Discover the journey from Rotterdam to The Hague
Welcome to our travel guide on the journey from Rotterdam to The Hague. Two of the most famous cities in the Netherlands, each with its own charm and attractions. Whether you are a tourist or a local, we are here to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time. Let’s get started.
Travel options from Rotterdam to The Hague
There are several ways to travel from Rotterdam to The Hague, including by train, car, bus or bike. In this guide, we will discuss each option so you can make the best choice for your trip.
By Train
The most popular and convenient way to travel from Rotterdam to The Hague is by train. Travel time is about 24-27 minutes by Intercity train. You can take the Sprinter train and stop at more stations if you prefer a slower journey. This journey takes about 35-40 minutes. You can buy your train ticket online or at the station, which costs about 5-10 euros per person.
The train journey is comfortable and offers beautiful views of the Dutch countryside. You will pass several charming towns and villages along the way, such as Delft and Rijswijk. You even have a chance to see the famous Dutch windmills if you are lucky.
By Car
If you prefer to travel by car, you can rent a car and drive from Rotterdam to The Hague in about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. The route is well-marked, and the roads are in excellent condition. However, remember that parking in The Hague can be challenging and expensive.
By Bus
Bus travel is another affordable option from Rotterdam to The Hague. Travel time is 45-60 minutes, with different departure times throughout the day. The cost is usually between €3-7 per person, making it a budget-friendly option.
By Bicycle
Cycling from Rotterdam to The Hague is an option for the more adventurous travellers. The route is about 30 kilometres long and takes 1.5-2 hours to complete. You will pass through the picturesque Dutch countryside and atmospheric towns. Several bike rental companies in Rotterdam allow you to rent a bike for the day.
Picturesque Pitstop in Delft
As you journey from Rotterdam to The Hague, consider stopping in the charming town of Delft. This picturesque destination is famous for its historic buildings, scenic canals, and world-renowned blue-and-white Delftware pottery. Highlights of Delft include:
The Old Church
This stunning Gothic church, dating back to the 13th century, is the final resting place of renowned Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer. Marvel at its impressive architecture, towering spire, and beautiful stained glass windows.
The Royal Delft Factory
Gain insight into the centuries-old art of crafting Delftware at this historic factory. Here you can witness skilled artisans and even try to paint a masterpiece yourself.
And when you arrive in The Hague.
Sightseeing in The Hague
Once you arrive in The Hague, there are plenty of things to see and do. The Hague is known for its historic buildings, political centre and the International Court of Justice. Here are some not-to-be-missed attractions:
Mauritshuis
This famous museum houses an impressive collection of Dutch and Flemish art, including the world-famous painting ‘The Girl with the Pearl Earring’ by Johannes Vermeer.
Binnenhof
The Binnenhof is the political heart of the Netherlands and houses the Senate, House of Representatives, and the Prime Minister’s office, among others. You can take guided tours to learn more about Dutch politics and history.
Peace Palace
The Peace Palace is the seat of the International Court of Justice, the highest judicial body of the United Nations. The building is impressive, and you can take a guided tour to learn more about the court’s work.
Madurodam
Madurodam is a miniature city that shows the highlights of the Netherlands in miniature. It is a fun and educational experience for both children and adults.
Scheveningen
This popular seaside resort is close to The Hague and is a great place to relax on the beach, take a stroll along the promenade or enjoy fresh fish in one of the many restaurants.
Where to stay in The Hague
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in The Hague, you have several options to choose from. Whether you are looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly hostel, there is something for everyone.
Luxury Hotels
If you want to enjoy luxury, The Hague has several luxury hotels offering first-class amenities and world-class service. The best options include Hotel Des Indes, the Kurhaus and the Carlton Ambassador Hotel. These hotels offer stunning views of the city and are in prime locations.
Mid-range Hotels
For travellers on a medium budget, plenty of options are available in The Hague. The Court Garden Hotel, the Paleis Hotel and the Mercure Hotel are all excellent choices. These hotels offer comfortable rooms and excellent service at affordable prices.
Budget-friendly Hotels
If you are travelling on a tight budget, several hostels in The Hague offer affordable accommodation without sacrificing comfort. Some of the best options include The Hague Teleport Hotel, Jorplace Beach Hostel and Stayokay Den Haag. These hostels offer a fun and social atmosphere, making them ideal for solo travellers or groups.
What to eat in The Hague
The Hague is a gourmet paradise with many local and international dishes. Here are some dishes and restaurants not to miss in The Hague:
Haagse Hopjes
Haagse Hopjes are typical Hague sweets with a coffee and caramel flavour. Try them at a local sweet shop or buy a box to take home as a souvenir.
Haagse Kakker
The Haagse Kakker is a traditional pastry from The Hague, filled with almond paste, sultanas and cinnamon. Try this sweet treat at a local bakery, such as Bakkerij Hessing.
Indonesische Keuken
The Hague has a rich Indonesian community, which means the city has some of the best Indonesian restaurants in the Netherlands. Try classic dishes like nasi goreng, satay and gado-gado at restaurants such as Garoeda, Istana and Toko Frederik.
Haring
As in Rotterdam, fresh herring is also a local delicacy in The Hague. Sample the raw fish at one of the many herring stalls found in the city, served with onions and pickles.
Musea in Den Haag
The Hague is home to several world-class museums worth visiting. Here are some of our top picks:
Gemeentemuseum Den Haag
This museum has an extensive modern and contemporary art collection, including works by Piet Mondrian, Pablo Picasso and Vincent van Gogh.
Escher in het Paleis
This museum is dedicated to Dutch graphic artist M.C. Escher and displays his famous optical illusions and impossible constructions.
Museum voor Communicatie
This interactive museum explores the history of communication, from handwritten letters to social media and modern technologies.
Louwman Museum
This car museum houses one of the world’s oldest and most comprehensive collections of classic cars, including rare models from brands such as Bugatti, Ferrari and Rolls-Royce.
Sustainability in The Hague
The Hague is committed to sustainability and green initiatives to make the city more environmentally friendly. Some of these initiatives include promoting cycling and public transport, green roofs and facades, and using renewable energy sources.
The Hague is a beautiful and historic city worth visiting during your trip to the Netherlands. With its impressive sights, delicious cuisine and interesting museums, there is something for everyone in The Hague. Whether you travel solo, with friends or with family, you will surely have an unforgettable experience. We hope this guide has been useful and wish you a great trip to The Hague!
You can visit The Hague when you travel from Rotterdam to Amsterdam. But my advice is to plan a visit to both cities. There’s too much to see and do just to give The Hague a short and fast visit.