3-Day The Hague, Netherlands Travel Itinerary

Introduction:

The Hague is the political capital of the Netherlands, the seat of the Dutch government, home to the royal family, and headquarters of the International Court of Justice. The Hague is located on the western coast of the Netherlands, facing the North Sea, and is known for its elegant architecture, museums, and diplomatic presence. Unlike Amsterdam, The Hague has a more refined and peaceful atmosphere, blending old-world charm with modern institutions. In three days, visitors can explore majestic palaces, peaceful parks, world-class museums, and a relaxing seaside. The city is ideal for those looking to discover Dutch culture beyond the usual tourist trail.

Places to Visit:

1. Binnenhof: This is the historic complex that houses the Dutch Parliament. It is one of the oldest parliamentary buildings in the world still in use.
2. Mauritshuis Museum: This museum is famous for its collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, including Girl with a Pearl Earring by Vermeer.
3. Peace Palace: This international court building is home to the International Court of Justice and is known for its neo-Renaissance architecture and manicured gardens.
4. Escher in Het Paleis: This museum is dedicated to the graphic art of M.C. Escher, housed in a former royal palace.
5. Madurodam: This is a miniature park that features scale models of famous Dutch landmarks and is ideal for families and first-time visitors.
6. Scheveningen Beach: This is a popular seaside district with a wide sandy beach, a pier, and plenty of beach bars and restaurants.
7. Panorama Mesdag: This unique attraction showcases a 360-degree cylindrical painting of the 19th-century Scheveningen coastline.
8. Gemeentemuseum Den Haag (Kunstmuseum Den Haag): This art museum is known for its collection of modern art, especially works by Mondrian.
9. The Hague Tower (Het Strijkijzer): This skyscraper offers panoramic views of the city from its rooftop bar and observation deck.
10. Haagse Markt: This is one of the largest multicultural open-air markets in Europe, with hundreds of stalls offering food, fashion, and household items.

Sample Itinerary:

Day 1: Political Heart and Artistic Treasures

• 9:00 AM – Visit Binnenhof: Begin the day at the Dutch political center. Tour the inner courtyard and Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights) with a guided tour (1.5 hours).
• 10:45 AM – Walk to Mauritshuis Museum (2-minute walk): Admire masterpieces by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Hals in an intimate museum setting (1.5 hours).
• 12:30 PM – Lunch at Café Restaurant Rootz: Dine in a converted beer cellar serving Dutch and Belgian cuisine (1 hour).
• 2:00 PM – Visit Escher in Het Paleis (10-minute walk): Explore mind-bending art in a former royal residence (1 hour).
• 3:30 PM – Stroll through Lange Voorhout and explore the Noordeinde Palace area: Walk tree-lined boulevards and peek at the working palace of the king (1 hour).
• 5:00 PM – Visit Panorama Mesdag (15-minute walk): View the famous cylindrical painting and learn about 19th-century Dutch seaside life (45 minutes).
• 6:00 PM – Dinner at The Penthouse in The Hague Tower: Enjoy elevated dining with views from the tallest building in the city.

Day 2: Culture and Coastline

• 9:00 AM – Head to Gemeentemuseum Den Haag (15-minute tram ride): See works by Mondrian and other modern artists (1.5 hours).
• 11:00 AM – Visit nearby Museon or Fotomuseum (optional): Choose between science, photography, or fashion exhibits (1 hour).
• 12:30 PM – Tram to Scheveningen Beach (15-minute ride): Head to the North Sea coast and walk along the beach boulevard.
• 1:00 PM – Lunch at The Fat Mermaid on the beach: Try seafood dishes in a laid-back, trendy atmosphere (1 hour).
• 2:30 PM – Explore Scheveningen Pier and Ferris Wheel: Walk the boardwalk, ride the Ferris wheel, or try ziplining over the beach (1 hour).
• 4:00 PM – Relax at Sea Life Scheveningen or swim at the beach: Choose between marine exhibits or sunbathing (1.5 hours).
• 6:00 PM – Dinner at Catch by Simonis: Dine on fresh seafood in a luxury restaurant overlooking the marina.

