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The Hague (Den Haag in Dutch) is a city of political power, international justice, and coastal charm. While it’s not the capital of the Netherlands, it plays a crucial role in governance, diplomacy, and history.



Located in the western part of the country, The Hague sits near the North Sea, making it one of the few major Dutch cities with direct beach access. Here are ten key things to know about this fascinating city:

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1. It’s the Political Center of the Netherlands

Despite Amsterdam being the official capital, The Hague is where the Dutch government, Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the King’s office (Paleis Noordeinde) are located. It has been the country’s political hub since the 16th century, when the Dutch Republic was formed. Decisions that shape the Netherlands are made here, and major policies affecting the country and its people originate from this historic city.

Binnenhof Dutch Parliament

Unlike most capital cities that house both government offices and commercial centers, The Hague is more reserved and less tourist-heavy than Amsterdam. This allows it to maintain a balance between political formality and a relaxed, coastal atmosphere. The city’s role as a governing center makes it a key location in European politics.




2. The Hague Hosts the International Court of Justice

Known as the "City of Peace and Justice," The Hague is home to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which is housed in the iconic Peace Palace. The ICJ is the judicial arm of the United Nations and is responsible for settling disputes between nations. It was established in 1945 and has since played a crucial role in maintaining international law and diplomacy.

International Criminal Court Headquarters

Beyond the ICJ, The Hague also hosts the International Criminal Court (ICC), which prosecutes individuals for crimes such as genocide and war crimes. This international presence solidifies The Hague’s reputation as a global city dedicated to peacekeeping and human rights. Visitors can even tour the Peace Palace and learn more about its mission.


3. It’s Where the King Works, But Not Where He Lives

The Netherlands is a constitutional monarchy, and The Hague serves as the working seat of King Willem-Alexander. The King’s official workplace, Paleis Noordeinde, is located in the city center, making it an important royal site. While the palace itself is not open to the public, its beautiful gardens can be visited during the summer months.

However, the King does not live here. Instead, the royal family resides at Huis ten Bosch Palace, located within the vast Haagse Bos forest. This separation between work and home reflects the Dutch monarchy’s more modern and practical approach, avoiding unnecessary extravagance.



4. The City Has Stunning Historical Architecture

Walking through The Hague feels like stepping into a blend of medieval and modern architecture. The Binnenhof, home to the Dutch Parliament, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Built in the 13th century, it is one of the oldest government buildings still in use today. The Binnenhof complex overlooks the Hofvijver pond, offering a picture-perfect view of Dutch history in action.

Mauritshuis Hofvijver

Beyond politics, The Hague is filled with charming 17th-century mansions, elegant townhouses, and hidden courtyards. The Mauritshuis Museum, a former royal residence, is a prime example of classic Dutch architecture and now houses world-renowned artworks. The city's architectural mix showcases the Netherlands’ rich history and continued growth.

Visit my Netherlands Travel Guide to know more about this beautiful country!


5. It’s Home to Vermeer’s "Girl with a Pearl Earring"

Art lovers flock to The Hague to see one of the world’s most famous paintings, Johannes Vermeer’s "Girl with a Pearl Earring." This masterpiece is housed in the Mauritshuis Museum, which also features works by Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and other Dutch Golden Age artists. The museum itself is a historic 17th-century building that provides an intimate experience with some of the finest artworks in the world.

Johannes Vermeer’s "Girl with a Pearl Earring"

Unlike larger museums in Amsterdam, the Mauritshuis offers a more personal and immersive setting, allowing visitors to admire the details of Vermeer’s enigmatic portrait up close. The museum is centrally located near the Binnenhof, making it easy to include in a day of sightseeing.





6. It Has a Beautiful North Sea Beach

One of The Hague’s unique features is its access to the North Sea coastline, with Scheveningen Beach being the most famous seaside district. Unlike many landlocked capitals or government hubs, The Hague offers a refreshing escape from city life. Its long, sandy beaches attract visitors year-round, from sunbathers in summer to kite surfers in winter.

Scheveningen Beach

Scheveningen is not just a beach but a vibrant part of the city, featuring a historic pier with a Ferris wheel, seafood restaurants, and a lively promenade. The beach is easily accessible via tram from the city center, making it a popular weekend destination for locals and tourists alike.


7. It’s a City of Embassies and International Organizations

The Hague is home to over 150 embassies and international organizations, making it one of the most internationally connected cities in Europe. In addition to the International Criminal Court and Europol, The Hague also hosts the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its efforts in eliminating chemical weapons.

Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons

This international presence gives The Hague a highly diplomatic atmosphere, with frequent global summits and peace conferences. Many streets are lined with embassy buildings, adding to the city’s diverse and cosmopolitan feel.



