Things to Do in The Hague
The Hague in the Netherlands is notable as the nation's cultural treasure and political centre. Here, you can discover the mediaeval architecture of the ancient Binnenhof, where Dutch politics are played out. Explore the Peace Palace for perspectives on international justice. You can enjoy a leisurely walk down the colourful promenade of Scheveningen Beach. Exploring the Mauritshuis to see classics, like Vermeer's well-known "Girl with a Pearl Earring is one of the things to do in the Hague Netherlands."
You can savour a variety of culinary delights in the Haagse Markt . Imerse yourself in the local way of life at bustling plazas such as Plein and Grote Markt. The Hague offers a distinctive Dutch experience with its blend of art, history, and coastline beauty.
So why wait? Plan your Hague trip now to experience some of the exceptional things to do in the Hague Netherlands.
Must Do Things in Hague
1. Visit Mauritshuis:
Discovering the Mauritshuis is one of the key things to do in the Hague as you explore a vast collection of Dutch art historical treasures. It was formerly a magnificent home that was turned into a museum in 1822. Here, you can appreciate the building's exquisite architecture and go through rooms filled with Dutch Golden Age artwork. Admire "The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp" by Rembrandt and "Girl with a Pearl Earring" by Vermeer.
Location: Plein 29, 2511 CS Den Haag, Netherlands
Timing: Open Monday from 1 PM- 6 PM, Open 10 AM - 6 PM from Tuesday to Sunday
2. Explore Madurodam
One of the best things to do in the Hague is to get a miniaturised view of the Netherlands at Madurodam. Here, you can explore well-known sites like windmills and mansions, and indulge in entertaining water games and activities. You can climb across enormous paintings in "The Dutch Masters” besides exploring the worlds of Rembrandt and Van Gogh. In the rabbit garden, you can also swing, seesaw, slide, and build sandcastles in the soft sand.
Location: George Maduroplein 1, 2584 RZ Den Haag, Netherlands
Timing: Open daily 9 AM - 6 PM
3. Tour the Peace Palace
One of the things to do in The Hague is to explore the Peace Palace, which is a well-known symbol of harmony and justice. Here, you can admire its elaborate décor, which includes silk tapestries, paintings, and sculptures donated by nations all around the world. Experience the opulence of spaces furnished with exquisite paintings by renowned artists such as Ferdinand Bol. Discover its past and how "Peace through Law" is mirrored in every aspect.
Location: Carnegieplein 2, 2517 KJ Den Haag, Netherlands
Timing: Closed Monday to Tuesday, Open Wednesday to Sunday from 12 PM - 4 PM
4. Experience Escher in Het Paleis
Exploring M.C. Escher's mind-bending artwork at Escher in Het Paleis is one of the best things to do in the Hague. Here, you can witness optical tricks like Waterfall, which shows how water defies gravity. Watch birds turn into fish, watch staircases go on forever. See more than 150 prints and biographical items. Discover "In the Eye of Escher" on the second floor and solve his riddles.
Location: Lange Voorhout 74, 2514 EH Den Haag, Netherlands
Timing: Open daily 11 AM - 5 PM
5. Visit Kunstmuseum The Hague
Seeing the masterpiece designed by architect Hendrik Berlage at Kunstmuseum The Hague is one of the best things to do in the Hague. Admire Mondriaan's transformation from Victory Boogie Woogie to realism. Take in the vivid tiles and red brick architecture of Berlage's interior besides observing contemporary art, music, fashion, and ornamental arts. View the works of Monet, Picasso, and Mondriaan besides exploring 50,000 prints and sketches.
Location: Stadhouderslaan 41, 2517 HV Den Haag, Netherlands
Timing: Open Tuesday to Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM, closed on Mondays
6. Experience Panorama Mesdag
Experience Europe's largest circular canvas, Panorama Mesdag, in The Hague. Here, you can enter Scheveningen in 1881 with this masterwork by H.W. Mesdag. Admire the 360-degree optical illusion including the water and dunes glowing wonderfully with light. See skylights simulate natural light, making it difficult to distinguish between painted and actual light.
