We cover must-sees, unusual finds, family adventures & evening hotspots. Plan less, discover more!
Discover world-class museums, historic landmarks, and delicious Dutch cuisine in this vibrant city.
Thao Vo
Apr 11 2025
16m
Related reading
Thinking about swapping those Amsterdam canal selfies for something a bit more...royally awesome? Welcome to The Hague, the Netherlands' most underrated gem that's basically what would happen if European charm and beachy vibes had a really good-looking baby.
While tourists elbow each other for space in Amsterdam, you could be living your best life in this elegant political powerhouse that somehow manages to be a fancy-pants official without the stuffiness. From gawking at Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring" to feeling sand squish between your toes at Scheveningen Beach, the things to do in The Hague will make your Instagram followers wonder why they've been doing the Netherlands all wrong.
Grab your sense of adventure (and maybe a herring sandwich) as we guide you to a city that's part dignified diplomat, part beach bum, and 100% worth your vacation days. Let’s read on with TravelThru!
The Hague is known as the International City of Peace and Justice, and this stunning building is right at the heart of it all. It's a powerful symbol of hope and countries working together. Inside, you'll find really important groups like the UN's main court and the Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA).
But, getting inside for a regular tour can be tricky. The main reason is that the building often closes for tours when the international courts inside are actually working.
You might be able to sit in on a public court hearing. They usually happen in English or French. The trick is to get there early on a day the court is sitting and see if you can get in as an observer.
Those official tours are hard to snag. Tickets sell out super quickly, and they usually only announce the dates about 2-3 weeks ahead of time. Your best bet is to keep an eye on the official Peace Palace website shortly before your visit and see if you get lucky.
You definitely can't miss the Binnenhof – it's basically the command center for Dutch politics and has been for ages. Right in the city center next to the lovely Hofvijver pond, this collection of buildings is where the Dutch Parliament meets, and the Prime Minister has his office. Inside the courtyard, you'll find the famous Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights), a stunning old hall where the King gives a big speech every year on Prinsjesdag (Budget Day).
The buildings look incredible from the outside, especially when you see them reflected in the Hofvijver pond – it's a classic Hague photo op! Just walking around the area gives you a real sense of history and importance. Not to mention, you can pop into ProDemos nearby, which is all about Dutch democracy and might offer some cool insights while the main buildings are closed off.
Art lovers, listen up! You absolutely have to visit the Mauritshuis. It’s not one of those huge, overwhelming museums; think of it more like visiting a beautiful, historic house filled with incredible treasures.
Seriously, this is where you’ll find some truly iconic masterpieces. Get ready to come face-to-face with Vermeer’s stunning Girl with a Pearl Earring (yes, the real one!). You can also see Rembrandt’s famous The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp and Carel Fabritius's incredibly delicate painting, The Goldfinch.
The museum itself is housed in a gorgeous 17th-century mansion right in the city center, often just a short walk from the Binnenhof. Its cozy rooms make viewing the art feel really special and intimate. Honestly, if you appreciate beautiful art or just want to see some of the paintings everyone talks about, the Mauritshuis is a must-visit.
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If you're more into modern vibes after seeing the Old Masters, then you'll want to head to Kunstmuseum Den Haag. This place is fantastic, especially if you're a fan of Piet Mondrian – they have the world's biggest collection of his work! You can literally see his style evolve right up to his famous final (and unfinished) piece, Victory Boogie Woogie.
But it’s not all Mondrian! The museum has a really impressive and diverse collection. You'll find pieces by other big names like Monet and Picasso, plus amazing collections of Delftware (that classic blue and white pottery), fashion exhibits, and applied arts.
You absolutely have to check out the Lange Voorhout when you're in The Hague. Way back in the Middle Ages, this was where all the fancy noble families built their impressive city homes – kind of like mini-castles right in town. It stayed exclusive, and during the Dutch Golden Age, it was the place for The Hague's richest folks to live.
In the spring, Lange Voorhout is bursting with beautiful flowers. But if you happen to be visiting around December, you're in for a real treat: the Royal Christmas Fair is set up right here.
Dutch Christmas markets might not be as huge as the famous ones in Germany, but this one is special. It usually runs for about a week, and it's incredibly gezellig – that wonderful Dutch word for cozy, warm, and inviting. It feels really intimate, especially when you're wandering around sipping on some gluhwein (hot mulled wine).
Looking for something a bit mind-bending in The Hague? Then you’ve got to check out Panorama Mesdag! Seriously, forget regular flat paintings hanging on gallery walls – this is a whole other level. Get ready to step into what feels like the world’s coolest observation deck, surrounded by a gigantic, 360-degree painting.
