Things To Do
in Rijswijk
Rijswijk is a green, family-friendly town just southwest of The Hague in South Holland. It blends a quiet, historic village atmosphere with modern shops, parks, and easy access to museums and beaches. The town is well connected by bike lanes and public transport, making day trips to Delft, Scheveningen, or The Hague simple.
It's a calm base for exploring the Randstad region with a welcoming, small-town character.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Rijswijk's historic center. Visit the beautiful old buildings, including the 17th-century Town Hall, and take in the quaint atmosphere. Stop by a local bakery to enjoy a traditional Dutch pastry with your morning coffee.
In the afternoon, explore the Rijswijk Museum, which showcases the region's art and history through engaging exhibitions. Afterward, enjoy a peaceful walk in the nearby Rijswijkse Bos, where you can admire the lush greenery and serene surroundings. Grab lunch at a cozy café, sampling some Dutch specialties like poffertjes or a broodje kroket.
As the sun sets, find a local restaurant for dinner, indulging in fresh seafood or traditional Dutch cuisine. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the canals, where the reflections of the city lights create a picturesque scene. Conclude your evening with a nightcap at a nearby bar, soaking in the relaxed ambiance.
Begin your day at the Kunstmuseum in nearby The Hague, just a short tram ride from Rijswijk. Spend the morning admiring an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Dutch masters. Don't forget to take a moment in the museum's café to enjoy a light breakfast surrounded by artistic inspiration.
After your art immersion, return to Rijswijk and visit the local galleries showcasing contemporary works by regional artists. Spend the afternoon exploring the various exhibitions and perhaps meet some artists in person to discuss their creations. Take a break at a local park to relax and reflect on the artistic experiences of the day.
In the evening, attend a performance at the nearby Theater Rijswijk, where you can catch a local play or a musical event. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and the chance to experience Dutch culture through the performing arts. After the show, head to a local eatery for dinner, savoring some traditional Dutch dishes.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $3-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range) | $40-70 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $60-120 |
| 🚆Public transit fare (one-day pass) | $7-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Calm, family-friendly town with green spaces
- Great access to The Hague, Delft, and Scheveningen
- Walkable and bike-friendly with good public transport
- Limited nightlife within Rijswijk itself
- Many attractions require short trips to nearby towns
- Weather can be changeable; expect rain any time of year
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is de markt?" - Where is the market?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
Places to Visit in Rijswijk
Visit one of these nice places.
Quiet woodlands and reflective ponds, ideal for nature photography at dawn or dusk.
Classic Dutch architecture and charming canal-like corners for urban photography.
Scenic water routes and tree-lined banks perfect for golden-hour shots.
Exterior moat and stately garden settings offering regal photo opportunities.
Food in Rijswijk
Rijswijk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Dutch comfort dish of mashed potatoes with kale or sauerkraut, served with smoked sausage.
Must-Try!
Crispy Dutch croquettes filled with beef ragout; perfect as a snack with a beer.
Raw herring typically eaten with onions; try it from a street vendor with a squeeze of lemon.
Gooey caramel waffles or traditional Dutch pancakes; popular sweet treats.
A flavorful assortment of small dishes reflecting Indonesia’s culinary heritage in the Netherlands.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and Dutch specialties on market days in the town center.
Seasonal stalls and pop-up food trucks offering international and local snacks near the center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Stay in your bike lane, signal turns, and yield to pedestrians on shared paths.
Polite greetings like Hallo or Goedemorgen; strangers may nod on passing.
Be orderly in queues, keep noise respectful in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Rijswijk
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash is accepted, but debit/credit cards and contactless payments are widely used; iDEAL is common for online and some in-store payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures (10-18°C) with blooming trees; great for outdoor strolls and flower photography.
Long days, occasional rain, average highs around 20-23°C; ideal for outdoor markets and canal picnics.
Colorful foliage and cooler air; great for forest walks and moody light.
Cool and damp; days are shorter; cozy cafés and nearby museums are perfect for rainy-weather plans.
Rijswijk at Night
Hiking in Rijswijk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive dunes and forest trails with ocean views; ideal for day hikes.
Other nearby dune areas like Westduinpark and Kijkduin offer coastal hiking options.
Airports
How to reach Rijswijk by plane.
Major international hub about 40-50 minutes by train or car from Rijswijk; frequent connections to Europe and beyond.
Smaller regional airport close to The Hague; easy access for domestic and European flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families choose Rijswijk for parks, schools, and safe streets.
Close to The Hague and Delft, with easy commuting options.
Proximity to international organizations draws a diverse resident population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular amateur and youth leagues; many locals support national teams.
A primary mode of transport and recreation, with extensive bike lanes.
Local clubs offer courts and programs for all ages.
Sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing opportunities nearby in Delft, Scheveningen and Meijendel.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Rijswijk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetarian options; ask for egg-free or dairy-free adjustments; look for cheese-free plates.
Look for salads, veggie burgers, and Indonesian-inspired vegetarian rijsttafel options; many places can adapt dishes on request.
Many Dutch restaurants can accommodate with gluten-free bread and pasta; ask about cross-contamination and sauces.