The Hague Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
🏛️ Sightseeing & Things to Do
Must-See Attractions
Q: What is The Hague best known for?
A: Being the international city of peace and justice, home to the Peace Palace, the Dutch government (Binnenhof), and the seat of the Royal family.
Q: Should I visit the Peace Palace (Vredespaleis)?
A: Yes, even if you can’t get inside the International Court of Justice, visit the Visitor Centre and admire the stunning architecture and gardens.
Q: What is the most famous painting in The Hague?
A: Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring, housed in the Mauritshuis museum.
Q: Is the Binnenhof (Parliament) worth seeing right now?
A: Yes, though some buildings are under long-term renovation, the adjacent Hofvijver pond view and the historical area are still beautiful and central.
Q: What is Madurodam?
A: A popular miniature park featuring 1:25 scale replicas of famous Dutch landmarks, cities, and industrial projects.
Q: Is the Mauritshuis too small for art lovers?
A: No. While small, it’s packed with Dutch Golden Age masterpieces like the Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Fabritius, making it high-value.
Q: Where can I see surreal art in The Hague?
A: At Escher in Het Paleis (Escher in the Palace), dedicated to the mind-bending optical illusions of M.C. Escher, set in a former royal residence.
Q: What is the Panorama Mesdag?
A: An extraordinary cylindrical painting (a panorama) that gives a 360-degree illusion of a 19th-century view of Scheveningen beach.
Q: What is the main beach area?
A: Scheveningen Strand, known for its pier, Kurhaus hotel, Ferris wheel, and extensive boulevard.
Q: Is there another, quieter beach?
A: Yes, Kijkduin is often recommended as a more peaceful and family-friendly beach, away from the Scheveningen crowds.
Q: What’s the main attraction on the Scheveningen Pier?
A: The Skyview Ferris Wheel, which offers great views of the coast, and a Bungy Jump/Zip Line tower.
Q: Is there an interesting car museum nearby?
A: Yes, the Louwman Museum, which houses one of the world’s most impressive private collections of classic and antique cars.
Q: What is the Grote Kerk (Great Church)?
A: A prominent, historic Protestant church in the city center, often used for cultural events.
Q: Where is a good place to walk near nature?
A: The Haagse Bos (The Hague Forest) or the dune trails around Scheveningen North and Meijendel.
Q: What are the main shopping streets?
A: The main streets include Grote Marktstraat, the historic Passage (an indoor gallery), and the high-end boutiques on Noordeinde.
Q: Where can I find local boutiques and unique shops?
A: The Zeeheldenkwartier and Noordeinde streets are known for their smaller art shops, vintage, and independent boutiques.
Q: Is there a good free walking tour?
A: Free walking tours are often highly rated on TripAdvisor and are a great way to cover the central sights like the Binnenhof and Lange Voorhout.
Q: What is the Lange Voorhout?
A: A stately, lime-tree-lined avenue that hosts the Escher Museum and occasionally an antique/book market or sculpture walk.
Q: Can I see the King’s working palace?
A: Yes, Paleis Noordeinde is the King’s working palace; you can see it from the outside and often walk right by it.
Q: Is the Kunstmuseum Den Haag worth visiting?
A: Absolutely, it has an exceptional collection of modern art, notably the largest collection of Piet Mondrian works.
Off-the-Beaten Path & Local Gems
Q: Where can I find a cozy café to read or journal?
A: Look around the Zeeheldenkwartier or the smaller streets off the main centers like Prinsestraat.
Q: Are there any good antique or book markets?
A: The Lange Voorhout regularly hosts a popular Antique and Book Market, usually on Thursdays and Sundays in season.
Q: Where can I see a different kind of museum?
A: Museum Voorlinden (modern art set in a beautiful dune landscape outside the city center) and the Gevangenpoort (old prison museum) are unique choices.
Q: Is The Hague underrated compared to Amsterdam or Rotterdam?
A: Many travelers agree it’s underrated; it’s less touristy, has a beach, and a mix of historic and modern architecture without Amsterdam’s crowds.
Q: What’s a good city viewpoint?
A: The Skyview Ferris Wheel on the pier, or the higher floors of some central buildings.
Day Trips from The Hague
Q: What is the best and easiest day trip from The Hague?
A: Delft or Leiden. Both are historical, picturesque canal cities, reachable by a short train (10-15 minutes).
Q: Is Rotterdam a good day trip from The Hague?
A: Yes, it’s about a 25-30 minute train ride and offers a completely different, modern architecture and city vibe.
Q: What’s the main reason to visit Delft?
A: To see its beautiful historic center, canals, and the famous Delftware (blue and white pottery).
Q: How long does it take to get to Amsterdam?
A: Approximately 45-55 minutes by direct train.
Q: Are there any famous gardens nearby?
A: The Clingendael Park is highly recommended, especially for the Japanese Garden (open only a few weeks a year).
Planning Your Visit
Q: How many days should I spend in The Hague?
A: Most travelers recommend 2 to 3 days to see the main attractions and visit Scheveningen.
Q: Is The Hague walkable?
