There is something in The Hague for every kind of traveler — whether you have the kids in tow, you’re taking a shopping weekend with the girls or are seeking a beach escape. Here, two locals give you the inside scoop on where to walk, what to see and what’s worth stopping for for every kind of visit to The Hague.
Starting Point: Huize Copes
Of course, we think you should start your day at Huize Copes, located in the beautiful Archipelbuurt neighborhood of The Hague. Just 10-minutes to the beach by bike and a stone’s throw from city center shopping and eating, the best of this city is all within walking distance from our apartment.
How to Use:
We’ve added the Google locations of each stopping point on our tours. Simply save these spots on your Google Maps before your walk or bike tour — then, embark on your adventure!
The Kings Route Scenic & Historical Route You can actually visit the house of the Dutch King right here in The Hague, it’s called
. We suggest walking or biking to the Palace Gardens, where it’s located, to spend the afternoon wandering or having a picnic. But, take our insider tip, first. There’s a secret door to the palace garden at the end of Molenstraat, one of the oldest streets in the city. Just go to the end of the street and ring the bell at the door with the guards — they’ll let you through to the Paleistuin (Palace Garden).
Once you enter the garden, take the time to wander around or enjoy your lunch, then head to Parliament to spot famous Dutch Parliament members walk about. By now you’ll probably want to refuel, so head to Jamey Bennett for a coffee, and if you’re lucky, enjoy the sunshine on their large terrace. Right across the street is the famous Gevangenpoort, a former gate and medieval prison for Parliament, so be sure to stop by. After, head to Triana tapas bar located on het Noordeinde where you may spot royal family members.
Beach Day
Warm-Weather Route
After waking up at Huize Copes, hop on your bike and cycle to the dunes. We love stopping at the Water Tower for a great view and coffee break. After, take a surf lesson at Heartbeach. But if the weather is really good and you want to sunbathe, be sure to rent a daybed at Barbarossa beach. End the day with dinner or drinks on the beach watching the sunset. But if you want to sit down somewhere, head to one of our nearby favorites, De Eetkamer van Scheveningen.
Kids Route
Active Route
Take the kids rollerblading on Scheveningen Boulevard which is nice and flat and has great views of the beach. After working up an appetite, head to the breakfast at Barbarossa beach club. After, head over to the Sandplayground in the dunes, then over to the Westbroekpark to grab lunch, explore or rent a boat. End the day at the famous Madurodam which is an interactive park experience that depicts famous Dutch buildings and landmarks. Then, head to dinner over at Follia.
Bad Weather Alternative
Start at Huize Copes with breakfast in bed. Then if the weather isn’t cooperating, take the kids to Lego Land Discovery Center in Scheveningen. For lunch, head to Boomhuttenclub (treehouse club) where you can relax and the kids can play. Then for some quiet time and to discover favorite new reads, head to the Children’s Book Museum.
Shopping Route
Relaxing Route
Wake up slowly, and grab coffee or tea and homemade granola down in the Huize Copes kitchen. Then, walk to the Frederikstraat to shop the boutiques. Here or on the nearby Denneweg you can grab lunch. Then, walk down the beautiful Lange Voorhout to get to the shopping center of The Hague. Of course, you have to stop at de Bijenkorf. Finish off the day with Netflix on the couch or watching the sunset on the beach.
Spa Day
Relaxing Route
Wake up at Huize Copes with a hot tea, then head to Delight yoga to start your day — you can easily book your classes ahead of time online or by giving them a call. After, treat yourself to brunch Walter Benedict, followed by a museum visit to Maurits Huis, modern and contemporary art at Voorlinden or Escher’s famous graphic artworks. End the day with a luxurious pedicure at Aveda, The Hague, followed by dinner at Oker.
Culture Walk
Scenic & Historical
After waking up at Huize Copes, stroll to the nearby Peace Palace, a famous landmark here in the Netherlands, but also recognized worldwide. After, head to the Museum Panorama Mesdag to see 19th-century artist Hendrik Mesdag's striking, panoramic beach painting. Lunch at Pistache — we love how their food is fresh and organic but still indulgent. Then, head to the Japanese Garden to walk it off.
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