Visiting The Hague felt like discovering a quieter, more refined side of the Netherlands—one where royal history, international diplomacy, and coastal charm come together seamlessly. Known as the political heart of the country, The Hague (or Den Haag) is home to the Dutch Parliament, the Royal Palace, and the International Court of Justice at the Peace Palace, giving the city a distinctly sophisticated atmosphere. Yet, beyond its political importance, we found it to be a city filled with art, culture, and a relaxed seaside vibe that made it truly memorable.
We found The Hague to be slightly less expensive than Amsterdam, especially when it came to hotels and dining, yet it felt equally rich in experience. Our days began with strolls through the Binnenhof, one of the oldest parliamentary buildings still in use, where Gothic architecture and reflecting ponds created a picture-perfect setting. The Mauritshuis Museum was an absolute highlight, home to masterpieces like Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring” and Rembrandt’s “The Anatomy Lesson.” We also visited the Peace Palace, where the world’s most important international legal cases are debated—a powerful reminder of The Hague’s global role as a city of justice and peace.
To our delight, The Hague is also a coastal city, and we spent an afternoon at Scheveningen Beach, a lively seaside resort just a short tram ride away. There, we walked along the pier, watched surfers, and enjoyed seafood at a beachside restaurant while the sun dipped below the horizon. The contrast between stately government buildings and a breezy beachside boardwalk made The Hague unlike anywhere else in Europe.
We found the city easy to navigate, with trams and bikes making it simple to get around. The vibe was calm yet cosmopolitan—less touristy than Amsterdam, but full of life and culture. We’d recommend spending two to three days in The Hague to appreciate its blend of politics, art, and coastal leisure.
What struck us most was The Hague’s balance between elegance and authenticity. It’s a city where diplomats and artists share cafés, where centuries-old buildings stand beside modern glass towers, and where the sea breeze seems to carry both history and possibility.