10 Exciting Things to Do in The Hague: A Guide for First-Time Visitors

The Hague is the Netherlands’ third-largest city, and it is packed with things to do. From exploring the city’s incredible architecture to visiting its world-renowned museums, there is something for everyone in The Hague. Here is a guide to 10 of the most exciting activities to enjoy in The Hague, designed to give first-time visitors the best experience possible.

1. Visit The International Court of Justice

The International Court of Justice, or ICJ, is the world’s highest court of justice. Located in the Peace Palace, the ICJ is a must-visit for anyone interested in international law. Visitors can tour the courtroom, learn about the court’s history, and visit the Peace Palace’s beautiful library. It is a fascinating and unique experience, and a great way to learn more about international law.

The Peace Palace also houses the Permanent Court of Arbitration and the International Criminal Court, making it an ideal place to get an overview of international law. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the Peace Palace’s beautiful gardens and learn about the building’s history and architectural features.

The International Court of Justice is open to the public from Monday to Friday, and visitors can book a tour online or by calling the Peace Palace’s reception desk.

2. Explore the Binnenhof and the Ridderzaal

The Binnenhof and the Ridderzaal are two of The Hague’s most iconic landmarks. The Binnenhof is the Dutch Parliament building, and it is surrounded by beautiful cobbled streets and picturesque canals. The Ridderzaal is the grand entrance to the Binnenhof, and it is a must-visit for anyone interested in Dutch history and politics.

Visitors can explore the Binnenhof and the Ridderzaal at their own pace, or take a guided tour with one of the museum’s knowledgeable guides. The tour is a great way to learn more about the history and architecture of the Binnenhof, as well as the current workings of the Dutch government.

The Binnenhof and the Ridderzaal are open to the public from Monday to Saturday, and visitors can book a tour online or by calling the Binnenhof’s reception desk.

3. Visit the Mauritshuis Museum

The Mauritshuis Museum is one of The Hague’s most popular attractions. Located in the heart of the city, the Mauritshuis houses a world-renowned collection of Dutch and Flemish masterpieces from the Golden Age. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, which feature works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Rubens, and learn about the fascinating history of Dutch art.

The Mauritshuis also offers a range of interactive activities and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages. From art classes to guided tours, there is something for everyone at this incredible museum.

The Mauritshuis is open from Monday to Sunday, and visitors can book tickets online or by calling the museum’s reception desk.

4. Take a Boat Tour of The Hague

One of the best ways to experience The Hague is by taking a boat tour. Cruising through the city’s canals and waterways is a great way to get to know the city, and visitors can learn more about the city’s history and culture as they float along. Boat tours are available from a range of companies, and they can be tailored to suit the interests of the group.

The boat tours usually last around two hours, and they are a great way to relax and take in the sights of The Hague. Visitors can also take advantage of the boat tour’s on-board facilities, such as a bar and a restaurant, and they can enjoy a snack or a drink as they cruise along.

Boat tours of The Hague are available from Monday to Sunday, and visitors can book tickets online or by calling the tour’s reception desk.

5. Explore the Panorama Mesdag

The Panorama Mesdag is one of The Hague’s most unique attractions. This giant painting was created by Dutch artist Hendrik Willem Mesdag in 1881, and it provides visitors with a unique 360-degree view of the city. Visitors can explore the painting’s winding pathways, and they can learn more about the history of The Hague as they wander around.

The Panorama Mesdag is open from Monday to Sunday, and visitors can explore the painting at their own pace or take a guided tour with one of the museum’s knowledgeable guides. The tour is a great way to learn more about the painting and the city of The Hague.

The Panorama Mesdag is open to the public from Monday to Sunday, and visitors can book tickets online or by calling the museum’s reception desk.

6. Visit the Palace Noordeinde

The Palace Noordeinde is one of The Hague’s most impressive landmarks. This beautiful palace was once home to Dutch royalty, and it is now open to the public. Visitors can explore the palace’s grand interiors, including the magnificent Great Hall, and they can learn more about the history of the Dutch royal family.

The Palace Noordeinde also houses a range of artworks, including works by Rembrandt and Rubens. Visitors can also explore the palace’s beautiful gardens, and they can enjoy a snack or a drink at the palace’s café.

The Palace Noordeinde is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and visitors can book tickets online or by calling the palace’s reception desk.

7. Enjoy a Concert at the Grote Kerk

The Grote Kerk is one of The Hague’s most iconic landmarks. This beautiful church was built in the 13th century, and it is known for its stunning architecture and artworks. Visitors can explore the church’s interiors, and they can learn more about its fascinating history.

The Grote Kerk also hosts a range of concerts and events throughout the year. These concerts are a great way to experience the church’s acoustics, and they are a great way to enjoy some of The Hague’s best classical music. Visitors can book tickets online or by calling the church’s reception desk.

8. Visit the Dutch Parliament

The Dutch Parliament is one of The Hague’s most important institutions. Visitors can take a guided tour of the Dutch Parliament building, and they can learn more about the current workings of the Dutch government. The tour is a great way to get an insight into the workings of the Dutch Parliament, and visitors can also explore the building’s beautiful interiors.

The Dutch Parliament is open from Monday to Friday, and visitors can book a tour online or by calling the Parliament’s reception desk.

9. Explore the Escher in het Paleis

The Escher in het Paleis is a unique museum dedicated to the work of Dutch artist M.C. Escher. Visitors can explore the museum’s galleries, which feature a range of Escher’s works, and they can learn more about the artist’s life and work. The museum also offers a range of interactive activities and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

The Escher in het Paleis is open from Tuesday to Sunday, and visitors can book tickets online or by calling the museum’s reception desk.

10. Visit the Madurodam

The Madurodam is a miniature city located in The Hague. Visitors can explore the city’s streets and buildings, which have been built to a scale of 1:25, and they can learn more about the history and culture of The Netherlands. The Madurodam also offers a range of interactive activities and educational opportunities for visitors of all ages.

The Madurodam is open from Monday to Sunday, and visitors can book tickets online or by calling the Madurodam’s reception desk.

Conclusion

The Hague is an incredible city, full of fascinating sights and attractions. From exploring the city’s iconic landmarks to visiting its world-renowned museums, there is something for everyone in The Hague. This guide has outlined 10 of the most exciting activities to enjoy in The Hague, and it is designed to give first-time visitors the best experience possible.