Monuments and landmarks in The Hague and Rotterdam: A guide for new expats

| 22 May 2024

If you move to the Netherlands as an expat and settle in the bustling cities of The Hague or Rotterdam, you will be greeted by a wealth of historic buildings and cultural highlights. These cities breathe history and modernity, and their architectural splendor is sure to enchant you. In this blog, we share some must-visit monuments and structures that will give you a deeper insight into the rich history and vibrant art scenes of The Hague and Rotterdam.

Historic Buildings in The Hague

The Hague is home to a wealth of cultural institutions and historic buildings. Too many to name, but we'd like to help you get started with four places you must have seen. 

  1. The Mauritshuis: originally a city palace, it has been a museum since 1822, displaying mainly paintings from the Golden Age. Housed in a beautiful 17th-century mansion, the museum is centrally located and surrounded by other cultural attractions
  2. Noordeinde Palace: This royal palace is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also the workplace of King Willem-Alexander. Admire the magnificent facade and stately gardens, and who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of royal life.
  3. Peace Palace: A symbol of international peace and justice, the Peace Palace houses the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Take a tour of this iconic building and discover the role the Netherlands plays in promoting world peace.
  4. Scheveningen beach: The beautiful sandy beach and the lively boulevard make Scheveningen the place to be on nice summer days. Visit the pier or take a look at the Kurhaus. This is a beautiful stately hotel and also a national monument on the boulevard.

Cultural Highlights in Rotterdam

Rotterdam is known for its impressive architecture. But the city has more to offer. Discover the city your way, but we give you four tips in advance.

  1. The Market Hall: An architectural masterpiece and a gourmet's paradise, The Market Hall is a must-visit destination in Rotterdam. Admire the colorful ceiling artwork while enjoying culinary delights from all corners of the world.
  2. Kunsthal Rotterdam: For lovers of art and culture, the Kunsthal is a true treasure trove. With a diverse range of exhibitions ranging from classic masters to contemporary artists, there is something for everyone in this dynamic exhibition space.
  3. Euromast: For breathtaking views of Rotterdam and the surrounding port areas, climb the Euromast. This iconic tower offers panoramic views of the city and is a highlight for any visitor.
  4. The Port of Rotterdam: One the largest ports in the world. An essential hub for international trade and logistics. It offers an impressive landscape of modern infrastructure, giant container ships and advanced transshipment facilities. With the Rotterdam Spido boat tour you will discover the port from the inside. An absolute must-see!

Whether you are fascinated by history, art, or just want to enjoy the vibrant city life, The Hague and Rotterdam have something for everyone. As a new expat, exploring these monuments and buildings is an essential part of your introduction to these vibrant cities. Immerse yourself in the history, admire the art and be enchanted by the unique charm of The Hague and Rotterdam. Welcome to the Netherlands!

Do you have questions, want more information or need help with your expat issues? We are happy to share our knowledge and expertise about all the possibilities in The Hague and Rotterdam.

Drop us a line to find out more about our expat services in The Netherlands.

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