Day 3: Local Life and Global Justice

• 9:00 AM – Visit the Peace Palace (15-minute tram ride): Book a tour or explore the visitor center to learn about international law and diplomacy (1 hour).
• 10:30 AM – Walk to Haagse Bos park and visit Huis ten Bosch (20 minutes): Enjoy nature and see the royal family’s official residence from the outside (1 hour).
• 12:00 PM – Explore the Haagse Markt (15-minute tram ride): Shop for international foods, fresh produce, and souvenirs (1 hour).
• 1:30 PM – Lunch at Restaurant Ethica: Try seasonal Dutch cuisine with sustainable practices in a cozy setting (1 hour).
• 3:00 PM – Free time for shopping or visiting Passage Mall: Explore one of the oldest covered shopping arcades in the Netherlands (1.5 hours).
• 5:00 PM – End with drinks at Bleyenberg rooftop bar: Toast the trip with cocktails and city views.

See Itinerary Map (Includes Places to Visit and Accommodations)

Best Time To Go:

The best time to visit The Hague is from May to September. These months provide the warmest and driest weather, with temperatures between 18°C and 25°C, ideal for beach days and outdoor attractions. Spring (April-May) offers blooming tulips and fewer tourists, while autumn (September-October) brings mild weather and cultural festivals. Winter (November–February) is chilly and often wet, but museums and indoor attractions remain open and less crowded.

Activities To Do:

• Tour the Peace Palace: Guided tours explain the workings of international courts and showcase beautiful interiors and the famous library.
• Visit Scheveningen Beach: This sandy beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying beach clubs and seafood.
• View Dutch masterpieces at Mauritshuis: Iconic paintings like Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring and Rembrandt’s Anatomy Lesson are highlights.
• Experience Madurodam Miniature Park: Kids and adults alike enjoy interactive models of famous Dutch buildings and landmarks.
• Ride the Ferris wheel at Scheveningen Pier: This activity provides a scenic view of the coastline and is especially beautiful at sunset.

Accommodations:

• Hotel Des Indes: A luxury 5-star hotel with historic charm, central location, and a wellness center.

• Hilton The Hague: A modern 5-star hotel near Noordeinde Palace, with spacious rooms and a fine dining restaurant.

• Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus: An iconic seaside resort in Scheveningen with ocean views and a spa.

• Boutique Hotel Corona: Located near the Binnenhof, this hotel offers modern rooms in a historic building.

• Babylon Hotel Den Haag: Overlooking Haagse Bos, this 4-star hotel is near the Central Station and popular with business and leisure travelers.

• Stayokay Hostel Den Haag: A clean and budget-friendly hostel offering dorms and private rooms near the city center.

Transportation Options:

• Trams: The Hague has an efficient tram system operated by HTM. Trams are ideal for getting between the city center, museums, and Scheveningen Beach.
• Buses: Buses complement the tram network and connect to neighborhoods not served by tram lines.
• Trains: Den Haag Centraal and Den Haag HS stations connect The Hague with cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht.
• Bikes: The Hague is bike-friendly, and rentals are available via local shops or bike-share programs like OV-fiets.
• Walking: The city center is compact and best explored on foot.
• Taxis and Rideshare: Available throughout the city, though relatively expensive. Uber is also operational.
• Car Rentals: Available but not necessary unless traveling outside the city. Parking can be limited and costly.

Tips:

• Museum Card: If you plan to visit multiple museums, consider purchasing the Museumkaart for free or discounted entry.
• Language: Dutch is the official language, but most locals speak English fluently.
• Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up or leaving 5–10% is common.
• Weather: Pack layers and a raincoat—even in summer, showers are common.
• Safety: The Hague is very safe, but always watch out for cyclists when crossing the road.

The Hague is a sophisticated Dutch city that blends politics, culture, and seaside leisure in one compact destination. With its historic buildings, world-renowned museums, peaceful parks, and coastal charm, The Hague offers travelers a more refined and balanced experience compared to busier Dutch cities. Over three days, visitors can uncover the city’s political roots, admire Dutch masterpieces, relax on the beach, and dine in both regal and relaxed settings. Whether you’re interested in history, art, diplomacy, or just soaking in local life, The Hague, Netherlands is a rewarding and elegant choice for a European city break.