Things To Do
in Wassenaar

Wassenaar is a picturesque town located in the province of South Holland in the Netherlands. Known for its affluent community and beautiful estates, Wassenaar is a popular residential area for wealthy individuals. The town is also home to several historic landmarks, such as the Castle of Duivenvoorde and the Museum Voorlinden.

With its charming atmosphere and proximity to both the city of The Hague and the North Sea coast, Wassenaar offers a peaceful yet convenient lifestyle for its residents.

  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Tot ziens" - See you later

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $50
  • Coffee: $2 - $4
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Wassenaar Adventure
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk along the beach of Wassenaar. Enjoy the calming waves and collect some beautiful seashells.

afternoon
:

Visit the picturesque Wassenaar village and explore the charming shops and cafes. Don’t miss the local art galleries showcasing Dutch creativity.

evening
:

Dine at a waterfront restaurant and savor fresh seafood while watching the sunset. Wind down with a stroll along the beach, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

day 2
Nature Exploration
morning
:

Rent a bike and ride through the stunning dunes of Meijendel. Enjoy the fresh air and watch for local wildlife as you pedal through the scenic paths.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch amidst the natural beauty of the dunes. Afterward, visit the nearby nature reserve for more exploration.

evening
:

Relax at a cozy café with a warm drink and share stories of your adventurous day. Perhaps take a late-night bike ride under the stars.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful canals and historic architecture.
  • Strong sense of community and small-town atmosphere.
  • Close proximity to the beach and natural reserves.
  • High quality of life with good public services.
  • Accessibility to larger cities like The Hague and Delft.
  • Higher cost of living compared to other Dutch towns.
  • Fewer employment opportunities within the town itself.
  • Limited nightlife and entertainment options.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent as in bigger cities.
  • Can be crowded during the tourist season.

Best Activities in Wassenaar

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Cycling through De Horsten Park

Explore the beautiful parkland and woodlands on a bike ride through De Horsten Park in Wassenaar. This activity offers stunning natural scenery and an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors.

Beach visit to Wassenaarse Slag

Spend a day at the beach at Wassenaarse Slag, where you can relax in the sun, take a dip in the North Sea, and enjoy the coastal views. It's a great way to enjoy the outdoors and the sea breeze.

Hiking in Meijendel nature reserve

Discover the diverse landscapes and wildlife at the Meijendel nature reserve by going on a hiking adventure. With numerous walking trails, this activity offers a chance to immerse yourself in nature.

Tours

Uncover the best of Wassenaar with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Wassenaar

Visit one of these nice places.

Meijendel nature reserve

Offers scenic views of dunes, forests, and expansive natural landscapes, ideal for photography

Wassenaar Beach

Provides beautiful coastal views and opportunities for capturing stunning sea and sunset shots

De Horsten estate

Features picturesque gardens, woods, and lakes, providing excellent photo opportunities

Food in Wassenaar

Wassenaar, Netherlands, offers a delightful fusion of Dutch and international cuisines. The local food scene presents a mix of traditional flavors and modern influences, making it a captivating destination for food enthusiasts.

Wassenaar Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bitterballen

These deep-fried, crispy meat-based snacks are a popular local favorite. They're often enjoyed with a mustard dip and can be found in most traditional Dutch pubs and restaurants.

Must-Try!

Poffertjes

These miniature, fluffy pancakes dusted with powdered sugar are an absolute must-try. They're commonly served at local street markets and food festivals, such as the Wassenaar Week market.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Wassenaar better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wassenaar Week Market

This lively market offers a diverse range of street food, including freshly made stroopwafels, herring sandwiches, and artisanal cheeses. It's an excellent place to experience the vibrant food culture of Wassenaar.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as a temperate maritime climate, which features mild summers and relatively mild winters. Average temperatures in the summer months (June to August) typically range from about 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F), while winter temperatures (December to February) usually fall between 0°C and 6°C (32°F to 43°F). Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter conditions in the fall and winter months. Rain is common, and occasional storms can occur, especially in the winter. The area experiences moderate wind due to its proximity to the North Sea, which influences both temperature and weather patterns. Overall, the climate supports a variety of greenery and is suitable for outdoor activities throughout most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting etiquette

In Wassenaar, it is customary to greet people with a firm handshake and maintain direct eye contact. It is polite to address people using their titles and last names, especially in formal settings.