A: The city center is very walkable, covering the Binnenhof, Mauritshuis, and Escher Museum. Trams are best for reaching the beach.
Q: Are tourist sites open on Sundays?
A: Museums and major attractions are generally open on Sundays, but check specific times. Shops often open later (around noon).
Q: Is it better to stay in The Hague or Rotterdam?
A: Many tourists prefer to stay in The Hague for its more ‘traditional’ Dutch feel, proximity to the beach, and historical center.
Q: Is The Hague safe for solo female travelers?
A: Generally very safe, like most Dutch cities. Standard precautions apply, especially in crowded beach areas at night.
Q: When is the best time to visit Scheveningen beach?
A: Summer (June-August) for the best chance of good weather, but it will be crowded. The spring/autumn is great for atmospheric walks.
Q: Do they accept credit cards widely?
A: Maestro/V-Pay is the most widely accepted debit/credit card. Visa/Mastercard acceptance is high but not guaranteed everywhere (especially smaller cafés). Contactless payment is very common.
Q: Where should I exchange currency?
A: ATMs (Geldautomaat) are plentiful and offer the best rates. Avoid airport currency exchange booths.
Q: Do I need to book museum tickets in advance?
A: It’s highly recommended for major sites like the Mauritshuis and Escher Museum to save time and ensure entry, especially during peak season.
Q: What is a lekkerbek?
A: A piece of battered and fried white fish, a popular Dutch snack, especially at the beach.
🍴 Food & Drink
Local & International Cuisine
Q: What is a must-try food in The Hague?
A: Indonesian or Surinamese food, due to the city’s historical ties and large communities.
Q: What are the best traditional Indonesian restaurants?
A: De Poentjak is often cited as a classic. Look for a Rijsttafel (rice table) experience.
Q: Where can I find good Surinamese food?
A: Search for small shops selling Roti or a Broodje Pom in the city center or less touristy neighborhoods.
Q: Where can I find The Hague’s Chinatown?
A: It’s near the Wagenstraat, offering a fantastic variety of authentic Asian restaurants, from dim sum to bubble tea.
Q: Is there a good food hall in the city?
A: De Foodhallen Scheveningen is near the beach, offering various international food stalls.
Q: Where can I get traditional Dutch Herring (Haring)?
A: Look for a haring cart (haringkraam) near the city center or on the Scheveningen boulevard. Eat it “with onions.”
Q: What’s a good spot for a quick lunch near the Binnenhof?
A: The squares like Plein or Buitenhof have many cafés and bars with outdoor seating.
Q: What kind of food should I avoid at the beach?
A: Some tourist traps serve mediocre deep-fried snacks; look for places busy with locals.
Q: Where can I try excellent French fries (Friet)?
A: ‘t Kleinste Winkeltje (the smallest shop) is often recommended, especially for their fries with satay (peanut) sauce.
Q: Where is a good place for quality coffee and brunch?
A: Look in the Zeeheldenkwartier or the areas around the Anna Paulownaplein.
Q: Are there many vegetarian/vegan options?
A: Yes, the Netherlands is generally very veg-friendly. The Vegetarische Toko is a popular Indonesian-vegan fusion spot.
Q: What is the local beer?
A: Kompaan Binnenhaven is a popular local brewery with a taproom often mentioned by locals.
Q: Where is a good bar for a wide beer selection?
A: Biercafé de Paas or The Fiddler (an English pub often recommended for its extensive draft selection).
Q: Is the Grote Markt a good area for nightlife?
A: Yes, the Grote Markt square is a central nightlife hub with many bars, cafés, and outdoor terraces.
Q: Where can I find good Thai food?
A: There are highly-rated Thai places, often found near the Chinatown area or the larger city squares.
Q: What is a Stroopwafel?
A: A quintessential Dutch treat: two thin wafers with a caramel-like syrup filling in the middle. Get a fresh one from a market.
Q: Can I get a good Rijsttafel for one person?
A: Some restaurants will offer a smaller selection for solo diners, but it’s traditionally a communal meal.
Q: Are there any fine-dining options?
A: Yes, The Hague has several Michelin-starred or Bib Gourmand restaurants, particularly in the city center or Scheveningen.
Q: Where should I go for a sunset drink?
A: One of the many beach clubs or pavilions on the Scheveningen strand (beach).
Q: What is Kroket or Bitterballen?
A: Deep-fried savory snacks with a ragout filling, usually served with mustard. Essential with a Dutch beer.
🚌 Transportation & Logistics
Public Transport
Q: What is the best app for train and public transport planning?
A: NS app (for trains) and the 9292 app (for all public transport: tram, bus, train).
Q: What is the main card for public transport in The Netherlands?
A: The OV-chipkaart. For tourists, an Anonymous OV-chipkaart is best.
Q: Do I need an OV-chipkaart for a short visit?
A: Not strictly. You can use OVpay (contactless debit/credit card tap-in/out) or purchase day passes or disposable tickets on the tram/bus (card payment only).
Q: Can I buy tickets on the tram/bus?
A: Yes, but only by card (contactless or debit/credit), not cash. Buying a day pass is often cheaper if you plan multiple trips.
