The Hague

🎭 Activities

• Binnenhof and the Ridderzaal – All Year: The Binnenhof is the political heart of the Netherlands and one of the most iconic places in The Hague. Major political meetings are held here, and visitors can take a guided tour of the Ridderzaal, where the annual Prinsjesdag ceremony is hosted. The square also offers a stunning view of the Hofvijver. 

• The Peace Palace – All Year: This impressive building houses the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Visitors can admire the Peace Palace during special tours or visit the visitors’ center to learn more about peace and justice in international relations. 

• Scheveningen Fireworks Shows – Summer (July/August): Every summer, Scheveningen hosts spectacular fireworks shows along the coast. The beaches light up with colorful displays, drawing both locals and tourists who enjoy this free spectacle. 

• The Hague Market – All Year: The Hague Market is one of the largest outdoor markets in Europe. It offers a mix of cultures, with stalls featuring exotic fruits, international dishes, clothing, and household items. It’s a great place to experience the city’s diversity. 

• Festival Classique – June: This annual event brings classical music to the beach of Scheveningen and other locations in The Hague. From concerts on floating stages to intimate performances in unique venues, Festival Classique is a delight for music lovers. 

• The Mauritshuis – All Year: The Mauritshuis hosts a world-famous collection of paintings, including Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Rembrandt’s The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp. This compact museum offers a unique opportunity to admire Dutch art history up close. 

• Open Monuments Day – September: During this annual event, many historic buildings in The Hague, which are normally not open to the public, welcome visitors. Guests can enjoy free tours and lectures in palaces, churches, and other remarkable locations. 

•  Embassy Festival – September: A multicultural festival where dozens of embassies present their cultures on the Lange Voorhout. Think international cuisines, traditional music, dance performances, and art exhibitions. This event offers a worldly experience without leaving The Hague. 

• Japanese Garden in Clingendael Park – Spring and Autumn: The Japanese Garden in Clingendael Park is a hidden gem in The Hague and is only open a few weeks each year. It’s a serene place with exotic plants, Japanese lanterns, and a peaceful atmosphere. 

• Scheveningen Sculpture Walk – All Year: Along Scheveningen’s boulevard, you’ll find a unique collection of sculptures, including fairy tale figures by artist Tom Otterness. This walk combines art and seaside views and is suitable for all ages. 

• King’s Day in The Hague – April: The Hague is known for its festive King’s Day celebrations. The city hosts a mix of free markets, music stages, and children’s activities, along with the famous Koningsnach music festival held the night before. 

• Kunstmuseum Den Haag – All Year: This museum, designed by Berlage, offers an impressive collection of modern art, fashion, and applied arts. It houses the largest collection of Mondrian works, including the iconic Victory Boogie Woogie. 

🔹 Small Facts

• A Government City Without a Capital: While Amsterdam is the capital, the government and parliament are based in The Hague. 

• The Binnenhof is the Oldest Parliament Building in Use: Since 1446, the Binnenhof has been used for political meetings. 

• City and Beach Combined: The Hague is the only major city in the Netherlands with direct access to the sea. 

• More Than Just the Binnenhof: The Hague also has Noordeinde Palace, the King’s workplace. You can visit the palace gardens for free. 

• The Hague Forest is Older Than The Hague Itself: This city forest has existed for over 900 years. 

• Multicultural Diversity: With residents from over 180 countries, The Hague is one of the most diverse cities in the Netherlands. 

• Europe’s Largest Market: The Hague Market is free to access and offers a multicultural experience. 

• Unique Humor: The city is famous for Hague Harry, a comic character with his own dialect. 

• Lots of Free Outdoor Art: You’ll find art everywhere in The Hague, such as sculptures on the Lange Voorhout. 

• An International City: The Hague hosts major world institutions like the International Criminal Court and the Peace Palace.