Location: Zeestraat 65, 2518 AA Den Haag, Netherlands
Timing: Open Tuesday to Sunday 10 AM - 5 PM, closed on Mondays
7. Ride The Pier SkyView
Experience the first Ferris wheel over the sea in Europe, The Pier SkyView. Relax on gondolas that give you a view of Scheveningen and the North Sea from all sides. Enjoy the warm and cool air conditioning and the comfy chairs. From fifty meters above ground, you can catch sweeping views of the beautiful surroundings of Scheveningen's city.
Location: Strandweg 156, 2586 JW Den Haag, Netherlands
Timing: Open Monday to Thursday 12 PM - 8 PM, Open Friday to Sunday 11 AM - 10 PM
8. Visit Noordeinde Palace
Explore The Hague's Noordeinde Palace, a former royal palace converted to a royal office in 1533. You can walk around on its beautiful grounds, which are open to everyone however if you wish to explore inside, consider visiting in July and August. Here, you can admire its significance as King Willem-Alexander's office and one of the four Dutch royal palaces. Enjoy royal events and opulent surroundings as you learn about William of Orange's legacy.
Location: Noordeinde 68, 2514 GL Den Haag, Netherlands
Timing: Open July to August and entry is allowed between 9 AM - 5 PM between Wednesday to Sunday
9. Explore Grote Kerk
See the 97-meter-tall Grote Kerk in Breda, which is visible from all directions. Discover its extensive 750-year history, which spans from its mediaeval beginnings to the present. Learn about its designation as a national monument and its inclusion in the Netherlands' largest museum.
Location: Rond de Grote Kerk 12, 2513 AM Den Haag, Netherlands
10. Visit Louwman Museum
Explore the 275 classic cars that span more than 130 years at the Louwman Museum in The Hague. Here, you can see how cars have changed over time, from the first electric car to the classic styles of the 20th century. Explore unique exhibits that showcase automotive innovation and social development. Admire Elvis Presley's Cadillac and James Bond's Aston Martin from Goldfinger.
Location: Leidsestraatweg 57, 2594 BB Den Haag, Netherlands
Timing: Open daily 10 AM - 5 PM
Kunstmuseum Den Haag in The Hague, Netherlands is one of Europe’s biggest art museums of modern art, fashion, prints, and decorative arts. Formerly known as Gemeentemuseum Den Haag, the current building was built between 1931 and 1935 by the Dutch architect, H.P. Berlage. The building in itself is an architectural masterpiece, featuring a blend of modernist style with natural light, clean lines, and brick structures.
The Mauritshuis is an art museum housed in a stunning 17th-century palace in the heart of The Hague. The palace was once the residence of John Maurits, former governor of a Dutch colony. The museum is celebrated for its impressive collection of Dutch and Flemish paintings, sculptures, miniatures, and drawings. Its classical architecture adds to the museum's charm, providing a sophisticated atmosphere for visitors to admire world-famous masterpieces.
Panorama Mesdag, situated in The Hague, Netherlands, is known to be the biggest circular painting in Europe. Created in 1881 by the artist Hendrik Willem Mesdag, the painting took 4 months to complete. It portrays a 360° view of a coastal village Scheveningen, and is housed in a building that was constructed exclusively for preserving it.
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The Peace Palace, situated in The Hague, Netherlands, is known as a historic symbol of justice and international diplomacy. Built in 1913, the palace is the headquarters for the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Designed by the famous architect Louis Mors, it features neo-Renaissance style architecture with Baroque and Gothic elements that create an impressive presence.
The Binnenhof, situated in The Hague, Netherlands, is known to be a historic complex that operates as the primary hub for Dutch politics. Built in the 13th century, it was originally the royal residence for the Counts of Holland. Later, it evolved into a complex that served as a key site for the Dutch government.
Museum Beelden aan Zee is a contemporary art museum located in Scheveningen, Den Haag. It's known for showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary and modern sculptures. Built in 1994, the museum is situated on the Scheveningen beach and is a beautiful blend of innovative design and coastal landscape.
