The Hague (via Rotterdam) Ferries
Find and book ferry tickets to and from The Hague (via Rotterdam)
An iconic view of The Hague (via Rotterdam)
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Reaching The Hague Through Rotterdam's Gateway
Visitors arriving by ferry will dock at Rotterdam's port, with The Hague located just 30 minutes away by direct train or car. Regular train services run between Rotterdam Centraal and Den Haag Centraal approximately every 15 minutes, while buses also connect the two cities frequently. If arriving by car, the A13 motorway provides the most direct route between Rotterdam and The Hague, with ample parking available in central garages. For those arriving internationally, Rotterdam The Hague Airport offers an alternative entry point with shuttle connections to both cities.
The Hague: Netherlands' Regal Coastal City
The Hague stands as the Netherlands' stately political center, where historic royal palaces and international courts create an atmosphere of diplomatic significance. Set just inland from the North Sea coast, this elegant city balances governmental gravitas with seaside charm. As a key destination accessible via Rotterdam's bustling ferry connections, The Hague offers visitors a refined Dutch experience distinct from Amsterdam's more touristic appeal.
When to Experience The Hague at Its Finest
The Hague shines brightest during late spring through early autumn (May-September), when temperatures range from comfortable 18-25°C (65-77°F) and outdoor cafés buzz with activity. Summer brings the vibrant Parkpop festival in June and the spectacular Scheveningen International Fireworks Festival in August. April sees the surrounding region transformed by blooming tulip fields, particularly at nearby Keukenhof Gardens. Winter visits (November-February) offer quieter streets and festive Christmas markets, though ferry services may operate on reduced schedules during rough North Sea weather.
Island Adventures and Coastal Escapes from The Hague
The Hague's position near Rotterdam's ferry hub makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the wider region. From Rotterdam, ferries connect to Hull and Harwich in the UK, with overnight crossings offering comfortable cabin accommodations. Domestic ferry services also provide access to Zeeland's picturesque islands, where pristine beaches and charming villages await just 1-2 hours away. The historic port city of Hoek van Holland lies only 30 minutes from The Hague, offering connections to various North Sea destinations. For a unique day trip, fast ferries operate to Dunkirk, France during summer months, allowing visitors to experience two countries in one journey.
Royal Experiences and Coastal Pleasures in The Hague
The Hague captivates visitors with its blend of governmental grandeur and seaside relaxation. Explore the magnificent Binnenhof complex, housing the Dutch parliament within medieval architecture, or marvel at Vermeer and Rembrandt masterpieces in the renowned Mauritshuis museum. Just minutes from the city center, Scheveningen Beach offers a quintessential Dutch seaside experience with its historic pier, beachfront promenade, and fresh seafood restaurants serving local specialties like herring and kibbeling (fried cod). The charming Lange Voorhout area, with its perfectly preserved 18th-century buildings, provides an atmospheric setting for afternoon tea or antique shopping after a morning of cultural exploration.
Surprising Secrets of The Hague
Despite being the seat of Dutch government and home to the royal family, The Hague is not actually the Netherlands' capital city (Amsterdam holds that title). The city houses the world's oldest still-operating panorama painting, the Panorama Mesdag, created in 1881 and displayed in its original rotunda. Once a favorite retreat of Napoleon's brother Louis Bonaparte, The Hague contains over 400 hectares of parks and green spaces, more than any other Dutch city. The beachfront Kurhaus hotel has welcomed illustrious guests including Winston Churchill and the Rolling Stones, who infamously trashed the establishment during a 1964 stay.
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