Oh, The Hague… what a charming city you are! As a beach lover, I find The Hague the perfect blend of city and sea. Though I'm fairly familiar with it, it had been some years since I last explored properly. I was pleasantly surprised by all the lovely new spots. From local shops and cosy coffee bars to excellent restaurants, our city break in The Hague turned out to be a delightful mix of good food and shopping in charming streets just outside the city centre.
Local heroes in The Hague
It’s so easy to head straight for the well-known streets and big-name shops. But it’s far more enjoyable to wander through quaint lanes filled with independent boutiques. Here are my favourite streets and shops, along with a few foodie tips—because a proper city break simply must include good food and drink.
1 Episode - Molenstraat 39
Just beyond the busy city centre streets lies Molenstraat, home to one of the best second-hand shops around: Episode. A top spot for sustainable shopping and vintage treasures.
2 Op z’n KOP - Prinsestraat 112
A delightful little shop packed with irresistible bits and bobs—colourful candles, mugs, slippers, and cards with quirky sayings. One of those “I want everything” places. Afterwards, pop over to Pistache for a coffee.
3 Italy - Piet Heinstraat 20
From Prinsestraat, it’s a short walk to Piet Heinstraat. I adore Italy as a holiday destination, mostly for its cuisine. At Italy, you can stock up on all your favourite Italian goodies—from fine wines and pesto to olives, cantuccini biscuits, and fresh pasta from the display. After a visit, you’ll be dreaming of your next Italian escape.
4 Weimarstraat
Weimarstraat, a bit further from the centre, but worth it. This street in the Regentessekwartier has become quite the gem. At Peony you’ll find lovely interior pieces, and just a few doors down at number 54 is Kali Tengah. A must-visit for tea and coffee lovers, with walls full of fresh teas and the cutest takeaway cups.
5 Fahrenheitstraat
A favourite among locals, Fahrenheitstraat is a top shopping street. Two of my favourite fashion boutiques are here. At Stijlbandiet, you'll find stylish pieces from great brands.
6 Orientique Asianliving - Wagenstraat 79
This interior shop in Chinatown was a wonderful surprise—what a trove! Stunning eastern decor pieces, from elegant cabinets to striking vases. Walk under the Chinese gate next to De Bijenkorf, and you’ll find this gem a little further along Wagenstraat.
7 Palmette - Plaats 27
Lunch at Palmette, just around the corner from Hotel Voco. It couldn’t be easier—enjoy a leisurely lunch on the covered terrace before checking in. Tip: go for the oysters!
8 Pistache - Prinsestraat 134
Coffee at Pistache on Prinsestraat. This spot was a favourite years ago. Nothing’s changed—and that’s exactly how it should be.
Staying the night?
Extend your visit to The Hague with an overnight stay in the vibrant city centre or by the sea.
9 Zebedeüs - Around the Grote Kerk 8
Right in the city centre, just around the corner from the old town hall. A friend from The Hague recommended Zebedeüs, and after visiting, I completely understood why. Set in the Grote Kerk, you can gaze out over the city through the candles and stained-glass windows. Excellent wine, excellent food.
10 Bora Bora Beachclub - Strandweg 29
f you’re in Scheveningen, settle in at beach club Bora Bora. It’s the cosiest and most colourful beach bar in town, with a view of the Ferris wheel on the pier.
11 voco® The Hague - Kneuterdijk 8
For a good night’s sleep in The Hague, head to Hotel Voco. A lovely hotel right in the city centre, tucked between Noordeinde and the Hofvijver. The location is excellent. The rooms are beautifully designed, with views over the rooftops of the old town. Charming! Service and breakfast are also top-notch.
12 Shared scooters
We zipped through the city—and all the way to Scheveningen—on an electric shared scooter. The fastest and most sustainable option.
Check out the scooter hubs.13 Scheveningen beach
I absolutely love the beach, so of course a visit to the shore was a must. A stroll along the boulevard, a wander up the pier, and naturally, a quick snap by the Ferris wheel. We enjoyed a glass of white wine in the sun at beach club Bora Bora. Other lovely spots on Scheveningen beach include The Fat Mermaid and Patagonia.
This article was written by Daisy Oppelaar.