Where to stay

Voorhout in the The Hague Center is the oldest part of the city, dating back to the early 13th century. It's one of the best areas to choose as a central base near cultural highlights such as the Museum Bredius and Mauritshuis. Most of the hotels here are efficient and modern rather than historic. Zorgvliet to the north is one of The Hague's most upscale neighborhoods, between the beach and the city center. Stay here for high-end accommodations. Explore contemporary art at the Gemeentemuseum Den Haag, family-friendly exhibits at Museon, and cutting-edge shows at GEM, the Museum of Contemporary Art.

Scheveningen's wide and sandy blue-flag beach is within The Hague's city limits but feels like a small but busy seaside town. It's a stylish spot to stay, with the beach backed by a long boulevard and excellent hotels. The area has several beaches, with Boulevard Beach by the Pier the busiest. This is where to find hotels with the best views, among them the magnificent Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus, dating back to 1818 and a Scheveningen landmark. Noordwijk, along the coast to the north, is less well known but has a growing number of beach clubs and international hotels.

There are two other excellent alternatives to staying in The Hague itself. Those looking for the student scene-both historical and contemporary-should consider reserving a hotel in Leiden to the north. Leiden University, the country's oldest, was founded in 1575 and has long made this town one of the liveliest in the Netherlands. Alternatively, book a place to stay near the canals in Delft, south of the city. Follow in the footsteps of the great painter Johannes Vermeer, who lived and worked here. This town's other hallmark is its blue-and-white Delftware pottery. Trace the story at the Royal Delft Experience, including a visit to the original 17th-century factory. Drive to Leiden or Delft in about 20 minutes from The Hague.