20 Must-See Attractions in The Hague
- Amy
- Jan 25
- 16 min read
Updated: Jan 27
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I've now lived in The Hague for 5 years, and every single day, I fall even more in love with this city. When I first moved here, I remember asking a colleague, "What should I see in The Hague?" She jokingly told me there was nothing much to see and that I'd be done exploring in just one day. Well, fast forward to today, and I’m still discovering new corners of this beautiful city. It never fails to surprise me with its charm, peacefulness, endless attractions, entertainment, open spaces, and that indescribable sense of freedom and joy that comes from just living here. I’m excited to share the '20 Must-See Attractions in The Hague' for what makes The Hague so special!
First up, definitely take the FREE WALKING TOUR!
I was lucky enough to get the chance to explore The Hague, thanks to my colleagues at ACCESS, the non-profit where I volunteer. As part of their monthly team events, they organized a guided tour of the city, and I couldn’t be more grateful. It's funny, because even though I’ve lived in the Netherlands for a while, I never got around to exploring this beautiful city WITH A GUIDE—yet I was always adamant about getting everyone else to take the tour. My parents, parents-in-law, sister, cousin—basically anyone I could convince, I’d tell them to do it.
To join the walking tour of The Hague, book your tickets on The Free Walking Tour The Hague website.
20 Must-See Attractions in The Hague
If you’re keen to explore The Hague at your own pace and without a guide, here’s a route you won’t want to miss. The Hague is packed with historical landmarks, scenic parks and friendly woods, striking modern architecture and most importantly an amazing coastline with goregous beaches that make it one of the most unique cities in the Netherlands.
What's in a Name?
The Hague is called 'Den Haag' in Dutch, which is short for 's-Gravenhage,' meaning 'The Count's Hedge.' The name comes from its origin as a hunting lodge for the Counts of Holland in the 13th century. Over time, the royal settlement grew into the city we know today. Today, The Hague is the seat of the Dutch government, home to the royal family at Noordeinde Palace, and the location of the International Court of Justice, the world’s primary judicial body.
#1 Start at the Hague Central Station
When you get to The Hague Central Station, take a minute and pause. You are right now at the gateway to the to the city’s rich culture and history. The central station is a great starting point for tourists to dive into the local scene. As one of the busiest train stations in the Netherlands, it connects The Hague to major cities across the country and even international destinations like Brussels and Paris.
Head out the side entrance by Starbucks and take a right. This will bring you to Malieveld, a lovely, peaceful park with a big canal running through it. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed walk along the tree-lined paths, and if you're lucky, you might even spot some deer grazing. Malieveld is also home to the Kermis, the beloved family fun fair, Groot Kerstcircus Den Haag—a magical Christmas tradition, and a variety of concerts throughout the year. Plus, with the nearby Q-park underground parking, it’s super easy to access both the park and the surrounding areas close to the station.
#2 The Government District
As you head toward the city centre, you’ll walk through The Hague's Government District. You’ll pass several towering buildings that form the modern skyline of The Hague. Honestly, I’m not sure if I’m a fan of this. The mix of modern and traditional just feels a bit jarring to me. The Hague has such a laid-back, classic vibe, so I think it would’ve been perfect to have something like the architecture of Amsterdam’s central station here instead of the sleek, modern design of The Hague Central. But hey, that’s just my take – I’m sure a lot of people love the tall skyscrapers that define the skyline! These buildings have some relly cool and unique architecture. They are not only impressive for their architecture but also for their significance. So, what do they signify?
Look for the first building with a sleek metallic facade. That right there is your Ministry of Education.
Continue walking and you’ll notice twin towers with blue roofs. Thats your Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Sport.
A striking red building follows, marking another important government landmark, the Ministry of Justice and Safety.
Another prominent building in this government district is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. You can spot it while strolling through the government district, especially near Het Plein and Mauritshuis.
#3 Het Plein Or Justice Square
Beyond the towering buildings, you’ll find a narrow path that leads you to Het Plein or the square. This charming square is a lively spot, surrounded by cafes and restaurants. Notably, Het Plein is also home to the Dutch House of Representatives (Tweede Kamer) and several other important government institutions. The first thing you may notice at Het Plein, apart from the lively, buzzing atmosphere, is the Statue of King Willem II (1792-1849). Erected in his honor, this statue commemorates the late king's significant role in Dutch history.
As the sun sets, the square transforms, with restaurants turning into lively clubs. You absolutely can’t miss Barlow's—a restaurant that transforms into a lively club by 11 PM, keeping the party going until 3 AM with the best millennial-era hits. Right next door, Bar Luden is a popular choice for after-work drinks.
