Best things to do in The Hague
Find out more about those top places in The Hague
The Hague, Netherlands: Beyond Bureaucracy - Think Dutch Masters, Rave Nights, and Canals with a Stiff Upper Lip! - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to This Surprisingly Lively City!
Alright, history buffs and party animals, listen up! You might know The Hague as the serious sibling of Amsterdam, the place where Very Important People in suits discuss Very Important Things at the International Court of Justice. And while it's true, there's a certain air of dignified importance wafting through its streets, let us tell you, there's a whole lot more bubbling beneath that diplomatic surface!
Sure, The Hague's canals might not have the flamboyant flair of Amsterdam's watery veins, but the stately homes that line them exude a peculiarly English sense of stern simplicity – think less "look at me!" and more "we've been here for centuries, thank you very much." But don't let that fool you! This city is one of the Netherlands' hidden gems, a delightful surprise package offering a dazzling array of world-class museums that will make your inner culture vulture sing, and an exuberant nightlife scene that gives Amsterdam and Rotterdam a serious run for their money (think less stag parties, more sophisticated revelry!).
For art aficionados, a pilgrimage to the Mauritshuis is an absolute must. Prepare to feast your eyes on a spectacular collection featuring the crème de la crème of Dutch masters, including the iconic works of Rembrandt and Vermeer (yes, that includes the girl with the pearl earring – try not to stare!). This museum is undoubtedly one of the top attractions and a highlight of any Hague sightseeing adventure.
But the cultural delights don't end there! The charming streets of The Hague’s old town are a joy to explore, lined with everything from pavement cafés perfect for people-watching and sipping strong Dutch coffee, to Michelin-starred restaurants ready to tantalize your taste buds. And when the sun goes down? This seemingly sedate city transforms! Hidden amongst those stately buildings are clubs pumping out some of Europe’s best techno music, where you can dance the night away and prove that even serious cities know how to let their hair down (metaphorically speaking, of course – this is still The Hague!).
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exciting things to do in this surprisingly lively city. Get ready for some truly unforgettable sightseeing, from immersing yourself in masterpieces of Dutch art and exploring charming historical streets to indulging in world-class cuisine and dancing to cutting-edge beats, all while uncovering the top attractions that make The Hague a truly special and hilariously multifaceted destination.
Top Attractions: Art, History, and Unexpected Nightlife!
The Hague offers a captivating blend of culture, history, and surprising entertainment:
Mauritshuis: Dutch Masters Masterclass
Immerse yourself in the spectacular collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings at the Mauritshuis, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt and Vermeer. A must-see attraction for your Hague sightseeing.
Binnenhof & Ridderzaal: Seat of Dutch Power
Explore the Binnenhof, the historic political heart of the Netherlands, and admire the majestic Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights). A key place to visit for understanding Dutch history and governance.
Escher in Het Paleis: Mind-Bending Art
Step into the fascinating world of M.C. Escher at Escher in Het Paleis (Escher in The Palace), a museum dedicated to the master of optical illusions. A unique place to visit for a mind-bending experience.
Scheveningen Beach: Seaside Escape
Enjoy the lively atmosphere of Scheveningen Beach, a popular seaside resort with a pier, promenade, and plenty of things to do, from sunbathing to enjoying fresh seafood. A great escape from the city center.
Gemeentemuseum Den Haag: Modern Art and More
Discover a diverse collection of modern art, including works by Mondrian, at the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag. A noteworthy place to visit for art enthusiasts.
Things to Do Beyond the Iconic Landmarks (and within this surprisingly lively city!):
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience The Hague vibe:
- Stroll Through the Old Town: Explore the charming streets, boutiques, and cafes of the historic center.
- Visit the Peace Palace (Vredespaleis): Admire the architecture of the seat of the International Court of Justice.
- Explore the Panorama Mesdag: Immerse yourself in a breathtaking 360-degree painting of 19th-century Scheveningen.
- Indulge in Indonesian Cuisine: The Hague has a rich Indonesian culinary heritage – don't miss a "rijsttafel"!
- Discover the Hidden Nightlife: Ask locals for recommendations on the best techno clubs and underground music venues.
So, if you're looking for places to visit in the Netherlands that offer a sophisticated blend of world-class art, fascinating history, unexpected nightlife, and a touch of understated elegance, The Hague is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an unforgettable adventure filled with incredible sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared to have your expectations delightfully subverted – this city has more than just international law on its agenda! Fijne reis! (Have a nice trip!)
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Mauritshuis
The former home of the sugar baron Johan Maurits is now the world-famous Mauritshuis Museum. Housing a breathtaking collection of Dutch and Flemish art, the museum’s highlights include Vermeer’s iconic Girl with a Pear Earring (1665) and Rembrandt’s The Anatomy Lesson of Dr Tulp (1632). For the best experience, take a guided tour of this treasure trove of Golden Age art.
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Escher in Het Palais
Housed in what was once the Dutch royal family’s grandiose palace, Escher in Het Palais is a renowned exhibition on the famed graphic artist M.C. Escher. Featuring original woodcutting, lithograph prints, paintings and personal items, including one-of-a-kind photographs and letters, the exhibition is one of the Netherlands finest.
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Vredespaleis
The Hague is undoubtedly best known as the home of the United Nation’s International Court of Justice and at the Peace Palace, known in Dutch as the Vredespaleis, you can get a sense of the institution’s weighty history. Tours are by appointment only and highlight the history of the Peace Palace building alongside landmark cases prosecuted in the Court of Justice.
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Panorama Mesdag
One of the world’s most unusual work of art is housed in the unforgettable Panorama Mesdag. Surrounding a Victorian bandstand is the 14 meters high and 120 meters in circumference painting by Willem Mesdag, known as Panorama (1881). Encompassing fishing villages, the great expanses of the North Sea and vast sand dunes, the painting is a highlight of any trip to The Hague.
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Binnenhof
Likely the most historic location in the Netherlands, the 13th century Binnenhof is home to both the Upper and Lower Houses of the Dutch government. Guided tours of the complex are organized solely by ProDemos and take you on a tour through its rich history.
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Madurodam
For visitors who want to see all the Netherlands attractions but do not have the time, head to the Madurodam where the entire country is displayed, albeit in miniature form. In the outdoor museum you can marvel at the dykes of the Delta, the futuristic skyline of über-cool Rotterdam and vast tulip fields all on a scale of 1:25.
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Gemeentemuseum
Housed in a breathtaking art deco building, the Geemeentemuseum is one of the Netherlands premier venues for modern art. Best known for its remarkable De Stijl exhibition, which contains a number of excellent works by Mondrian, the museum also has a rotating collection that showcases works by Kandinsky, Van Gogh, Picasso and others.
