The Hague Cruise Port
Cruiseterminal Scheveningen
The Hague, Netherlands Port
UN/LOCODE NLHAG Port of call Homeport
The Hague Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Netherlands |
| UN/LOCODE | NLHAG |
| Contact | |
| Address | Adriaan Maasplein 1, 2583 BJ Den Haag, Netherlands |
| Port phone | +31 70 352 7700 |
| Website | www.denhaag.com |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 52.07050, 4.30070 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The cruise terminal at Scheveningen sits 5.2 km (3.2 miles) from The Hague city centre, a journey that takes 15 minutes by taxi costing approximately €22.00 (~$25.50 USD). Located in the South Holland province of the Netherlands, this destination serves as the administrative heart of the country and a sophisticated alternative to the congestion of Amsterdam. Most travelers expect a sleepy government town, but you will find a city that balances regal architecture with a gritty, maritime North Sea energy. You are positioned perfectly for overland extensions, sitting just 15 minutes by train from the pottery workshops of Delft and 30 minutes from the modern architecture of Rotterdam. As a mixed port, it handles boutique ocean vessels at the Scheveningen pier, while river cruise guests typically arrive via the canal networks from nearby mooring points. Keep in mind that the most significant logistical hurdle is the divide between the harbor and the historic center; if you fail to secure a tram or taxi early, you will lose an hour of your call to walking industrial roads. This destination rewards the traveler who appreciates high art and geopolitical history but punishes those who arrive without pre-booked museum time slots. Expect an efficient, polished experience where the Dutch preference for punctuality is the law of the land.
The Hague — Port Overview
History
The Hague began not as a city, but as a hunting lodge. In 1230, Count Floris IV of Holland purchased land here to establish a residence, which evolved into the Binnenhof—the oldest House of Parliament in the world still in use. Unlike other Dutch cities, The Hague never received city rights until 1806 under Louis Bonaparte, a deliberate choice by the nobility to keep it a 'village' and prevent the rise of a powerful merchant class. This historical quirk created the spacious, aristocratic layout you see today, far removed from the cramped canal houses of Amsterdam. The city's role as a global center of justice was solidified in 1899 with the first Hague Peace Conference, leading to the construction of the Peace Palace (Vredespaleis) in 1913. During World War II, the city suffered significantly, particularly during the 1945 Bezuidenhout bombing and the Hunger Winter of 1944. These events accelerated the city's modernization while reinforcing its commitment to international law. Today, when you stand in the courtyard of the Binnenhof, you are touching the 13th-century foundations that transitioned the Netherlands from a feudal collection of counties into a modern democratic state. The contrast between the medieval Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights) and the nearby glass-and-steel skyscrapers tells the story of a city that refuses to be trapped by its own heritage.
The Verdict
Those who make the most of The Hague tend to be the ones who arrive with a plan and the flexibility to adapt it. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day ashore in this regal city.
Things to Do & See in The Hague
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mauritshuis | Museum | Plein 29, 2511 CS Den Haag, Netherlands | +31 70 302 3456 | Monday 1:00 PM-6:00 PM, Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM | mauritshuis.nl | EUR €19.50 |
| Kunstmuseum Den Haag | Museum | Stadhouderslaan 41, 2517 HV Den Haag, Netherlands | +31 70 338 1111 | Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM | kunstmuseum.nl | EUR €17.50 |
| Panorama Mesdag | Cultural Site | Zeestraat 65, 2518 AA Den Haag, Netherlands | +31 70 310 6665 | Monday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM | panorama-mesdag.nl | EUR €15.00 |
| Peace Palace (Vredespaleis) | Landmark | Carnegieplein 2, 2517 KJ Den Haag, Netherlands | +31 70 302 4137 | Visitor Center: 10:00 AM-5:00 PM (seasonal variations) | vredespaleis.nl | EUR €11.00 |
| Binnenhof & Ridderzaal | Historical Site | 2513 AA Den Haag, Netherlands | +31 70 364 4387 | Courtyard accessible 24/7 (subject to renovation closures) | denhaag.com | Free |
Mauritshuis · Museum
EUR €19.50Standing before Vermeer’s 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' is a quintessential travel moment, but the Mauritshuis offers much more than a single icon. This 17th-century city palace, overlooking the Hofvijver, houses the Royal Cabinet of Paintings. You will find that the museum’s intimate scale—it contains only about 800 works—makes it one of the most rewarding for cruise passengers who often suffer from 'museum fatigue.' You can see the absolute pinnacles of Dutch Golden Age art in under two hours without feeling rushed. Look for Carel Fabritius’s 'The Goldfinch,' a hauntingly simple work that most visitors now recognize from the famous novel. The building itself is an architectural marvel; the silk-covered walls and ornate ceilings provide a context for these paintings that a modern white-cube gallery cannot. The average visit time takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. If you arrive early, you can enjoy the 'Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp' by Rembrandt in relative solitude. This experience actually delivers a tangible connection to the wealth and intellectual curiosity of the 17th-century Netherlands.
