When expats and international visitors arrive in the Netherlands, Amsterdam might be their first thought. But just an hour southwest lies a city that offers elegance, history and cultural diversity in every corner: The Hague (Den Haag). Often called the “royal city by the sea”, The Hague is the political heart of the country, home to the Dutch royal family, and a captivating destination for culture lovers, foodies and shoppers alike.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or settling in for a longer stay, The Hague promises a multifaceted experience where tradition meets cosmopolitan charm. Here’s your essential guide to exploring and enjoying this dynamic and welcoming city.
A city with a story: The history of The Hague
The Hague, or ’s-Gravenhage as it’s officially named, is not just another Dutch city; it’s a place that history has shaped for nearly eight centuries. Founded in 1248 by Count William II of Holland as a hunting lodge and royal residence, it soon became a political and administrative hub. During the 15th and 16th centuries, under Burgundian and Habsburg rule, it gained prominence, with figures like Emperor Charles V and King Philip II connected to the city.
The Dutch Golden Age of the 17th century brought prosperity to the Netherlands. It was at this time that The Hague became the seat of the Republic’s government. The Binnenhof, still the heart of Dutch politics today, stands as a living reminder of that era, although most of the building dates back to the 13th century, when it functioned as the residence of the counts of Holland. In the 19th and 20th centuries, The Hague evolved into the “City of Peace and Justice,” home to the Peace Palace and numerous international organizations.
Today, it blends this deep heritage with modern, global living, offering visitors a chance to walk the same streets where political leaders, artists and visionaries once stood.
World-class art and museums
The Hague has long been hailed as one of the Netherlands’ cultural capitals, due to its wealth of art galleries, museums and cultural institutions.
The Mauritshuis, an elegant 17th-century mansion, houses Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, including Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Rembrandt’s The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp. The Kunstmuseum Den Haag boasts an extensive collection of modern and contemporary works, including Piet Mondriaan’s iconic Victory Boogie Woogie.
Beyond these icons, The Hague offers unique cultural experiences:
- Panorama Mesdag – A mesmerizing 360-degree painting that immerses you in 19th-century Scheveningen.
- Escher in Het Paleis – The mind-bending world of M.C. Escher, housed in a former royal winter palace.
- Museum Voorlinden – Just outside the city, this contemporary art museum pairs striking architecture with serene sculpture gardens.
- Museon – An interactive favourite for families, exploring science, culture and our changing planet. The Omniversum cinema dome shows films about the Earth, its history and future.
- Madurodam – This garden is home to a range of 1:25 scale model replicas of famous Dutch landmarks, historical cities and large engineering projects. A great day out for children and adults who want to get to know the country.
Smaller galleries and art spaces throughout the city also nurture emerging talent, making The Hague an ideal place to discover both celebrated masters and fresh voices
A foodie’s delight: dining around the world without leaving the city
The Hague’s culinary scene is as international as its population. You can eat your way around the world without ever leaving the city. Street food fans can visit the Haagse Markt, Europe’s largest open-air market, for fresh seafood, exotic spices, and snacks from around the globe.
Shop till you drop
From high-end fashion to antique treasures, The Hague offers shopping experiences for every taste. In the city centre, streets like Grote Marktstraat and Spuistraat host major brands, department stores such as De Bijenkorf, and the elegant, glass-roofed De Passage, the oldest covered shopping arcade in the Netherlands.
For boutique browsing, try:
- Noordeinde – Chic fashion, art galleries and antiques.
- Denneweg – A historic street lined with antique shops, design boutiques and cafés.
- Frederik Hendriklaan – A lively mix of fashion, design and gourmet treats.
Shopping here is as much about soaking in the atmosphere as finding that perfect purchase.
A global city with a warm welcome
With embassies and international schools, The Hague attracts a diverse and vibrant expat community. Social clubs, language exchanges and networking events make it easy for newcomers to feel at home.
Whether you’re cycling to the beach, enjoying live music in the park, or attending a gallery opening, The Hague invites you to be part of its cultural fabric.
Why The Hague should be on your list
The Hague is a city of contrasts: historic yet forward-looking, local yet international. It’s where Gothic parliament halls stand minutes away from modern art museums, where you can attend a world-class concert and then watch the sunset over the North Sea.
For expats and tourists seeking more than just postcard views, The Hague offers depth, charm and a warm, global spirit. Whether you come for a short visit or a new chapter in life, one thing is certain: you’ll leave inspired.
Ready to explore? The Hague is waiting: full of stories, flavours and experiences you won’t soon forget.