The Ultimate Guide to The Hague on a Budget 2025

The Ultimate Guide to The Hague on a Budget: The Royal City by the Sea 2025

Discover the International City of Peace and Justice. This guide unlocks an affordable, elegant, and unforgettable adventure in The Hague.

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Where to Stay: A Guide to The Hague's Districts

Choosing the right district in The Hague is key. Do you prefer the regal heart of the Centrum, the fresh sea breeze of Scheveningen, or the charming boutiques of the Zeeheldenkwartier? Your home base defines your experience in the Royal City by the Sea. Explore our hand-picked areas below.

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The Hague Essentials: Your Questions Answered

Your key questions about The Hague, answered by our local experts. Get the real scoop on museums, transport, and what makes the Royal City by the Sea tick.

Where can I see Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring"?

This world-famous masterpiece is the star attraction of the Mauritshuis museum, located right next to the Binnenhof in the city center. The museum is home to a stunning collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings in a beautiful 17th-century palace. Booking your ticket online in advance is highly recommended to avoid queues.

What's the best way to get to Scheveningen beach from the city center?

The easiest and most popular way is by tram. Tram 1 (direction Scheveningen Noord) and Tram 9 (direction Scheveningen Noord) both run frequently from the city center and major train stations directly to the beach. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes and drops you right by the Kurhaus and the Pier.

Can I visit the Binnenhof (Dutch Parliament)?

The Binnenhof complex, including the famous Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights), is currently undergoing a major, multi-year renovation and is closed to the public. However, you can still walk around the outside of the historic buildings, see the Prime Minister's office (Het Torentje), and enjoy the view from the Hofvijver pond. For tours and information about the government, visit the ProDemos visitor center across the street.

What is the Peace Palace and can I go inside?

The Peace Palace is home to the International Court of Justice (the main judicial body of the UN) and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Because it is a working palace of justice, access is limited. You cannot freely walk in, but you can visit the Visitor Centre next to the main entrance for free to learn about its history and function. Guided tours of the Palace itself are available on select weekends and must be booked far in advance online.

Is The Hague a good city for walking?

Yes, the city center is very compact and perfect for walking. You can easily explore the area around the Binnenhof, the royal palaces, and the main shopping streets on foot. However, to get to the beach at Scheveningen or the International Zone (around the Peace Palace), you will need to use the excellent tram system or rent a bike for the full Dutch experience.

What is a typical local food I should try in The Hague?

The Hague has two famous local treats. For something sweet, try a Haags Hopje, a hard coffee-and-caramel flavored candy that originated here in the 18th century. For a savory snack, especially at the beach, you must try a Hollandse Nieuwe Haring (new Dutch herring). It's typically served with chopped onions and pickles from a fish stall ("haringkar").

What are the main shopping areas?

The Hague has a great mix of shopping. For major international brands and department stores like De Bijenkorf, head to the Grote Marktstraat and the connected pedestrian areas. For luxury boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops, explore the charming streets of Noordeinde (where the King's palace is) and the Denneweg.

How do I get from Schiphol Airport (Amsterdam) to The Hague?

It's very easy. There is a direct train that runs from the station directly underneath Schiphol Airport to both Den Haag Centraal (CS) and Den Haag Hollands Spoor (HS). The journey takes about 30 minutes. You can buy tickets at the yellow ticket machines at the airport station or online via the NS (Dutch Railways) website.

What is the "International Zone"?

The International Zone is the area in the Statenkwartier and Zeeheldenkwartier districts where many of the city's international institutions are located. This includes the Peace Palace, the World Forum convention center, Europol, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), and many embassies. It's characterized by grand avenues and stately architecture.

Is it better to stay in the city center or by the beach at Scheveningen?

It depends on your trip! Stay in the city center if your priority is museums, shopping, and easy access to the train station for day trips. Stay in Scheveningen if you want a beach holiday vibe, with easy access to the sea, the pier, and beach clubs. The two are only a 15-minute tram ride apart, so it's easy to enjoy both regardless of where you stay.