Respect for personal space

Dutch people, including those in Wassenaar, highly value their personal space. It is important to avoid standing too close to others and to be mindful of their privacy.

Punctuality and efficiency

Wassenaar residents appreciate punctuality and value efficiency in both personal and professional settings. It is respectful to be on time for appointments and to conduct business in an organized manner.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Wassenaar with these exclusive activities.

Safety

This small town is known for its affluent atmosphere and picturesque surroundings, including parks and coastal areas. In general, safety in the area is considered to be high, with low crime rates, which contributes to a peaceful community ambiance. Residents often report feeling secure in their neighborhoods, and there is a visible presence of local law enforcement, which helps maintain order and address any concerns promptly. The community is actively engaged in safety initiatives, fostering a cooperative environment between citizens and law enforcement. While it is essential to take standard safety precautions, such as securing homes and being aware of one’s surroundings, the overall risk of crime is relatively low. This adds to the appeal of the area as a desirable place to live and visit. Emergency services are well-equipped and responsive, further enhancing the sense of safety among the inhabitants and tourists alike.

Tipping in Wassenaar

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Wassenaar, tipping is not obligatory, but it is appreciated for good service. A tip of 5-10% in restaurants and cafes is customary if the service was satisfactory.

Payment

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Wassenaar, and contactless payments are also common. Cash is still used for small transactions, but most establishments prefer electronic payment methods.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Wassenaar.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a popular time to visit Wassenaar, with mild to warm temperatures, blooming flowers, and bustling outdoor activities.

Summer

Summer is the peak tourist season in Wassenaar, with sunny weather, lively beach scenes, and vibrant cultural events.

Autumn

Autumn brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, making it a great time for nature walks and exploring the surrounding countryside.

Winter

Winter in Wassenaar is quiet, with chilly weather and fewer tourists. It's a good time for peaceful walks, cozy indoor activities, and enjoying the festive holiday atmosphere.

Wassenaar at Night

Nightlife in Wassenaar offers a blend of sophisticated and relaxed options. The town is known for its serene and upscale atmosphere, which carries over into its evening entertainment. There are a variety of cozy cafes and bars where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a quiet drink. Some of these establishments feature live music performances or DJ sets, providing a pleasant backdrop for socializing. For those who prefer a more elegant evening out, Wassenaar boasts several fine dining restaurants. These venues offer exquisite cuisine accompanied by carefully curated wine lists, making them perfect for a special night out. The town also has a few cultural venues, such as theaters and galleries, which occasionally host evening events and exhibitions. This provides an opportunity for a more artistic or intellectual night out. Although Wassenaar itself may not be as bustling as larger cities, its close proximity to The Hague means that more vibrant nightlife is only a short drive away. Visitors and residents can easily venture into the city for a wider array of clubs, bars, and entertainment options before returning to the tranquil environment of Wassenaar.

Hiking in Wassenaar

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Wildrijk

A beautiful nature area in the vicinity of Wassenaar featuring scenic walking trails and diverse flora and fauna.

De Wassenaarse Slag

A picturesque beach area with trails leading through dunes and along the coastline, perfect for a hike combined with beach walking.

Meijendel Nature Reserve

A vast nature reserve with an extensive network of hiking paths through forests, dunes, and wetlands, ideal for both short and long hikes.

Dune and Lake Reserve (Duin- en Bollenstreek)

This area offers a mix of dunes and natural lakes, with several hiking trails offering stunning views and opportunities for birdwatching.

Clingendael Park

A historic park with beautiful landscapes, gardens, and walking paths nestled between Wassenaar and The Hague, perfect for leisurely hikes.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Wassenaar through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Wassenaar by plane.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

The main international airport serving Amsterdam and the surrounding region, located approximately 40 km from Wassenaar. It is one of the busiest airports in Europe.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM)

An international airport located about 25 km from Wassenaar, serving both Rotterdam and The Hague. It offers flights to various European destinations.

