A Royal 6-Day Family Guide to The Hague: Classic Routes and Coastal Fun
The Hague is the perfect blend of royal heritage and seaside fun, making it an ideal destination for families seeking a relaxed yet culturally rich escape. This 6-day guide follows our signature Family Travel Guides style, focusing on manageable distances, stroller-friendly paths, and activities that keep both toddlers and parents smiling.
From the world-famous miniature city of Madurodam to the sprawling beaches of Scheveningen, you'll experience the classic charms of the Netherlands' administrative heart. With wide boulevards and extensive green spaces, navigating the city with children is seamless and stress-free.
Day 1: The Hague, Netherlands - Royal Foundations & Historic Center
Binnenhof and Ridderzaal
Start your journey at the historic heart of Dutch politics. Walk through the inner courtyard of the Binnenhof, a stroller-friendly area where kids can marvel at the golden fountain and the castle-like architecture of the Ridderzaal.
Mauritshuis Museum
Visit this world-class art museum, home to Vermeer’s "Girl with a Pearl Earring." The museum is fully accessible and offers a fun 'Golden Age' workshop specifically designed for younger children.
The Passage
Take a stroll through the oldest shopping mall in the Netherlands. Its glass-roofed arcade is perfect for window shopping regardless of the weather and provides a smooth path for strollers.
Grote Markt Dinner
Enjoy an early dinner at one of the many family-friendly terraces at the Grote Markt. This central square is largely pedestrianized, allowing kids a bit of room to move while you wait for your meal.
Day 2: The Hague, Netherlands - Coastal Wonders at Scheveningen
SEA LIFE Scheveningen
Dive into the underwater world at this popular aquarium. The tunnel under the shark tank is always a hit with kids, and the entire facility is designed for easy stroller navigation.
Scheveningen Pier & Kurhaus
Walk along the iconic pier and admire the historic Kurhaus hotel. The pier features a Ferris wheel with enclosed gondolas, providing a safe and spectacular view of the North Sea for the whole family.
Beach Playtime
Let the kids run wild on the wide sandy beaches. There are several dedicated play areas along the boulevard, such as the SprookjesBeelden aan Zee, featuring bronze fairy-tale sculptures.
Boulevard Dining
Dine at one of the beach clubs (strandpaviljoens). Many offer high chairs and kid-friendly menus, along with the relaxing sound of the crashing waves.
Day 3: The Hague, Netherlands - Miniature Worlds & Green Escapes
Madurodam Miniature Park
Spend your morning at this world-famous miniature park. It’s an interactive experience where kids can operate the storm surge barriers or see planes move at the scale-model Schiphol Airport.
Peace Palace (Vredespaleis)
Located near Madurodam, view the most photographed building in The Hague. While the interior has limited access, the Visitor Centre offers a family-friendly audio tour and a peaceful garden to explore.
Scheveningse Bosjes
A short walk leads to these lush woods. It features a great playground and wide paths perfect for a nature walk or a family picnic under the trees.
Archipelbuurt Dinner
Head to the nearby Archipel district for a quiet family dinner in a neighborhood known for its beautiful 19th-century villas and cozy eateries.
Day 4: The Hague, Netherlands - Science, Art & Illusions
Museon-Omniversum
This interactive museum of science and culture is a paradise for curious kids. Directly next door is the Omniversum, a giant-screen cinema showing breathtaking nature films that are easy for children to follow.
Kunstmuseum Den Haag
While known for Mondrian's modern art, this museum also houses the 'Wonderkamers,' a dedicated interactive wing designed specifically to introduce children to art through games and digital play.
Westbroekpark
Relax in one of the city's most beautiful parks. It features a famous rose garden and a large playground, plus a charming tea room where you can rent a rowing boat.
Statenkwartier Dining
Walk to the nearby 'Fred' (Frederik Hendriklaan), a popular shopping street with excellent family restaurants and artisanal ice cream shops.
Day 5: The Hague, Netherlands - Palace Gardens & Secret Alleys
Noordeinde Palace & Paleistuin
Observe the King's working palace from the street before entering the Palace Garden (Paleistuin) right behind it. It’s a hidden gem with wide lawns, perfect for toddlers to run around safely.
Lange Voorhout
Walk down what is often called the most beautiful boulevard in Europe. Under the rows of lime trees, you'll often find outdoor art exhibitions that are free and accessible.
Escher in The Palace
Visit this museum dedicated to the optical illusions of M.C. Escher. The mind-bending art is fascinating for older kids, and the top floor features interactive optical fun.
Dinner near Paleis Noordeinde
The streets surrounding the palace are filled with charming bistros that offer a relaxed atmosphere and high-quality Dutch and international cuisine.
Day 6: The Hague, Netherlands - Classic Cars & Coastal Retreat
Louwman Museum
Even if you aren't a 'car person,' this museum is a marvel. It houses one of the world's oldest private collections of motor vehicles, including horse-drawn carriages and iconic movie cars like the James Bond Aston Martin.
Kijkduin Beach
Head to The Hague’s second beach resort. Kijkduin is quieter and more low-key than Scheveningen, making it a favorite for local families. The 'Jutterskeet' (beachcomber's hut) is a great stop for kids.
Zandmotor Dunes Walk
Take a gentle walk through the protected dunes area. The paths are well-paved and stroller-friendly, offering a final chance to breathe in the fresh North Sea air.
Farewell Dinner in Kijkduin
Enjoy a final meal at the newly renovated Daily Taste food hall or a seaside terrace, celebrating a successful family adventure in the royal city by the sea.
Best Time & Weather
The best time to visit The Hague with family is from late May to early September. During these months, the weather is mild (18°C to 22°C), and the beach clubs are in full swing. Spring (April and May) is also beautiful as the city’s many parks come into bloom, though you should always carry a light rain jacket for the occasional North Sea drizzle.
Currency & Money
The Netherlands uses the Euro (€). The Hague is a very card-friendly city; most shops, cafes, and museums prefer 'pinnen' (debit card) or credit cards. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a 5-10% tip for good service is standard practice in restaurants.
Getting Around
The Hague boasts an excellent public transport network of trams and buses operated by HTM. Most trams are low-entry and stroller-friendly. For families, the 'OV-chipkaart' or simple contactless payment (OVpay) makes travel seamless. However, the city center is very compact and best explored on foot or by renting a bike with a child seat.