Imagine this: you walk up some stairs, and suddenly – WOW – you're transported back to the Scheveningen seaside village and beach as it looked way back in 1880. The painting circles all around you, complete with clever perspective tricks and even real sand at the base to make it feel incredibly immersive. It’s like stepping into a time machine or experiencing some amazing old-school virtual reality!
Painted by Hendrik Willem Mesdag (and his wife, among others), it’s the oldest 19th-century panorama still in its original spot. It doesn’t take ages to visit, but the feeling of being inside this massive artwork is seriously memorable and unlike any other museum experience. It's a definite must-see if you enjoy history and art or just want a cool story to tell about your trip!
Forget typical paintings – this museum is dedicated to the super cool and world-famous Dutch artist M.C. Escher. You know those amazing drawings where fish turn into birds, stairs seem to go nowhere, and water flows uphill? That's him. This place is packed with his incredible optical illusions and impossible worlds.
What makes it extra special (and a bit unusual!) is where it is. All this mind-bending art is displayed inside the stunning Lange Voorhout Palace, which used to be a winter palace for the Dutch Queen Mother Emma.
It’s less like a stuffy art gallery and more like a fun exploration that makes you look twice at everything. You’ll see many of his most famous works, and there are often cool interactive exhibits that play with perspective too. It’s a fantastic spot if you’re looking for something visually fascinating, thought-provoking, and definitely different from your average museum.
While you're exploring The Hague, try hunting for some hofjes! These are some of the really cool, unique things about Dutch cities. Think of them as hidden little courtyards, often centuries old, tucked away behind unassuming entrances. Typically, they were built as charitable homes around a shared garden – like little pockets of peace and history right in the middle of things.
The hofjes in The Hague might seem a bit more hidden or smaller compared to ones you might find elsewhere in the Netherlands. You might walk right past a doorway without realizing the beautiful oasis inside. But trust us, finding one that you can peek into is totally worth it. Stepping off a busy street into one of these quiet, historic spots is always a special moment. We have a soft spot for the Hofje van Nieuwkoop – we always try to pop by when we're visiting The Hague.
Just keep in mind that these are people's private homes. So, if you are lucky enough to find a gate open and decide to quietly look around, please be incredibly respectful. Keep your voice down, stick to pathways if allowed, and absolutely respect the residents' privacy.
Even if you're not a total car fanatic, the Louwman Museum is seriously impressive. It holds one of the world's oldest and most incredible private collections of automobiles, motorcycles, and even car-related art.
They've got everything from the absolute earliest 'horseless carriages' right up to iconic classic cars, legendary racing machines, and even famous movie cars (yep, like James Bond's Aston Martin DB5!).
The Louwman Museum is located a little outside The Hague's city center, so you'll need to catch a bus or arrange transport to get there. Plan for at least a couple of hours because there's a lot to see! It's a fantastic trip if you appreciate cool machines, history, and design or just want to see an absolutely world-class collection.
Here's a real treat if you love peace, nature, and a bit of exclusivity: try visiting the Japanese Garden hidden within the lovely, larger Clingendael Park. It's the oldest Japanese garden in the Netherlands, dating back to around 1910.
The garden is only open for a very short time each year – usually a few weeks in spring (around May/June) and a few in autumn (October).
Before you get your hopes up or even think about heading over, you absolutely need to check the official website of The Hague's municipality (Gemeente Den Haag) for the exact opening dates and times for this year.
But if your visit happens to line up with that brief window when the garden is open, you should definitely go! It's a rare opportunity to experience this incredibly serene and beautiful place.
Want a taste of the real The Hague, away from the polished city center and tourist crowds? Then you should definitely check out De Haagse Markt (The Hague Market). The second you walk in, it feels like you've left the Netherlands behind and stepped into... well, somewhere totally different and buzzing with energy!
Imagine hearing vendors shouting great deals (like, 4 avocados for one euro – yes, really!), smelling delicious empanadas that might transport you to the Dominican Republic, seeing stalls piled high with random household stuff you never knew you needed, and grabbing a warm, fresh stroopwafel all in one place.
De Haagse Markt isn't right in the center, so you'll likely need to hop on a tram or bus to get there. Also, super important: it's not open every day! Usually, it runs on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, but definitely double-check the official opening days and times before you go so you don't miss out.
TravelThru Tip: Definitely bring cash. Otherwise, you'll likely get stuck in that long line for the ATM near the entrance with everyone else who forgot (we've all been there!). Also, bring a big reusable bag, you'll probably find loads to buy.