Plein 29, 2511 CS Den Haag, Netherlands ·+31 70 302 3456 ·Monday 1:00 PM-6:00 PM, Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-6:00 PM ·www.mauritshuis.nl
Kunstmuseum Den Haag · Museum
EUR €17.50Designed by the architect H.P. Berlage, this Art Deco masterpiece is as much a draw for architecture buffs as it is for art lovers. It famously holds the world's largest collection of Piet Mondrian’s work, culminating in his final, unfinished masterpiece, 'Victory Boogie Woogie.' be aware that this museum is the 'intellectual heart' of the city. You’ll find a transition from the classical masters of the Mauritshuis into the bold, geometric modernism that defined the 20th century. Most visitors walk past the extensive fashion collection, which is one of the most important in Europe. The building's yellow brickwork and reflecting pools create a serene environment that feels miles away from the busy Binnenhof. If you appreciate the evolution of design, the Kunstmuseum is non-negotiable. It offers a sophisticated, quiet alternative to the high-traffic tourist sites. Ensure you have at least 90 minutes here to do justice to the Mondrian wing alone. Expect a profound understanding of how Dutch art moved from realistic landscapes into the abstract purity that influenced global design.
Stadhouderslaan 41, 2517 HV Den Haag, Netherlands ·+31 70 338 1111 ·Tuesday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM ·www.kunstmuseum.nl
Panorama Mesdag · Cultural Site
EUR €15.00Imagine stepping back to the year 1881. You climb a dark staircase and emerge onto a sand-dune-covered platform under a canvas sky. This is Panorama Mesdag, a 120-meter long, 14-meter high cylindrical painting of Scheveningen. Visitor feedback is consistent: it is the most surprising attraction in the city. Hendrik Willem Mesdag, a leader of the Hague School, painted this in just four months. The clever use of a 'faux terrain'—real sand and driftwood between the platform and the canvas—creates a stunning 3D illusion. You are standing on what was once the 'Seinpost' dune, looking out at the North Sea, the fishing fleet, and the burgeoning village of Scheveningen. It’s an immersive historical document that predates cinema. What most visitors walk past is the meticulous detail of the small figures on the beach—they represent real people from Mesdag’s life. The visit offers a deep sense of place; it connects the industrial pier where your ship is docked to the romantic, windswept coastline of the 19th century.
Zeestraat 65, 2518 AA Den Haag, Netherlands ·+31 70 310 6665 ·Monday-Sunday 10:00 AM-5:00 PM ·www.panorama-mesdag.nl
Peace Palace (Vredespaleis) · Landmark
EUR €11.00The Peace Palace is the iconic image of The Hague, representing the city’s role as the 'International City of Peace and Justice.' Built with a donation from Andrew Carnegie, it houses the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. While security is tight and access is restricted, the Visitor Center offers a high-tech, engaging exhibition that explains the work of the courts. It is well established that even seeing it from the exterior is a highlight for most travelers. The architecture is a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, featuring stones and materials donated by nations from around the world—a literal monument to global cooperation. It takes about 15 minutes to fully appreciate the iron gates and the surrounding gardens. Expect a sense of the weight of history; this is where global conflicts are resolved with words instead of weapons. It is the best place in the city to reflect on the modern world order and the idealism that followed the devastating wars of the 19th century.