8. Public Transport is Highly Efficient

Getting around The Hague is incredibly easy thanks to its extensive tram and bus network. The city’s public transport system connects all major areas, including government offices, international institutions, and beach districts. Trams are the most popular mode of transport, offering a quick and scenic way to explore the city.

Tram in The Hague

For those looking to travel beyond The Hague, the Den Haag Centraal train station provides direct connections to other Dutch cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. A train ride to Amsterdam takes less than an hour, making The Hague a convenient base for exploring the Netherlands.




ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

Klook.com

9. It Has a Strong Indonesian Influence

Due to the Netherlands’ colonial history, The Hague has one of the largest Indonesian communities in the country. Many Indonesians migrated here after Indonesia gained independence from Dutch rule in 1949. As a result, the city is famous for its authentic Indonesian cuisine, particularly rijsttafel (rice table), a feast of small, flavorful dishes.

Tong Tong Fair 2023

Restaurants like Toko Frederik and Restaurant Blauw offer some of the best Indonesian food in the Netherlands. The annual Tong Tong Fair, one of the biggest Eurasian cultural festivals in the world, is also held in The Hague, celebrating Indonesian-Dutch heritage.



10. The Hague is One of the Greenest Cities in the Netherlands

Despite being a major political and diplomatic center, The Hague is one of the greenest cities in the Netherlands. It is home to vast parks like Haagse Bos, a large forested area near the royal palace, and Westbroekpark, known for its stunning rose garden. These green spaces offer locals and visitors a peaceful retreat from the urban landscape.

Japanese Garden in Clingendael Park

One of the city’s most unique natural attractions is the Japanese Garden in Clingendael Park, which opens only a few weeks each year due to its fragile ecosystem. The garden features rare plants, stone lanterns, and traditional Japanese architecture, making it a hidden gem in The Hague.



Final Thoughts

The Hague is a city where history, politics, and culture come together. Whether you're exploring its historic sites, relaxing at the beach, or visiting world-renowned museums, The Hague offers a unique Dutch experience beyond Amsterdam. Its blend of international importance, rich history, and coastal beauty make it one of the most intriguing cities in the Netherlands.



10 Things to Know About The Hague, Netherlands


The Hague (Den Haag in Dutch) is a city of political power, international justice, and coastal charm. While it’s not the capital of the Netherlands, it plays a crucial role in governance, diplomacy, and history.



Located in the western part of the country, The Hague sits near the North Sea, making it one of the few major Dutch cities with direct beach access. Here are ten key things to know about this fascinating city:

Loading...

1. It’s the Political Center of the Netherlands

Despite Amsterdam being the official capital, The Hague is where the Dutch government, Parliament, the Supreme Court, and the King’s office (Paleis Noordeinde) are located. It has been the country’s political hub since the 16th century, when the Dutch Republic was formed. Decisions that shape the Netherlands are made here, and major policies affecting the country and its people originate from this historic city.

Binnenhof Dutch Parliament

Unlike most capital cities that house both government offices and commercial centers, The Hague is more reserved and less tourist-heavy than Amsterdam. This allows it to maintain a balance between political formality and a relaxed, coastal atmosphere. The city’s role as a governing center makes it a key location in European politics.




2. The Hague Hosts the International Court of Justice

Known as the "City of Peace and Justice," The Hague is home to the International Court of Justice (ICJ), which is housed in the iconic Peace Palace. The ICJ is the judicial arm of the United Nations and is responsible for settling disputes between nations. It was established in 1945 and has since played a crucial role in maintaining international law and diplomacy.

International Criminal Court Headquarters

Beyond the ICJ, The Hague also hosts the International Criminal Court (ICC), which prosecutes individuals for crimes such as genocide and war crimes. This international presence solidifies The Hague’s reputation as a global city dedicated to peacekeeping and human rights. Visitors can even tour the Peace Palace and learn more about its mission.


3. It’s Where the King Works, But Not Where He Lives

The Netherlands is a constitutional monarchy, and The Hague serves as the working seat of King Willem-Alexander. The King’s official workplace, Paleis Noordeinde, is located in the city center, making it an important royal site. While the palace itself is not open to the public, its beautiful gardens can be visited during the summer months.

However, the King does not live here. Instead, the royal family resides at Huis ten Bosch Palace, located within the vast Haagse Bos forest. This separation between work and home reflects the Dutch monarchy’s more modern and practical approach, avoiding unnecessary extravagance.



