Centrum: The Heart of The Hague

Centrum in The Hague: A Captivating Blend of History, Culture, and Modern Life in the Heart of the Netherlands

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Centrum in The Hague is a vibrant blend of modernity and history. At its core lies the Binnenhof, a historic complex housing the Dutch parliament, surrounded by picturesque canals and cobblestone streets. This area is a must-see for history buffs and architecture lovers. Explore the Mauritshuis, home to masterpieces like Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring,' and take a leisurely stroll through the Hofvijver, a serene pond that offers stunning views of the city's skyline. Don’t miss the bustling Plein and Grote Markt squares, where you can relax at an outdoor café and soak up the local atmosphere. Shopping enthusiasts will delight in the high-end boutiques along the Noordeinde and the eclectic shops in the Haagsche Bluf district. When hunger strikes, indulge in Dutch delicacies at the local eateries or savor international cuisine from the many restaurants that dot the neighborhood. As night falls, Centrum transforms with its lively bars and entertainment venues, ensuring your visit is memorable.

Local tips in Centrum

Visit the Binnenhof early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Buy a Museumkaart if you plan to visit several museums; it offers free entry to many attractions.
Wear comfortable shoes as the cobblestone streets can be tricky to navigate.
Check out the local events calendar; Centrum often hosts festivals and markets.

File:Den Haag Binnenhof 02.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Bestand:Mauritishuis Museum 1822 Koninklijk Kabinet van Schilderijen Mauritshuis in Den Haag Niederlande Foto Wolfgang Pehlemann IMG 1226.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Peace Palace The Hague.jpg - Wikipedia

File:Grote of Sint-Jacobskerk (The Hague).JPG - Wikipedia

File:Cityscape of The Hague, viewed from Het Plein (The Square).jpg - Wikipedia

File:Lange voorhout.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Gevel Escher in Het Paleis 300 dpi.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Den Haag Skyline 1.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Hofvijver lake @ Near the Binnenhof @ Centrum @ The Hague (20388173470).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Mauritshuis

Experience the beauty of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces at Mauritshuis in The Hague, a cultural gem that brings art history to life.

Noordeinde Palace

Discover the historic beauty of Noordeinde Palace, a royal residence in The Hague showcasing exquisite Dutch architecture and lush gardens.

Rijksmuseum de Gevangenpoort

Discover the intriguing history of justice at Rijksmuseum de Gevangenpoort, a local history museum in The Hague showcasing the lives of prisoners and the evolution of law.

Binnenhof

Explore Binnenhof, the heart of Dutch politics in The Hague, a stunning complex that blends history, architecture, and culture.

Standbeeld Haagse Harry

Discover Standbeeld Haagse Harry in The Hague, where local culture and humor come to life in a charming statue at the heart of the city.

Independence Monument

Explore the Independence Monument in The Hague, a historical landmark symbolizing freedom and resilience amidst a vibrant cultural scene.

The Old City Hall

Explore the historical elegance of The Old City Hall in The Hague, a stunning architectural gem with rich cultural heritage.

Chinese street

Experience the vibrant flavors of China right in the heart of The Hague at Chinese Street, a must-visit culinary destination for every traveler.

Butter Bell

Discover the charm of The Hague with a visit to the Butter Bell, a historical monument reflecting the city's rich dairy heritage and architectural beauty.

Old Building with ancient Dutch Architecture

Explore the Old Building, an architectural gem in The Hague showcasing ancient Dutch design and rich cultural history, perfect for all history enthusiasts.

Unmissable attractions to see

Louwman Museum

Discover the Louwman Museum, an exquisite automotive museum in The Hague showcasing over 250 vintage vehicles and rich automotive history.

Kunstmuseum Den Haag

Experience the vibrant world of modern art at Kunstmuseum Den Haag, a cultural gem in The Hague showcasing masterpieces and innovative exhibitions.

Noordeinde Palace

Explore the royal charm of Noordeinde Palace in The Hague, a stunning architectural marvel and a glimpse into Dutch royal heritage.

Rijksmuseum de Gevangenpoort

Explore the intriguing history of justice at Rijksmuseum de Gevangenpoort, a former prison turned museum in The Hague.

Essential places to dine

Café Restaurant Rootz

Experience the vibrant culinary scene at Café Restaurant Rootz in The Hague – where great food meets lively atmosphere.

Fratelli Den Haag

Experience authentic Italian flavors at Fratelli Den Haag—where each dish tells a story from Italy's rich culinary tradition.

Zebedeus

Experience contemporary Dutch cuisine at Zebedeus in The Hague, where seasonal ingredients meet innovative cooking in an inviting atmosphere.

UMAMI by Han Den Haag

Discover the art of Asian fusion dining at UMAMI by Han Den Haag – where flavors come alive in a vibrant atmosphere.

De Basiliek

Discover De Basiliek in The Hague - where exquisite flavors meet cozy ambiance for an unforgettable dining experience.