Carnegieplein 2, 2517 KJ Den Haag, Netherlands ·+31 70 302 4137 ·Visitor Center: 10:00 AM-5:00 PM (seasonal variations) ·www.vredespaleis.nl
Binnenhof & Ridderzaal · Historical Site
FreeThe Binnenhof is the beating heart of the Netherlands. Since the 13th century, this complex of buildings has been the center of Dutch political life. The Ridderzaal (Hall of Knights), with its twin towers and medieval roof, sits at the center of the courtyard like something out of a storybook. This is where the King delivers his annual speech from the throne. Walking through these gates, you are following in the footsteps of counts, stadtholders, and revolutionaries. You will find that most only stay for five minutes; however, if you look closely at the brickwork, you can see the centuries of additions and modifications. Note that the entire complex is undergoing a massive renovation through 2028; while the exterior remains visible, the interior 'ProDemos' tours are currently suspended or modified. Even with the scaffolding, the sense of continuity is powerful. This site delivers a true understanding of the Dutch 'Polder Model'—the unique system of cooperation and consensus that has governed this land for nearly 800 years. It is an essential stop for anyone wanting to grasp the soul of the country.
2513 AA Den Haag, Netherlands ·+31 70 364 4387 ·Courtyard accessible 24/7 (subject to renovation closures) ·www.denhaag.com
Eating & Drinking in The Hague
The culinary identity of The Hague is defined by its two halves: the North Sea and the former Dutch East Indies. Be aware that you haven't truly eaten here until you've tried an Indonesian 'Rijsttafel' (rice table), a legacy of the city's colonial administrative past. While Amsterdam has many versions, The Hague's are considered the most authentic. Beyond the exotic, the 'Haagse Hopje' is the city's signature sweet—a coffee-flavored hard candy available in every local supermarket. To drink, look for 'Van Kleef' Genever; this local distillery has been operating since 1842, and their tasting room in the Centrum is a historical experience in itself. Tourists expect Dutch food to be just pancakes and cheese, but locals actually eat a sophisticated mix of fresh-off-the-boat seafood and spicy Indonesian satay. For a genuine experience, go to a 'Haringkar' (herring cart) on the street—it’s the Dutch equivalent of a hot dog stand, but with significantly more cultural weight.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simonis aan Zee | Strandweg 1, 2586 JK Den Haag, Netherlands | +31 70 350 0056 | 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily | simonisvis.nl | €15.00–€25.00 (~$17.50–$29.00 USD) |
| Restaurant Portfolio | Prinsestraat 36, 2513 CD Den Haag, Netherlands | +31 70 215 5616 | Wednesday-Saturday 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Lunch Saturday 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM | restaurantportfolio.nl | €65.00–€95.00 (~$75.00–$109.00 USD) |
| The Penthouse (The Hague Tower) | Rijswijkseplein 786, 2516 LX Den Haag, Netherlands | +31 70 305 1000 | 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM daily | thepenthouse.nl | €12.00–€18.00 (~$14.00–$20.50 USD) |
Simonis aan Zee
€15.00–€25.00 (~$17.50–$29.00 USD)Simonis is a local institution. What began as a simple fish stall is now the gold standard for Dutch seafood. You order at the counter, take a buzzer, and wait for the best kibbeling you will ever taste. The atmosphere is loud, brisk, and unpretentious. Most visitors walk past the raw herring station out of fear—don't. Order one 'met uitjes' (with onions) and eat it the Dutch way. The honest limitation: it is not a 'fine dining' experience, and you will likely share a long wooden table with strangers.
Strandweg 1, 2586 JK Den Haag, Netherlands ·+31 70 350 0056 ·11:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily
Restaurant Portfolio
€65.00–€95.00 (~$75.00–$109.00 USD)Located in the trendy Zeeheldenkwartier, Portfolio is for the traveler who wants to taste the future of Dutch cuisine. The menu is small, focusing on hyper-local ingredients. Name exactly what is in season, and the chef will tell you which farm it came from. The room is minimalist and intimate. Honest limitation: you must book at least three weeks in advance, and the tasting menu format means you need at least two hours for lunch.
