The Hague, also known as Den Haag, is renowned as the International City of Peace and Justice and serves as a pivotal location for prosecuting some of the world’s most heinous crimes. However, The Hague has so much more to offer beyond its criminal courts and palaces of justice. This captivating city allows you to immerse yourself in the beauty of Dutch culture, marvel at Vermeer’s iconic artwork, meander through charming streets, explore an impressive miniature replica of the Netherlands, and even unwind at the beach. One day in The Hague is all it takes to uncover the incredible diversity and allure that this city embodies.
Embark on a journey through The Hague’s rich history and visit the iconic Mauritshuis museum, where Vermeer's renowned masterpiece, 'Girl with a Pearl Earring,' can be admired. Delve into the picturesque streets of The Hague and discover quaint cafes, boutiques, and traditional Dutch architecture. For a unique experience, immerse yourself in the enchanting Madurodam, a miniature park showcasing the Netherlands' most famous landmarks, such as Amsterdam's charming canals and The Hague's own Binnenhof.
After a day of exploration and culture, you might be looking to extend your stay. Conveniently, The Hague caters to a variety of preferences when it comes to accommodation. Whether you're seeking a luxurious hotel or a more discrete love hotel for a romantic getaway, book here to have the perfect place to rest and recharge.
For those interested in exploring other top-rated accommodations in The Hague, a visit to tophotels.com offers an extensive selection of the best hotels complete with user reviews and ratings to help you make an informed decision. Whether it's proximity to the beach or walking distance to the Mauritshuis, you'll find something that suits your travel needs perfectly.
Unveiling The Hague: A Snapshot
Perched on the Dutch coast lies the engaging city, The Hague — a quick 50-minute train journey from Amsterdam. Due to its close proximity and the multitude of experiences it offers, it has become a favored day-trip destination for those visiting Amsterdam.
Within the span of a single day, immerse yourself in a plethora of culturally rich experiences. Explore numerous art galleries, take a leisurely stroll on the beach (weather permitting), and satiate your palate with an eclectic mix of world cuisines that the city boasts of.
The Hague holds significant importance as an international city of peace and justice in the Netherlands. The city houses two pivotal judicial bodies. The International Court of Justice, affiliated to the United Nations, resides in the Peace Palace here. Additionally, the city hosts the International Criminal Court, dedicating itself to the prosecution of grave crimes that affect the international community such as genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. Thus, a visit to The Hague goes beyond just a visual treat — it's instrumental in understanding the role that the city plays in our global society.
In addition to these international courts, the Noordeinde Palace, which is located in the center of The Hague, is a working residential palace of King Willem-Alexander. It’s quite an important city, not only for the Netherlands but the rest of the world.
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Exploring The Hague in a Day
Whether you're planning a day trip from Amsterdam or spending several days in The Hague, this curated itinerary will ensure you make the most of your time in the city.
Making the Most of a Monday: Please note that on Mondays, Mauritshuis opens after 1 pm, and Escher in the Palace remains closed. However, there are plenty of other fascinating attractions in The Hague that are open and ready to be explored.
Start your day by strolling through the historic Binnenhof complex, where you can admire the iconic Ridderzaal and explore the beautiful inner courtyards. Don't forget to visit the Peace Palace, an architectural masterpiece that houses the International Court of Justice.
Exploring The Hague: Getting started
When visiting The Hague, there are two primary train stations you can arrive at. The centrally located Centraal Station is just a short 10-minute walk away from the main attractions, making it a convenient choice. Alternatively, you can opt for Den Haag HS (Hollands Spoor), which requires a slightly longer walk or a tram ride to reach the city center.
To make the most of your day in The Hague, I recommend arriving at Centraal Station between 9:30 and 9:45 in the morning. This timing allows you to seamlessly follow this itinerary.
Once you arrive at Centraal Station, it's merely a 10-minute stroll to reach the magnificent Mauritshuis, a renowned art museum housing exquisite paintings, including Vermeer's masterpiece, Girl with a Pearl Earring.
As you immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage, don't forget to take in the picturesque scenery and charming ambiance of The Hague's streets along the way.
