Travel tips · The Hague · Netherlands
The Hague travel tips: what to know before you go
The etiquette, money and practical details that make the first day easier.
Updated By the AMZBooking editorial team
Photo: Zairon, CC BY-SA 4.0
Quick answer
The Hague is a city of diplomats, civil servants and international lawyers, with an English-speaking expatriate community, alongside a large Indo and Surinamese population and long-established Moroccan and Turkish communities. It is quieter and greener than Amsterdam, with the sea on its doorstep.
Key facts
- Language
- Dutch
- Currency
- EUR
- Plugs
- Type C and F sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Tap water
- Tap water is safe and of high quality.
- Emergency
- 112 (European emergency number)
Things to know
- Keep out of the red cycle lanes when walking; cyclists have priority.
- Directness is normal and not meant as rudeness.
- Greet staff with 'Goedemiddag' or 'Hallo' in shops.
- Do not photograph security at government buildings and courts too closely, and respect barriers.
- Let passengers off trams before boarding.
- Book Mauritshuis ahead: Timed tickets bought online help on weekends and in school holidays.
- Book Museum Voorlinden ahead: Timed tickets are advisable at weekends.
- The beach, the Hofvijver, Lange Voorhout, the Palace Garden and the dunes are free.
Tipping
Service is included. Rounding up or leaving about 5–10% for good table service is appreciated but optional.
Language
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Dank je wel | Thank you |
| Goedemorgen | Good morning |
| Mag ik afrekenen? | Can I pay, please? |
| Proost | Cheers |
What to wear
Smart-casual in the centre; bring a windproof jacket for the beach and the coast, where it is often breezy even in summer.
Practical details
- Plugs and voltage
- Type C and F sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
- Drinking water
- Tap water is safe and of high quality.
- Emergency number
- 112 (European emergency number)
- Phone and internet
- Mobile coverage is excellent and free Wi-Fi is common; EU roaming applies to European SIMs.
- Time zone
- Europe/Amsterdam
The Hague is generally relaxed for visitors. Watch for pickpockets on busy trams and at stations, keep clear of cycle lanes, and swim only in lifeguarded areas at the beach, where currents near the pier and harbour can be strong.
Entry requirements
Visa and passport rules depend on your nationality and change often. Check Netherlands's official government guidance and your own government's travel advice before booking.
Plan the trip
Questions travellers ask
+Do you tip in The Hague?
Service is included. Rounding up or leaving about 5–10% for good table service is appreciated but optional.
+Can you drink the tap water in The Hague?
Tap water is safe and of high quality.
+What plugs are used in The Hague?
Type C and F sockets, 230 V, 50 Hz
+What language is spoken in The Hague?
Dutch.