Q: How do I get from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) to The Hague?
A: Take a direct NS Intercity train from the airport station. It takes about 30-45 minutes.
Q: Which train station is closest to the city center?
A: Den Haag Centraal (CS) is the main station and very central. Den Haag Hollands Spoor (HS) is slightly further but also well-connected.
Q: How do I get from the city center to Scheveningen beach?
A: Take a tram (e.g., Tram 9 from Centraal Station or other lines like 1, 11) or a short bus ride.
Q: Are there night buses?
A: Yes, the local operator HTMbuzz runs night bus services on Friday and Saturday nights from the Buitenhof.
Q: Is there a special tourist transport ticket?
A: Check for the “The Hague & Region Travel Ticket” for unlimited travel on buses, trams, and metro in the area for 1, 2, or 3 days.
Q: Do I need to check in and out with my ticket/card?
A: Yes, always tap your card/ticket/phone on the reader when getting ON and OFF any public transport (train, tram, bus).
Cycling and Taxis
Q: Is The Hague bicycle-friendly?
A: Extremely, like the rest of the Netherlands. It’s a very fast and easy way to get around.
Q: Where can I rent a bike?
A: Bike rental shops are common, and the OV-fiets (OV-Bike) can be rented at train stations if you have a personal OV-chipkaart.
Q: Can I take my bike on the tram?
A: Generally not during peak hours. Folding bikes are usually fine when folded. Check the rules for the specific line.
Q: Are taxis readily available?
A: Yes, at main transport hubs and hotels. Uber also operates in the city.
Q: How do I know if a taxi is official?
A: Official taxis have blue number plates and a visible roof sign.
Practicalities
Q: What plug adaptor do I need?
A: Type C or F (the standard two-round-pin European plugs).
Q: What language is spoken?
A: Dutch, but almost everyone in tourism, shops, and restaurants speaks excellent English.
Q: What’s the local time zone?
A: Central European Time (CET), which is GMT+1 in winter and GMT+2 in summer.
Q: What are the main tourist information centers?
A: Look for the VVV (Vereniging voor Vreemdelingenverkeer) Tourist Information point.
Q: Do I need a visa to visit The Hague?
A: This depends on your passport. The Netherlands is part of the Schengen Area, so standard Schengen visa rules apply.
Money and Cost
Q: Is The Hague expensive?
A: It’s comparable to other major Dutch cities, generally considered moderately high by European standards, especially for dining and accommodation.
Q: Is tipping mandatory in restaurants?
A: No, it’s not customary or mandatory, but tipping 5-10% for good service is appreciated.
Q: Are there any free things to do?
A: Yes: walking the Binnenhof area, strolling the beach and boulevard, visiting the Peace Palace’s outside and visitor center, and walking the city center.
Q: What is the local currency?
A: The Euro (€).
Q: Should I bring cash?
A: Not much. The Netherlands is highly card-payment oriented; cash is accepted but not always preferred.
Culture & Etiquette
Q: How do I greet people?
A: A simple “Hello” or “Hoi” (pronounced ‘hoy’). For formal situations, “Goedendag” (good day) or a handshake.
Q: Is cannabis legal?
A: It is decriminalized (tolerated) for personal use and sold in licensed coffeeshops, but is technically illegal and cannot be used in public.
Q: Are reservations needed for dinner?
A: For popular or high-end restaurants, yes, especially on weekends. For casual places, walking in is often fine.
Q: What’s the etiquette for cycling?
A: Be aware of cyclists! Always walk on the sidewalk, not the bike path (red asphalt). Cyclists have the right of way.
Q: Is smoking allowed in public spaces?
A: No smoking is allowed indoors in public places, bars, or restaurants. Be mindful of others when smoking outdoors.
Emergencies
Q: What is the emergency phone number?
A: 112 for police, fire, or ambulance (European standard).
Q: Where is the nearest consulate/embassy?
A: The Hague is the Diplomatic Capital, so many countries have their embassy or consulate here.
Q: What should I do if my passport is lost or stolen?
A: Report it to the local police immediately and then contact your country’s embassy/consulate.
Q: Are there hospitals near the center?
A: Yes, The Hague has several high-quality hospitals (e.g., Haaglanden Medisch Centrum).
Q: What is the non-emergency police number?
A: 0900-8844.
Weather
Q: What is the weather like?
A: It’s a coastal city, meaning temperatures are mild, but it can be windy and rainy year-round. Summers are pleasant but not guaranteed sun.
Q: What should I pack for spring/autumn?
A: Layers, a waterproof jacket, and a windproof umbrella.
Miscellaneous
Q: Is there an equivalent to Amsterdam’s canal tours?
A: Yes, there are boat tours like the Ooievaart that take you along The Hague’s canals and waterways.
Q: Where is a good place to see street art?
A: Areas like the Grote Markt and the Zeeheldenkwartier sometimes feature murals and smaller pieces.
Q: What does Den Haag mean?
A: It is the official Dutch name for The Hague. It translates roughly to “The Hedge” or “The Enclosure.”