Day Trips The Hague

Day Trips in The Hague: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to The Hague, the third-largest city in the Netherlands and the seat of the Dutch government! Known for its international institutions, beautiful beaches, historic architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, The Hague offers a wealth of attractions suitable for day trips. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan your visit:

  1. Binnenhof and Mauritshuis: Start your day with a visit to the heart of Dutch politics, Binnenhof, home to the Dutch Parliament and the Royal Palace Noordeinde. Next door lies Mauritshuis Museum, housing an impressive collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including works by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Frans Hals.

  2. Escher in het Paleis: Just a short walk from Binnenhof, you’ll find Escher in het Paleis, which hosts exhibitions of the surreal art of M.C. Escher. The exhibition changes regularly, so there’s always something new to discover!

  3. Panorama Mesdag: Step into a 19th-century painting come to life at Panorama Mesdag, a circular panoramic painting depicting a view of Scheveningen in the late 1800s. The painting is set in a three-dimensional environment with authentic props and lifelike figures, creating an immersive experience.

  4. Madurodam: No trip to The Hague would be complete without a visit to Madurodam, Miniature Netherlands. This miniature park offers a scaled replica of famous Dutch landmarks, cities, and villages, allowing you to explore the country in a single afternoon.

  5. Beaches of Scheveningen: Spend your afternoon soaking up the sun at one of The Hague’s beautiful beaches, especially the popular beach resort of Scheveningen. Take a dip in the North Sea, rent a surfboard, or simply stroll along the promenade enjoying the stunning sea views.

  6. Dutch Seaplane Base: For a unique perspective of The Hague and its surroundings, take a seaplane ride from the Dutch Seaplane Base at Scheveningen Harbor. Flights are available throughout the day, offering breathtaking views of the city and coastline.

  7. Peace Palace and International Criminal Court: If you’re interested in international law, make sure to visit the Peace Palace, home to the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Guided tours are available, providing insights into the workings of these crucial institutions.

  8. Cliff Walk Scheveningen: End your day with a leisurely walk along the Cliff Walk in Scheveningen, offering panoramic views of the North Sea and the city skyline. Keep an eye out for the iconic “Scheveningse Pier” and the historic lighthouse at the end of the walk.

Enjoy your day trips in The Hague! Whether you’re a history buff, art enthusiast, beach lover, or architecture aficionado, there’s something for everyone in this fascinating city. Safe travels!