Want a super charming and easy way to see the main sights of The Hague, perhaps with a touch of nostalgia? Then keep an eye out for the Historic Tourist Tram! Forget the regular modern trams for a minute – these are often beautifully restored classic trams, the kind you might have seen decades ago.
The tram follows a special route designed to take you past many key landmarks like the Binnenhof area and sometimes even heads toward Scheveningen Beach. It's usually a hop-on, hop-off service, meaning you can get off at stops that interest you, explore a bit, and then catch a later tram to continue your journey.
This special tram is seasonal. It usually only runs from spring (around this time of year, starting April/May) through autumn (until about October). Outside the main summer months, you might find it only runs on weekends or holidays. If it is running during your visit, it's a delightful and different way to experience The Hague.
Visiting The Hague with kids? Then you absolutely can't miss Madurodam. Kids (and, honestly, grown-ups, too!) will have loads of fun here. It's not just about looking; there are tons of interactive things to do. Watch tiny trains zip around, planes taxi on the runway, and boats sail through canals. Little ones can often operate mini-machines, like loading cargo onto ships or working a model storm surge barrier. It's a fantastic way to learn a bit about the Netherlands without even realizing it because you're having too much fun.
Everything is charmingly built on a 1:25 scale with amazing attention to detail. It’s a perfect spot for fun photos and making memories for your family.
Need some fresh sea air and space for the kids to run wild? Then jump on a tram from the city center and head straight to Scheveningen Beach. It's The Hague's famous seaside spot, and it's super easy to get to. The beach itself is huge and sandy – perfect for building sandcastles, flying a kite, or just letting the little ones burn off some energy by the water's edge.
The most iconic landmark here is The Pier, stretching out over the North Sea. Kids (and you!) will love riding the giant Ferris wheel right over the waves – the views of the coastline are amazing. The Pier often has other fun things, too, like little eateries where you can grab some snacks or ice cream. It's just exciting for kids to be walking out above the sea.
Near Scheveningen Beach, you'll also find the Sea Life aquarium, which is another great family hit.
The absolute highlight for many is walking through the underwater tunnel – it feels like you're right on the seabed with fish and maybe even rays swimming all around and over you. Keep an eye out for feeding times or talks, and sometimes they even have touch pools where little hands can gently feel a starfish.
It's a perfect indoor activity if the Dutch weather is a bit chilly or rainy (which can happen, even in spring). You'll need tickets to get in, so it might be worth checking prices or booking online beforehand.
Looking for an attraction that will keep curious kids engaged for hours? Then Museon Omniversum is a good choice. It cleverly combines two cool experiences in one spot: an interactive museum focused on science and culture (Museon) and a mind-blowing giant dome movie theatre (Omniversum).
About Museon, it’s not one of those quiet, 'look-but-don't-touch' museums. It's packed with hands-on exhibits where kids are encouraged to explore, experiment, and learn about our planet, different cultures, science, and how we can build a sustainable future.
Then, get ready for the Omniversum experience. Settle into your seat under a huge dome screen that surrounds you completely. You'll watch spectacular films – often about nature, space, or adventure – that make you feel like you're right there in the middle of the action.
It's honestly the perfect combo for a family day out. You get the fun of active discovery and learning, a breathtaking, sit-back-and-relax movie experience. Plus, it's a fantastic indoor option if the weather isn't great.
You'll definitely want to plan a visit to the Kinderboekenmuseum if you have little ones who love stories and characters.
Kids can play in specially designed exhibits based on books, dress up as different characters, draw, build, and explore. It’s all about hands-on fun that brings books to life and encourages creativity and a love for reading through play. There are often different areas suited for various younger age groups, from toddlers upwards.
Many of the characters and books featured are famous in the Netherlands, so you might not recognize them all. But don't let that stop you. So much of the fun is visual and interactive – climbing, playing, creating – that kids often have a fantastic time exploring the colorful worlds even if they don't know the specific Dutch stories. It’s located conveniently near The Hague Central Station and is a wonderful indoor option, especially for younger children (roughly ages 2-10).
For a real Dutch treat that kids almost always love, look for a "Pannenkoekenhuis" – a pancake house! They serve huge Dutch pancakes (thinner than American ones) with tons of yummy toppings, both sweet (like syrup and fruit) and savory (like cheese and bacon).
Another super easy win is grabbing some classic Dutch "patat" or "frites" (fries) from a snack bar – often served in a cone with mayonnaise, they're a quick and satisfying snack or simple meal.
