The Hague is a city that combines royal elegance with political swagger, all wrapped in a compact, walkable package. Unlike many big European capitals, The Hague offers a rich collection of unique tours that give you a glimpse into its diverse character—from peaceful canals and medieval streets to grand palaces and modern architecture. We particularly enjoy the canal cruise because it offers a relaxed way to see the city from a different angle, with engaging storytelling from guides who bring the landmarks to life. If you’re into history or architecture, the Your Own Hague: Behind The Scenes of The Royal City also stands out for its exclusive access to royal sites and hidden corners.
The variety of options—from budget-friendly walking tours to private architect-led explorations—means there’s something for every traveler. Whether you have an hour or a full day, there’s a tour that will help you appreciate this city’s distinctive mix of tradition and modernity.
Quick Overview
Our list features canal cruises, guided walks, private tours, and even interactive scavenger hunts—each offering a different way to experience The Hague. Some tours, like the City Canal Cruise, provide relaxing water views with insightful commentary, while others like the Walking Tour of Delft showcase picturesque streets, historic churches, and the famed blue Delft pottery. For those interested in exploring beyond the city center, options like the Holland Four City Charm Tour make a full day of visiting Delft, Leiden, The Hague, and Haarlem.
Now, let’s explore each of these fantastic tours in detail, so you can pick the one that best suits your interests and schedule.
1. The Hague: City Canal Cruise
At number 1 on our list is the The Hague: City Canal Cruise, which offers a 1.5-hour journey through the city’s waterways. This is a perfect choice if you want to see The Hague from a fresh perspective without the fatigue of walking. The cruise departs from Bierkade 19 and takes you past key sights, revealing stories about the city’s architecture, notable residents, and history from the water. The guides are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making the hour-and-a-half fly by with interesting anecdotes and local insights.
What makes this tour stand out? The panoramic views from the canal provide a different appreciation of The Hague’s elegant buildings, historic bridges, and lively harbors. The boat’s low bridges add a fun twist—sometimes you’ll need to duck! Reviewers consistently praise the guide’s storytelling, with comments like, “Very worthwhile tour,” and “We learnt so much as we had a great guide.” At just $17 per person, it’s an excellent value for a relaxing and informative experience.
Bottom Line: Choose this cruise if you want a laid-back, scenic overview of The Hague with engaging commentary. Perfect for history lovers and those short on time.
2. Walking Tour of Delft – The City of Orange and Blue
Second on our list is the Walking Tour of Delft, which provides a deep dive into this picturesque town’s storied streets and royal heritage. Running about 90 minutes, it’s ideal if you want a manageable but enriching stroll. The guide focuses on the famous painter Johannes Vermeer, the city’s iconic blue-and-white Delft pottery, and the impressive Nieuwe Kerk where the Dutch royal vault is kept. If you’re interested, you can upgrade to include a short visit inside the church, which is worth it for history buffs.
Guests consistently praise the small group size, which allows for personalized stories and questions. Kevin, one of the guides, is noted for finding shelter from the rain while keeping everyone entertained—a small detail that keeps the experience comfortable. The tour is highly rated for its educational content and charming atmosphere, making Delft feel accessible and memorable.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect if you want a quick, high-quality overview of Delft’s royal, artistic, and architectural highlights, especially if you appreciate a personal touch.
3. The Hague: City Walking Tour
At number 3, the The Hague: City Walking Tour covers all of the main highlights in about 1.5 hours. With a focus on landmarks like the Hofvijver and Binnenhof, this tour offers a solid introduction to the city’s political and cultural hubs. It’s a great choice if you want to quickly familiarize yourself with The Hague’s key sights and stories.
Rated 4.5/5 from 74 reviews, this tour is well-structured and suitable for first-time visitors. The guide shares stories about the Orange Family and notable residents, giving context to the city’s important role in Dutch governance. It’s a straightforward, budget-friendly option that packs a lot of information into a short time.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a quick, guided overview of The Hague’s main attractions in an engaging manner.
4. The Hague: Old City Private Walking Tour
For those seeking a personalized experience, the Old City Private Walking Tour offers a tailored 2-hour exploration of the city’s historic core. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a more intimate, flexible itinerary and want to see sites like the Houses of Parliament, the 13th-century Binnenhof, and the Royal Palace.
This private tour is priced at $256 for up to 10 people, making it a good value for families or small groups. Visitors praise the guide’s ability to customize the experience and share insights behind city landmarks. You also get the chance to see some of the city’s striking architecture, with stories about hidden histories.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a private, in-depth look at The Hague’s political and architectural history, with the flexibility to customize the route.
5. e-Scavenger hunt Delft: Explore the city at your own pace
If you prefer a more interactive, independent way to see Delft, consider the e-Scavenger Hunt. This downloadable game on your smartphone guides you through the city’s must-see sights via riddles and challenges, with no strict schedule. It’s an excellent choice for families or groups who like puzzles and want to explore at their own speed.
