Interesting places to visit near The Hague, Netherlands

Location: Haagse Bos Forest is located in The Hague, South Holland, Netherlands, offering an accessible natural escape within the city.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Dog-Friendly, Families with Children, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: Haagse Bos is one of the oldest forests in the Netherlands, providing tranquil walking trails surrounded by centuries-old trees and rich history. This green oasis is perfect for travelers seeking a peaceful break from urban life, with well-marked paths ideal for leisurely strolls or invigorating hikes. Its dog-friendly environment makes it a top choice for visitors traveling with pets.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy scenic nature walks, explore historical landmarks such as the Huis ten Bosch palace nearby, picnic in designated areas, and discover local flora and fauna. Foodies can find charming cafes and eateries in The Hague after their forest adventure.

Kid-friendly focus: The forest’s gentle trails and open spaces are perfect for families with young children to explore nature safely and enjoy outdoor play.

Dog-friendly notes: Haagse Bos welcomes dogs on-leash, with ample space for them to roam and socialize, making it an ideal stop for travelers with pets seeking fresh air and exercise.

Location: Kijkduin Beach is located near The Hague in the South Holland region of the Netherlands, offering easy access from the city and surrounding areas.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Dog-Friendly, Families with Children, Foodies, History Enthusiasts

Why it's a great detour: This charming coastal spot combines scenic walking trails along pristine dunes with expansive dog-friendly beaches, making it a perfect escape from urban life. Visitors can enjoy fresh sea air, stunning views of the North Sea, and a relaxed atmosphere that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

Key activities: Explore numerous coastal walking paths through dunes and nature reserves, relax or play on the sandy dog-friendly beaches, visit local beach cafes and seafood restaurants, and discover nearby historical landmarks related to The Hague’s maritime heritage.

Kid-friendly focus: Kijkduin Beach is ideal for families with young children, offering safe, open spaces for play and gentle walking trails suitable for strollers. The beach’s shallow waters and clean sand provide a great environment for kids to enjoy.

Dog-friendly notes: One of the highlights is the extensive dog-friendly beach area where dogs can roam off-leash during most of the year, making it a favorite destination for travelers with pets. Facilities such as dog waste bins and nearby pet-friendly cafes enhance the experience for dog owners.

Location: Delft, South Holland, Netherlands

Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Why it's a great detour: Nestled between Rotterdam and The Hague, Delft offers a delightful blend of scenic waterways and rich history. Its charming canals and well-preserved medieval architecture provide a peaceful escape from bustling cities, making it an ideal spot for travelers seeking both relaxation and cultural immersion.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy scenic canal cruises that reveal Delft’s picturesque streets and historic landmarks from the water. Explore the Markt square with its iconic Nieuwe Kerk, visit the Royal Delft pottery factory to see traditional blue-and-white ceramics, and stroll through quaint shops and cafes. The town’s compact size makes it perfect for leisurely walks or cycling.

Kid-friendly focus: The canal boat rides and interactive pottery workshops at Royal Delft are engaging for children, while open green spaces and playgrounds provide ample room for play.

Dog-friendly notes: Delft welcomes dogs in many outdoor areas and on certain canal cruises, making it a great stop for travelers with pets. Always check specific cruise operators for pet policies, but the town’s many walking paths along canals are perfect for dog walks.

Location: Oegstgeest, South Holland, Netherlands

Best For: Families with Children, Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Dog-Friendly (limited outdoor areas)

Why it's a great detour: The Corpus Museum offers a unique and immersive journey through the human body, making it an exceptional educational detour for travelers interested in science and health. Located just outside Leiden, this museum combines interactive exhibits with engaging storytelling, appealing to visitors of all ages and backgrounds. Its hands-on approach makes learning fun and memorable, perfect for families looking to enrich their trip with a blend of education and entertainment.

Key activities: Visitors can walk through a giant model of the human body, explore interactive displays about anatomy and physiology, participate in workshops, and enjoy multimedia presentations that bring science to life. The museum also features a lovely outdoor area where dogs on leashes are welcome, allowing pet owners to relax while children explore.

Kid-friendly focus: The museum is especially designed for children and families, with exhibits tailored to engage young minds through play and discovery. It is suitable for children of all ages, with clear explanations and activities that make complex scientific concepts accessible and fun.

Dog-friendly notes: While the indoor exhibits do not allow dogs, the museum grounds include outdoor spaces where leashed dogs are welcome, making it a considerate stop for travelers with pets who want a break in a family-friendly environment.

