2 Days In The Hague: Responsible Travel Guide

Head off to Den Haag for a feel-good beach city weekend. My sustainable travel guide spotlights how to spend 2 days in The Hague delivering maximum fun with minimum impact.

The Hague is known globally as the international city of peace and justice, yet surprisingly, few people I know have explored this Dutch gem. Let me tell you — you’re missing out!

This quaint, walkable city is brimming with history, world-class art galleries, beautiful green parks and ‘gezellig’ neighbourhood cafés. Adopt the local way of life by taking advantage of the city’s cycle-friendly infrastructure. Feel the wind in your hair as you pedal your way to Scheveningen Beach for a refreshing coastal adventure.

As a travel writer focused on responsible tourism, I’ve explored The Hague with both a curious eye and a conscious mindset. This weekend itinerary for The Hague works for solo travellers, micro-adventurers, or anyone who just wants their city breaks to do better for the planet. Think beyond Amsterdam and take a one-hour train ride to The Hague, a city just as picturesque as its big-city counterpart.

About The Hague

History of The Hague

The Hague, officially known as Den Haag, traces its roots to the 13th century when it began as a modest hunting lodge for Count Floris IV of Holland. By the 16th century, it became the seat of government for the Dutch Republic, housing essential administrative and political institutions despite not being officially recognised as a city until 1806.

The Binnenhof, its historic parliament complex, remains central to Dutch governance. Unlike Amsterdam, The Hague developed as the country’s political heart rather than a cultural centre, hosting the royal family, foreign embassies, and now many international organisations, including the International Court of Justice.

How sustainable is The Hague?

The Hague aligns its policies and initiatives with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As a city known for its role in international governance, The Hague leads by example in addressing environmental and social challenges, and is striving to be carbon neutral by 2030.

The city prioritises creating sustainable and liveable urban spaces through extensive green areas like Haagse Bos and Westduinpark, which enhance biodiversity and provide residents with access to nature. Urban planning focuses on energy-efficient buildings and eco-friendly infrastructure, helping to combat climate change and build resilience against environmental risks. As a coastal city, The Hague are seeing the results of investment in coastal protection projects such as Hondsbossche Dunes, a natural flood protection for the Netherlands.

Cycling culture and an efficient public transport system are central to The Hague’s approach to sustainable urban mobility, reducing reliance on cars and cutting emissions. Efforts to encourage responsible consumption and production are evident in programs that promote waste reduction, repair cafes, and second-hand markets, which minimise landfill use and cultivate a circular economy.

The Hague’s city council approved a pioneering ban on outdoor advertising for fossil fuels, among the world’s strictest. Starting in January 2025, the ban will cover ads for fossil fuels, petrol cars, air travel, and cruise ships in public spaces.

The Food Policy Council The Hague has revised its integrated food vision, adopting a step-by-step approach to fostering a healthier community and environment. This includes educational programs, urban agriculture, and regional supply chains. Initiatives like Conscious Kitchen and Het Eetbare Park exemplify these efforts.

Map of things To Do In The Hague

Although I couldn’t visit everything on my must-see list in my 2 days in The Hague due to limited time, I’m excited to share my research to help you plan your own trip. I hope this map of things to do in The Hague proves to be a handy resource for you to explore and navigate the city.

CLICK TO VIEW THE MAP OF THINGS TO DO IN THE HAGUE

Day 1: Explore The Hague

Take a walking Tour

When I arrive in a city, especially if I’m on a short one, I take a guided walk to quickly get my bearings and pack in some history knowledge! Each tour varies so find the itinerary that suits your interests.

Stroll along the view of ‘het Binnenhof’, the political heart of the Netherlands, and marvel at its medieval buildings and serene Hofvijver lake. Wander past charming cobblestone streets to the majestic Peace Palace, a symbol of international justice. Along the way, you’ll find historic squares like Grote Markt or Plein, whilst listening to tales of the royal family and the regents.

|| CHECK Walking Tours in The Hague or Audio Guides in 7 Languages

See the famous Painting in Mauritshuis

A trip to The Hague would not be complete without visiting the Mauritshuis Museum to see the famous painting Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer. This masterpiece is one of the highlights of the museum’s exceptional collection of Dutch Golden Age art, which also includes works by Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Jan Steen.

