Art, Beach & History in The HagueThe Hague, the political heart of The Netherlands is the city where culture, history and beach meet. Admire world famous paintings, discover the numerous museums and relax at Holland's most famous beach: Scheveningen!AuthorsTristanTravels
DestinationsThe HagueItinerary

The Hague

Trip Highlight
The Hague may be lesser known as Amsterdam and Rotterdam, but it is still a very interesting city with lots to do. The Hague may not be as well known as Amsterdam and Rotterdam, but it is still a very interesting city with lots to do. It is the place to be if you want to sunbathe at the beach, as Scheveningen is the best beach in the Netherlands, besides sunbathing there are also lots of activities to do for the whole family! Then in the city centre, you'll find art, culture and history and discover the political and legal heart of the Netherlands.
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Day 1: The Hague's city centre

Mauritshuis
Mauritshuis is a must-visit when you are in The Hague. At the museum, you can admire the world-famous painting 'The Girl with the Pearl Earring' with your own eyes. Furthermore, the museum will take you past other grandmasters of this period, disover 'The Anatomy Lesson' and 'Selfportret' of Rembrandt van Rhijn and get to know lesser-known painters as Jan Steen and the Belgian Jan Breughel.
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Noordeinde Palace
Northend Palace is a Royal Palace in The Hague, it was built in 1533. In the 19th century it served as the residence of the raining King. In 1948, the palace was partly destroyed by fire after which it was later refurbished. Today it serves as work palace of King Willem-Alexander. Note: Since the King is often present, it is only rarely open to the public, mostly only a few weeks during the summer months.
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Prison Gate Museum
This building is the oldest prison and court of The Netherlands. Today it's a museum that takes you back in time, you will really feel like you are in a medieval prison here. Step into the pre-trial cells where suspects await trial, explore the torture chamber and explore the place of sentencing. During the museum, you will find out how crime and justice was carried out in the Netherlands over several centuries through a variety of stories.
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Peace Palace
The Peace Palace is a wonderful place for 2 reasons, on the one hand it is a beautiful and photogenic building on the other hand it has a wonderful function as a peace centre. In the Peace Palace burns the peace flame, which was first lit in 2002, later it was surrounded by the World Peace Path with 196 stones from 196 countries, some of which have unique meanings such as a stone from the Berlin Wall and a stone from Robben Island where Mandela was imprisoned for a long time.
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Grote of Sint-Jacobskerk
A beautiful, old looking church opened in 1424. It was built in Gothic style and the most impressive is the hexagonal tower. Today, the church serves as an event venue and has an austere interior.
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Binnenhof
Europe's oldest parliamentary complex still serving today. It is not open to the public until 2028 due to renovations, but you can admire the building from across the pond.
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Bewonersvereniging Hofkwartier
Hofkwartier is the historic centre around Noordeinde Palace, where it is fun and cosy. Stroll through The Hague's cosy, historic streets, go shopping, admire the architecture and visit the museum.
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The Passage
A beautiful, chic gallery with all kinds of luxury shops and fashion brands. You don't even have to buy anything to visit this gallery, just walking through it is an experience in itself.
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The New Church
The New Church was built in the 17th century and restored in the 20th century, it originally served as an early Protestant church and today serves as a concert hall. The exterior is striking with a cowl-shaped roof with corners. The interior is mostly austere and can almost only be visited during concerts.
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Kunstmuseum The Hague
An interesting museum for art lovers. This spring you can visit the New Paris exhibition there, which uniquely portrays the evolution of Paris, from Monet to Morisot this exibition is not to be missed for art lovers.
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The Hague Private Walking Tour: Royals, Politics and History
Don't feel like exploring the city on your own? This tour will lead you past The Hague's main attractions and give you more insight into the city's rich history and political evolution.
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Day 2: The historic city of Delft

