Things To Do
in Wassenaar
Wassenaar is a small, affluent town on the North Sea coast just north of The Hague. It is known for its expansive dunes and beaches, grand estates, and wooded bike paths that weave through the landscape. The town provides quick access to international culture and dining in The Hague while preserving a quiet, village-like atmosphere.
In all, Wassenaar offers a refined blend of nature, art, and seaside charm for visitors of all ages.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Wassenaar and settle into your accommodation. After freshening up, embark on a leisurely stroll through the town to get acquainted with the charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Grab a coffee at a local café while enjoying the picturesque surroundings.
Visit the nearby Wassenaarse Slag beach, where you can take in the fresh sea air and stunning views of the North Sea. Relax on the sand, or enjoy water sports like windsurfing or kitesurfing, which are popular in this area. For lunch, indulge in some seafood at a beachside restaurant.
Head back to the town for dinner at a traditional Dutch restaurant. Experience the local cuisine, perhaps trying dishes like stamppot or poffertjes. Conclude your day with an evening walk in the quaint town square, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
After breakfast, rent a bicycle and embark on a scenic ride toward The Hague, which is just a short distance away. Pedal through lush green areas and picturesque Dutch landscapes, taking in the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. Stop along the way to capture some photos of the iconic Dutch countryside.
Arrive in The Hague and explore the historic center, including the Binnenhof and Mauritshuis art museum, home to Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring.' Enjoy lunch at a local café, sampling Dutch specialties as you soak in the vibrant city atmosphere. Continue your explorations with a visit to the beautiful Peace Palace or the charming streets of the old town.
Return to Wassenaar by bicycle just in time for dinner. Choose a cozy restaurant to enjoy a meal filled with local flavors. Afterward, if you're not too tired, consider catching a local theater performance or enjoying a drink in one of Wassenaar's cozy bars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $3-5 |
| 🧀Groceries and local cheese | $20-40 |
| 🚌Public transport pass (monthly) | $60-70 |
| 🍷Dinner for two (mid-range) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and dunes just outside The Hague
- High-quality museums and dining options nearby
- Quiet nightlife within Wassenaar itself
- Higher prices due to the affluent area
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Hoeveel kost het?" - How much does it cost?
- "Ik neem dit." - I’ll take this.
- "De rekening, alstublieft." - The check, please.
Places to Visit in Wassenaar
Visit one of these nice places.
A modern art museum with striking architecture and landscaped grounds; the interplay of art, water, and light creates compelling images.
Wide sandy shores and sweeping dune landscapes; sunrise and golden hour light offer dramatic coastal photography.
Nature reserves with rolling dunes, pine forests, and birdlife—great for wide-angle landscape shots and atmospheric nature photography.
Historic estate grounds with formal gardens and water features, offering elegant backdrop for portraits and architectural shots.
Food in Wassenaar
Wassenaar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditionally eaten with onions on a bun or with bread; a classic Dutch seaside treat.
Must-Try!
Battered fried cod bites served with a tangy tartar sauce; a staple at Dutch fish stalls.
Comforting potato-and-vegetable mash, typically enjoyed in colder months; pairs with smoked sausage.
Thin waffle cookies with caramel syrup; best fresh at a bakery or market stall.
Large savory or sweet pancakes, commonly found at local cafes and markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market area in The Hague offering fresh fish, cheeses, produce, and street snacks; accessible by short trip from Wassenaar.
Seasonal pop-up markets along the Wassenaar coast offering seafood on sunny weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
The Dutch value directness; speak clearly and politely in English if needed, especially with service staff.
Bike lanes have priority; keep right when walking on sidewalks and be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists sharing paths.
A handshake is common when greeting; maintain a polite demeanor and simple eye contact; say 'dank u wel' or 'alsjeblieft' as appropriate.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up or leave a small 5-10% tip if service is good.
Safety
Tipping in Wassenaar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% for good service is common in nicer places; many venues include service charges.
Widely accepted: debit and credit cards, contactless payments, and cash. ATMs are common, and many places require PIN for card purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dunes come alive with wildflowers; mild days are ideal for long walks and bike rides along the coast.
Warm, long days; beaches fill with sunseekers; outdoor dining and sunset photography are popular.
Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage; great for moody dune photography and quiet coastal walks.
Chillier and windier with more overcast days; the coast can be dramatic in storms, but daylight hours are shorter.
Wassenaar at Night
Hiking in Wassenaar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic dune walks through Meijendel Nature Reserve with varying lengths.
Pleasant woodland and dune connectivity with easy-to-moderate hikes.
Seafront paths offering expansive ocean views and fresh sea air.
Airports
How to reach Wassenaar by plane.
Major international hub about 40-50 minutes by train or car from Wassenaar; frequent connections and good ground transport.
Smaller regional airport about 20-30 minutes by car from Wassenaar; convenient for European flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large portion of residents are families in stable, well-educated households.
The Hague’s international institutions attract international residents and professionals.
Older residents who enjoy a quiet seaside lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across the region with local clubs and recreational leagues.
Multiple clubs and public courts available for all levels.
A dominant mode of transport and recreation; extensive dune and coastal routes.
Nearby courses offer scenic coastal and parkland layouts.
Accessible along the coast and nearby harbors for enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wassenaar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in The Hague region offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable mains, cheese plates, and plant-based substitutes. Dutch menus frequently include salads, baked goods, and egg-based dishes; ask for adaptions if needed.