Prinsestraat 36, 2513 CD Den Haag, Netherlands ·+31 70 215 5616 ·Wednesday-Saturday 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Lunch Saturday 12:30 PM - 2:00 PM
The Penthouse (The Hague Tower)
€12.00–€18.00 (~$14.00–$20.50 USD)Located on the 42nd floor of 'Het Strijkijzer' building, this is the highest bar in the Netherlands. It offers a 360-degree view that, on a clear day, stretches to the Rotterdam skyline and the North Sea. It's the right place for a drink because it provides the geographic context the city center hides. Locals come here for 'after-work' drinks. The view is better than any museum balcony.
Rijswijkseplein 786, 2516 LX Den Haag, Netherlands ·+31 70 305 1000 ·12:00 PM - 10:00 PM daily
Getting There & Around
The primary way to navigate The Hague is the efficient HTM tram network. The 'HTM Dagkaart' (Day Pass) for €8 is recommended.00 (~$9.20 USD), which you can buy directly on the tram using a contactless credit card or via the HTM app. Taxis are expensive and often slower than trams due to the narrow streets in the Centrum. Uber operates reliably here and usually costs 15% less than a standard taxi, but availability in Scheveningen can be spotty during peak cruise disembarkation. While the city is famous for cycling, it is best avoided for first-time visitors; the local commuters are aggressive, and the tram tracks are a major hazard for inexperienced riders. A city-specific tip: many museums and shops in the Zeeheldenkwartier do not accept cash—carry a Mastercard or Visa with a PIN, as American 'swipe and sign' cards are frequently rejected at smaller kiosks.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in The Hague
Mauritshuis
9:00 AM (90 min)
Home to Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring'. The building itself is a masterpiece of Dutch Classicism. Most visitors rush to the Vermeer room on the top floor; don't miss the Fabritius 'Goldfinch' on the same level.
- Take a taxi from Scheveningen terminal (15 mins). (€22.00 (~$25.50 USD))
- Entry: €19.50 ($22.50)
- Book the 9:30 AM slot. By 11:00 AM, the school groups arrive and the small rooms become uncomfortably loud.
Binnenhof & Hofvijver
10:45 AM (45 min)
Walk through the central courtyard. You can see the Hall of Knights (Ridderzaal) and perhaps spot the Prime Minister cycling to work. The history here is palpable in every stone.
- A 3-minute walk from the Mauritshuis exit. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- The main buildings are currently under long-term renovation; view the complex from across the Hofvijver pond for the iconic 'postcard' reflection.
Lunch Recommendation
Jamey Bennett
It avoids the 'tourist menu' traps of the Grote Markt. It’s where local professionals eat, offering a high-quality, consistent kitchen and a prime view of the Plaats square.
Order: Slow-cooked beef rib with local root vegetables, Traditional Dutch bitterballen (as an appetizer)
Plaats 11, 2513 AD Den Haag, Netherlands
Cost: €35.00 (~$40.50 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in The Hague
The Peace Palace (Vredespaleis)
9:00 AM (75 min)
The world's most photographed building of peace. The Visitor Center provides an excellent audio tour. You cannot enter the palace itself without a pre-booked guided tour, which are rare and sell out months in advance.
- Taxi from Scheveningen terminal (12 mins). (€18.00 (~$20.50 USD))
- Entry: €11.00 ($12.50)
- Most people take photos at the gate and leave. Walk to the 'Eternal Peace Flame' on the right side of the entrance for a quieter moment.
Mauritshuis
10:30 AM (120 min)
The 'Jewel Box' of Dutch museums. Focus on the Flemish and Dutch masters. You will find that the museum store is one of the best in the country for high-quality reproductions.
- Take Tram 1 from 'Vredespaleis' to 'Kneuterdijk' (8 mins). (€4.00 (~$4.60 USD))
- Entry: €19.50 ($22.50)
- Skip the basement cafe; the 'Plein' square outside has much better local atmosphere for a quick coffee.
Lunch at Jamey Bennett
12:45 PM (75 min)
Casual but sophisticated dining on one of the city's most historic squares.
- 5-minute walk from Mauritshuis via the Binnenhof. (Free)
- Entry: N/A (N/A)
- Ask for a table on the terrace if the weather is clear; it’s the best spot to watch the local 'Haagse' elite.
