Welcome to The Hague, a city that seamlessly blends royal grandeur with international diplomacy and a busy cultural scene. As the Netherlands' governmental seat and the "City of Peace and Justice," it offers a distinctive character often overshadowed by Amsterdam. But don't let that fool you; The Hague is packed with high-quality museums, stunning architecture, and a busy coastal stretch.
Whether you're here for art, history, or a relaxing stroll by the sea, The Hague in 2026 promises a rich and rewarding visit. We've dug into real traveler data and current local insights to bring you the top experiences you won't want to miss. Get ready to explore!
Quick Facts: The Hague
- Currency: Euro (€)
- Language: Dutch, English widely spoken
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET) / Central European Summer Time (CEST)
- Plug Type: Type C & F (two round pins)
- Best Time to Visit: April to September for mild weather and outdoor activities
Top Experiences in The Hague
Tour in Spanish to Rotterdam and The Hague
Discover the best of southern Holland on this excursion in which we will visit two cities of great international relevan
Book on Viator1. Escher in The Palace
Step into the mesmerizing world of M.C. Escher, the Dutch master of optical illusion and impossible architecture. Housed in the former winter palace of Queen Emma, Escher in The Palace showcases over 120 of his iconic prints. You'll see everything from his early Italian landscapes to his famous tessellations and gravity-defying structures. The second floor even features an interactive exhibit, "In the Eye of Escher," letting you play with perspective and reflection. It's a fantastic journey for all ages, with adult tickets at €14.50.
M.C. Escher The Immersive Exhibition Montreal
Step into the prehistoric world of Dinos Alive, where life-sized animatronic dinosaurs roam among immersive environments
Book on Viator2. Mauritshuis
No visit to The Hague is complete without experiencing the Dutch Golden Age masterpieces at the Mauritshuis. This prestigious museum is home to iconic works like Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring" and Rembrandt's "The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp." With a strong rating across platforms, it consistently impresses visitors. Standard adult admission is €21.00, but between January 1 and June 30, 2026, you can enjoy a reduced rate of €4.00 daily from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM by purchasing tickets at the museum's ticket office.
3. Kunstmuseum Den Haag
For a dose of modern and contemporary art, make your way to the Kunstmuseum Den Haag. This "modern palace for the arts" boasts an impressive collection, including the world's largest display of Piet Mondrian's works. Beyond paintings, you'll find fashion and applied arts, making for a diverse and engaging visit. Adult tickets are €20.00, with those under 19 entering for free. Keep an eye out for special exhibitions like "London Calling," running until June 7, 2026, which is a collaboration with Tate.
4. Peace Palace
See a global symbol of international law and peace at the Peace Palace. Home to the International Court of Justice, this impressive building is more than just an architectural marvel; it's a testament to global cooperation. While direct entry to the palace requires a pre-booked guided tour, you can visit the free Visitor Centre for an insightful audio tour about its history and the institutions it houses. Garden tours are also available for €9.00, offering a serene escape. Remember to bring a valid photo ID for any tours.
5. Tour The Hague
To truly get acquainted with the city's rich history and hidden stories, consider a guided "Tour The Hague." These personal tours, highly rated by travelers with an average of 4.9 stars, offer a deeper understanding of the city's best sights. Whether you prefer a walking tour with a local expert or a hop-on hop-off experience, you'll uncover fascinating narratives. Prices vary, with a Tourist Tram day ticket at €18.00 for adults or tip-based walking tours available. It's a fantastic way to orient yourself and gain local insights.
6. De Pier Scheveningen
Head to the coast for a completely different vibe at De Pier Scheveningen. This iconic pier, extending into the North Sea, offers panoramic views, various eateries, and entertainment options. While its overall rating is 3.9, the sheer volume of reviews (nearly 3,000) shows it's a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking fresh air and seaside fun. Stroll along the boardwalk, grab a snack, or simply enjoy the expansive ocean views. It's a classic coastal experience unique to The Hague.
7. The Hague Boat
See The Hague from a unique perspective by joining a boat tour through its canals. The Hague Boat offers pleasant cruises, providing a relaxing way to explore the city's waterways and see hidden corners you might miss on foot. With a stellar 4.9 rating, travelers consistently praise the experience. Whether you opt for a private cruise or a scheduled departure, it's a calm and scenic way to soak in the city's character. It’s perfect for those looking for a different angle on the city's architecture and ambiance.