10:00 am Mauritshuis
Mauritshuis is an art museum that displays masterpieces by the Dutch painters Johannes Vermeer, Rembrandt van Rijn, Frans Hal, Jan Steen, and more. The most famous painting is Girl with a Pearl Earring by Vermeer.
The Mauritshuis is an intimate museum you'll likely navigate in roughly an hour or two due to its compact size.
EXPERT TRAVEL ADVICE: Given its popularity amongst the art enthusiasts, it wouldn't be surprising to encounter a long queue at the entrance. Arriving before or precisely at the opening time could help you bypass the crowd.
Note: If your travel plans include a Monday visit to The Hague, note that Mauritshuis opens its doors at 1 pm on that day. Therefore, you might need to tweak your schedule if you wish to include this art treasure hub in your itinerary.
Website: For detailed information on visiting hours and ticket prices, please turn to the official page.
11:30 am Explore the Fascinating World of Escher in the Palace
After immersing yourself in the rich art collection at Mauritshuis, take just a brief stroll to Escher in the Palace, an extraordinary museum showcasing the incredible works of M.C. Escher (Escher in Het Paleis).
Get ready to be mesmerized by the mind-bending optical illusions and intricate patterns that have made Escher a beloved artist. This intimate art museum offers a unique opportunity to experience the genius of Escher's work up close. Whether you're an art enthusiast or visiting with your family, this captivating museum promises a memorable adventure.
In the company of your loved ones, marvel at Escher's artistic mastery and engage in thought-provoking discussions. The museum's captivating collection will truly ignite young minds, fostering their creativity and curiosity.
As you explore the various exhibits, don't miss the chance to discover the mathematical precision and artistic beauty seamlessly woven into Escher's art. Each piece tells a story, challenging your perception and inviting contemplation.
With the link between Escher and The Hague, this museum immerses you in the creative world of one of the most ingenious artists of the 20th century. It's an ideal stop to continue your perfect day in The Hague.
The works of Escher captivate the senses, exploring the realms of illusion, impossibility, object metamorphoses, and altered perceptions, whilst playing with reality. The highest level of the museum houses experiential exhibits that play with your perception, paralleling a trick-eye museum.
It's documented that all pieces showcased in the museum are recreations rather than original works. While this may slightly dull the allure of the visit, the overall adventure remains intriguing and enjoyable nonetheless.
Website: For detailed information on hours and ticket costs, visit the official website.
12:30 pm: Lange Voorhout and the City Center
From Escher in the Palace, walk along the very pretty Lange Voorhout to the city center. In the city center, places to visit include the Passage, which is a covered arcade of shops, and the scenic streets.
Lange Voorhout
Exploring the vibrant city center
Indulge in a delightful retail therapy session while exploring the captivating city center of The Hague. From stylish boutiques to bustling markets, this area offers an array of shopping options for every taste. Moreover, the city center is a gastronomic haven with an abundance of international restaurants that promise to take your taste buds on a culinary journey.
Little V. Prepare to be transported to the vibrant streets of Vietnam with a visit to Little V. This renowned Vietnamese restaurant will tantalize your palate with their authentic flavors and mouth-watering dishes. Our experience at Little V was truly outstanding, making it one of the memorable highlights of our time in the Netherlands. Additionally, be sure to treat yourself to their exquisite range of non-alcoholic tropical beverages, which are simply extraordinary. Although they may come at a higher price, these drinks are undoubtedly worth every penny.
If you're keen on exploring different cultures through food and indulging in retail therapy, a visit to The Hague's city center is an absolute must.
Baladi Manouche. While finishing up lunch at Little V, one of our readers, who lives in The Hague, suggested this spot to us via Facebook Messenger. Baladi Manouche serves delicious Lebanese street-style food at cheap prices. We stopped here for our second lunch of the day and it was worth it. If you want a quick, budget meal or love Lebanese food, this is a great lunch spot.
2 pm: Discover Panorama Mesdag
Prepare to be amazed! Our visit to this exceptional art museum left all four of us captivated, a truly rare occurrence indeed.
Immerse yourself in a one-of-a-kind "experience" that goes beyond mere observation. Step into the past with a multi-sensory journey through time, as you gaze upon a mesmerizing 360° panoramic painting accompanied by carefully crafted props and immersive sound effects. From the vantage point of a lighthouse, you'll witness the breathtaking mural depicting the idyllic beach and charming fishing village of Scheveningen, frozen in time just as it appeared in the year 1881.