4. The City Has Stunning Historical Architecture

Walking through The Hague feels like stepping into a blend of medieval and modern architecture. The Binnenhof, home to the Dutch Parliament, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. Built in the 13th century, it is one of the oldest government buildings still in use today. The Binnenhof complex overlooks the Hofvijver pond, offering a picture-perfect view of Dutch history in action.

Mauritshuis Hofvijver

Beyond politics, The Hague is filled with charming 17th-century mansions, elegant townhouses, and hidden courtyards. The Mauritshuis Museum, a former royal residence, is a prime example of classic Dutch architecture and now houses world-renowned artworks. The city's architectural mix showcases the Netherlands’ rich history and continued growth.

Visit my Netherlands Travel Guide to know more about this beautiful country!


5. It’s Home to Vermeer’s "Girl with a Pearl Earring"

Art lovers flock to The Hague to see one of the world’s most famous paintings, Johannes Vermeer’s "Girl with a Pearl Earring." This masterpiece is housed in the Mauritshuis Museum, which also features works by Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and other Dutch Golden Age artists. The museum itself is a historic 17th-century building that provides an intimate experience with some of the finest artworks in the world.

Johannes Vermeer’s "Girl with a Pearl Earring"

Unlike larger museums in Amsterdam, the Mauritshuis offers a more personal and immersive setting, allowing visitors to admire the details of Vermeer’s enigmatic portrait up close. The museum is centrally located near the Binnenhof, making it easy to include in a day of sightseeing.





6. It Has a Beautiful North Sea Beach

One of The Hague’s unique features is its access to the North Sea coastline, with Scheveningen Beach being the most famous seaside district. Unlike many landlocked capitals or government hubs, The Hague offers a refreshing escape from city life. Its long, sandy beaches attract visitors year-round, from sunbathers in summer to kite surfers in winter.

Scheveningen Beach

Scheveningen is not just a beach but a vibrant part of the city, featuring a historic pier with a Ferris wheel, seafood restaurants, and a lively promenade. The beach is easily accessible via tram from the city center, making it a popular weekend destination for locals and tourists alike.


7. It’s a City of Embassies and International Organizations

The Hague is home to over 150 embassies and international organizations, making it one of the most internationally connected cities in Europe. In addition to the International Criminal Court and Europol, The Hague also hosts the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), which won the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013 for its efforts in eliminating chemical weapons.

Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons

This international presence gives The Hague a highly diplomatic atmosphere, with frequent global summits and peace conferences. Many streets are lined with embassy buildings, adding to the city’s diverse and cosmopolitan feel.



8. Public Transport is Highly Efficient

Getting around The Hague is incredibly easy thanks to its extensive tram and bus network. The city’s public transport system connects all major areas, including government offices, international institutions, and beach districts. Trams are the most popular mode of transport, offering a quick and scenic way to explore the city.

Tram in The Hague

For those looking to travel beyond The Hague, the Den Haag Centraal train station provides direct connections to other Dutch cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht. A train ride to Amsterdam takes less than an hour, making The Hague a convenient base for exploring the Netherlands.




ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA 

Klook.com

9. It Has a Strong Indonesian Influence

Due to the Netherlands’ colonial history, The Hague has one of the largest Indonesian communities in the country. Many Indonesians migrated here after Indonesia gained independence from Dutch rule in 1949. As a result, the city is famous for its authentic Indonesian cuisine, particularly rijsttafel (rice table), a feast of small, flavorful dishes.

Tong Tong Fair 2023

Restaurants like Toko Frederik and Restaurant Blauw offer some of the best Indonesian food in the Netherlands. The annual Tong Tong Fair, one of the biggest Eurasian cultural festivals in the world, is also held in The Hague, celebrating Indonesian-Dutch heritage.



10. The Hague is One of the Greenest Cities in the Netherlands

Despite being a major political and diplomatic center, The Hague is one of the greenest cities in the Netherlands. It is home to vast parks like Haagse Bos, a large forested area near the royal palace, and Westbroekpark, known for its stunning rose garden. These green spaces offer locals and visitors a peaceful retreat from the urban landscape.

Japanese Garden in Clingendael Park

One of the city’s most unique natural attractions is the Japanese Garden in Clingendael Park, which opens only a few weeks each year due to its fragile ecosystem. The garden features rare plants, stone lanterns, and traditional Japanese architecture, making it a hidden gem in The Hague.



Final Thoughts

The Hague is a city where history, politics, and culture come together. Whether you're exploring its historic sites, relaxing at the beach, or visiting world-renowned museums, The Hague offers a unique Dutch experience beyond Amsterdam. Its blend of international importance, rich history, and coastal beauty make it one of the most intriguing cities in the Netherlands.



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