7 Unique Tourist Attractions in The Hague

The Hague, known as Den Haag in Dutch, is a city filled with international courts and embassies, exuding a sense of global importance. While it's famous for the Peace Palace and the Mauritshuis museum, there's a wealth of lesser-known attractions that offer a unique glimpse into the city's culture and history. For those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, here are seven off-the-beaten-track attractions in The Hague that promise to enrich your visit.

De Passage

The oldest shopping arcade in the Netherlands, De Passage, offers a delightful journey back in time. Built in the late 19th century, this covered shopping street boasts stunning architecture with its glass roof and ornate facades. It's a great place to shop for unique gifts or to enjoy a leisurely stroll away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Located in the city center, it's easily accessible and a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.

Location: Passage 72, 2511 AD Den Haag. Nestled in the heart of The Hague's bustling city center, De Passage is a stone's throw away from the Binnenhof.

Travel Tip: Look out for the beautiful mosaic floors and the intricate glass roof – they make for stunning photographs, especially when the light filters through.

Nearby: After exploring De Passage, consider stopping by the nearby 't Hof van Eten for a delightful lunch. They are known for their delicious homemade cakes and sandwiches.

Hofjes

The Hague's Hofjes (almshouses) are hidden gems scattered throughout the city, offering peaceful courtyards and beautifully maintained gardens. These historic residences were built to house elderly citizens and are still in use today. Many are open to the public, allowing visitors to step into serene oases amidst the urban landscape. They're free to visit, but be mindful of the residents and maintain the tranquility of these special places.

Location: Various locations throughout The Hague. One of the most picturesque is Hofje van Wouw, located in the city center.

Travel Tip: The Hofje van Nieuwkoop offers a particularly tranquil garden, perfect for a quiet moment of reflection.

Nearby: Close to the Hofje van Nieuwkoop, you'll find the cozy Café Emma, ideal for a coffee break or a light meal. Their terrace is a lovely spot on a sunny day.

Electric Tramway Museum

For transportation enthusiasts, The Hague's Electric Tramway Museum is a delightful excursion. This museum showcases the history of electric trams in the city, with a collection of historic trams that have been beautifully restored. On weekends, you can even take a ride on one of these vintage trams through the city. It's a unique way to see The Hague from a different perspective and learn about its public transportation history.

Location: Parallelweg 224, 2525 NL Den Haag. The museum is situated slightly outside the city center, near the HS train station.

Travel Tip: Check the museum's schedule for special events and themed rides, which can add an extra layer of fun to your visit.

Nearby: After your tram adventure, visit the nearby Prael Brewery for a tour and a taste of local craft beer. Their tasting room is a great place to unwind.

Japanese Garden in Clingendael Park

The Japanese Garden in Clingendael Park is a stunning and serene spot that's only open to the public for a few weeks in the spring and autumn. This carefully curated garden features Japanese maples, cherry blossoms, and tranquil ponds, offering a slice of Japan in the Netherlands. The garden's delicate nature means limited opening times to preserve its beauty, so be sure to check when it's accessible before planning your visit.

Location: Clingendael 12a, 2597 VH Den Haag. The garden is nestled within the Clingendael estate, a short trip from the city center.

Travel Tip: Visit during the peak blooming season to see the cherry blossoms in all their glory – it's a truly breathtaking sight.

Nearby: The Clingendael estate itself has a lovely tearoom, where you can enjoy a cup of tea and a pastry after your garden stroll.

Atlantikwall Museum

The Atlantikwall Museum offers a fascinating look into The Hague's World War II history. This open-air museum features a series of bunkers and defense works that were part of the German Atlantikwall coastal fortifications. Guided tours are available, providing insight into the city's wartime past and the daily lives of soldiers stationed here. It's a sobering, educational experience that's well worth the visit for history buffs.

Location: Badhuisweg 419, 2597 JN Den Haag. Located in the Scheveningen district, it's a bit off the beaten path but accessible by public transport.

Travel Tip: Wear sturdy shoes and bring a flashlight, as you'll be walking through underground passages and exploring dimly lit bunkers.

Nearby: After your visit, head to the nearby Strandpaviljoen De Staat for a beachside meal with a view of the North Sea.

Louwman Museum

Car aficionados will be in heaven at the Louwman Museum, which houses one of the world's largest collections of classic and antique cars. The museum's exhibits span over 130 years of automotive history, showcasing everything from horse-drawn carriages to rare sports cars. The building's architecture is as impressive as the collection it holds, making it a worthwhile trip for anyone interested in design and innovation.

Location: Leidsestraatweg 57, 2594 BB Den Haag. Situated near the Haagse Bos, it's a short drive or bus ride from the city center.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the museum's collection of automotive art and memorabilia, which adds context to the evolution of car design.

Nearby: The museum's own restaurant, Café Louwman, serves up delicious meals and snacks in an elegant setting surrounded by automotive history.

Peace Palace Library

While the Peace Palace itself is a well-known landmark, the Peace Palace Library is a treasure trove for those interested in international law and diplomacy. It's one of the oldest and most prestigious libraries in the field, and visitors can access a wealth of resources and historical documents. Note that the library is open to the public, but you'll need to apply for a visitor's card in advance.

Location: Carnegieplein 2, 2517 KJ Den Haag. The library is located within the Peace Palace grounds, in the city's international zone.

Travel Tip: Check the library's schedule for public lectures and exhibitions, which can provide deeper insights into the world of international justice.

Nearby: Just a short walk from the Peace Palace, Brasserie Berlage is a great spot for lunch or a coffee, with a terrace overlooking the beautiful gardens of the palace.

Exploring these unique attractions will give you a richer, more diverse experience of The Hague, revealing the city's hidden charms and stories. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a lover of nature, or a fan of quirky museums, The Hague has something special to offer.