide: Royal Palaces, Culture & Beaches
Why Visit The Hague
The Hague (Den Haag) is the political heart of The Netherlands — home to the Dutch government, the Royal family’s palace, embassies, and international courts. But it’s also a cultural gem with world-class museums, historic architecture, peaceful parks, and… a beach!
Just 10–15 minutes by tram from the city center, you’ll find Scheveningen Beach — a lively seaside district perfect for sunny days, food, and fun activities.
The Hague offers the perfect mix of elegance, culture, and relaxation.
⭐ Top Things to Do in The Hague
1️⃣ Mauritshuis Museum
Home to Vermeer’s famous Girl with a Pearl Earring and Dutch Golden Age masterpieces — a must-visit for art lovers.
2️⃣ Binnenhof & The Dutch Parliament
Historic government complex where Dutch political decisions are made. Free to walk around — guided tours available.
3️⃣ Peace Palace (Vredespaleis)
Symbol of international justice with a beautiful visitor center about world peace and diplomacy.
4️⃣ Scheveningen Beach & Pier
Golden sandy beach, skywheel, seaside restaurants and water sports — easy public transport from the city center.
5️⃣ Panorama Mesdag
A spectacular 360° cylindrical painting showing Scheveningen in the 19th century — a unique art experience.
6️⃣ Escher in Het Paleis
Fascinating museum dedicated to M.C. Escher’s mind-bending artworks housed inside a royal former palace.
7️⃣ Noordeinde Palace
One of the King’s working palaces — elegant streets, galleries, great photo spots.
8️⃣ Madurodam
Miniature version of The Netherlands — fun for families and a great introduction to Dutch icons.
9️⃣ Gemeentemuseum (Kunstmuseum)
Top modern art & design museum with famous Mondrian collections.
➡️ Want more ideas? → Things to Do in The Hague (internal link later)
🏨 Where to Stay in The Hague
| Area | Best for | Vibe |
|---|---|---|
| City Center | First-timers | Close to museums & parliament |
| Scheveningen | Beach lovers | Lively seaside & great sunsets |
| Statenkwartier | Families & culture | Quiet area near museums |
| Chinatown | Budget food & shops | Colorful & walkable location |
➡️ Find the best hotels in The Hague
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🚆 How to Get Around The Hague
✔ Very walkable centre
✔ Excellent trams & buses
✔ Convenient train links to Amsterdam, Rotterdam & Utrecht
✔ Rent a bike for parks & coastline
Tip: Use HTM public transport app for real-time info.
🌍 Day Trips from The Hague
- Delft — Blue pottery, medieval charm, canals
- Rotterdam — Modern architecture & harbor views
- Leiden — Historic university city
- Kinderdijk — UNESCO windmills
- Keukenhof (spring only) — Tulip paradise
➡️ See all day trips from The Hague
🌦️ Best Time to Visit The Hague
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | Mild | Tulips, outdoor cafes |
| Summer | Warmest | Beach fun & festivals |
| Autumn | Cooler | Art museums & fewer crowds |
| Winter | Cold | Cozy atmosphere & indoor culture |
📝 Practical Tips
- Government buildings may have security zones
- Beach weather can be windy → bring a jacket
- Book museums in advance on weekends
- English widely spoken everywhere
- Cycling remains the fastest local transport
🗺️ The Hague Map
🡆 Embed Google Map with main highlights
✨ Suggested Itineraries
- 1 Day in The Hague — Culture + Beach
- 3 Days: The Hague, Delft & Rotterdam
- 7 Days Netherlands: Royal Cities & Coast
➡️ View all itineraries
❓ FAQ — The Hague Travel
Is The Hague worth visiting?
Yes — culture, government history, and a beach make it a unique Dutch experience.
Is it better to stay in The Hague or Amsterdam?
The Hague is calmer and more spacious — great for families and culture lovers.
How far is Scheveningen Beach from the center?
Around 15 minutes by tram.
🎉 Final CTA
Ready to explore The Hague?
➡️ Top Things to Do in The Hague
➡️ Where to Stay in The Hague
➡️ Plan Your Trip