Rated 4.5/5, travelers love how the game uncovers hidden details and local secrets. One reviewer noted, “Hidden gems of Delft and its history,” praising the flexibility and fun factor. It’s ideal if you enjoy interactive experiences, but keep in mind that the session can time out, requiring a restart.
Bottom Line: Great for families and puzzle fans seeking a flexible, engaging way to explore Delft’s streets and stories.
6. Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport
For those catching an early flight or arriving tired, the Private Transfer offers a reliable, comfortable ride to Schiphol. Priced at $150.39 for up to three people, it’s a hassle-free way to leave The Hague stress-free.
While the reviews are limited, travelers note the driver’s friendliness and professionalism. The journey typically takes about 35 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic, making it a practical way to ensure timely airport arrival. The vehicle standards are high, with clean, safe cars and courteous drivers.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers prioritizing convenience and comfort when departing The Hague.
7. Holland Four City Charm Tour
This Holland Four City Charm Tour is perfect if you want to see multiple Dutch cities in one day. Covering Delft, Leiden, The Hague, and Haarlem in about 8 hours, it’s a comprehensive way to get a taste of the country’s diverse architecture, culture, and scenery.
Guests love the mix of medieval streets in Delft, 16th/17th-century buildings in Leiden, and the bustling Market Square in Haarlem. The tour is private and costs $318 per person, making it suitable for travelers wanting an all-in-one experience with a guide to fill in the details.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want to maximize their Dutch city visits without the hassle of planning multiple trips.
8. The Hague and Rotterdam Two City for One Day
If your day is limited but you want to see both the political elegance of The Hague and the bold modernity of Rotterdam, this tour is a smart pick. It lasts about five hours and is priced at $686.26 for a group up to 7.
You’ll explore The Hague’s Binnenhof, then cross to Rotterdam, where the skyline’s futuristic architecture will impress. The tour includes a visit to a historic monastery and a glimpse of the Panorama of Mesdag, blending old and new efficiently. Reviews highlight the contrast and the guide’s ability to cover both cities in a short time.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers craving an efficient, contrasting two-city experience in one day.
$686.26 per group (up to 7)
9. Your Own Hague. Behind The Scenes of The Royal City
For those interested in royal and prestigious sites, the Your Own Hague tour invites you to explore the city’s aristocratic quarters and hidden stories. Over 3.5 hours, you’ll visit Het Binnenhof, the Prime Minister’s office, historic cafes, and the first shopping arcade.
The tour combines architecture, legends, and local lore, appealing especially to history and architecture buffs. The flexible schedule and personalized approach make it a popular choice for curious travelers. Reviewers mention the insightful commentary and the chance to see behind-the-scenes areas.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers keen on royal and political history, and those who want a personalized, in-depth experience.
10. e-Scavenger hunt The Hague: Explore the city at your own pace
If you’re up for a fun, interactive challenge, the e-Scavenger Hunt in The Hague lets you discover landmarks through puzzles and riddles on your own schedule. It costs around $35.92 per group and takes about three hours.
Rated 3.5/5, some travelers appreciate the fun of solving challenges while learning about the city. It’s perfect for families or friends who prefer a self-guided adventure, especially if you want to avoid scheduled tours. Keep in mind that the game may time out, but it offers a flexible, engaging way to see The Hague.
Bottom Line: Great for puzzle lovers and families seeking a flexible, interactive exploration.
$35.92 per group (up to 6)
11. The Hague Private City Tour with an Architect
Finally, architecture enthusiasts might enjoy The Hague: Private City Tour with an Architect. For $75 per person, this 1.5-hour private exploration dives into the city’s architectural evolution, from medieval to modern masterpieces.
The tour provides tailored insights into the city’s most notable buildings and urban planning. It’s ideal for those with an interest in design or wanting a personalized experience. The private format allows you to customize the route and focus on your specific interests.
Bottom Line: Best suited for architecture fans or those wanting a bespoke, in-depth look at The Hague’s design treasures.
$75 per person
How to Choose the Best City Tour in The Hague
Picking the right tour depends on your interests and schedule. If you love relaxing experiences, the City Canal Cruise offers a peaceful, scenic view. For history and architecture buffs, the Behind The Scenes Royal City or private architecture tour could be perfect. Active travelers or puzzle fans might prefer the Delft e-Scavenger Hunt, while those on a budget can opt for the City Walking Tour for a quick overview.
Consider your time, interest in private versus group settings, and whether you want a guided or independent experience. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the private options or full-day excursions.
Final Thoughts
The Hague’s rich mix of royalty, politics, art, and architecture offers a variety of ways to explore. For a relaxed introduction, the canal cruise is hard to beat, while history buffs will enjoy the Walking Tour. Those seeking a deeper, private experience might find the Behind The Scenes or Architect Tour particularly rewarding.
No matter your choice, The Hague is a city that rewards curiosity, whether you’re wandering historic streets, cruising its canals, or uncovering royal secrets. We recommend booking your preferred tour early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot and enjoy this fascinating city at your own pace.