Now, imagine feeling a gentle sea breeze as you stand in awe of this magnificent work of art. The entire atmosphere transports you to the past, creating an unforgettable connection with a bygone era.
Website: Get hours and pricing on the official website.
3 pm: Peace Palace
From Panorama Mesdag, it’s just a 10-minute walk to the Peace Palace.
The Peace Palace is the seat of the International Court of Justice, the only judicial center of the United Nations that is not located in New York City.
If you desire to expand your knowledge about the Peace Palace, a Visitor Center is available for you to explore. Periodically, guided tours of the Peace Palace are organized, offering you the opportunity to delve deeper into its history and significance.
3:30 pm Activity Choice #1: Madurodam
Envision a scaled-down model of the entire Netherlands, complete with miniature duplicates of the most iconic landmarks such as the Rijksmuseum, Schiphol Airport, as well as quintessential Dutch canal houses, windmills, and tulip-covered landscapes—welcome to Madurodam.
The ideal time to tour Madurodam extends from mid-spring through autumn, which paints its canvas with colorful flowers and brimming canals. In contrast, winter visits might look different as some exhibits might be under refurbishment, changing the overall experience.
The most straightforward way to arrive here from the Peace Palace would be by taxi since the location lacks a direct tram line and it is a brisk 25-minute walk apart.
Check the current operating hours and secure online tickets beforehand on their official website.
Afternoon alternative 3:30 pm - Scheveningen
Should the weather be kind, it would be a splendid idea to allocate your afternoon to the beach. Scheveningen stands as the most famous seaside attraction in the Netherlands. Here, there are ample activities for everyone. You can stroll along the pier, delight yourself with a sumptuous dinner, ride the lofty ferris wheel, or for those needing excitement, a zip-line might just be your spot. This makes a fitting finale to the day, more so for those exploring The Hague with young ones.
Dive deeper into the enchanting world of Scheveningen here
Route to Scheveningen: Starting from the Peace Palace, you'd need to hop on Tram 1 straight to Scheveningen Village.
Leaving The Hague
If you are heading back to Centraal Station, you can take tram 9. If you need to reach Den Haag HS, you can take either tram 1 or 9.
The Spectacular View from The Hague Tower
For a truly unforgettable experience in The Hague, make sure to visit The Hague Tower. Offering a breathtaking bird's eye view of the city, this iconic landmark allows you to admire the beauty of The Hague and beyond, with stunning vistas extending all the way to the charming coastal town of Scheveningen.
Upon purchasing your tickets to the observation deck, you not only gain access to this unparalleled viewpoint but also receive a complimentary drink at the tower's elegant bar. If you're looking to elevate your experience even further, consider indulging in a delightful dinner at this remarkable venue, combining gastronomic delights with magnificent panoramic views.
As you ascend to the top of The Hague Tower, be prepared to be enchanted by the sprawling landscape below. From the historic icons such as the Binnenhof and Peace Palace to the picturesque beaches of Scheveningen, each glimpse from this lofty vantage point tells a story of The Hague's rich history and captivating charm.
Embarking on this journey will not only allow you to marvel at the city's architectural wonders, but it will also grant you newfound knowledge and insights into The Hague's cultural heritage. Make sure to bring your camera along to capture the awe-inspiring scenery and create lasting memories of your visit to The Hague Tower.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness The Hague from a different perspective. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a curious explorer, the view from The Hague Tower is an experience that will stay with you long after you leave.
Reaching The Hague: The Hague Tower is conveniently situated adjacent to Den Haag HS. If you are traveling from Madurodam or Scheveningen, take tram 1 towards HS/Waldorpstraat and you’ll find the Hague Tower just a short one-minute stroll away.
If you plan to visit Amsterdam, catch a train from Den Haag HS instead of Centraal Station.
The Hague Tower offers breathtaking panoramic views of the cityscape, making it a must-visit spot for photography enthusiasts. Additionally, Den Haag HS is a historical train station known for its striking architecture and interesting backstory.