8. Binnenhof Renovation Information Center
While the historic Binnenhof, the Dutch Parliament complex, is undergoing extensive renovations until at least 2031, you can still connect with its history. The Binnenhof Renovation Information Center at Plaats 22 offers fascinating insights into the ongoing project, archaeological discoveries, and the 800-year story of this crucial site. It's open Wednesday through Sunday and provides a valuable context to the city's governmental role, even with the main complex temporarily inaccessible. Don't miss this opportunity to understand a key part of Dutch history.
9. Hilton The Hague
For comfortable and centrally located accommodation, consider Hilton The Hague. Situated in the historic city center and the embassy quarter, it puts you within easy reach of high-end shopping and many famous museums. With a 4.5 rating from over 2,300 reviews, it's a trusted choice for travelers. Room prices generally range from $152 to $270, though these can fluctuate. The hotel offers amenities like the BlueBlood restaurant and is conveniently located just five minutes from The Hague Central train station.
The Hague: City Walk Audio Guide in 7 Languages on your Phone
Explore the beautiful city center of The Hague at your own pace. This self-guided audio tour will take you to all the we
Book on ViatorPlanning a wider trip? See our complete guide to The Netherlands: Beyond the Postcard – A Guide to Modern Dutch Life & Innovation, Featuring Rotterdam.
Practical Tips for Your Trip to The Hague
- Getting Around: The Hague is a very walkable city, especially in
the city center. For longer distances, an efficient network of trams and buses covers the entire city and connects to Scheveningen. Consider a 'Haagse Strippenkaart' (day pass) for convenient public transport. Cycling is also popular, with numerous bike rental shops available.
- Public Transport: The Hague Central Station (Den Haag Centraal) is a major hub for national and international train connections. From there, trams and buses can take you almost anywhere. Remember to check the public transport app HTM for real-time schedules.
- Coastal Escape: Don't forget that The Hague is a coastal city! Scheveningen Beach is easily accessible by tram (lines 1 and 9) and offers a busy promenade, restaurants, and plenty of fresh air. Even in cooler months, a walk along the beach is invigorating.
- Dining Scene: The Hague boasts a diverse culinary scene, from traditional Dutch eateries to international fine dining. Explore the Zeeheldenkwartier for trendy cafes and restaurants, or the city center for more upscale options. Don't leave without trying some fresh herring!
- Museumkaart: While some museums in The Hague accept the Museumkaart (Dutch Museum Card), it's important to check specific attractions, as some, like Escher in The Palace, do not. Always verify acceptance on the museum's official website before your visit.
- Book Ahead: Especially for popular attractions like the Mauritshuis or guided tours, booking your tickets online in advance is highly recommended. This often saves you time and sometimes offers a slight discount. For the Peace Palace, guided tours are mandatory and require advance booking.
FAQ
What is the best way to get from Amsterdam to The Hague?
The fastest and most convenient way to travel from Amsterdam to The Hague is by train. Direct intercity trains run frequently from Amsterdam Centraal Station to Den Haag Centraal (The Hague Central Station), with the journey taking approximately 50-60 minutes.
Is The Hague a walkable city?
Yes, The Hague city center is very walkable, with many major attractions, shopping areas, and restaurants within easy reach on foot. For destinations further afield, like Scheveningen Beach or the Kunstmuseum, public transport (trams and buses) is readily available and efficient.
The Hague 2-Hour Walking Tour | Discover The City With A Local
Come along on a two-hour walking trip through the largest Dutch city by the North Sea! Find out why it’s called the City
Book on ViatorWhat are the must-try local foods in The Hague?
When in The Hague, be sure to try haring (raw herring), often served with chopped onions and pickles. Kibbeling (battered and fried fish pieces) is another popular seafood snack. For something sweet, look for stroopwafels (syrup waffles) and poffertjes (miniature pancakes).
Are there any family-friendly attractions in The Hague?
Absolutely! Escher in The Palace offers an engaging and interactive experience for all ages. Madurodam, a miniature park showcasing Dutch landmarks, is also a fantastic option for families. Scheveningen Beach provides plenty of seaside fun, including a Ferris wheel on the pier.
What is the current status of the Binnenhof renovation, and can I still visit?
The Binnenhof is undergoing extensive renovations, projected to be completed no earlier than summer 2031. Direct access to the main complex is restricted. That said, you can visit the Binnenhof Renovation Information Center at Plaats 22, which is open Wednesday through Sunday, to learn about the project and the site's history.
Is English widely spoken in The Hague?
Yes, English is very widely spoken in The Hague, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and shops. You will have no trouble communicating in English throughout your visit.
Some links below are affiliate links — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you, which helps keep our guides free.