Rotterdam

The Hague is the seat of the Dutch government, home to the royal family's working palace and the administrative capital of South Holland. Known as the international city of peace and justice, it combines historic grandeur, a coastal setting and a large international community in one compact urban area.

The city grew around the Binnenhof, a medieval courtyard complex beside the Hofvijver lake that still houses the Dutch parliament. Nearby landmarks include the 13th-century Ridderzaal, the Mauritshuis with Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring, Noordeinde Palace and the Peace Palace, home to the International Court of Justice.

Districts range from the elegant Statenkwartier and Archipelbuurt to the lively Zeeheldenkwartier and the seaside resort of Scheveningen with its pier, promenade and beach. Museums such as Kunstmuseum Den Haag, Escher in Het Paleis and the miniature city of Madurodam add to a varied cultural offer.

The Hague hosts more than 500 international organisations, including the International Criminal Court, Europol and the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, alongside embassies and NGOs. This international role supports a strong business events, conference and hospitality scene, while its beach, parks and food culture attract leisure visitors throughout the year.