7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in The Hague

The Hague, known for its international courts and political significance, is also a vibrant city that offers digital nomads a unique blend of work and leisure opportunities. While the city itself has plenty to offer, sometimes a change of scenery is needed to recharge. Fortunately, The Hague's location in the Netherlands makes it an ideal base for exploring a variety of destinations on the weekends. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven weekend getaways that cater to different tastes and interests.

Amsterdam

As one of the most famous cities in the world, Amsterdam needs little introduction. Just a short train ride away from The Hague, Amsterdam offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences, from the Anne Frank House to the Van Gogh Museum. Wander along the iconic canals, explore the vibrant neighborhoods, and enjoy the bustling nightlife. Whether you're into history, art, or just soaking up the cosmopolitan atmosphere, Amsterdam has something for everyone.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Amsterdam from The Hague is by train. Direct services run frequently and take approximately 50 minutes to reach Amsterdam Central Station.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to rent a bike and explore Amsterdam like a local. Cycling is an integral part of the city's culture and offers a unique perspective on its charming streets and waterways.

Where to Stay: Consider staying at the Hotel Pulitzer, a luxurious accommodation with a unique character, set within 25 restored 17th and 18th-century houses. For a more budget-friendly option, The Student Hotel Amsterdam City offers a vibrant and modern atmosphere.

Where to Eat: For an unforgettable dining experience, visit De Kas, a restaurant set in a greenhouse that serves dishes made from its own garden's produce. For a quick bite, check out Foodhallen, a trendy indoor food market with a wide variety of cuisines.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is a city that stands out for its modern architecture and innovative design. Just a half-hour train ride from The Hague, it's a stark contrast to the traditional Dutch aesthetic found in other cities. Explore the Cube Houses, visit the impressive Markthal for food and shopping, or take a harbor tour to see Europe's largest port in action. Rotterdam's skyline is ever-changing, and its cultural scene is just as dynamic.

How to Get There: Rotterdam is easily accessible from The Hague by train, with frequent services that take around 30 minutes to Rotterdam Central Station.

Travel Tip: Make sure to visit the Rotterdam Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the Netherlands, which offers a unique oceanium where you can walk through an underwater tunnel surrounded by marine life.

Where to Stay: The nhow Rotterdam hotel offers rooms with stunning views of the Maas River and the Erasmus Bridge. For a more historical setting, the Hotel New York is situated in the former headquarters of the Holland America Line.

Where to Eat: FG Food Labs is an experimental gastronomy venue that offers a unique dining experience. For a more casual setting, Fenix Food Factory provides a lively market atmosphere with a variety of artisanal food stalls.

Utrecht

Utrecht is a charming city with a medieval center that seems untouched by time. The Dom Tower stands as a testament to the city's history, while the canals with their wharf cellars offer a unique setting for cafes and terraces. Utrecht is also a hub for creativity, hosting numerous festivals and events throughout the year. It's a perfect blend of old and new, providing a quieter but equally enriching alternative to Amsterdam.

How to Get There: Utrecht is accessible from The Hague by train, with direct services taking about 40 minutes to Utrecht Central Station.

Travel Tip: Climb the 465 steps of the Dom Tower for a breathtaking view of the city, or take a relaxing canal cruise to see Utrecht from a different perspective.

Where to Stay: The Eye Hotel offers a unique experience in a historic building with contemporary design. For a more luxurious stay, the Grand Hotel Karel V is a former monastery turned five-star hotel.

Where to Eat: Restaurant Podium onder de Dom is known for its innovative Dutch cuisine and has a cozy atmosphere. For a more casual meal, visit the Street Food Club, which combines a funky interior with a diverse menu.

Giethoorn

Often referred to as the "Venice of the North," Giethoorn is a picturesque village where the main mode of transportation is by boat. With its thatched-roof cottages and serene canals, it's a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Rent a whisper boat to explore the waterways, or simply stroll along the paths and bridges to take in the idyllic scenery.

How to Get There: Giethoorn is a bit more challenging to reach by public transport, but it's worth the effort. Take a train to Steenwijk and then a bus to Giethoorn, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours in total from The Hague.

Travel Tip: Visit the Giethoorn Museum 't Olde Maat Uus to learn about the village's history and traditional way of life. It's a great way to understand the unique culture of this water-bound community.

