Attractions - Holland

Attractions - Amsterdam

The Hague, Netherlands

Rich in culture and history, demure and sophisticated, The Hague makes for a rewarding and refreshing holiday experience. Enjoy the outdoor emphasis of what is often called Holland’s greenest city in one of its many parks or stroll along the canals and winding streets in the administrative capital of the Netherlands and home to some impressive royal residences.

The Hague boasts some world-class museums, including the famous Mauritshuis, a truly majestic museum located in a 17th-century mansion and home to masterpieces by Flemish and Dutch artists from the 15th to the 18th centuries, among them such preeminent names as Holbein, van der Weyden and Rubens. Follow this up with a visit to the Haags Historisch Museum, an interesting and entertaining museum devoted to the history of The Hague from medieval times to the present day. If you are feeling more active, why not spend an invigorating hour or two at the Museon Hague. A real treat for sports fans, this museum features a mesemerising array of interactive exhibits and displays catering for every taste and ability. Amble down the narrow winding streets and stop off for a coffee or a beer at one of the many reasonably priced cafes and café bars dotted around the city or marvel at the fantastic array of blooming bulb flowers at the Park Clingendael or its near neighbour the Westbroek Park. Take a leisurely stroll around the Binnenhof (inner court) and Buitenhof (outer court), a group of government buildings located in the city centre some of which date from as early as the 13th century. For a charming sample of everything that is great about the Netherlands, why not pay a visit to the Madurodam, an extremely popular miniature town presenting a stylised version of a Dutch town including canals, a cheese factory, and a miniature replica of the Royal Palace. Experience The Hague’s royal heritage with a trip to see the Palace where Queen Beatrix works and the mansion that serves as the residence of Crown Prince Willem-Alexander. You may even spot a member of the royal family going about their everyday business in this friendly and confident city.

Make a day-trip to the nearby coastal resort of Scheveningen, with its fine sandy beach. Return and dine in style at one of The Hague’s renowned restaurants before setting out to explore the shopping opportunities available or simply stroll through the leafy lanes and streets of The Hague, a cultured city offering a regal stay.