#4 Mauritshuis
Right around Het Plein, in a charming corner, stands the magnificent Mauritshuis. The house was originally built in 1633 as a private residence for Johan Maurits of Nassau-Siegen, the nephew of Prince Maurits of Nassau. The house exudes wealth and opulence, evident right from its grand facade and righly so, because the intention behind building it was to showcase the wealth and power of the Nassau family and serve as a symbol of their status.
Today, it serves as an art museum showcasing masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age. Inside, you’ll find iconic works like 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' by JohannesVermeer, 'View of Leiden', also by Vermeer, and 'The Geometric Illusions' by Pieter Claesz, 'The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp' by Rembrandt, among many other stunning pieces. Whether you're an art lover or just passing through, the Mauritshuis is a must-see.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Closed on New Year’s Day and King’s Day (April 27th), so check ahead if you're planning to visit around those dates.
Ticket Prices:
Adults: €17.50, Children (under 19): Free, Students: €8.75, Dutch Museum Card Holders: Free
#5 Binnenhof
The Binnenhof is a must-see in the heart of The Hague! This historic complex, with its stunning medieval architecture, is not just a pretty sight—it's the political center of the Netherlands. Here, you'll find the Prime Minister's office and the Dutch Parliament.
Inside the Binnenhof, you can visit the House of Representatives (the lower house) and the House of Lords (the upper house), where all the important debates and decisions take place. A big highlight is Prince’s Day (Prinsjesdag) in September. On this special day, the King of the Netherlands makes a grand entrance in a royal carriage, heading straight to the Binnenhof to deliver the 'Speech from the Throne', where he outlines the government’s plans for the year ahead. It’s a huge event that attracts both locals and tourists, all eager to witness this royal tradition. The Binnenhof is a piece of Dutch history, standing proudly since the 13th century!
#6 Lange Voorhout
When I first visited The Hague, I knew I wanted to work in Lange Voorhout—not live here because it can get very busy, but definitely work! This lovely street is home to the Sunday flea market, as well as major events like the Royal Christmas Fair, Embassy Open Days, Cultural Expos, Art Fairs, and more. Lange Voorhout is a long street lined with beautiful trees, which is why the literal translation is "Long Forecourt." Back in the day, it was a promenade in front of grand buildings that still stand today. Many of these buildings have now been converted into embassies, museums, and galleries, but the street still radiates elegance. The best time to visit is in autumn when the leaves turn golden and orange. Now, it’s a captivating view from my office window every day.
#7 Kloosterkerk
The Kloosterkerk is one of the oldest churches in The Hague and has a rich history dating back to the 13th century. It is known for its Gothic architecture, featuring beautiful stained-glass windows and intricate details. It is home to six beautifully crafted angel statues that are a highlight of its interior.
Opening Hours:
Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: Closed (except for services)
#8 Noordeinde Palace and Paleistuinen
Noordeinde Palace is one of the Dutch royal family's official residences, located in the heart of The Hague. It serves as the king's working palace and hosts various official functions. The other palace is Huis ten Bosch, a little outside the city, which is where the royal family actually lives. Noordeinde is used for official events and meetings, while Huis ten Bosch is more of a private home. Although the palaces themselves aren't usually open to the public, you can still enjoy Noordeinde’s beautiful gardens from outside, and sometimes the royal family hosts events where the public can catch a glimpse of them.
Right behind the Noordeinde palace, you'll find the Paleistuinen (Palace Gardens), a beautiful green space that’s perfect for a peaceful stroll. The gardens are open to the public, offering a lovely view of the palace and a chance to relax in the city center. You can bring your kids here and picnic.
#9 Vredespaleis (Peace Palace)
When people ask me what The Hague is famous for, the first thing that comes to mind is definitely the International Court of Justice. It’s the place where countries go to settle big disputes! The Peace Palace, which opened in 1913, is like the heart of all this legal action. It’s home to the Permanent Court of Arbitration (since 1899) and the International Court of Justice (since 1946), as well as the Hague Academy of International Law and the Peace Palace Library, all run by the Carnegie Foundation. If you want to learn more, the Visitor Centre is full of fascinating info about its history and operations. They offer tours in English and Dutch, but be sure to check their website because tickets sell out quickly, especially when there aren’t any events going on at the Peace Palace!
