The Hague Netherlands one day itinerary
The Hague Netherlands is one of the known Randstad’s, meaning “Rim city” or “Edge city”, in addition to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. The Hague is not the capital of the Netherlands but the seat of the Dutch government and the location of the palace of the King and Queen of the Netherlands. There are also many international offices located in The Hague such as the International Criminal Court, many International Governmental Organisations and various (inter)national Dutch companies. The rich history of The Hague Netherlands coupled by its beautiful nature areas and architecture makes this city a favourite destination of locals and tourists.
There are many things to do in The Hague for visiting family, ranging from shopping, resting in the park, arts and museum visit, or dining in restaurants. If you only have one day to visit The Hague, I highlighted some of the best things to do. In this blog, I will discuss the one day itinerary in The Hague, based on the map below. It starts from The Hague central station, assuming that you and your family arrive by train.
The Hague Netherlands one day itinerary
1. Mauritshuis
If you are a fan of arts, particularly of the Dutch paintings during the Golden Age, the Mauritshuis is a must visit. The Mauritshuis houses some of the world-renowned 17th century masterpieces such as the Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring, The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp by Rembrandt, The Goldfinch by Fabritius and The Bull by Potter. These displays can be permanently found in the intimate rooms of seventeenth-century monuments. To prepare your visit or check the museum’s collection, you can check this link of Mauritshuis.
2. Binnenhof The Hague Netherlands
The Binnenhof is one of the most prominent architectures in The Hague. It was built up with magnificent architectures surrounded with a church in the middle. The Binnenhof was previously the residence of the counts of Holland during the 13th century. It became the seat of the Dutch government in 1584, and now houses the offices of the Dutch parliament and the Office of the prime minister.
3. Rijksmuseum de Gevangenpoort
The Rijksmuseum de Gevangenpoort is a Middle Age prison located close to the Binnenhof and the Ridderzaal. It now turned in to a museum which shows how people in the past were imprisoned punished, and tortured. If you are interested to visit this museum, you can check the link for tickets and opening times in this site.
4. Hofvijver The Hague Netherlands
The Hofvijver is a lake that runs in the city center of The Hague Netherlands. This lakes adds further beauty to the already magnificent view of the Binnenhof and the Mauritshuis. There is a park and benches where you can rest to admire the beauty of Hofvijver and the architectures surrounding it. Depending on the season of the year, you will experience the charm of this place.
5. Escher in het Paleis (Escher at the Palace)
Escher in het Paleis is a fun museum that showcases futuristic ideas and perspectives. This museum is named after its artist M.C. Escher, who is Holland’s most famous graphic artist. Almost all his prints are exhibited in this museum that includes Belvedere, Drawing Hands, Waterfall and Ascending and Descending. Optical illusion, which makes tricks and puzzles in your eyes, is a key to his works. You can find in this museum how its artist changed fishes into birds, made the water flow upstream and and many detailed paintings such as the highly attractive early Italian landscapes.
6. Madurodam
Madurodam is a famous kids (and adults) attraction that shows the miniature version of famous landmarks, cities, and developments in the Netherlands. This include for instance a little version of Amsterdam, the different Dutch symbols and architectures such as castles, tulips, windmills, miniature trains, boats, and cars moving around Holland, and a built-in ship playground for kids. It can take around 2-4 hours when visiting this place so make sure to take this into consideration during your visit. Want to know more information, check out my blog about Madurodam in this link.
7. Scheveningen
Scheveningen is by far the most popular beach in the Netherlands. This beach is very accessible by tram from The Hague central station, and can also be reached by cars and by bikes. Scheveningen beach is 4.5 kilometers long and 110 meters wide, thus it is able to accommodate visitors from all over the world throughout the year. There are activities each season of the year, many restaurants, and hotels in the beach.
Are you looking for other activities close to The Hague? Check the following blogs:
1. Nature tour in The Hague Netherlands