The Hague – Things to Do -Attractions & Must See

Hague: Things to Do

The Hague has centuries of history to explore. If you stop by the city’s tourist information office next to the Central Station you can get an overview of what there is to do.

Important Landmarks

A visit to The Hague wouldn’t be complete without seeing the government offices, royal palaces and other important and historic buildings.

• Binnenhof  (“Inner Court”) – The complex of government buildings and home to the Dutch Parliament.
• Ridderzaal (“Hall of Knights”) – The Ridderzaal has served numerous purposes over the centuries: book-trading in the 1600s, a drill hall and a public record office. Today it serves for official royal receptions and conferences.
• Paleis Noordeinde – Dating back centuries, this is the Dutch Royal Palace. Be sure to see the Royal Gardens and Stables while here.
• Peace Palace – Houses the U.N.’s International Court of Justice

Right in the center of The Hague and next to the Royal Garden you can go for a walk along the canal of the Toussaintkade/Prinsessewal. It is a beautiful area with gorgeous architecture. There are several churches to see too.

Museums

There are numerous museums throughout the city. Especially look for the Mauritshuis where famous masterpieces of art have been housed for 200 years.  See the Panorama Mesdag, a massive painting that was created in the 19^th century. The Museum Meermanno is the world’s oldest museum of the book. They have an awesome collection of ancient books and manuscripts. And don’t forget to see the Gevangenpoort (Old Prison).

Scenic Hague

Important sights in The Hague include Clingendael, Hofje Van Wouw (famous Almshouses), De Groene Stad (The Green City), Regentesseplein, Castle Old Wassenaar and stroll along the Lange Voorhout. There are also attractive and colorful markets throughout the city. There are also some beaches to walk along too, although they are quite different than the southern beaches.

If you’ve traveling with kids, stop by the Madurodam and see the Dutch attractions in mini-size.
Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in The Hague.