Originally built in 1644 for Johan Maurits of Nassau-Siegen, the Mauritshuis was sadly damaged by fire in 1704 but was beautifully rebuilt. After being purchased by the Dutch state, it was officially opened as a museum by King William I in 1822. Today, it proudly houses one of the oldest and most esteemed collections of paintings in the Netherlands.

Visit the Escher Museum

With a background in textile design, M.C. Escher’s work has always been a big source of inspiration for me. The Dutch graphic artist, celebrated for his optical illusions, never fails to confuse and amaze. Visiting the Escher Museum to see his mind-bending creations in the flesh was an experience I couldn’t miss!

The collection covers various phases of Escher’s career, from his early works inspired by his time on the Amalfi Coast to his intricate lithographic portraits and self-portraits in mirrored spheres. His iconic pieces, such as Relativity and Ascending and Descending, demonstrate his evolution into a mathematical artist who masterfully played with symmetry and perspective. These works challenge the viewer’s perception of space and reality.

The permanent exhibition is housed in the elegant Paleis Lange Voorhout, a former royal palace that once served as the winter residence of Queen Mother Emma of the Netherlands. This 18th-century building, with its neoclassical architecture provides a fitting backdrop for Escher’s intricate works. Before you leave, visit the interactive rooms to step into the mind of the artist and experience Escher-inspired visual puzzles!

Shop Sustainably in The Hague

The Hague has a wealth of ethical shopping options. Head to Het Appeltaartgevoel or Second Best Selected Treasures, where you can find preloved clothing and vintage accessories. WAUW and WNKL are cute shops for thoughtful gifts. Little Green Shop focuses on all things nature from pottery, secondhand clothing and homemade kokedamas. Op Zn Kop is a must to create cool and quirky interiors. Farmers’ markets like Haagse Markt are a go-to for locally grown produce, supporting regional agriculture.

A leaflet listing independent outlets in The Hague is available at participating shops. For ease, I’ve pinned them on my map of things to do and see in The Hague.

Taste the Local Craft Beer

If you’re a craft beer fan, you’ve got to check out Kompaan Brewery in The Hague. These guys are all about bold, creative brews with quirky names and flavours that stick with you. During my visit to their taproom Binnenhaven, I tried the Devil’s Backbone Red Ale, which had this perfect malty kick, and the Nightcap Decaf Coffee Stout, a smooth and rich treat without the caffeine buzz. You will be sure to find one you love with over 20 different beers on tap to choose from.

Kompaan Brewery, founded in 2012 in The Hague, was started by two childhood friends driven by a passion for exceptional beer and honing their home brewing skills. The name “Kompaan,” meaning “companion,” reflects their bond and the community spirit behind this innovative Dutch brewery.

Dine Al Fresco at Cafe Zeta

Café Zeta, in The Hague’s lively Grote Markt, is known for its vegetarian and vegan-friendly menu. From wholesome breakfasts to creative dinners, everything is fresh, flavourful, and better for the planet. Partnering with neighbouring businesses, Cafe Zeta has been actioning responsible practices for years through plastic recycling, 100% emission-free transport, and bulk sourcing from local suppliers.

The dinner menu at Café Zeta has loads to choose from—think tasty kimchi chicken burgers, pumpkin coconut soup, and aubergine lasagne that really hit the spot. Weather permitting, it’s a wonderful place to chill with a drink and watch the world go by, or kick off your night in the ‘Popdistrict’.

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|| READ ABOUT RESTAURANTS IN AMSTERDAM AND VEGAN CAFES IN BERLIN

Day 2: Visit Scheveningen

Hire a bike for the day

The best way to explore the coastal side of The Hague is by bike. Once you get familiar with the cycle lanes, it’s smooth sailing. Many hotels in The Hague provide bike rentals, but if not, don’t worry, it’s easy to find one.

