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2-day itinerary

The Hague Weekend Getaway

Two-day cultural and coastal itinerary in The Hague

Length
2 days · 8 sights
Pace
Easy
Estimated cost
€160 per person
Based in
The Hague

Day by day

  1. Day 1: Royal History & Golden Age Art

    Explore the political heart of the Netherlands and immerse yourself in Dutch Golden Age masterpieces. This day focuses on the historic Binnenhof complex and the world-renowned Mauritshuis museum.

    • 09:00

      The Binnenhof & Hofvijver

      Start your day at the historic Dutch Parliament complex. Walk around the picturesque Hofvijver lake and admire the medieval architecture of the Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights).

      About 1.5 hours

    • 10:30

      Mauritshuis Museum

      Visit this iconic palace housing Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' and other Dutch Golden Age masterpieces. Book tickets in advance to skip lines.

      About 2 hours

    • 12:30

      Lunch at Grote Markt Area

      Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the cafes near the Grote Markt (Main Square), trying local stroopwafels or a Dutch sandwich.

      About 60 min

    • 14:00

      The Peace Palace

      Visit the symbolic home of international justice. Take the guided audio tour to see the ornate halls and the Great Court, understanding its role in global peace.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 15:45

      Prison Gate (Gevangenpoort)

      Explore this 17th-century prison located next to the Peace Palace. It offers a fascinating look into The Hague's judicial history and former inmates' lives.

      About 60 min

    • 17:00

      Dinner in the City Center

      Dinner at a traditional Dutch restaurant in the city center, sampling stamppot or fresh herring.

      About 2 hours

    Meals:
    Lunch at Grote Markt Area; Dinner at City Center
    Where to stay:
    Stay near the Central Station or Grote Markt for easy access to Day 1 and Day 2 attractions.
    Getting around:
    Most Day 1 attractions are within walking distance of each other in the city center.

  2. Day 2: Modern Art, Street Culture & Coastal Vibes

    Dive into modern art, discover hidden street art, and relax by the sea at Scheveningen. This day offers a mix of cultural depth and seaside relaxation.

    • 09:30

      Haags Kunstmuseum

      Explore the city's main art museum featuring works by Mondrian, Monet, and Picasso, along with an impressive collection of Delftware.

      About 2 hours

    • 11:30

      Kattensteeg & Street Art Walk

      Take a short walk to Kattensteeg to see the famous cat-themed murals and explore other hidden street art spots in the surrounding alleys.

      About 60 min

    • 12:30

      Lunch near Amare

      Grab a quick lunch at a cafe near the Amare cultural hub before heading to the coast.

      About 60 min

    • 14:00

      Amare Cultural Hub

      Visit the largest cultural hub for music and dance in the Netherlands. Even if not attending a show, the architecture and public spaces are worth a look.

      About 1.5 hours

    • 15:30

      Scheveningen Beach & Pier

      Relax at the popular seaside resort. Walk along the pier, enjoy the sea breeze, and perhaps take a boat tour with Rederij Aquamarijn B.V. if weather permits.

      About 3 hours

    • 18:30

      Seafood Dinner at Scheveningen

      End your trip with fresh seafood at one of the beachfront restaurants in Scheveningen.

      About 1.5 hours

    Meals:
    Lunch at Near Amare; Dinner at Scheveningen
    Where to stay:
    Same accommodation as Day 1.
    Getting around:
    Use public transport (tram or bus) to get from the city center to Scheveningen. Walking is possible but takes longer.

Practical information

The Hague is accessible year-round, though spring and summer offer the most pleasant weather for coastal activities in Scheveningen. Winter visits require preparation for wind and rain, particularly if planning boat tours with Rederij Aquamarijn B.V., where windproof clothing is essential. For transportation, The Hague is easily reached via direct train from Amsterdam or Schiphol Airport, with efficient local trams and buses connecting major sites like the Mauritshuis and Escher Museum. Booking boat tours in advance during peak seasons is recommended to secure spots and avoid disappointment. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly stays like the Moxy Hotel to boutique experiences such as Gallery 61. Staying near the city center or close to tram lines maximizes efficiency, allowing easy access to cultural landmarks and the seaside. The city serves as an affordable, culturally rich alternative to Amsterdam, making it suitable for various budget levels. Costs generally include museum entries, local dining at places like Eve, and public transport, but exclude premium experiences or seasonal peak pricing for accommodations. Pack layers suitable for variable coastal weather, including waterproof jackets and comfortable walking shoes for exploring the promenade and historic districts. Bring a camera for the coastal views from the seafront pier and any necessary adapters for electrical outlets. Essential tips include allowing ample time for museum visits, as institutions like the Mauritshuis house significant works such as Vermeer’s *Girl with a Pearl Earring*, which attract steady crowds. Utilize optimized routes to minimize transit time between POIs, and consider combining cultural sightseeing with relaxation at Scheveningen Beach for a balanced itinerary. For families, consider interactive options like Coddy games to engage younger travelers while navigating the city’s must-see points of interest. Always check opening hours for landmarks like Soestdijk Palace, as details may vary by season. Efficient planning ensures a steady pace, allowing visitors to enjoy both the artistic heritage and coastal charm without feeling rushed.

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