Panorama Mesdag
2:30 PM (60 min)
A massive 360-degree cylindrical painting from 1881. It depicts Scheveningen as it looked when your ship's pier was just a sandy beach. It is an immersive experience that predates VR by a century.
- 10-minute walk from Plaats. (Free)
- Entry: €15.00 ($17.50)
- Stand exactly in the center of the platform to let the optical illusion take full effect—the transition from real sand to painted canvas is seamless.
Getting back to the ship
The absolute latest you should depart the city center is 90 minutes before your ship's 'all-aboard' time. While the taxi ride is only 15 minutes, traffic in The Hague is unpredictable, especially near the tunnel exits. A taxi from the Plein to Scheveningen Haven will cost approximately €22.00 (~$25.50 USD). If you prefer public transit, Tram 1 runs every 10 minutes, but allow 40 minutes for the full journey and walk to the pier. If you are running late, call the port agent number provided on your daily program. Be aware that Scheveningen is an industrial port; the ship will not wait for passengers who are not on a ship-sponsored excursion. Missing the ship means a €150.00 (~$172.50 USD) taxi ride to the next port (likely Amsterdam or Rotterdam), assuming you can clear port security without your ship ID.
Weather & Best Time to Visit The Hague
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: April through October
12°C to 22°C (54°F to 72°F). High humidity and persistent winds from the North Sea.
What to wear: Layers are mandatory. Even on a sunny day, the breeze off the North Sea can drop the perceived temperature by 5 degrees. Bring a lightweight, waterproof shell and avoid umbrellas. Shoes must have thick soles to handle the cobblestones and the gravel paths of the museums. A scarf is the unofficial uniform of the locals for a reason—it blocks the coastal chill.
Weather risks: Sea fog can occasionally delay morning arrivals at Scheveningen; high winds can sometimes make the gangway unstable.
Spring calls often coincide with the bulb season, bringing more rain but spectacular floral displays in the city parks.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring (March–May) | Cool and unpredictable with frequent rain showers and brisk North Sea winds. | The cobblestones around the Binnenhof and Grote Markt become slick when wet, especially for those in smooth-soled shoes. | Historical center and the Scheveningen promenade. | Wear sturdy footwear with rubber soles. A windproof layer is more useful than an umbrella, which will likely flip in the coastal gusts. |
| Summer (June–August) | Warm and pleasant, though North Sea humidity can make 25°C (77°F) feel much heavier. | Extreme UV exposure on the unshaded Scheveningen beach and promenade. Dehydration is common during long walks between the harbor and the center. | Scheveningen Beach, Noordeinde shopping street. | Utilize the trams to save energy. The 20-minute tram ride is air-conditioned; the 60-minute walk is entirely exposed to the sun. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Locals in The Hague are more formal than their counterparts in Amsterdam. A firm handshake with direct eye contact is the standard greeting. In social settings among friends, the 'three-kiss' rule (right-left-right) applies, but as a visitor, stick to the handshake. Dining customs are efficient; splitting the bill (going Dutch) is the norm, even for business lunches. When finished eating, place your knife and fork parallel on the right side of the plate. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the Peace Palace and the Binnenhof's session chambers. Queueing is a serious matter here; do not attempt to bypass the order at a tram stop or a market stall, as the Dutch will not hesitate to correct you loudly. Tipping is 'rounding up' or 5-10% for excellent service; anything more is considered excessive. A common misunderstanding: American travelers often mistake Dutch directness for rudeness. If a waiter tells you 'No, that is not possible,' they are being honest, not hostile. Accept it as a sign of respect for your time.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Attempting to walk from the Scheveningen cruise pier to the Mauritshuis. |
Arriving at the Mauritshuis without a pre-booked time slot. |
Missing the 'borrel' hour in the city center. |
Using a large €50 note for a small purchase. |
Practical tips
The Hague is effectively a cashless city. While major museums and hotels accept all cards, many smaller cafes and the HTM tram network only accept 'Pin' (Maestro/Debit) or contactless credit cards. Always carry a backup credit card with a chip and PIN. Tipping is expected only as a gesture of rounding up to the nearest €5 for dinner; for taxis, rounding up to the nearest Euro is sufficient. Five phrases to earn goodwill: 'Goedemorgen' (Good morning), 'Dank u wel' (Thank you), 'Alstublieft' (Please/Here you go), 'Spreekt u Engels?' (Do you speak English?), and 'Proost' (Cheers). Scams are rare, but 'fake police' have been reported near the Peace Palace; they ask to see your wallet for 'counterfeit check'—never hand it over. Real Dutch police carry identification and will never ask to handle your cash. Dress code is 'smart casual'; while there are no strict religious rules, appearing overly disheveled in the Binnenhof area is frowned upon. Best crowd-avoidance strategy: visit the Mauritshuis as soon as it opens and the Binnenhof courtyard after 3:30 PM when the government tours have subsided.
