The Hague

Den Haag

The Netherlands' administrative capital and seat of government, home to the International Court of Justice, Peace Palace, and numerous royal palaces. Its elegant squares, museums, and Scheveningen Beach make it one of the country's most important cultural and political centers.

Things to do

• Peace Palace — Tour the iconic seat of the International Court of Justice and Permanent Court of Arbitration, featuring stunning architecture and gardens symbolizing global peace efforts.
• Mauritshuis Museum — Explore one of the world's finest small art museums housed in a 17th-century palace, showcasing masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and other Dutch Golden Age painters.
• Scheveningen Beach — Walk the long sandy beach and promenade featuring beach clubs, seafood restaurants, and the historic Pier with its amusement park and entertainment venues.
• Binnenhof Complex — Visit the medieval courtyard surrounded by historic government buildings including the Dutch Parliament, with guided tours available to explore this political heart of the Netherlands.
• Paleis Noordeinde — Admire the working palace of the Dutch King on the elegant Noordeinde square, one of Europe's longest shopping streets filled with boutiques and cafés.
• Kunstmuseum Den Haag — Discover modern and contemporary art in a striking building, featuring works from the 19th century to present-day installations by both Dutch and international artists.

Food to try

• Kibbeling — Crispy battered and deep-fried pieces of white fish served with tartar sauce, a beloved Dutch street food especially fresh at Scheveningen's waterfront stalls.
• Paling (Eel) — Smoked eel served sliced on toast or as a sandwich, a regional specialty in The Hague reflecting its coastal heritage and traditional fishing culture.
• Haring — Raw herring filleted and served with onions and pickles, traditionally eaten by holding it by the tail and tilting your head back—a quintessential Dutch experience.
• Kroket — Cylindrical breaded and fried croquettes filled with meat ragout, commonly enjoyed as a quick snack from local bakeries and food vendors throughout the city.
• Poffertjes with Stroopwafel — Tiny fluffy Dutch pancakes dusted with powdered sugar, often paired with thin caramel-filled waffle cookies, found at street markets and cozy cafés.

Local customs & good to know

• Cycling is Essential — The Hague has extensive bike paths and cycling is the preferred local transport; renting a bicycle is highly recommended and shows respect for local customs.
• Direct Communication Style — Dutch residents value straightforward, honest conversation without excessive formality; don't interpret bluntness as rudeness as it's simply the cultural norm.
• Gezelligheid Culture — Embrace the Dutch concept of 'gezelligheid'—cozy, convivial atmospheres in cafés and homes—where lingering over drinks with friends is a cherished social ritual.
• Museum Card Benefits — Consider purchasing a Museumkaart for unlimited access to over 400 museums nationwide including The Hague's top attractions, offering excellent value for culture-focused visitors.