Exploring The Hague in Holland
Visiting The Hague (Den Haag) offers a wonderful mix of historical, political, and cultural experiences. Known as the political heart of the Netherlands, it’s home to the Dutch government, the royal family, and international institutions like the International Court of Justice. Here's a guide to the top things to do and see in The Hague:
1. Top Attractions in The Hague
Mauritshuis: This museum is famous for its collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including Vermeer’s "Girl with a Pearl Earring" and Rembrandt’s works. The building itself is a beautiful 17th-century mansion.
Binnenhof: The heart of Dutch politics, Binnenhof is a historic complex of buildings that houses the Dutch Parliament. You can visit the Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights), and during parliamentary recess, take a guided tour.
Peace Palace: Home to the International Court of Justice, the Peace Palace is a striking symbol of international law. You can visit the visitors' center to learn about the building and its role in promoting world peace.
Escher in Het Paleis: This museum is dedicated to the works of M.C. Escher, the Dutch graphic artist known for his mind-bending optical illusions and intricate designs. The museum is housed in a former royal palace.
Panorama Mesdag: This unique museum features a 360-degree cylindrical painting of the Scheveningen beach from the late 19th century, offering a fascinating and immersive glimpse of Dutch history.
2. Scheveningen Beach
Just a few kilometers from the city center, Scheveningen is the most popular beach in the Netherlands. It features a long promenade, lively bars and restaurants, and the Scheveningen Pier, where you can enjoy panoramic views, a Ferris wheel, and even bungee jumping.
Beelden aan Zee: A museum dedicated to modern sculpture, located on the beach in Scheveningen, with both indoor and outdoor exhibitions.
Water Sports: Scheveningen is also a hub for water sports like windsurfing and kite surfing.
3. The Hague's Royal Palaces
Noordeinde Palace: This is the working palace of King Willem-Alexander. While the palace is not open to the public, the gardens behind it are free to visit.
Huis ten Bosch: This is the residential palace of the Dutch royal family, located just outside the city in a beautiful park. It’s not open to the public, but the surrounding park is lovely for a walk or bike ride.
4. Madurodam
Madurodam is a miniature park that offers an interactive way to explore famous Dutch landmarks, from the canals of Amsterdam to the windmills of Kinderdijk. It’s a fun experience for both kids and adults to see the Netherlands on a small scale.
5. Museums and Culture
Kunstmuseum Den Haag: Known for its impressive collection of modern art, including works by Piet Mondrian, this museum also has changing exhibitions on fashion, design, and more.
The Prison Gate Museum (Gevangenpoort): This museum offers a glimpse into the medieval justice system in the Netherlands, housed in an old prison and featuring exhibits on torture and punishment.
Louwman Museum: For car enthusiasts, this museum boasts one of the world’s largest collections of vintage automobiles, showcasing over 200 cars dating from 1886 to the present.
6. Hofvijver Lake
Right next to the Binnenhof is the Hofvijver, a serene lake surrounded by beautiful government buildings. It’s a picturesque spot for photos and offers great views of the city's skyline, especially at sunset.
7. Parks and Green Spaces
Clingendael Park: Famous for its Japanese garden (which is open only for a short period in spring and autumn), Clingendael is one of the most beautiful parks in the Netherlands, ideal for a peaceful walk.
Westbroekpark: Known for its international rose garden, this park is a great place for a picnic or a boat ride on the canal.
Haagse Bos: A large forested area in The Hague, perfect for walking and cycling. The Huis ten Bosch Palace is located within this park.
8. Shopping in The Hague
The Passage: This is the oldest shopping arcade in the Netherlands, filled with luxury boutiques, specialty shops, and cafés.
Noordeinde: The street near the royal palace is known for its art galleries, high-end fashion stores, and exclusive shops.
De Fred (Frederik Hendriklaan): A long shopping street in the Statenkwartier neighborhood, with a mix of upscale stores, cafés, and boutiques.
9. Dining in The Hague
Seafood at Scheveningen: Given its proximity to the sea, Scheveningen is the perfect place to try fresh seafood like Dutch herring, mussels, and oysters.
Dutch Pancakes: You can find traditional Dutch pancakes (both sweet and savory) at places like Pannenkoekenhuis De Bijenkorf.
Indonesian Cuisine: The Hague has a strong connection to Indonesia due to its colonial history. Be sure to try an Indonesian rijsttafel (a multi-dish feast) at one of the city’s renowned Indonesian restaurants, like Garoeda or Restaurant Blauw.
10. Day Trips from The Hague
Delft: Just a 15-minute train ride away, Delft is famous for its blue pottery, charming canals, and historic center. It’s also the birthplace of Johannes Vermeer.
Leiden: Another nearby city, Leiden is known for its canals and being home to the oldest university in the Netherlands.
Rotterdam: About 30 minutes by train, Rotterdam is a modern city known for its innovative architecture, museums, and harbor tours.
Practical Tips for Visiting The Hague
Public Transport: The Hague is well-connected by trams, buses, and trains. You can use an OV-chipkaart for easy travel within the city and to nearby areas.
Cycling: The Hague is bike-friendly, and renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the city and its parks.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer are ideal, especially for visiting outdoor attractions like the parks and Scheveningen beach. However, The Hague’s museums and cultural sites make it a great year-round destination.
The Hague offers a unique combination of political significance, royal history, art, and seaside relaxation, making it a must-visit destination in the Netherlands. |