Adapting Your Day Trip Itinerary
Located a stone throw away from The Hague is the quaint town of Delft. Echoing similarities with Amsterdam, it boasts charming canals while also globally recognized for its blue and white pottery.
A two-part excursion spending a part of the day in The Hague and the remaining in Delft would ensure a wholesome experience. Fascinating sights in The Hague such as the Escher Museum, the exquisite Mauritshuis, and the impressive Panorama Mesdag should not be overlooked. Strolling by the Peace Palace followed by delectable lunch in the city, and then hopping onto tram 1 towards Delft for a delightful evening ensures a fulfilling day.
Travelling from Delft to Amsterdam is quite breezy, with a direct one-hour train ride. Alternatively, you could opt for a transferrable journey via Rotterdam, Leiden, or Schiphol Airport.
Another appealing option would be to divide the day between The Hague and Haarlem. Following a short sightseeing session in Haarlem and a delightful dinner, you can catch a connecting train to Amsterdam. This split day trip provides an immersive Dutch experience.
Navigating Your Way to The Hague from Amsterdam
The most efficient means of commuting between Amsterdam and The Hague is undeniably by train. The Hague houses two resourcefully positioned train stations, but our suggested arrival point for this guide is Central Station (Den Haag Centraal).
The consistency of the train service is commendable, with departures every ten minutes. The duration of travel comes to a comfortable 50 minutes. If the concept of train transfers daunts you, simply opt for a directly commuting route.
Planning ahead pays off. You can conveniently secure your tickets at www.b-europe.com in advance, or do an on-the-spot purchase at the station. The fact that these trains do not demand mandatory seat reservations further adds to the convenience. Like the metro, you buy a ticket and board the next available train. The Netherlands has one of the densest railway networks in the world.
MORE INFO: Master the Art of Train Travel in the Netherlands: Tips for Booking and Using Train Services
Navigating Through The Hague
Although most of the attractions outlined in the itinerary are within walking distance, The Hague boasts a highly efficient public transportation system. Utilizing the economical and user-friendly trams and buses provide a smooth and expedient travel experience.
For comprehensive details on how to make the most of the public transit system, please consult The Hague's official website. Here, you'll find a wealth of resources to guide your journey through the city's sprawling landscape.
Is The Museum Card Worth Your Investment?
The Museum Card presents an opportunity for unrestricted access to 400 museums across the Netherlands. The card, exclusively for Dutch residents, stays valid for a 12-month period. Tourists, however, can enjoy this privilege for 31 days which is available at selected museum outlets.
At a price of €64.90, the Museum Card can be a wise investment if you have planned trips to different Dutch cities such as Amsterdam, The Hague, and several others. Especially in Amsterdam, by touring key attractions such as the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum, Anne Frank House, and Our Lord in the Attic, you would be required to pay €74.50. Adding just one more museum visit in The Hague to your itinerary would make the card high value for money.
In The Hague, the Museum Card is readily available for purchase at the famous Mauritshuis museum, known for its Dutch Golden Age paintings.
When to Go to The Hague
The Hague can be visited all year round, but the best weather is between April and October. April and May is a very popular time to visit the Netherlands, since this is the time when the tulips and daffodils create blankets of color in the bulb fields, parks, and flower markets.
We visited The Hague the first week of April. We had a nice day during our visit, with sunny skies and temperatures reaching 60°F (16°C).
What's Your Next Destination?
NETHERLANDS: Discover how to make the most out of a 48-hour trip to Amsterdam along with the top-notch activities in Amsterdam. Peruse through our guide on the best lodging options in Amsterdam and learn about visiting intriguing places like Haarlemand Utrecht.
BELGIUM: Be sure to check out our comprehensive guide on experiencing a self-led Brussels chocolate expedition that includes the city's premier attractions. Additionally, we offer an article on getting the most out of a one-day excursion to Bruges and Ghent.
LUXEMBOURG: In our guide titled 'A Single Day in Luxembourg: An Itinerary', get expert tips on Luxembourg City's one-of-a-kind attractions and efficient trip planning.
LONDON: Peruse through our compilation of must-dos while in London with our article 'Hot Picks: Things to Do in London.'
PARIS: For curated Paris experiences, browse our article 'Paris Prime Picks: Things to Do'. Combine these works in our suggested 72-hour Paris Itinerary.
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