Bar Bistro De Twee Heeren

Discover the flavors of Belgium and beyond at Bar Bistro De Twee Heeren in The Hague - a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.

Gauchos Grill Restaurant Den Haag-Centrum

Experience authentic Argentinian cuisine at Gauchos Grill in The Hague - where every bite tells a story of flavor and tradition.

Publique

Discover modern French culinary delights at Publique in The Hague—where exquisite flavors meet elegant ambiance.

Leuk Eten En Drinken

Discover culinary delights at Leuk Eten En Drinken in The Hague – where fresh ingredients meet exceptional flavors in a cozy setting.

Bøg

Experience authentic Scandinavian cuisine at Bøg in The Hague – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

The Passage

Experience the blend of history and modern retail at The Passage, a stunning shopping arcade in the heart of The Hague.

SoLow

Discover a unique gift shop in The Hague, offering handcrafted items, party supplies, and creative inspiration for every occasion.

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Explore the whimsical world of Flying Tiger Copenhagen in The Hague, where creativity meets affordability in a unique shopping experience.

Scotch & Soda

Explore unique fashion at Scotch & Soda, a stylish clothing store in The Hague, offering trendy apparel for all ages in a chic shopping environment.

Little Green Shop

Explore the charm of Little Green Shop, a unique gift and vintage store in The Hague, offering dried flowers, home goods, and vintage treasures.

Hamilton Tobacco & Gifts

Explore Hamilton Tobacco & Gifts in The Hague for unique souvenirs, premium cigars, and a taste of local craftsmanship.

ZUSJES vintage boetiek

Explore a unique collection of vintage clothing and accessories at ZUSJES Vintage Boetiek in The Hague, where timeless fashion meets contemporary style.

Swan Market Store Den Haag

Discover the creative heart of The Hague at Swan Market Store, where unique finds and local flavors come together in an unforgettable shopping experience.

WNKL Den Haag

Explore WNKL Den Haag, a treasure trove of unique gifts, furniture accessories, and toys in the heart of The Hague, reflecting the best of Dutch design.

Shop Mauritshuis

Explore unique gifts inspired by Dutch art at Shop Mauritshuis in The Hague, a must-visit destination for art lovers and souvenir seekers.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Fiddler

Experience the perfect blend of local brews, sports, and a vibrant atmosphere at The Fiddler in The Hague, a must-visit pub for tourists.

Huppel The Pub

Experience the heart of The Hague at Huppel The Pub, a cozy spot for great drinks and memorable nights with locals.

Vavoom!

Discover the vibrant Tiki bar experience at Vavoom! in The Hague, where exotic cocktails and a lively atmosphere await you.

Murphy's Law

Discover Murphy's Law in The Hague, where the charm of an Irish pub meets the rhythm of live jazz music for an unforgettable evening.

Sixpence

Discover Sixpence Irish Pub, a lively bar in The Hague offering the best of Irish culture, food, and a welcoming atmosphere for tourists.

Café Happy End

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Café Happy End, a cozy pub in The Hague, known for its friendly atmosphere and diverse drink selection.

The Five Points Bar & Drink Society

Experience the art of mixology at The Five Points Bar & Drink Society, The Hague's premier cocktail haven with a vibrant atmosphere.

Little Prince

Discover Little Prince in The Hague - a cozy pub with an exceptional gin selection and a warm, inviting atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Ned Kelly's

Discover Ned Kelly's in The Hague: an authentic bar and café blending local culture with a unique atmosphere perfect for relaxation and socializing.

American Bar

Discover the lively American Bar in The Hague, where great drinks and a vibrant atmosphere await you.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Centrum