Location: Rotterdam, South Holland, Netherlands

Best For: Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly (limited areas), History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: Nestled in the heart of Rotterdam, Diergaarde Blijdorp Zoo offers an enchanting escape into the animal kingdom, blending beautifully landscaped habitats with engaging educational experiences. This historic zoo, one of the oldest in the Netherlands, provides a unique blend of wildlife encounters and family-friendly fun, making it a perfect detour for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Key activities: Visitors can explore diverse animal exhibits ranging from African savannahs to the impressive Oceanium showcasing marine life. Interactive feeding sessions, guided tours, and themed playgrounds keep children entertained, while foodies can enjoy a variety of cafes offering local and international cuisine. History buffs will appreciate the zoo's rich heritage and architectural charm.

Kid-friendly focus: The zoo is exceptionally welcoming to families, featuring safe, accessible paths, educational programs tailored for young minds, and plenty of hands-on activities that make learning about wildlife fun and memorable.

Dog-friendly notes: While dogs are generally not allowed inside the animal enclosures, the zoo offers designated outdoor areas and walking paths where leashed dogs are welcome, making it a considerate stop for travelers with pets.

Location: Nestled in the charming town of Oostvoorne in South Holland, Netherlands, Oostvoorne Beach Park offers a refreshing coastal escape just a short drive from Rotterdam and The Hague.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, Dog-Friendly, Families, History Enthusiasts, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: This tranquil park combines scenic nature trails weaving through dunes and forests with expansive, dog-friendly sandy beaches along the North Sea. It’s a perfect spot to unwind away from city bustle, enjoy fresh sea air, and explore the natural beauty of the Dutch coastline. History buffs will appreciate nearby historical landmarks, while foodies can savor local treats at nearby cafes.

Key activities: Visitors can hike or bike along well-marked nature trails, relax or play on the dog-friendly beaches where pets can roam freely, birdwatch in the diverse habitats, and visit the nearby Fort Noorddijk for a glimpse into local history. Seasonal food markets and beachside eateries offer delicious regional cuisine.

Kid-friendly focus: The gentle trails and open beach areas are ideal for families with young children, providing safe spaces for play and exploration. Educational signage about local flora and fauna adds an engaging learning element for kids.

Dog-friendly notes: Oostvoorne Beach Park is renowned for its welcoming attitude toward dogs, with large designated beach areas where dogs can run off-leash and plenty of shaded trails for walks. Water bowls and dog waste stations are conveniently available, making it a top choice for travelers with pets.

Location: Brielle, South Holland, Netherlands

Best For: History Enthusiasts, Nature Lovers, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Nestled in the charming town of Brielle, the Old Harbor offers a captivating glimpse into the Netherlands' rich maritime heritage. This historic port, surrounded by well-preserved fortifications and quaint streets, makes an ideal detour for travelers seeking a blend of cultural history and scenic beauty. Its tranquil waters and traditional sailing vessels create a picturesque setting perfect for leisurely exploration.

Visitors can stroll along the harbor's cobblestone quays, explore the maritime museum showcasing Brielle's naval past, and enjoy local seafood at cozy waterfront cafes. Families will appreciate the open spaces and gentle pace, making it suitable even for young children to roam safely. Nature lovers can take advantage of nearby walking trails along the historic city walls, while dog owners will find the area welcoming with several pet-friendly outdoor spots.

Whether you're passionate about history, eager to savor authentic Dutch coastal cuisine, or simply looking for a peaceful place to unwind, the Old Harbor of Brielle offers a memorable and accessible detour for all types of travelers.

Location: Nestled in the South Holland region of the Netherlands, Kinderdijk is a charming village renowned for its iconic 18th-century windmills and scenic waterways.

Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly, Photography, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: Kinderdijk offers a unique glimpse into Dutch ingenuity with its historic windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage site that beautifully illustrates traditional water management. The serene canals provide a peaceful setting for boat cruises, making it an ideal escape from bustling cities and a perfect spot to immerse in Dutch culture and nature.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy guided or self-guided walking tours along the windmills, take scenic canal cruises to explore the area from the water, visit the windmill museum to learn about their history and function, and sample local Dutch treats at nearby cafes. The flat terrain and well-maintained paths make cycling another popular way to explore.

Kid-friendly focus: The open spaces and interactive museum exhibits make Kinderdijk engaging for children of all ages. The boat rides and chance to see working windmills up close add to the educational fun.

Dog-friendly notes: Kinderdijk welcomes dogs on leashes, especially on walking paths and outdoor areas, making it a great stop for travelers with pets. However, dogs may not be allowed inside museums or boats, so plan accordingly.