Cruise Lines Visiting The Hague
Port of Call
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FAQ — The Hague
Can I visit the Peace Palace without a tour?
No, you cannot enter the Great Hall of Justice or the chambers without a guided tour. However, the Visitor Center is excellent and accessible for €11.00 (~$12.50 USD). It features a 45-minute audio guide that explains the history of the building and the court's functions. Private access can occasionally be facilitated through specialized local partners, but this requires several months of lead time.
Which tram goes from the cruise port to the Mauritshuis?
Tram 1 is your primary link. Board at the 'Duinstraat' stop, which is a 10-minute walk from the terminal. It takes 22 minutes to reach the 'Kneuterdijk' stop, which is a 4-minute walk from the Mauritshuis and the Binnenhof. The fare is €4.00 (~$4.60 USD) for a one-hour ticket, payable via contactless credit card directly on the tram.
Is 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' always on display?
Usually, yes. However, it is occasionally loaned to major international exhibitions. The success rate of travelers seeing it is 95%. Always check the 'Not on display' section of Mauritshuis.nl before your visit to avoid disappointment. The museum is small enough that even if she is traveling, the remaining 17th-century masterpieces make the €19.50 (~$22.50 USD) entry fee worthwhile.
Where is the best place to buy authentic Delftware in The Hague?
Avoid the street stalls. Go to 'Heinen Delfts Blauw' in the city center or the gift shop at the Mauritshuis. For the absolute highest quality, ensure the piece has the 'Royal Delft' mark (a jar with the letter JT and the word Delft). A small, genuine hand-painted vase will cost around €85.00 (~$98.00 USD).
How much should I tip a taxi driver in The Hague?
Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up is the local standard. For a €22.00 ride from the port to the center, giving €24.00 (~$27.50 USD) is considered very generous. Most locals simply round up to the nearest Euro. You will find that drivers do not expect American-style 20% tips.
Is the Binnenhof still worth seeing during the renovations?
Yes, but manage your expectations. The central courtyard is often partially closed, but the exterior views from the Hofvijver pond are still spectacular. The historical weight of the site remains, and you can still walk through the outer gates. It remains a free, essential 15-minute stop on any walking tour of the city center.
Are museums in The Hague open on Mondays?
Most are not. The Mauritshuis only opens at 1:00 PM on Mondays, and the Kunstmuseum is closed entirely. If your port call is a Monday, you should focus on the Peace Palace Visitor Center or a trip to Delft, where more shops and attractions remain open to serve the day-trip market.
What is 'kibbeling' and where should I eat it?
Kibbeling is the Dutch answer to fish and chips—chunks of white fish (usually cod) battered and fried. The best place is 'Simonis' at the Scheveningen harbor, a 10-minute walk from the ship. A large portion costs €12.50 (~$14.50 USD) and is easily enough for two people to share as a snack.
Is The Hague safe for solo travelers?
It is exceptionally safe. Crime rates are among the lowest in Europe. The main visitor areas are well-lit and well-policed. The only area to exercise standard caution is the 'Haagse Markt' due to occasional pickpockets in the dense crowds. Always keep your bag zipped and in front of you in the market.
Can I use US Dollars in The Hague?
No. US Dollars are not accepted anywhere. You must use Euros or, more preferably, a contactless credit card. Most shops are 'Pin-only' and will not even accept high-denomination Euro notes. Ensure your credit card has no foreign transaction fees before you depart the US.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.