#10 The Hague's city center or the Spui district
This is the heart of The Hague. This vibrant shopping district brings together top brands for the ultimate convenience of shoppers. It's a major tram stop, so you can get there from pretty much anywhere in the city. And let me tell you, they've got all the brands you can think of! From budget-friendly spots like Primark and TK Max to luxury havens like De Bijenkorf. And when you need a break from all that shopping, grab a doner kebab from one of the Turkish cafes or chill out with a cuppa at one of the cafes in Passage. It’s also a hub of entertainment. Pathe Spui screens the latest films every week, while the Theatre aan het Spui hosts spectacular performances, from plays to musicals. For those looking to sing their hearts out, The Karaoke Bar offers a lively karaoke experience. Chinatown serves up delicious Asian cuisine, and the Holland Casino provides thrilling gaming options for those feeling lucky. Grote Markt buzzes with life, featuring a bustling food and drink scene with trendy bars, cafes, and restaurants. This is the most sought-after destination in The Hague for action, excitement, and a taste of everything.
You definitely can’t miss Chinatown in Spui! Chinatown in Spui has a rich history, dating back to the late 19th century when Chinese immigrants, mainly sailors and labourers, began settling in The Hague. Over time, they established a thriving community, maintaining traditions while blending with Dutch culture, and Spui became the heart of their presence in the city. It’s just off the main shopping street and is filled with all sorts of Chinese and Asian restaurants, bakeries, salons, and more. During Chinese New Year, the area really comes to life with parades, colourful dragon costumes and dances, and lots of delicious food and treats lining the streets.
You’ve got to try places like Fat Kee for huge portions of tasty Chinese food, Siam for mouthwatering Thai dishes, Bakery Li&U for sweet Chinese treats, Full Moon City for dim sum, Little V Den Haag for amazing Vietnamese food, and of course, Sisi Bubble Tea if you're a fan of bubble tea. There’s so much to explore and enjoy!
#11 Clingendael Park
The gorgeous park where the famous Japanese garden is located - Clingendael - is where the best of any season can be experienced. In this gorgeous park, which was a former estate in the 17th century, you will find the Clingendael Manor standing strong, surrounded by beautiful wooded columns, pools with swans and ducks swimming in them. Its a sight to sore eyes in autumn especially when the yellow and brown foliage is spread out all over the park.
The Japanese Garden in Clingendael Park, The Hague, is a serene, hidden gem open to visitors from April to October, offering a peaceful escape into nature. It is one of the oldest Japanese gardens in Europe, created in the early 20th century as part of the Clingendael estate. You can enter through the park's main entrance, and once inside, you'll find a beautifully designed landscape with a koi pond, a traditional wooden bridge, and an authentic tea house. The garden’s tranquil atmosphere is complemented by a stunning rock garden and seasonal flowers like cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves. Ideally, it would have been a perfect spot for quiet reflection or a leisurely stroll, however thanks to its popularity, seldom will you find a spot there to relax. Its always bustling with tourists and locals alike and one must queue up to even cross the famed wooden bridge. Keep in mind, the garden is closed from November to March for maintenance, so plan your visit during the warmer months to fully enjoy its beauty.
#12 Haagse Bos (The Hague Woods)
Haagse Bos was once the hunting grounds of the Dutch royal family. It dates back to the 16th century and was originally used by the royalty for hunting and leisure. Some parts of the forest even have remnants of that royal history, including the Hunting Lodge ('Jachthuis').
No matter what time of year it is, Haagse Bos is always stunning. Its a great place for walking enthusiats with its different walking paths giving people their much needed breath of fresh air and greenery. One of the most vast and expansive forests in the Hague, covering acres of land and it's like a paradise for nature lovers. My kids absolutely love the Robinhood park here, which is all made of natural wood and branches. Its a wonderful place to chill out with a picnic or go for those defining evening walks.
Don't miss the amazing Louwman Museum with its vintage cars, located near the Haagse Bos. Afterward, take a stroll through the charming Marlot neighborhood, which is just around the corner. Now you know why the woods in The Hague are so inviting ;)
#13 Scheveningen
If you're looking for a good time in The Hague, head over to Scheveningen. It’s where all the action is at the beach! Action in the literal sense drawing some reference from history too! Scheveningen was heavily bombed during World War II, particularly in May 1940 during the German invasion, and later in 1943. Much of the area, including the fishing harbor and iconic buildings like the Kurhaus Hotel, was destroyed or severely damaged, but it was later rebuilt after the war.
There are two distinct sides of Scheveningen - The seaside boardwalk and the old fishing harbour.
The seaside boardwalk is packed with lively restaurants, cool clubs, shops, and tons of entertainment, so it’s the perfect place to hang out and enjoy the seaside vibes. The pier stretches out for about 5 kilometers, offering everything from bungee jumping to stunning views from the Ferris wheel. And don’t miss the Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus, the massive, historic hotel right on the beach, with its beautiful architecture and prime location for a bit of luxury by the sea.
