The Hague travel guide

The seat of the Dutch government, The Hague, still has the reputation of being genteel and boring. But the third-largest city in the country, with its many palaces and mansions, has changed enormously in recent years. Many new office towers have been built near the central train station; anyone who walks to the Dans Theater on the Spui Boulevard, sees it at every turn: The Hague is not afraid of change.

The official name of The Hague is actually 's-Gravenhage. This name goes back to the hunting lodge that the Count of Holland once had erected in a forest located here. For over 500 years, The Hague has served rulers and regents as their legal seat. Even today, government, parliament, and the queen reside here, as do many embassies and organizations such as the International Court of Justice. The mix of officials and diplomats gives the city an international touch, which you can feel on the plazas or in the elegant shops.