Last updated on October 21st, 2024
The Hague is a city with a unique name and an important role on the world stage. It is famous for being the seat of the Dutch government and home to the royal family. But it’s not just important within the Netherlands. The city hosts many international organizations, including the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. These courts make The Hague a key player in global justice and diplomacy.
You’ll find that visiting The Hague gives you a chance to see a mix of historic buildings, world class museums, and modern architecture. You can take a tour to explore the Peace Palace, a beautiful building that houses the International Court of Justice. You can spend a few hours visiting the Mauritshuis, home to Dutch Golden Age masterpieces.
Don’t miss the chance to stroll through the city center and enjoy its charming streets and shops. Starting with a laid-back vibe, The Hague offers a unique blend of Dutch culture and international influence that you won’t find anywhere else, which is why The Hague is worth visiting if you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands.
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Why is it Called The Hague?
The Hague is a city with a unique name and an important role on the world stage. You might wonder why it’s called this and what makes it special. The name “The Hague” comes from the Dutch “Den Haag,” which is short for “‘s-Gravenhage.” This means “The Count’s Hedge” in English. Back in the 13th century, Count Floris IV of Holland built a hunting lodge here.
The count’s residence grew into a palace. The area around it was originally called “Die Haghe,” meaning “the hedge.” Soon, a village formed nearby and people started calling the whole area “The Count’s Hedge.” Over time, this name stuck and became what we now know as The Hague.
The city has grown far beyond its original boundaries and is known for its international courts. Yet, its name keeps its connection to those early days alive.
The city’s official Dutch name is still “‘s-Gravenhage.” But most locals use the shorter “Den Haag.” When you’re there, you’ll see both that and “The Hague” used. Road signs and official documents often use “‘s-Gravenhage.” But in everyday life, locals say “Den Haag.”
Try using “Den Haag” when talking to locals. They’ll appreciate your effort to use the Dutch name!
What is The Hague Famous For?
The Hague’s importance is two-fold as it plays a huge role in both global and local affairs.
Hub for International Law and Justice
The Hague’s nickname is the “City of Peace and Justice.” It’s earned this title for good reason. The city hosts over 200 international organizations that play a significant role in global affairs. These groups work on issues like global security, human rights, and climate change.
When you visit, you might see diplomats from all over the world. They come to The Hague for meetings and conferences. The city’s decisions often make headlines.
The Hague’s work affects people globally. Its courts have tried war criminals and settled border disputes.
The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is based in The Hague. It’s the main judicial body of the United Nations. The ICJ settles legal disputes between countries. It also gives advisory opinions on legal questions.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) is another big player in The Hague. It tries people accused of serious crimes like genocide and war crimes. The ICC steps in when national courts can’t or won’t act.
You’ll find other UN institutions in The Hague too. The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) is one example. It works to get rid of chemical weapons worldwide.
Seat of the Dutch Government and Parliament
The Hague is the beating heart of Dutch politics. It’s where key decisions are made that shape the Netherlands and where you’ll find most government ministries and embassies. The city hosts important political events and meetings throughout the year.
It is home to the Binnenhof, a historic complex of buildings where the Dutch Parliament meets. You’ll find the House of Representatives and Senate here. The Prime Minister’s office is also located in the Binnenhof.
Comparison to Amsterdam, the Capital City
While Amsterdam is the capital of the Netherlands, The Hague is the seat of government. This setup is pretty unique! Amsterdam gets the title, but The Hague does the political heavy lifting.
In Amsterdam, you’ll find the Royal Palace where the king performs ceremonial duties. But in The Hague, the real work of running the country takes place. It’s like having two important cities sharing the spotlight.
Things to do in The Hague
Here are some of the best spots to visit in The Hague, including the city’s beach. When you’re done with these, make sure to visit Delft, which is just 15 minutes away! You may find the Royal Delft Museum just as fascinating as we did. For something completely different, I recommend a visit to Leiden. It is a charmer! If you want some more big city attractions, Rotterdam is nice to visit as well. If you need to decide between The Hague and Rotterdam, our comparison guide will help you!
View the Binnenhof Complex and Court Pond (Hofvijver)
The Binnenhof is the heart of Dutch politics. The different buildings inside the beautiful Binnenhof complex are off limits until 2028 because of renovations. These include the Ridderzaal or Hall of Knights where the king gives his annual speech, and the Prime Minister’s Tower.
Until then, you can visit the Binnenhof Renovation Information Centre to learn about the renovations and archaeological discoveries from the area. You can also go up to the Binnenhof Viewpoint to see the site from above.
In the evening, don’t miss viewing the Binnenhof from the benches by Lange Vijverberg, the road across the Court Pond (Hofvijver). The complex is bathed in soft lighting and you can relax here while watching swans glide through the reflections of the buildings in the pond.
Tour the Peace Palace and See the World Peace Flame
The Peace Palace is a beautiful building with a noble purpose. As you walk up, notice the architecture with the grand facade and clock tower. The gardens are beautiful too.
You can only visit the palace by a guided tour and these are available for just a few days in the week when no official sessions are on. Most days in the summer are open to visitors. During the rest of the year, slots open up about two to four weeks beforehand and they fill up fast, so keep checking as your visit date nears.