Haagse Stadsfiets offers affordable city bikes for short-term use, Black Bikes has a great selection, including duo and kid-friendly options, and Donkey Republic, a bike-sharing app, lets you unlock and rent bikes right from your phone. Riding along the Scheveningen boulevard with blue flag beaches or through the city is a breeze in this bike-friendly city.

|| CHECK OUT Bike Tours In The Hague

Be In Awe at The Museum Panorama

A visit to Museum Panorama Mesdag is a must in The Hague. Whether you have heard of panorama paintings or not, seeing this massive cylindrical masterpiece in the flesh is a jaw-dropping moment.

The iconic panorama painting by Hendrik Willem Mesdag, a renowned Dutch marine painter of the Hague School, was completed in 1881. It measures 120 metres in circumference and 14 metres high, depicting a 360-degree view of the seaside village of Scheveningen as it appeared during Mesdag’s era. It’s the perfect prelude before cycling to the beach to see how the shores of the North Sea looks today.

The museum also houses an extensive collection of seascapes, landscapes, and still lifes by Mesdag, his wife Sientje Mesdag-van Houten, an accomplished artist in her own right, and other artists of the Hague School.

Beelden aan Zee museum

The Beelden aan Zee Museum in Scheveningen is dedicated entirely to contemporary sculpture. The innovative building design allows natural light to illuminate the sculptures, even though it is tucked away in the dunes being part of the landscape.

Founded in 1994 by Theo and Lida Scholten, passionate collectors and patrons of the arts, the museum houses over 1,000 sculptures, with a focus on human figures in various forms and styles. Renowned artists such as Henry Moore, Man Ray, and Kiki Smith are represented, alongside emerging talents.

In addition to its permanent collection, Beelden aan Zee hosts temporary exhibitions that explore diverse themes and techniques in sculpture. During my visit, I was thrilled to see works by Joan Miró, one of my all-time favourite artists, alongside Vera Gulikers, whose art quickly became a new favourite. Outside, the playful Fairytale Sculptures by the Sea, created by American artist Tom Otterness, add a fun touch to the beach view promenade.

Lunch at The Shore

The Shore Scheveningen is a shining example of sustainability in action. More than just a café and surf school, it’s a champion for the environment, dedicated to preserving the local marine ecosystem. Their eco-conscious efforts include constructing the building from reclaimed shipping containers, utilising a solar-powered energy network, recycling water, and partnering with local suppliers to minimise their footprint.

To shake off the chill of brisk September weather, I started with a soothing chamomile herbal tea from Wilder Land, a company championing biodiversity by encouraging Dutch farmers to grow indigenous plants on spare land. The café’s menu at The Shore is a testament to its sustainable ethos, offering 100% organic and plant-based dishes. Breakfast bowls, veggie toasties, and Indonesian-inspired dinner plates are served with a side of ocean views and crashing waves. My pick from the lunch menu, the homemade tempeh sandwich, was an absolute delight.

After two months of adventures in Peru, I couldn’t pass up the chance to try single-origin typica from northern Peru, roasted locally by Roast Factory in The Hague. The flavour was incredible — it was rich, smooth, and with a hint of chocolate that melted on the palate. Staying true to their sustainable ethos, Roast Factory packs their coffee waste-free in reusable containers and delivers it by bike. Even though I’m not a surfer, the relaxed all-inclusive atmosphere made The Shore a superb stop on a feel-good day by the sea.

|| The Shore Scheveningen Opens Daily in Peak Season

|| DISCOVER THE BEST OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES IN THE NETHERLANDS

Kunstmuseum The Hague

Kunstmuseum Den Haag, one of the Netherlands’ most renowned art institutions, is a masterpiece in itself. Designed by architect Hendrik Petrus Berlage and completed in 1935, the building is a striking example of modernist architecture. With its clean lines, geometric forms, and abundant natural light, the museum was built to create an optimal environment for experiencing art. Originally named the Gemeentemuseum, it was rebranded as Kunstmuseum in 2019 to better reflect its focus on art.

The museum houses an extensive collection covering various periods and styles, with highlights in modern art, decorative arts, and fashion. It’s renowned for the world’s largest collection of Piet Mondrian’s works, from his Windmill in Sunlight to his masterpiece Victory Boogie Woogie, a defining moment in abstract art and a highlight of the Dutch modernist movement De Stijl.