The area around the old fishing harbor is quieter, with charming streets, fish restaurants and local shops. I highly recommend 'Het Haringhuis' in Scheveningen if you are in the mood for some really good kibbeling (chunks of battered and deep-fried cod) or lekkerbek (whole fillet of battered and deep-fried cod) and Dutch fries.
#14 Madurodam
Imagine if you could see a whole city from a bird's eye view without having to hop on a helicopter or fly a drone. Well, that's exactly what Madurodam offers! It's like a mini version of the entire Netherlands, packed with all the cool stuff like Dutch dykes, KLM operations, famous paintings, and even tulip fields! Plus, they've got interactive games and educational stuff that'll keep you hooked. It's a perfect day out for the whole family!
#15 Grote Kerk (The "Great Church")
What is Europe without its churches and cathedrals ! The most recognizable landmark in the city is the Great Church's tower. Grote kerk also known as the Great Church, also known as the St. James' Church (or Sint-Jacobskerk), dates back to the 14th century. Construction began around 1381, making it over 640 years old! It is located in the Grote Markt area of the Hague Centrum. It still holds its medieval charm and is a significant historical landmark in The Hague.
Regular Opening Hours:
March to September: Thursday to Sunday at 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM
October to February: Saturday and Sunday at 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM
Prices:
Grote Kerk ticket:
Adults: €3.00
Children under 12: Free Tickets are available at the door.
The Hague Tower ticket:
Adults: €8.50
Children (5–12 years): €6.50 Tickets are available online at Dagje Den Haag
#16 Panorama Mesdag
I chanced upon this one thanks to Museumkaart.nl. Panorama Mesdag is a panorama by the marine painter Hendrik Willem Mesdag. It is located in a museum in The Hague and basically a cylindrical painting (also known as a Cyclorama) more than 14 metres high and about 40 metres in diameter (120 metres in circumference). From an observation gallery in the centre of the room the cylindrical perspective creates the illusion that the viewer is on a high sand dune overlooking the sea, beaches and village of Scheveningen in the late 19th century. Its a must-visit and totally worth your time and effort!
#17 Kunstmuseum Den Haag (Art Museum The Hague)
The Kunstmuseum Den Haag, formerly called the Gemeentemuseum, is a fantastic spot for art lovers, featuring everything from Piet Mondrian’s iconic works to beautiful pieces of Dutch art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The building itself is a stunning design by architect H.P. Berlage, making the whole experience even more special. Right next to the museum is the Omniversum, an amazing IMAX cinema where you can enjoy large-screen films on topics like science, nature, and space. The Kunstmuseum is open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and the Omniversum is open from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Both make for a fun and enriching day out in The Hague!
#18 The Hague Market (Haagse Markt)
The Hague Market (Haagse Markt) is one of the largest outdoor markets in Europe, offering a vibrant and diverse shopping experience. While it's often considered the largest in the Netherlands, some other European markets might compete for the title, depending on the criteria. Located in the Laak district near Hague Central Station, this historic market has been around since 1893 and has grown into a bustling hub for everything from fresh produce and meat to international foods and clothing. It's open every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with Saturdays being especially lively. The market is famous for its wide selection of goods, including exotic fruits, spices, and vegetables imported from all over the world, which aptly reflects the city's diverse population catering to the Indian diaspora, people of Turkish and Moroccan ethnicity and the local Surinamese, Indonesian Dutch and local Dutch population. Plus, there’s a convenient parking lot below the market, making it easy to access by car. Whether you're looking for groceries, unique finds, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, The Hague Market is a must-visit spot in the city!
#19 Kermis Den Haag (The Hague Fair)
The Hague Fair is an absolute blast for adults and the kids alike! If you're up for a fun day out, Kermis Den Haag is the place to be! With awesome rides like roller coasters, bumper cars, and plenty of carnival games where you can win fun prizes, there’s no shortage of excitement. Grab some tasty treats like cotton candy or churros, enjoy the bright lights and lively music, and just have a blast! It’s a great spot for all ages to let loose and enjoy the fun atmosphere.
The fair at Malieveld runs in April, open every day from 1:00 PM until midnight.
#20 The Hague Tower (Het Strijkijzer)
De Haagse Toren, or Het Strijkijzer (The Iron), is one of the coolest landmarks in The Hague. This eye-catching skyscraper offers amazing views of the city and coastline. It’s not just a business hub – you’ll also find a hotel, restaurants, and a sky bar. With its distinctive triangular shape and central location, you can spot it from almost anywhere in the city. For the best views, head up to the Sky Lounge on the 42nd floor, where you can enjoy sweeping views of The Hague and beyond.
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