Nieuwe Church
Delft is a charming and historic city, every alley, every corner breaths history and cosiness. The first historic landmark is New Church, contrary to what the name suggests, this church was opened as early as 1496. With its 108.75m, the church tower is the second tallest in all of the Netherlands. The exterior is imposing and photogenic, while the interior mainly consists of columns and domes. The church is open to visitors.
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Old Church
Where there is a New Church, there is also an Old Church. It was built in the 13th century and had several restorations over the centuries. Its exterior is imposing and is also characterised by a tall tower. The interior is mostly austere.
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Vermeer Centrum Delft
Did you know that the world famous Johannes Vermeer was born in Delft? Then you won't be surprised that there is a center in his honor. Here you will learn more about his works, discover the person behind them and get an inside look at his beloved city. An unmissable spot for lovers of art and history.
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Museum Paul Tétar van Elven
Very interesting place and hidden gem in Delft! In fact, the museum is the old home of Paul Etar van Elven who was a painter, teacher and collector in the 19th century. Collecting was his great passion and his collection includes art, antiques, Delftware and porcelain. His entire contents were donated to the museum, so everything can be admired today. Finally, you will find yourself back in the charm of the 19th century in this beautiful antique interior!
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Stadhuis Delft
Delft City Hall is a beautiful building on the central market square. The first city hall stood there as early as the 13th century but later burned down after which it was rebuilt in Renaissance style around a medieval tower that rises above the city hall. The exterior is characterized by its striking red windows and gold decorations. Inside is the old prison and torture chamber of Delft.
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Museum Prinsenhof Delft
Housed in the former St Agatha monastery, the museum consists of a very diverse collection with more than 16,000 objects spanning five different centuries. From 17th-century paintings and textiles to contemporary ceramics this museum houses it all!
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Royal Delft
Discover the craftsmanship of typical Dutch ceramics, this museum is home to the world-famous blue and white Delft pottery. Watch craftsmen at work, explore historic collections and learn about the origins and creation of this iconic pottery in the last remaining 17th-century Delft pottery factory.
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Oostpoort
The gate is said to have been there since the 14th - 15th centuries, it served to protect the city from invaders and is a striking structure, with two beautiful long pointed roof.
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De Waag
The Waag in Delft is a historic building on the market place, once used as a weighing place for trade goods. With its characteristic, old-looking interior, De Waag is today the ideal place to have lunch when you are in Delft!
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Galerie voor de Kunst
Gallery For the Art is considered the smallest art museum in the world! It looks like a very small bus shelter and every month a new work of art is exhibited, interesting and less known place in Delft!
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Galerie 'Uit De Kunst'
Gallery Out of Art is a historic spot in Delft, where you can buy handmade clothing or art, but also enjoy a cup of coffee, homemade cake or a nice lunch!
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The Hague and Delft: Private Half-Day Tour with Transfer
If you want to explore the centre of The Hague and historic Delft in one day, this private tour is for you! Learn more about the history of both cities and discover the main attractions.
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Day 3: Coastal Paradise

Scheveningen strand
Scheveningen beach is my favorit beach in The Netherlands and is oftenly seen as the best beach in the Netherlands. It is a beautiful, elongated beach on the raging North Sea that separates England from Belgium and the Netherlands. The waves can be very fierce, making it a great spot for surfers. In winter the temperature are not ideal for swimming, but in summer you can take a lovely swim in the sea. All this makes it the ideal place to relax and sunbathe during your trip!
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De Pier
There is plenty to do at the pier, from a ride with stunning views on the Ferris wheel to a cozy lunch at one of the restaurants. Finally, the pier also offers a very nice view of the sea, the beach and the buildings in the background.
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The Pier SkyView
The Ferris wheel offers great views of Scheveningen; on a clear day, you can even see the centre of The Hague.
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Sea Life Scheveningen
A perfect family activity! Be taken on a fascinating journey into the deep waters of the North Sea. Discover colourful fish, beautiful sea turtles and nasty jellyfish. Furthermore, you will meet the friendly Humblodt Penguins and come face to face with sharks.
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LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre Scheveningen
Another great family activity to do with young kids! A must-visit for all Lego lovers, you will discover impressive miniatures of Dutch cities and can go on adventures while building your own creations!
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Madurodam
For those of you who know Mini Europe in Brussels, Madurodam is a similar concept but a mini-Netherlands! Here you will admire Holland's most iconic buildings, historical sites and cultural attractions. From the famous windmills to Schiphol Airport you will find it all in miniature.
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Day 4: Leyden, little Amsterdam