For us, casual spots are your friend when dining with little ones. Down at Scheveningen beach, many of the beach clubs are relaxed during the day and welcome families. In the city, look for cafes or brasseries in lively squares like Plein or Grote Markt, especially those with outdoor seating for a bit more freedom. And, of course, you can always find reliable pizza or pasta restaurants, which are usually a safe bet for pleasing picky eaters.
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Plein, right near the Binnenhof, is packed with restaurants and bars that have big outdoor terraces (often heated if it's chilly!). It's popular with locals and great for people to watch.
Grote Markt is another bustling square, maybe a bit more casual and alternative, with lots of pubs and bars that also serve good food – perfect for drinks that turn into dinner.
If you fancy something a bit more charming, intimate, or perhaps a unique find, wander around the Prinsestraat area (part of the Hofkwartier near Noordeinde Palace). You'll find gorgeous streets lined with independent restaurants offering diverse cuisines, often a bit more upscale but very cozy. For a more local neighborhood feel with great eateries, check out the squares in the Zeeheldenkwartier like Prins Hendrikplein or Anna Paulownaplein.
And don't forget Scheveningen Harbour (Haven) if you're a seafood lover. Nothing beats enjoying super fresh fish right by the water, watching the fishing boats bobbing around. It's a totally different atmosphere from the city center – very relaxed, salty air, and all about the sea.
O'Casey's Irish Pub is one of The Hague's most famous spots to check out if you’re looking for a proper pub night out. It's a large pub with that classic Irish feel – dark wood, plenty of Guinness on tap, and usually a buzzing crowd, especially on weekends.
It's also the place to go if you want to watch live sports – they have plenty of screens showing major football (soccer), rugby, and other games. They sometimes also have live music, adding to the fun vibe (or "craic," as the Irish say).
For live music, you've got options ranging from big gigs to more intimate sessions. Check out listings for Paard (often written PAARD), which is the city's main pop/rock/alternative venue and hosts many Dutch and international acts. You can also often find smaller venues, cafes, or pubs offering live jazz, acoustic sets, or other genres.
If theatre is more your style, look into what's playing at venues like the grand Koninklijke Schouwburg (Royal Theatre), which often stages classic plays and sometimes musicals.
Just like with local comedy, a lot of theatre productions in The Hague will be performed in Dutch. So, before you get excited about a show, make sure you check the performance details really carefully online. Look specifically for any shows listed as being performed in English, or maybe go for something amazing like a dance performance or an opera where the language doesn't matter.
ComedyCity is The Hague's spot for live comedy, often specializing in improvisational comedy (or improv for short). This means the comedians create scenes, characters, and stories right there on the spot, often based on suggestions from the audience.
While ComedyCity might sometimes have specific English-language shows or performers, many of their regular shows are likely to be in Dutch. So, you absolutely need to check their official website and schedule very carefully for the specific dates you plan to visit.
Sometimes, the simple pleasure of a nighttime walk lets you see The Hague in a totally different. When the sun goes down, many of the city's beautiful buildings are wonderfully illuminated.
The absolute must-see spot for an evening stroll is around the Hofvijver, the pond right next to the Binnenhof. The historic Parliament buildings (even with daytime renovations happening) are often beautifully lit up at night. Their sparkling reflections in the still water are truly stunning – perfect for photos or just soaking up the view. It feels quite romantic and peaceful here after dark.
From the Hofvijver, you can easily extend your walk. Wander down the elegant, tree-lined Lange Voorhout avenue, which feels grand and quiet at night. Or explore the chic streets around Noordeinde Palace (the King's working palace), peeking into the lit windows of the galleries and boutiques. Even just following some of the central canals can offer lovely reflections and a charming vibe.
Remember that giant Ferris wheel on the Pier at Scheveningen? Well, riding it at night offers a totally different and pretty magical experience!
Imagine slowly rising above the North Sea in your cozy, enclosed gondola, looking out over the sparkling lights of the Scheveningen boulevard, the beach, and maybe even seeing the distant glow of The Hague's city center.
It's a ticketed ride, of course. The most important thing to remember is to check the closing times for the SkyView Ferris wheel on the day you plan to go. Opening hours change depending on the season and the day of the week, and it won't run super late, especially outside of peak summer. Naturally, the views are best on a clear night. If the timing works out, it's a lovely way to add a little sparkle to your evening by the sea.
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So there you have it – a glimpse into the incredible variety and unique charm that The Hague offers. We hope this guide has shown you just how many exciting, relaxing, and memorable things to do in The Hague await you. Get ready to explore this unique Dutch city where history meets the sea – enjoy your adventure!