There are three tours to choose from – the inside, the outside, and the palace and garden. The inside of the palace is what is really worth seeing. Learn about the palace’s role in international law and peace efforts and see courtrooms where major world disputes are settled. Check out the marble staircases and stained glass windows.
Tours take about an hour. Make sure to see the Japanese Room – it’s covered in silk tapestries. The library holds over a million books on international law.
Don’t miss the World Peace Flame outside. It’s a small eternal flame with a big message. In the photo above, you can’t see it because of the reflection, but the flame is behind the glass. The paths surrounding it house symbolic stones from countries all over the world. I found it moving to stand there and reflect for a few moments.
Visit Mauritshuis for Dutch Masters
If you’re an art lover, you’ll love spending time at the Mauritshuis in The Hague. This stunning museum is home to some of the world’s most famous Dutch Golden Age paintings.
Be amazed by the building itself – a 17th-century mansion that’s a work of art on its own. Inside, You’ll find yourself face-to-face with Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring”. And don’t miss Rembrandt’s “The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp” – it’s a masterpiece!
The museum isn’t huge, which I think is great. Unlike some bigger museums, you can get up close to the artworks without fighting crowds. Take your time exploring for about 1.5–2 hours.
Want to see some more works by Vermeer? You can find two at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Find out which ones!
Visit Gemeentemuseum (Kunstmuseum Den Haag) for Modern Art
The Gemeentemuseum is a stunning art museum with a modern design that catches your eye right away.
Inside is an amazing collection of modern and contemporary art. The colorful geometric works by Piet Mondrian are simply captivating. The museum also has a good selection of fashion and decorative arts. You’ll see clothing and furniture from different periods.
I recommend checking out their temporary exhibitions too. They often have interesting shows that change throughout the year. Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here. There’s so much to see, and you won’t want to rush through the exhibits.
Admire Escher in the Palace
This is one of cool things to do in The Hague. Escher in the Palace is a museum dedicated to the mind-bending art of M.C. Escher, housed in a beautiful former royal palace.
The museum showcases Escher’s famous optical illusions and impossible structures based on mathematics. Stare at his intricate drawings and try to make sense of them! The interactive exhibits let you step into Escher’s world and experience his art firsthand. It’s so cool to see how he played with perspective and geometry.
You can spend about 2 hours here. The gift shop is worth checking out too. Pick up some neat Escher-inspired puzzles and prints there. They make great souvenirs or gifts.
Check out Panorama Mesdag
The Panorama Mesdag is a huge circular painting that makes you feel like you’re standing on a beach in the 1880s. The artist, Hendrik Willem Mesdag, created this masterpiece with a team of painters.
You’re surrounded by a 360-degree view of Scheveningen, the coastal town near The Hague. The realistic painting is 14 meters high and 120 meters around. The artwork shows the sea, dunes, and village life from that time. I spotted fishermen, boats, and beachgoers in period clothing. The details are amazing – you can even see individual brush strokes up close.
Plan to spend about half an hour here. Walking around the platform to see all the different scenes. There’s also a small museum attached with more of Mesdag’s work. It’s worth checking out to learn more about the artist and his process.
Visit Grote Kerk (St. James’ Church) and Climb the Tower
If you’re into historic churches, Grote Kerk is a must-see in The Hague. This Gothic church stands tall in the city center, its tower reaching high into the sky.
Step inside to see beautiful stained glass windows and intricate details. The church’s history goes back centuries, and you can feel it in the atmosphere.
The real treat is climbing the tower. It’s a bit of a workout at 288 steps, but the views at the top are worth it. You can see the whole city spread out before you.
Allow about an hour for your visit. The tower climb takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on your pace. The church isn’t always open to visitors, as it is often used for events, so check opening times beforehand.
View Palace Noordeinde
Not too far from the Binnenhof is Palace Noordeinde. It’s the Dutch king’s workplace, right in the heart of the city. The palace itself is worth a look from the outside, with its grand facade and manicured gardens.
Keep an eye out for the royal flag. If it’s flying, it means the king is working inside! While you can’t go inside, the street in front is open to the public. There’s a lovely statue of William I of Orange on horseback in front of the palace.
The area around the palace is nice for a stroll too. You’ll find some cute shops and cafes nearby if you want to grab a coffee or a snack after your visit.
Shop in De Passage
The Passage is a beautiful, historic shopping arcade that dates back to 1885. It features stunning glass-roofed walkways, ornate decorations, and a mix of neoclassical and Renaissance-style architecture.
De Passage is home to a variety of high-end shops, boutiques, and specialty stores. You can find fashion, jewelry, accessories, home decor, and more. Even if you’re not interested in making a purchase, browsing the window displays and enjoying the atmosphere can be a delightful experience.
Visit the Japanese Garden in Clingendael Park
Visit a little slice of Japan right here in The Hague. The Japanese Garden in Clingendael Park is a small but stunning oasis. This gem is only open for 6 weeks in spring and 2 weeks in autumn. Check the exact dates before you go. It’s free to enter, but you might have to wait in line during peak times.