Boat Tours Rembrandt B.V.
Leyden is also known as little Amsterdam thanks to its many canals, historic buildings and amazing architecture. Want to take a journey through Leyden by boat, this company has you covered!
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Museum Sint Anna Aalmoeshuis
This courtyard was founded in 1492 by the then mayor and brewer Willem Claesz. It consisted of 13 houses, which were intended for single women. The chapel has survived all plagues throughout the centuries, which is why the interior is intact. The windows are made of the oldest stained glass in the Netherlands.
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Morschpoort
One of the two remaining city gates, Morschpoort dates from the 17th century and served to defend the city. The gate today forms the entrance to the historical center of Leyden and with its imposing and historical appearance it is a photogenic building.
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Pieterskerk, Leiden
This impressive medieval church dates back to the 12th century! The interior is spacious, simple and consists of many columns and arches! For Americans, the baptismal chapel is especially interesting, John Robinson is buried here. He was called the Pastor of the Pilgrim Fathers. He chose to stay in Leiden to take care of the people who could not travel to America yet, but died during this period... In his memory, he was buried in the baptismal chapel of the Pieterskerk. During Thanksgiving it is a popular place for Americans staying in the Netherlands.
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Hooglandse Kerk
Another impressive church in Leiden! The interior consists of columns and arches and is completely white.
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Burcht van Leiden
It is one of the oldest still existing castles in the Netherlands. It is situated on a hill and offers a beautiful view of the city. Walk over the castle walls and enjoy the panoramic view of Leyden!
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Hortus Botanicus Leiden
The Hortus Botanicus Leiden is the oldest botanical garden in the Netherlands, founded in 1590. The impressive collection of plants offers an oasis of tranquility. You will find tropical greenhouses, beautiful water lilies and a Japanese garden, making it perfect for those who love peace and nature.
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Oude Sterrewacht (Old Observatory Leiden)
The Old Observatory in Leiden is the oldest existing university observatory in the world. It is located near the Hortus Botanicus and was used for astronomical research. Today it offers an interesting insight into the world and history of astronomy. Participate in interactive exhibitions, look through antique telescopes and follow a fascinating tour!
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Molen De Valk
This old windmill was first built in 1611. The current mill dates from 1743. The mill is quietly situated on a river, in the mill there were two houses. Nowadays it serves as a municipal mill museum and is an important attraction in Leyden. You are taken into the world of the miller and learn more about the role of mills in Leyden and the whole of the Netherlands.
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Rembrandtplaats
In Delft you visited the birthplace of Johannes Vermeer... Leyden is the birthplace of that other world famous painter Rembrandt van Rhijn! The Rembrandtplaats is a tribute to this great master. This historical place is located near the Weddesteeg, where his birthplace stood, on the square you will find a statue of the young Rembrandt. Near this unique place he experienced his youth and took his first steps in the world of art!
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Museum De Lakenhal
The museum is housed in a beautiful 17th century building that once served as an inspection hall for Laeken fabrics. You will learn more about the history of the city, find a beautiful collection of paintings and discover many historical objects. Let yourself be carried away by the flourishing art, trade and science of Leyden.
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Beestenmarkt
This square was once used for the sale of cattle, but today it is an atmospheric and cozy square, known for its many terraces and pubs. It is the perfect place to enjoy a drink or to have lunch!
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Stadstimmerwerf
Beautiful building, situated on the water. The building looks very antique and is beautifully decorated in Amsterdam style. This photogenic building is definitely worth a look.
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National Museum of Antiquities
A must-visit for history buffs. This museum houses all sorts of objects from different eras, from Ancient Egypt to the Romans and from the Ancient Greeks to the Near East. In addition, you will discover archaeological treasures from the Netherlands. The highlight is certainly the beautiful mummies and Roman sculptures.
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Corpus
This museum offers an educational and interactive journey through the human body. Walk through a giant mouth, a lung corridor and even right through the heart. Everything is lifelike and made gigantic. Discover the structure of the human body and learn how it functions! A unique experience for those who want to learn more about human anatomy.
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Pub Trail Leiden: an adventure full of surprises
If you love beer and you're looking for a fun activity in Leyden, this tour is perfect for you! It's not the basic pub trail, this tour offers you a funny time full of laughter. You can challenge colleagues or friends, while you will get hilarious tasks inside of the pubs. Are you ready to make some memories?
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Accomodation

Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus
This hotel is a stunning building at Schevenningen beach. It's very imposing and stylish from the outside and ver chique and royal from the inside. The hotel offers all necessary facilities and even has an indoor swimming pool and wellness centre. Perfect for those who like to stay close to the beach and enjoy a luxury stay.
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Park Centraal Den Haag
A very stylish and cosy hotel. It is located in the heart of The Hague, very close to New Church. All necessary facilities are available and a delicious breakfast is included! Making it the perfect stay for those seeking a place in the historic centre of The Hague.
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Novotel Den Haag World Forum
Located close to the art museum, between Scheveningen beach and The Hague's historic centre, Novotel is a modern hotel offering all necessary facilities and a great breakfast is included. With spacious rooms and modern design it's a perfect choice for those who travel for work or business.
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Culinary

Foodhallen Den Haag
A vibrant and trendy place where you can taste delicious street food. Ideal for people who like to discover different things... From gourmet burgers and sushi to authentic Dutch snacks, there is something for everyone!
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Restaurant ñ
A Spanish culinary experience in the Netherlands! This restaurant offers the best tapas and paella from the region, taste the delicious Spanish wines and enjoy the Spanish hospitality and coziness. Restaurant ñ brings the delicious Spain to your plate!
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Vincenzo's
An atmospheric Italian restaurant, known for its authentic Italian dishes... From fresh pasta to delicious pizza, here the taste of Italy is brought to you in a pleasant, cheerful atmosphere!
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Bar Bistro De Twee Heeren
This Bistro is known for its hospitality and Dutch atmosphere, here you can enjoy a varied menu, all seasonal specialties made with local ingredients. This bistro has something for everyone, an ideal place for a cozy lunch!
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Braadstaal Rotisserie Den Haag
Known for its delicious meat and fish dishes, where they are roasted in a traditional rotisserie style. From juicy chicken to tender ribs and from scampi to burgers, everyone will find something to their liking, because there are also dishes for vegetarians!
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Bog Restaurant
Want to taste a relatively special and new cuisine? Bøg offers you the best dishes from Scandinavia! The interior is in Scandinavian style and the dinner consists of a multi-course menu with fish, meat and vegetarian options. Here the courses are served stylishly and it is all about the total restaurant experience.
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Transport

Den Haag Centraal
The central station of The Hague is the place to be if you want to go to Leyden or Delft. The ride will take no longer than 15 minutes! It's also the place you will probably arrive if you take the train from Rotterdam Airport.
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Rotterdam The Hague Airport
Rotterdam Airport is the place where you will land if you travel to The Netherlands by plane, with a train, bus or taxi you can get to The Hague from here.
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Black Bikes | Bike Rental The Hague (Den Haag)
Want to experience The Hague by bike? Black Bikes Bike Rental is the place to rent a bike!
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Boat Tour The Hague
Want to experience The Hague from the water, this boat tour has you covered and will take you to the best places of the city!
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