Location: Zandvoort aan Zee is a charming coastal town located in the province of North Holland, Netherlands, just a short drive from Amsterdam.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Dog-Friendly, Families with Children, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: Zandvoort aan Zee offers an idyllic escape with its scenic coastal walks along expansive sandy beaches and protected dunes. This destination is especially appealing for travelers seeking a relaxing yet active day out, combining natural beauty with rich local history and vibrant beach culture. Its welcoming atmosphere for dogs and families makes it a versatile stop on any European road trip.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy long walks along the coastline, explore the unique dune landscapes, visit the historic Zandvoort Circuit race track nearby, and indulge in fresh seafood at beachside cafes. The beach is renowned for its designated dog-friendly zones, allowing pets to roam freely and play in the sand and surf.

Kid-friendly focus: The gentle beach environment and safe walking paths make it ideal for families with young children. Kids can build sandcastles, paddle in shallow waters, and enjoy open spaces to run and play.

Dog-friendly notes: Zandvoort aan Zee is celebrated for its dog-friendly beaches where pets are welcome year-round in specific areas. This makes it a perfect detour for travelers with dogs, ensuring your furry friends can enjoy the fresh sea air and sandy shores alongside you.

Location: Dordrecht, South Holland, Netherlands

Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Families with Children, Dog-Friendly

Nestled in the heart of Dordrecht, one of the Netherlands' oldest cities, the picturesque Old Town offers a delightful detour filled with scenic canal walks and rich historic charm. This area captivates visitors with its beautifully preserved medieval architecture and tranquil waterways, making it a perfect escape from busier urban centers.

Stroll along the peaceful canals lined with centuries-old buildings, visit quaint cafes and artisan shops, or explore local museums that showcase Dordrecht's maritime heritage. Families will appreciate the gentle walking paths and open spaces ideal for children to explore safely, while dog owners will find the area welcoming with many pet-friendly outdoor spots.

Whether you're a history buff eager to delve into the city's past, a nature lover seeking serene waterside views, or a foodie looking to savor traditional Dutch treats in cozy settings, Dordrecht's Old Town offers a versatile and enriching experience. The calm canals and charming streets provide a perfect backdrop for memorable photos and leisurely exploration for travelers of all ages and interests.

Location: Haarlem, North Holland, Netherlands

Best For: Nature Lovers, History Enthusiasts, Families with Young Children, Dog-Friendly, Foodies

Nestled in the heart of Haarlem, this detour offers visitors a unique blend of serene canal cruises and rich historic ambiance. The city's beautifully preserved architecture and tranquil waterways create an idyllic setting perfect for a relaxing break from your main itinerary. Whether you're captivated by Dutch Golden Age history or simply want to soak in scenic views, Haarlem's canals provide a charming escape.

Key activities include leisurely boat tours along the canals, exploring the cobblestone streets lined with centuries-old buildings, visiting local museums, and sampling Haarlem's renowned culinary delights at cozy cafes and markets. The cruises are gentle and suitable for families, offering a peaceful way for children to experience the city from the water. Many operators welcome well-behaved dogs on board, making it an excellent choice for travelers with pets.

This detour is especially kid-friendly with short, engaging cruises and plenty of open spaces along the canals for playful exploration. History buffs will appreciate the city's medieval churches and museums, while nature lovers can enjoy the lush greenery and birdlife along the waterways. Foodies can indulge in local Dutch specialties at nearby eateries after their cruise, rounding out a well-balanced day trip option.

Location: De Biesbosch National Park is located near Dordrecht in the South Holland region of the Netherlands, offering a unique freshwater tidal wetland experience.

Best For: Nature Lovers, Hiking, History Enthusiasts, Dog-Friendly, Families with Young Children, Foodies

Why it's a great detour: This expansive national park is a peaceful retreat from urban life, featuring tranquil nature trails that wind through lush wetlands and forests. It offers a rare glimpse into one of Europe's largest freshwater tidal areas, making it a fascinating spot for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Its dog-friendly parks and well-maintained paths make it an ideal stop for travelers with pets or families seeking outdoor adventure.

Key activities: Visitors can enjoy hiking and cycling along scenic trails, boat tours through the waterways, birdwatching, and exploring the park’s visitor centers that highlight its ecological and historical significance. Local eateries nearby provide a taste of Dutch regional cuisine, perfect for foodies looking to indulge after a day outdoors.

Kid-friendly focus: The park is very family-friendly, with gentle trails suitable for young children and educational programs that engage kids with nature and wildlife.

Dog-friendly notes: De Biesbosch is highly accommodating for dogs, with many designated off-leash areas and dog-friendly walking routes, making it a perfect detour for travelers with canine companions.