Where to Stay: For a truly immersive experience, stay at De Dames Van De Jonge Hotel Restaurant, which offers canal-side accommodation and boat rentals. B&B De Galeriet Giethoorn provides a cozy and artistic stay.

Where to Eat: Grand Café Fanfare is inspired by the 1958 Dutch film "Fanfare" and offers a delightful ambiance along with delicious local cuisine. For a sweet treat, visit De Eetkamer van Giethoorn, known for its homemade pies and cakes.

Leiden

Leiden, the birthplace of Rembrandt, is a historic city that boasts the oldest university in the Netherlands. Its picturesque old town is crisscrossed with canals and dotted with beautiful buildings, museums, and an ancient fortress. The city's botanical garden, Hortus Botanicus, is one of the oldest in the world and a peaceful place to wander. Leiden's less touristy atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing weekend.

How to Get There: Leiden is very close to The Hague, with train services taking as little as 11 minutes to reach Leiden Central Station.

Travel Tip: Explore the De Burcht, a shell keep on a motte, which offers panoramic views of the city. Also, don't miss the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum, which provides insights into the lives of the Pilgrims before their voyage to America.

Where to Stay: Boutique Hotel d'Oude Morsch is set in a former army barracks and offers a unique stay with modern amenities. For a more traditional Dutch experience, stay at the Huys van Leyden, an intimate boutique hotel.

Where to Eat: The Waag is a historic weigh house turned into a contemporary restaurant, famous for its ambiance and fusion dishes. For a casual coffee or lunch, visit Lot en de Walvis, which has a relaxed, living-room style setting.

Thorn

Thorn is a small, off-the-beaten-path town known as the "White Village" for its white-washed brick houses. This quaint town offers a step back in time with its cobblestone streets and rich history as a miniature principality. Visit the Abbey Church, stroll through the charming alleys, and learn about Thorn's unique past at the local museum. It's a peaceful getaway for those looking to escape the city's pace.

How to Get There: To reach Thorn from The Hague, take a train to Roermond and then a short bus ride to Thorn, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours in total.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to take a guided walking tour, which will reveal the fascinating stories behind Thorn's white houses and historical buildings.

Where to Stay: For a comfortable stay, check into Fletcher Hotel-Restaurant La Ville Blanche, which offers a central location and a cozy atmosphere. Another option is the Bed & Breakfast De Pegel Thorn, which provides a homely experience.

Where to Eat: Restaurant De Pannekoekenbakker Thorn is a great place to enjoy traditional Dutch pancakes in a variety of sweet and savory flavors. For a more upscale dining experience, visit Restaurant Aod Thoear for its regional dishes and fine wines.

De Hoge Veluwe National Park

For nature lovers and those seeking outdoor adventure, De Hoge Veluwe National Park is an exceptional destination. It's one of the largest continuous nature reserves in the Netherlands, offering a diverse landscape of woodlands, heathlands, and sand dunes. The park is also home to the Kröller-Müller Museum, which houses a significant collection of Van Gogh paintings. Rent a free white bike and explore the park's beauty at your own pace.

How to Get There: From The Hague, take a train to Arnhem and then a bus directly to the park entrance. The journey takes approximately 2 hours.

Travel Tip: Visit the Jachthuis Sint Hubertus, an impressive hunting lodge and architectural masterpiece within the park. Also, keep an eye out for the park's wildlife, including red deer, wild boar, and mouflon.

Where to Stay: The Parkhotel de Hoge Veluwe is right at the entrance of the park, offering easy access and comfortable accommodations. Alternatively, the Boutique Hotel Sterrenberg is located nearby and features a wellness center and an organic restaurant.

Where to Eat: The Kröller-Müller Museum's Monsieur Jacques Café offers a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a meal or a cup of coffee amidst art and nature. For a more substantial meal, visit Restaurant Planken Wambuis, which serves traditional Dutch cuisine with a modern twist.

Whether you're a digital nomad seeking a quick city trip or a peaceful retreat into nature, The Hague's proximity to a variety of destinations makes it an ideal starting point for weekend explorations. Each of these getaways offers a unique experience that can rejuvenate the mind and inspire creativity for the workweek ahead.