When we visited, we were blown away by the vibrant colors and peaceful atmosphere. The garden is filled with winding paths, stone lanterns, and a beautiful little bridge over a koi pond.
In Spring, the cherry blossoms and azaleas are in full bloom. We spent about an hour wandering around, taking photos and soaking in the tranquil vibes.
If the Japanese Garden isn’t open when you’re visiting, Clingendael Park is well worth a relaxed stroll through as well. There’s also a rose garden, a rhododendron garden, and a historic Dutch garden. The park offers a network of well-maintained walking paths that wind through the gardens and woodlands.
Stroll or Bike Through Haagse Bos
Haagse Bos is a vast urban forest covering approximately 100 hectares. There’s lush greenery of old and new trees and a serene atmosphere. It’s a great place to escape the city buzz and enjoy some nature.
Haagse Bos has a rich history dating back to medieval times. It was once a hunting ground for Dutch royalty, and it still contains several historic sites, such as the Willemskazerne (Willem’s Barracks) and the Witte Brug (White Bridge).
The bike paths here are well-maintained and easy to navigate. As you pedal along, you may spot deer and other wildlife. It’s amazing to see these creatures so close to the city center. The forest also has some lovely ponds and streams. You can spend about 2 hours exploring the forest on two wheels. It’s enough time to see the main sights without getting too tired. Bring a picnic and make your visit longer!
The forest occasionally hosts events and activities, such as guided walks, nature workshops, and children’s programs. Check with the local tourist office or the forest’s website for any scheduled events during your visit.
Relax at Westbroekpark
Westbroekpark is famous for its stunning rose garden, which features over 20,000 rose bushes of various colors and varieties. The garden is particularly spectacular in June and July when the roses are in full bloom, creating a fragrant and colorful display.
In addition to the rose garden, Westbroekpark is home to several other themed gardens and plant collections. These include a herb garden, a Mediterranean garden, a wetland garden, and a collection of ornamental grasses.
There are well-maintained walking paths that wind through the gardens and along the ponds. You can rent a pedal boat. It’s fun to paddle around and see the park from a different angle. If you’re hungry, the park has a charming tea house. They serve tasty sandwiches and cakes.
Westbroekpark hosts various events throughout the year, such as music festivals, theater performances, and cultural celebrations. Check the local event calendar to see if there’s anything happening during your visit.
See Madurodam
I love miniature worlds, and Madurodam is one of the best I’ve seen. This tiny city showcases the Netherlands in perfect 1:25 scale. We spent quite a bit of time exploring the tiny canals, windmills, and famous Dutch landmarks.
The attention to detail is amazing. We watched mini trains chug along tracks and boats sail through harbors. Kids go crazy for the interactive elements. You can push buttons to make windmills spin and open the storm surge barrier. There’s even a mini airport with planes taking off and landing.
I’d suggest setting aside 2-3 hours to see everything. Download the free audio guide app before you go. It adds fun facts and stories about each miniature scene.
Explore Scheveningen Beach and Walk the Pier
Scheveningen Beach is very easy to visit from The Hague. Trams leave from various points in the city to various points in Scheveningen. It’s a great place to relax and soak up the sun or stroll between cafes and restaurants. The wide sandy beach stretches for miles, perfect for long walks or building sandcastles.
The highlight for me was the stretch between the Museum Beelden aan Zee and the Pier. The former is a modern art museum with a permanent collection and rotating exhibitions of sculptures. It is housed in a wonderfully airy building that blends in with the surroundings. If you don’t want to visit the museum, at least view the free quirky sculptures right in the front of it on the beach.
The Pier juts out into the North Sea and gives amazing views of the coastline. There’s even a giant ferris wheel to try. There are shops and restaurants on the pier too. At the end, you’ll find the bungy jump platform. I’ve never been brave enough to try it, but it’s fun to watch others take the plunge.
There are 2 attractions that kids will love – Legoland and Sea Life Aquarium!
I’d suggest spending at least 2-3 hours here to fully enjoy the beach and pier. If you’re feeling hungry after all that sea air, grab some fresh seafood at one of the beachside cafes. The local catch is always delicious. Pick from our list of Dutch dishes that are recommended.
Sample Jenever and Gin
Jenever is the Dutch cousin of gin. It’s made from juniper berries and has a unique, malty taste. You can try it at many bars in The Hague, but the Van Kleef Distillery is probably the best place to sample jenever. It’s the oldest distillery in The Hague, dating back to 1842. They offer tastings and tours. You’ll learn about the history of jenever and try different flavors.
Dutch gin is also worth a taste. It’s smoother than jenever and often flavored with local herbs and spices.
Conclusion
As you explore, you’ll see how Den Haag offers a mix of history, art, and politics you won’t find anywhere else. It is famous for international justice and diplomacy. The Peace Palace with the International Court of Justice is a must-visit spot.
Don’t miss the small but charming old town and Scheveningen Beach for a relaxing afternoon. Whether you’re interested in law, art, or just soaking up Dutch culture, you’ll find something special here. It’s a city that will leave you feeling inspired and enlightened.
