The Binnenhof, Hofvijver, Mauritshuis and historic streets form the compact centre. The Peace Palace lies to the west, and Scheveningen is a separate coastal district reached by tram or bicycle.
Do not treat the beach as a quick walk from the centre. Give the coast its own half-day and keep indoor alternatives for strong wind or rain.
Start around the Hofvijver
The lake, Binnenhof complex and Mauritshuis place government and art within a short walk, though restoration work can change access.
Approach institutions with current information
The Peace Palace and other international buildings have security and tour rules that differ from ordinary museums.
Give Scheveningen a separate route
The pier, beach, dunes and harbour spread along the coast and feel very different from the civic centre.
A practical itinerary
- Day 1: explore the Hofvijver, Mauritshuis and historic centre.
- Day 2: visit the Peace Palace area and one larger museum.
- Day 3: take a tram to Scheveningen for the beach, dunes or harbour.
- Day 4: add Delft, Leiden or a slower neighbourhood day.
Getting there
Den Haag Centraal and Den Haag HS serve different rail corridors. Confirm which station is closest to the hotel and onward tram, especially on international routes.
Getting around
Trams and buses connect the centre, stations, museums and coast. The central civic area is walkable, while Scheveningen is better reached by tram or bicycle.
Food to look for
The city’s international population supports Indonesian, Middle Eastern, East Asian and European cooking alongside fish at the coast. The centre and Scheveningen have different price and crowd patterns.
When to visit
Museums work year-round. Late spring and summer suit the coast, but wind and cool evenings are common. Autumn can be excellent for city walks between showers.
Accessible travel
Public transport and major museums provide accessibility information. Historic paving, beach sand and institution security routes require separate checks.
Practical limits
Binnenhof restoration affects views and walking lines. Institution visits may need advance booking and identification, while beach conditions change quickly.
Nearby places
Delft and Leiden are short rail trips. Rotterdam offers a strong modern contrast, while Keukenhof is seasonal and needs a dedicated transport plan.
Places to add to your map
- Hofvijver: Historic lake beside the Binnenhof and Mauritshuis.
- Peace Palace: International law landmark west of the centre.
- Scheveningen: North Sea beach and harbour district.
- Den Haag Centraal: Main station beside the civic centre.
Open the route planner to place these stops in a wider Netherlands trip.
Continue planning
Questions about The Hague
How many days do I need in The Hague?
Two days cover the main centre, one or two museums and Scheveningen. A third day allows a slower coast or institution visit.
Is Scheveningen part of The Hague?
Yes. It is the city’s main coastal district, reached from the centre by tram, bus or bicycle.
Can I visit the Binnenhof?
Restoration and security arrangements affect access. Check the current official route and tour information close to the visit.
Sources and updates
This guide was last reviewed on 28 August 2026. Transport, access and opening arrangements can change, so check the official source before travel.