Still wondering what to do in The Hague? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in The Hague and book your hotel today!
The Hague, or Den Haag, serves as the seat of the Dutch government and home to the Royal Family. This city on the North Sea coast is distinct for its role in international law and justice, housing institutions like the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court within the Peace Palace. Its character blends diplomatic gravitas with a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
Visitors can explore a variety of impressive buildings and cultural sites. The Binnenhof complex, a historic assembly of government buildings, offers a glimpse into Dutch politics, while the Mauritshuis museum presents a collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring'. For those seeking fresh air, Scheveningen and Kijkduin beaches provide ample space along the coastline.
When considering a hotel in The Hague, many visitors choose to base themselves in the city centre. This area offers a good selection of accommodation, from well-known chain hotels to smaller, boutique establishments, providing convenient access to many attractions and amenities.
The city centre itself is a bustling hub, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and cultural spots. Here, you'll find the historic Binnenhof, the Mauritshuis museum with its Dutch Master paintings, and the Passage shopping arcade. The area around Grote Markt and Plein becomes lively in the evenings, with various pubs and eateries.
For those preferring a seaside experience, the Scheveningen district is an excellent option. It's home to the Kurhaus hotel and numerous other hotels, guesthouses, and holiday flats, often with sea views. Beyond the beach itself, you can visit the Pier or the SEA LIFE Scheveningen aquarium. There are also many seafood restaurants along the promenade.
Another area worth considering is Duinoord/Statenkwartier. This more residential neighbourhood is known for its elegant architecture and is somewhat quieter than the city centre or Scheveningen, yet still offers pleasant hotels and B&Bs. It's close to the Kunstmuseum Den Haag and the Gemeentemuseum, and you'll find independent shops and cafes along Fredrik Hendriklaan.
The Hague boasts an excellent public transport network of trams and buses, making it straightforward to navigate between these areas, even without a car. When choosing your hotel, proximity to a tram stop or bus route can be beneficial for getting around. The city is well-connected to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport via direct train services from Den Haag Centraal Station and Den Haag HS Station, which are easily reached from most hotel locations.
To save on accommodation in The Hague, consider booking during the quieter periods. Hotel prices typically rise significantly during the summer months, particularly July and August, and around major events such as the North Sea Jazz Festival, which usually takes place in July. You'll often find better value by visiting in the shoulder seasons, such as late spring (May, early June) or early autumn (September, October), when the weather is still pleasant but demand is lower.
The lowest prices are generally available during the off-peak winter months, from November to March, excluding the Christmas and New Year period. If your travel dates are flexible, aim for mid-week stays as weekend rates tend to be higher. Also, bear in mind that The Hague hosts numerous international conferences and governmental meetings throughout the year, which can sporadically push up hotel occupancy and prices, so it's always worth checking a local events calendar before finalising your booking.