MileHacker Logo
Attractions & Sightseeing

Attractions & Sightseeing

The Randstad, The Netherlands

Iconic Landmarks

The city's core features significant buildings that illustrate its role as the Dutch political heart and a center for international law. These sites offer insights into governance, justice, and royal heritage.

Art enthusiasts will find world-class museums showing Dutch masters and unique graphic art, housed in historically important buildings.

Information for Iconic Landmarks

  • Binnenhof: Seat of Dutch Parliament and Prime Minister’s office. Guided tours available via ProDemos.
  • Peace Palace: Home to the International Court of Justice. Visitor Centre and tours by advance booking.
  • Mauritshuis: Royal picture gallery with Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, including "Girl with a Pearl Earring".
  • Escher in Het Paleis: Museum dedicated to graphic artist M.C. Escher, set in a former royal palace.

Visitor Details for Landmarks

Government & Justice Access

  • Binnenhof Tours: Check prodemos.nl for hours and tickets. Security checks are in place.
  • Peace Palace Visitor Centre: Open daily; check vredespaleis.nl for hours. Book tours well in advance.
  • International Court of Justice: Public access limited to Visitor Centre and pre-booked tours.
  • Paleis Noordeinde: Working palace, interior generally closed. Palace Garden is accessible when the King is not present.
  • Photo Tips: Photograph Binnenhof reflected in Hofvijver. Take photos from outside Peace Palace gates.
  • Guided Tours: Consider a GetYourGuide tour for comprehensive insights.

Art & Royal Residence Insights

  • Mauritshuis Tickets: Approximately €19.50. Check mauritshuis.nl for tickets and hours. Online booking saves time.
  • Mauritshuis Visit: Arrive early or late to avoid crowds, especially for "Girl with a Pearl Earring".
  • Escher in Het Paleis Tickets: Approximately €11. Check escherinhetpaleis.nl for tickets and hours.
  • Escher Museum Tip: Actively engage with interactive exhibits to deepen appreciation.

Photography usually receives permission without flash, respecting the art and other visitors.

Museums & Cultural Institutions

  • Kunstmuseum Den Haag: Houses the world's largest Piet Mondrian collection, including "Victory Boogie Woogie."
  • Louwman Museum: World-renowned museum of historic cars, spanning over 130 years of automotive history.
  • Meermanno Museum (Museum of the Book): Focuses on written and printed works from medieval manuscripts to modern design.
  • Museum Bredius: A charming, small museum with Old Master paintings in a historic canal house.

Cultural Highlights

  • Amare:

    A large, modern cultural complex housing Residentie Orkest, Nederlands Dans Theater, and the Royal Conservatoire. Offers diverse performances.

  • AFAS Circustheater:

    A large theater in Scheveningen known for hosting major musical productions and international shows.

  • Art Galleries:

    Smaller art galleries and exhibition spaces, notably in areas like Zeeheldenkwartier, often showcase contemporary Dutch art.

  • Special Exhibits:

    Check individual museum websites for temporary exhibitions. These often feature international artists or specific themes.

  • Historical Charm:

    Many museums are within historic buildings, adding to the cultural experience.

Historical Sites

Den Haag's history manifests in its architecture and preserved sites, offering glimpses into its past as a continuous institutional and political center.

Historical Architecture & Sites

Historical Locations

  • Binnenhof: The historical and political heart of the Netherlands. Medieval origins visible.
  • Prison Gate (Gevangenpoort): Medieval gatehouse and prison, now a museum offering a glimpse into Dutch justice history.
  • Hofkwartier: Historic shopping district around Noordeinde Palace, featuring elegant streets and old buildings.
  • Grote Kerk (St. James' Church): Large medieval church in the city center, a historical landmark dominating the skyline.
  • Nieuwe Kerk: Prominent church featuring the tomb of philosopher Baruch Spinoza.
  • Monument to Peace: Located near the Peace Palace, reinforcing Den Haag's role as a city of peace.

Historical Insights

  • No significant archaeological sites or ruins exist within the city center itself.
  • The city's historical importance appears more in its continuous institutional and political life.
  • Industrial and military heritage does not form a main focus for Den Haag tourism.
  • The Carillon in the Grote Kerk adds to the city's ambiance with its regular chimes.

The city's narrative centers more on its political, royal, and judicial roles.

Historical Districts

Explore the Hofkwartier, a charming district surrounding Noordeinde Palace, featuring elegant streets, antique shops, and a refined atmosphere.

Religious & Spiritual Sites

Visit the Grote Kerk (St. James' Church), a large medieval church, or the Nieuwe Kerk, known for philosopher Baruch Spinoza's tomb.

Memorials & Monuments

The Monument to Peace near the Peace Palace reinforces Den Haag's global message. The Carillon in the Grote Kerk adds to the city's character.