Noordeinde Palace in The Hague, Netherlands is the place of work for the king and houses the state property, Royal Stables, and expansive gardens with Royal Archives. It allows you to see the artefacts of the royal family and learn about the several important events hosted for them. These occasions included the courtship of Prince Constantijn to Princess Laurentien and Princess Juliana to Prince Bernhard. The palace is located on the shopping streets of Hague and invites tourists from across the world. There are beautiful fashion shops, antique boutiques, and art galleries for you to explore around this attraction.
Step into the world of automobiles at the Louwman Museum in Hague, Netherlands and deep dive into its history, creation, and inspiration. The museum gives you a glimpse of over 250 cars, designed in the past 130 years and innovated rapidly to suit the changing lifestyle. It has a collection of classic, vintage, and celebrity cars to fascinate every type of visitor. Right from the supercars of the 90s to the speeding beasts of legendary sportsmen, the display is endless. You will find “Great Cars” on the first floor which were owned by the richest individuals of the 1930s.
Groke Kerk is a historical monument, a national heritage site, and the main of Museum in The Hague, Netherlands. The church frequently organises cultural programs to let visitors understand age-old history. Stories of the bygone era are showcased through animations, 3D sounds, and projections. You can even sit at the writing desk of Frits Grönloh, a Dutch author and share your experiences and most beloved memories here.
The Prison Gate Museum in The Hague, Netherlands is a fascinating attraction which promises to educate you about Dutch history. This place was once an actual prison where tales of crimes and punishments send shivers down the spines. Significant events such as the murder of the De Witt brothers and the imprisonment of Abraham de Wicquefort took place at this prison. The museum once served as the main gate of the Counts of Holland castle.
More The Hague Activities
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The Hague Things To Do FAQs
What outdoor activities can I enjoy in The Hague?
1. Surfat Scheveningen Beach: Experience thrilling waves at one of Europe's top surfing spots. Scheveningen offers surfing lessons and rentals for all skill levels, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned surfers.
2. Cycling through The Hague Forests: Rent a bike and ride through forests like Haagse Bo and enjoy a leisurely ride discovering hidden pathways and serene lakes along the way.
3. Kiteboardat Zuiderstrand: Feel the adrenaline rush with kiteboarding lessons at Zuiderstrand. Master the art of gliding across the water while harnessing the wind's power.
4. Sandboard on the Dunes: One of the best things to do in The Hague is try sandboarding on the vast dunes. Rent a board and slide down sandy slopes, enjoying panoramic views of the coastline.
5. Kayak in The Hague's Canals: Explore the city from a different perspective by kayaking through its picturesque canals. Rent a kayak and paddle past historical landmarks and charming neighbourhoods, immersing yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage.
Is Hague Netherlands worth visiting?
Yes, a visit to The Hague is worthwhile as you can discover cultural treasures like Panorama Mesdag, which offers a 360-degree view of the sea. Visit Mauritshuis, home to Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring, and see the political centre, Binnenhof, and the royal past, Noordeinde Palace. Moreover, you can take advantage of the year-round lively festivals and cafés in this vibrant city.
What is Hague famous for?
The Hague is well-known as the global centre of justice and peace. Beyond its beaches and busy shopping district, it serves as the political centre of the Netherlands. It is also home to numerous museums and cultural organisations. This "green city by the sea" has friendly restaurants and bars where history meets modern life.
How many days do you need in The Hague?
You need 2-3 days to explore. You can tour historical sites such as Noordeinde Palace and Binnenhof during this time. See artwork at the Gemeentemuseum and Mauritshuis. Wander around Madurodam and unwind at Scheveningen Beach. Explore Het Paleis's cultural treasures, such as Panorama Mesdag and Escher.
When is the best time to visit The Hague?
The best times to visit The Hague are March through May and September through November for mild weather and fewer crowds. During this time, you can explore the Binnenhof, enjoy art at Mauritshuis, stroll Scheveningen Beach, and visit Madurodam.
How can I reach The Hague?
To reach Hague from India, book a flight from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Bangalore to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS). Some of them with airlines such as KLM, Emirates, Air France, and Lufthansa. Upon arrival at Schiphol, you can walk to Schiphol Airport Train Station, and board a train to Den Haag which takes approximately 40 minutes and runs frequently. Alternatively, you can fly to other major European cities like Frankfurt, Paris, or London, then connect to Amsterdam and take a direct train to The Hague.