The Hague is often overlooked for Amsterdam or Rotterdam as the city to visit in the Netherlands – but there are plenty of reasons to consider a trip there.
It boasts a fantastic cafe culture to challenge even the best of Italy, world-class art galleries and a seven-mile-long beachfront. The Hague is also known for its relaxed, friendly culture full of English speakers.
Just three hours by Eurostar from London, The Hague offers far more than just international courts and renowned art galleries, with the beach accessible by bike or tram from the city.
It’s beaches off a dune-filled haven for families, kite surfers, dog walkers and sun worshippers alike.
There are two beach resorts in The Hague – Scheveningen and Kijkduin – offering 11km of sandy dunes when combined.
They are dedicated to sustainability, at no surprise given The Hague’s reputation as the Netherlands’ greenest city.
Kite surfing is particularly prevalent in Scheveningen, the Netherlands’ most popular beach. Several beautiful accommodation options are available, including the recently-opened Inntel Hotel Marina Beach, offering 226 luxurious rooms.
There is also Scheveningen Pier, a traditional pleasure pier that was built in 1959 and refurbished in 2015. It offers both restaurants and shops, as well as a 50m ferris wheel for fantastic views of the beach.
As the beach is found on the North Sea, it tends to be colder than more Meditteranean spots, meaning a wetsuit may be preferable over a more normal swimming costume.
One reviewer said: “We come here almost every time when we are in The Hague. Absolutely beautiful view, Long Beach and many nice cafes, restaurants. Beach is clean, sandy, and impressive even in cold months.”
Heading back to the city, the art deco Kunstmuseum is one of the best spots to visit for some culture.
The museum boasts a small collection of local art prodigy Escher’s work, early modernist paintings by Picasso and a fine collection of Delft pottery. A bigger collection of Escher’s works is at the Lange Voorhout Palace.
Meanwhile a variety of architectural styles meet in the Hofkwartier, translated as the Court Quarter, including belle époque, gothic and Renaissance.
A wonderful market can also be found on Lange Voorhout, one of the prettiest parts of the city.
