As South Holland’s capital city, The Hague is a distinguished metropolis that hosts the nation’s foreign embassies. Stylish, sophisticated and stately by definition, The Hague enchants visitors with its grand architecture, beautifully manicured boulevards and regal roots. Not only is the city the official Dutch seat of government, but it’s also home to Noordeinde and Huis ten Bosch, two of the Royal Family’s three official palaces.
Thanks to its political significance, The Hague serves up a vibrant culinary scene and chic café culture. Visitors flock to the Plein square, where sidewalk cafés attract both sightseers and local politicians alike. The Buitenhof is a nightlife hotspot, with the nearby Mauritshuis museum showcasing masterpieces by Dutch legends such as Johannes Vermeer, Rembrandt van Rijn and Paulus Potter. For something a little less polished, the neighbouring seaside town of Scheveningen is lively and laid back.
For those arriving by rail, Hollands Spoor and Centraal Station are the two major railway hubs. Once in The Hague, a tramway network services stops across the city. Taxis are an easy way to get around, though like Amsterdam, bikes are the transport mode of choice for locals.
Up until 1806, The Hague was celebrated as the Dutch capital. Though this all changed when Louis Bonaparte chose Amsterdam as his governmental HQ. Eight years later parliament returned to the south, yet Amsterdam retained its title as capital.