Some of my other favourite pieces include Impressionist and Expressionist works by artists like Wassily Kandinsky and Egon Schiele, as well as minimalist creations by Donald Judd. The museum also showcases innovative design and historic ceramics, including traditional Delftware and more. This treasure trove of art and design at Kunstmuseum The Hague could keep you busy for hours.

Learn in the Museon-Omniversum

Museon-Omniversum, near the Kunstmuseum, is an interactive museum and film dome focused on science, culture, and sustainability. Founded in 1904 as the Museum of Education, it merged with the Omniversum in 2022, combining engaging exhibits with immersive films.

The museum’s collections and exhibits are centred around global challenges and solutions, encouraging visitors to think critically about climate change and cultural diversity. Highlights include insightful displays on alternative energy, biodiversity, and water conservation, as well as artefacts from natural history and world cultures.

I loved that the exhibitions are accessible to everyone. They are thoughtfully curated with easy-to-understand language, while kid-friendly activities make learning about environmental responsibility fun and engaging for younger generations.

During my visit, I had the opportunity to explore a temporary exhibition dedicated to the life’s work of biologist and conservationist Jane Goodall. It featured a powerful film and photo display that beautifully captured her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees and her lifelong commitment to conservation.

Dinner at By Ami

Walking into By Ami felt like stepping into an enchanting forest, where every wall bursts with life. Huge hummingbirds flutter amid magenta foliage, wise owls fix their gaze upon you, and cheerful koalas peek out with welcoming smiles. This urban bistro is an Instagrammer’s paradise, where the murals are matched by dishes with the same creative flair.

The menu at By Ami crafts fusion dishes with curious permutations inspired by global flavours. What ties it all together is the focus on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients ensuring it is fresh rooted in sustainability. The bistro shines in its inclusivity, offering an impressive variety of vegan and vegetarian dishes that rival those featuring meat and fish.

Kick off your experience at By Ami with a pick from their crazy cocktail menu including vegan options of Amaretto Sour and Foaming Flamingo, the mixologist clearly loves his job. Their carefully curated wine list complements the menu with some organic pours. Choose from international flavours with crispy karaage lollipops, tangy Peruvian ceviche, fiery cauliflower Buffalo wings, or a refreshing plant-based ‘chicken’ salad.

There was a real mix of diners, from groups of friends to couples enjoying romantic meals. As a solo diner, the attentive staff made sure I felt right at home. The waiter convinced me to try the Rolo cheesecake. And he was right, it was a fantastically tasty idea. After all, their motto is “Good Vibes Only!”

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How To Visit The Hague Responsibly

Stay in Sustainable Hotels in The Hague

VOCO The Hague

VOCO The Hague is a stylish renovated 1920s building near the city centre. With Green Key GOLD certification and BREEAM In-Use Excellent award, they have a strong focus on eco-friendly practices, the hotel incorporates energy-efficient systems, sustainable materials, and waste-reducing initiatives.

By appointing a dedicated Green Team, VOCO The Hague actively contributes to social and environmental goals. Initiatives include hosting community dinners, organising charity auctions, and partnering with local suppliers and organisations to support green practices. It’s great to see a full and transparent list of these charitable partners and projects online.

Beyond its elegant Dutch design and comfortable rooms, the 4-star hotel exudes a warm, positive atmosphere, reflecting the well-being of its employees. Committed to reducing its environmental footprint, VOCO The Hague is an ideal choice for responsible travellers seeking sustainability with a personal touch.

|| CHECK availability and prices of VOCO The Hague || READ Reviews

Eco-Hostel in The Hague

Stayokay is a hostel chain within the Netherlands, and score highly in the sustainability stakes. They have the EU Ecolabel and BREEAM hallmark and are certified by HI Q&S which is recognised by Global Sustainable Tourism Council. Their impressive list of community-based and waste partnerships are testament to their responsible business commitment. Stayokay has a bar, restaurant and outdoor terrace. || CHECK availability for Stayokay De Haag

Dine Organic Restaurants in The Hague

Reflecting on my trip to The Hague, I noticed an abundance of independent, organic cafés and restaurants compared to fast food chains. The city’s focus on healthy, local sourced and sustainably produced food shines through its dining scene.