Eindhoven Airport (EIN)

Located around 130 km from Wassenaar, Eindhoven Airport is a significant airport in the Netherlands, primarily serving low-cost airlines and European destinations.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

The main international airport serving Brussels, located approximately 150 km from Wassenaar. It is a major hub for European and intercontinental flights.

Walkability

Walkability in this charming Dutch town is characterized by its pedestrian-friendly environment, where residents and visitors can comfortably navigate the area on foot. Tree-lined streets and well-maintained sidewalks create an inviting atmosphere, making it easy to stroll around. The town features a mix of residential areas, shops, and services all within a manageable distance, encouraging walking as a primary mode of transport. Local amenities, such as cafes, restaurants, and parks, are conveniently located, allowing for leisurely walks and easy access to daily needs. Traffic calming measures, such as speed bumps and designated pedestrian crossings, contribute to a safer walking experience. Furthermore, the presence of green spaces enhances the appeal of walking, providing pleasant routes through parks and gardens. Cultural and historical landmarks are also easily accessible on foot, inviting exploration of the town's heritage. Overall, the emphasis on creating a walkable community fosters a strong sense of connectivity and enhances the quality of life for its residents.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dutch nationals

The majority population consisting of native Dutch citizens.

Expats

A significant number of expatriates from various countries living and working in Wassenaar.

Other European nationals

Residents from other EU countries, contributing to the multicultural aspect of the town.

Individuals with non-European backgrounds

A smaller demographic of residents with heritage from outside of Europe.

The Soul of Wassenaar

Discover the essence of Wassenaar through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Field Hockey

Field hockey is one of the most popular sports in Wassenaar, with numerous local clubs and teams participating in regional and national competitions.

Tennis

Tennis is widely played in Wassenaar, with several tennis clubs offering facilities and coaching for players of all ages.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a significant sport in Wassenaar, with local youth and adult leagues engaging many participants.

Swimming

Swimming is a popular recreational and competitive sport, with local pools and clubs providing training and events.

Cycling

Cycling enjoys great popularity in Wassenaar, with many residents participating in both recreational cycling and organized events.

Running

Running is a favored activity, with local running clubs and events, fostering a vibrant community of runners.

Traffic

Located near the North Sea coast and adjacent to The Hague, the traffic in this region typically features a mix of local residents, commuters, and tourists. Wassenaar is known for its scenic landscapes and affluent neighborhoods, leading to relatively low traffic volumes compared to more urban areas. During peak hours, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons, congestion can occur on major routes like the N44, which connects Wassenaar to neighboring towns and cities. The presence of several international schools in the area also contributes to increased traffic around school start and end times. Public transport options, including buses, provide alternatives for local travel, but many residents prefer using personal vehicles. Cycling is popular as well, given the area's extensive bike paths. Overall, while traffic can be busy at certain times, Wassenaar is generally characterized by a quieter, more residential atmosphere.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Wassenaar.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many eateries in Wassenaar provide extensive vegetarian and vegan options, with innovative plant-based dishes featuring prominently on their menus. Look out for 'V' or 'VG' symbols denoting these offerings.

Gluten-Free Choices

Visitors with gluten-free requirements will find accommodating options in various restaurants and cafes. These establishments are often prepared to modify dishes or offer dedicated gluten-free alternatives.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Wassenaar with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

In this Dutch municipality, healthcare services are characterized by a high standard of medical care, supported by a network of general practitioners, specialists, and hospitals in nearby cities. Residents have access to comprehensive primary healthcare through local general practitioners (huisartsen), who often serve as the first point of contact for medical concerns. For specialized care, residents typically visit larger healthcare facilities in adjacent areas, such as The Hague, which offers a wider range of services and specialties. The healthcare system in the Netherlands operates on a mandatory health insurance model, ensuring that residents have access to necessary medical treatments and services. Local health initiatives and community health programs may also be present, focusing on preventive care and health education. Overall, the healthcare system in this area reflects the Netherlands' commitment to providing accessible and high-quality medical services to its population.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2024 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide