# Essential The Hague Travel Guide: What to See & Do

**Discover The Hague: History, Art and Seaside Life**

The Hague, known in Dutch as *Den Haag*, is one of the Netherlands’ most distinctive cities. Royal heritage, international justice, fine art and North Sea beaches all come together within the same urban landscape. Although Amsterdam is the official capital, The Hague is the country’s administrative center and home to the Dutch government, parliament and royal institutions.

## Explore The Hague’s Historic and Political Heart

The Hague developed from a medieval hunting estate near the Hofvijver lake into a major seat of power. At the city’s historic center, the Binnenhof and Gothic Ridderzaal reflect centuries of political life. Nearby, Noordeinde Palace adds a royal dimension to the city’s architectural and cultural landscape.

The Hague’s role in diplomacy and international law continues today. The Peace Palace and international courts are part of the city’s long-standing association with global affairs, justice and diplomacy.

## Discover Art and Culture in The Hague

Culture is central to The Hague’s identity. The Mauritshuis houses celebrated works from the Dutch Golden Age, including Vermeer’s *Girl with a Pearl Earring*. For a more imaginative artistic experience, Escher in The Palace showcases the world of optical art.

Beyond its museums, the city is known for historic streets, elegant squares and varied architecture. Exploring the center is one of the most rewarding things to do in The Hague, with cultural attractions and distinctive urban scenery throughout the area.

## Visit Scheveningen and the North Sea Coast

Few European cities combine cultural attractions with such easy access to nature. Scheveningen, The Hague’s seaside district, is known for its broad sandy beaches, lively boulevard, historic Kurhaus and famous Pier, which stretches into the sea.

The surrounding dunes offer a quieter natural setting. For a playful introduction to the Netherlands, Madurodam presents a miniature portrait of the country.

## Plan Your Visit to The Hague

Whether you are looking for the best places to visit in The Hague, deciding what to see in The Hague, or planning a wider trip through the Netherlands, the city offers a compelling combination of government, art, history and coastal life.

## Walk The Hague with Neywo

Neywo turns The Hague into a self-guided audio tour. Stories arrive as you reach the place they belong to, and the route reshapes when you wander off it.

## More in South Holland

- [Delft](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/south-holland/delft.md)
- [Dordrecht](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/south-holland/dordrecht.md)
- [Gouda](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/south-holland/gouda.md)
- [Katwijk](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/south-holland/katwijk.md)
- [Leiden](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/south-holland/leiden.md)
- [Rotterdam](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/south-holland/rotterdam.md)

## Elsewhere in Netherlands

- [Breskens](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/zeeland/breskens.md) — Zeeland
- [Hulst](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/zeeland/hulst.md) — Zeeland
- [Vlissingen](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/zeeland/vlissingen.md) — Zeeland
- [Zierikzee](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/zeeland/zierikzee.md) — Zeeland
- [Amersfoort](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/amersfoort.md)
- [Giethoorn](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/giethoorn.md)
- [Groningen](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/groningen.md)
- [Utrecht](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/utrecht.md)
- [Vlieland](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/vlieland.md)
- [Windwardside](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/windwardside.md)
- [Arnhem](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/gelderland/arnhem.md) — Gelderland
- [Nijmegen](https://neywo.com/destinations/netherlands/gelderland/nijmegen.md) — Gelderland

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