Choose from plant-based eateries like Cafe Zeta and Plenty to sustainable restaurants, such as Ethica or The Shore Scheveningen, offering a variety of options for those seeking organic and eco-conscious meals. Farmers’ markets, such as De Haagse Markt and Lange Voorhoot Boekenmarkt, also support the organic movement, by selling fresh, pesticide-free produce that often finds its way into local kitchens.

How To Reach The Hague

Reaching The Hague sustainably is simple, thanks to the Netherlands’ strong commitment to eco-friendly travel options. Here are some ways to travel to The Hague with a focus on sustainability:

Travel by Train to The Hague

• From Within Europe: The Hague is well-connected by train, making it easy to reach from major cities like Brussels, Paris, and London. Eurostar offers a direct high-speed train from London to Amsterdam, where you can connect to The Hague in under an hour. Similarly, the Thalys and Intercity Express (ICE) trains connect The Hague with Brussels, Paris, and Frankfurt. My arrival and onward journey to Amsterdam was made with European Sleeper.
• Domestic Trains: If you’re travelling from another Dutch city, NS (Nederlandse Spoorwegen), the national rail service, provides regular train services powered by renewable energy. Major Dutch cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Utrecht are less than an hour from The Hague by train.
• Cycle + Train Combo: For avid cyclists, Europe’s extensive bike network offers long-distance routes leading into the Netherlands. The Hague is bike-friendly and has connections to EuroVelo routes that cross several countries. A train-biking combo is also possible, as Dutch trains generally accommodate bicycles.

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Bus to The Hague

• International Bus Services: Sustainable options like FlixBus and BlaBlaCar Bus connect The Hague to many European cities with lower carbon emissions per passenger compared to flights. The Hague’s bus station is located near Hollands Spoor Station, making onward travel easy.
• Domestic Buses: Within the Netherlands, buses from surrounding areas can also be a more eco-friendly option, though trains remain the greenest and quickest choice.

|| YOU MAY LIKE TO READ MY GHENT CITY GUIDE

Electric and Hybrid Carpooling

• Carpool Services: Carpooling with electric or hybrid vehicles, through platforms like BlaBlaCar, can reduce your carbon footprint if traveling from nearby countries.
• Car-Sharing Platforms: Platforms like GreenWheels and MyWheels allow travelers to rent electric cars for intercity trips. Many cities in the Netherlands have charging infrastructure, making it easier to use electric vehicles sustainably.

Ferry and Train from the UK

If travelling from the UK, there are a couple of ferry routes to the Netherlands, which is a more eco-friendly choice than flying. Both services are accessible by public transport at both ends.

• Harwich to Hook of Holland Ferry: On arrival, there are convenient train connections from Hook of Holland to The Hague, taking about one hour.
• Newcastle to Amsterdam (Felison) Ferry: To reach The Hague, it will take about two hours by bus and train.

Getting Around The Hague Responsibly

The Hague is highly walkable, but if you’re looking for eco-friendly ways to get around, here are some options:

Cycling in The Hague

• Bike Rentals and Bike-Sharing: The Hague is incredibly bike-friendly, featuring dedicated bike paths and flat terrain perfect for cycling. Many hotels, such as VOCO The Hague, offer bike rentals, and you’ll also find numerous rental shops around the city, or use bike-sharing services like OV-fiets and Donkey Republic.

Electric Scooters and Bikes

• Shared E-scooters and E-bikes: Providers like Check and Felyx offer electric scooters that can be rented via an app, making it easy to navigate the city while reducing emissions.
• Rules and Regulations: You need to be mindful of the designated areas where e-scooters are allowed, as not all streets in The Hague permit their use.

Public Transport

• Buses: HTM buses are gradually transitioning to electric, and they also connect to surrounding areas.
• Trains and Trams: The Hague’s trams and trains are powered largely by wind energy, making them an eco-conscious option. The HTM tram network covers the city and nearby areas, while NS trains make connections to other Dutch cities easy.

Thank you to #TheisIsTheHague for supporting me on my mission to create sustainable city guides. This itinerary was researched by myself. All opinions are my own.

PIN for 2 days in The Hague