Discover Centrum with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloHallo
  [HAH-loh]
- GoodbyeTot ziens
  [toht zeens]
- YesJa
  [yah]
- NoNee
  [nay]
- Please/You're welcomeAlstublieft
  [AHL-stu-bleeft]
- Thank youDank je wel
  [dahnk yeh vell]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [SOH-ree]
- How are you?Hoe gaat het?
  [hoo gahht het]
- Fine. And you?Goed. En met jou?
  [khoot. en met yow]
- Do you speak English?Spreekt u Engels?
  [spreekt oo eng-uhls]
- I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
  [ick buh-GRAIP het neet]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMag ik de menukaart zien, alsjeblieft
  [mahkh ik duh men-oo-kahrt zeen, ahl-syuh-bleeft]
- I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
  [ick ayt khayn vlays]
- Cheers!Proost!
  [prohst]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIk wil graag betalen, alstublieft
  [ick vil khrahkh buh-TAH-luhn, ahl-stu-bleeft]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Ga weg!
  [gah vekh]
- Call the Police!Bel de politie!
  [bel duh poh-lee-see]
- Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
  [bel uhn daw-kuhr]
- I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
  [ick ben vuhr-dwahld]
- I'm illIk ben ziek
  [ick ben zik]
- I'd like to buy...Ik wil graag kopen...
  [ick vil khrahkh koh-puhn]
- I'm just lookingIk kijk alleen maar
  [ick kike a-layn mahr]
- How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
  [hoo-veyl kost het]
- That's too expensiveDat is te duur
  [daht is tuh dur]
- Can you lower the price?Kunt u de prijs verlagen?
  [kunt oo duh prys vur-lah-khun]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
  [hoo laht is het]
- It's one o'clockHet is één uur
  [het is ain oor]
- Half past (10)Half elf
  [hahlf elf]
- MorningOchtend
  [OHK-tuhnt]
- AfternoonMiddag
  [MIH-dahkh]
- EveningAvond
  [AH-vohnt]
- YesterdayGisteren
  [KHIS-tuh-run]
- TodayVandaag
  [vahn-dahkh]
- TomorrowMorgen
  [MOHR-khun]
- 1Een
  [ayn]
- 2Twee
  [tway]
- 3Drie
  [dree]
- 4Vier
  [veer]
- 5Vijf
  [vayf]
- 6Zes
  [zehs]
- 7Zeven
  [zay-vuhn]
- 8Acht
  [ahkht]
- 9Negen
  [nay-khun]
- 10Tien
  [teen]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is de...?
  [vahr is duh]
- What's the address?Wat is het adres?
  [vaht is het AH-druhs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Kunt u mij laten zien (op de kaart)?
  [kunt oo may laa-tuhn zeen (op duh kahrt)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?
  [vahn-ayr is duh vohl-huhn-duh (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Een kaartje (naar ....)
  [ayn kahrt-yuh (nar)]

History of Centrum

The history of Centrum, as part of The Hague, begins in the 13th century when Count Floris IV of Holland established a hunting lodge in the area. This lodge, known as 'Haga', eventually developed into a settlement, providing a foundation for what would become one of the most important cities in the Netherlands.
Throughout the 14th and 15th centuries, The Hague grew in prominence as the residence of the Counts of Holland. The establishment of the Binnenhof in the 13th century marked a significant transition for Centrum, as it became the political heart of the Netherlands. This area housed the Dutch Parliament and the Council of State, solidifying The Hague's role in Dutch governance.
The 17th century, often referred to as the Dutch Golden Age, saw Centrum flourish culturally and artistically. The area became known for its beautiful architecture, with the construction of notable buildings such as the Mauritshuis, which now houses masterpieces by Vermeer and Rembrandt. The Hague's status as a cultural hub was further enhanced by the establishment of the Royal Theatre and various art galleries.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, The Hague evolved into an international city, hosting numerous diplomatic missions and international organizations. The completion of the Peace Palace in 1913, which houses the International Court of Justice, symbolized this shift. Centrum became a focal point for global diplomacy and law, reinforcing The Hague's reputation as a center for peace and justice.
In recent decades, Centrum has undergone significant urban renewal, blending modern architecture with historical preservation. The area has seen the development of contemporary cultural spaces, shops, and restaurants while maintaining its historical charm. Events such as the annual Tong Tong Fair celebrate the multicultural fabric of The Hague, reflecting the diverse community that calls Centrum home.

Centrum Essentials

Centrum is easily accessible from other neighborhoods in The Hague. The city is well-connected by public transport, including trams and buses. From the main train station, Den Haag Centraal, you can take tram lines 1, 2, or 6 directly into the heart of Centrum. Buses also run frequently from various neighborhoods, making it convenient to reach the area.
Centrum is pedestrian-friendly, with many attractions within walking distance. Public transport options include trams and buses, which are operated by HTM. You can also rent bicycles from various bike-sharing services or traditional bike rental shops for a more local experience. Taxis are available but may be more expensive than public transport.
Centrum is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be observed. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep personal belongings secure in crowded places. While the overall crime rate is low, areas around the central station may experience petty theft. Stay vigilant, especially in tourist hotspots.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The nearest hospital is the Haga Hospital, located not far from Centrum. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are readily available throughout the area.
Fashion: Do dress appropriately for various settings. Casual attire is acceptable, but upscale restaurants may require smarter dress. Religion: Do respect local customs when visiting churches or historical sites. Public Transport: Do validate your ticket before boarding. Don’t eat or drink on trams and buses. Greetings: Do greet with a friendly 'Hallo' or 'Goedemorgen'. Don’t forget to use polite phrases like 'Alstublieft' (please) and 'Dank u wel' (thank you). Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties such as herring and stroopwafels. Don’t engage in loud conversations or disruptive behavior in cafés or restaurants.
To experience Centrum like a local, visit the weekly markets where you can find fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage in conversations with shopkeepers and locals; they are often eager to share stories about the area. Take time to explore the hidden courtyards and smaller streets to discover unique shops and cafés that may not be in tourist guides. Also, try to attend local events or festivals if your visit coincides with them for a taste of The Hague's vibrant culture.

Centrum: The Heart of The Hague

Local tips in Centrum