Natural Attractions

Beyond its urban core, Den Haag offers beautiful natural spaces for relaxation and outdoor enjoyment.

Parks & Forests

Explore the expansive Haagse Bos, an ancient forest ideal for walking and cycling, featuring Huis ten Bosch Palace. Clingendael Park includes a stunning Japanese Garden (seasonal opening).

Beaches & Dunes

Scheveningen Beach, with its pier, offers stunning views and water sports. Kijkduin offers a quieter, more natural beach experience. Extensive dune landscapes provide varied trails.

Wildlife & Waterways

The dune areas and parks serve as habitats for various birds and small mammals, suitable for wildlife observation. The Hofvijver pond provides picturesque views of the parliamentary complex.

Outdoor Highlights

Dune Walking

Explore numerous well-marked walking trails through the dunes near Scheveningen and Kijkduin (e.g., Westduinpark, Meijendel). Mostly flat, easy to moderate difficulty. Unique landscapes.

Cycling Routes

Den Haag features an excellent network of dedicated cycle paths. Popular routes go from the city center to Scheveningen or scenic dune routes.

Scheveningen Beach Activities

A hub for water sports like surfing, kitesurfing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), and beach volleyball. Surf schools offer rentals and lessons.

Kijkduin Beach

A quieter, more natural beach alternative south of Scheveningen. Suits those seeking a less crowded experience.

Parkland Picnics

The Haagse Bos and Clingendael Park are ideal for picnics and calm strolls amidst nature within the city.

Seasonal Activities

Activities vary with the seasons, offering year-round engagement with Den Haag's natural side.

Summer June - August

  • Swimming and sunbathing at Scheveningen Beach.
  • All water sports are in full swing.
  • Beach clubs are open and lively.

Dune & Forest Engagement

The vast dune and forest areas offer immersive natural experiences throughout the year.

Year-Round Exploration

  • Long walks and hikes in the extensive dune landscapes.
  • Birdwatching and observing small mammals in their habitats.
  • Cycling along dedicated paths through forests and dunes.
  • Learning about the unique ecosystems present in the dune areas.

Geological Note

No prominent geological features define the Den Haag landscape.

The region mainly consists of flat, polder-land.

Hidden Gems

Discover Den Haag's unique treasures, offering perspectives beyond the well-trodden paths.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions

Explore unique cultural spots that captivate with their distinct character.

Unique Cultural Spots

  • Panorama Mesdag: An immense cylindrical painting depicting Scheveningen in 1881, creating an illusion of depth.
  • The Passage: The oldest (1885) and most elegant shopping arcade in the Netherlands, beautifully restored.
  • Prison Gate (Gevangenpoort) Museum: Offers a fascinating, sometimes grim, look into Dutch justice history and prison life.

Local Favorites & Emerging Spots

Discover places popular with locals and regional highlights for a fresh perspective.

Hidden Local Gems

  • De Pier (Scheveningen): Explore its full length for various restaurants, shops, and occasional attractions like a Ferris wheel.
  • Molen de Valk (Leiden): A historic windmill in nearby Leiden, an easy day trip from Den Haag.
  • Kijkduin Beach: A less crowded and more natural beach experience compared to Scheveningen.

Iconic Photo Opportunities

Capture memorable shots with these striking views:

Picturesque Scenes

  • The Binnenhof complex strikingly reflected in the Hofvijver pond.
  • The colorful houses and independent shops of the Zeeheldenkwartier.
  • A captivating sunset over the North Sea from Scheveningen Beach.

These locations provide stunning backdrops for your travel photos.

Museum & Architectural Gems

Discover unique perspectives within Den Haag's cultural institutions:

Artistic & Structural Beauty

  • The intricate and mind-bending patterns inside Escher in Het Paleis.
  • The overwhelming scale and illusion of depth at Panorama Mesdag.

These spots offer a blend of artistic wonder and architectural splendor.

Neighborhood Aesthetics

Beyond main attractions, the distinct charm of residential areas captures the city's spirit:

Local Life & Design

  • Statenkwartier's elegant residential architecture and international vibe.
  • The Passage's beautifully restored interiors and unique shops.
  • Views of the Grote Kerk and its tower dominating the city skyline.

These spots showcase the city's blend of history, culture, and urban design.

Sightseeing Preparation

Ticket Booking

Consider booking museum and tour tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to save time and secure availability.

Transportation

Utilize Den Haag's extensive tram and bus network for easy access between attractions. Many city center sites are walkable.

Opening Hours

Verify current opening hours and any special closures for museums and attractions before your visit.

Additional Tip

Consider purchasing a Den Haag Pass if available, which provides access to multiple attractions and public transport savings.