Why did no one tell me The Hague is this beautiful?!

🇳🇱 Den Haag, Netherlands 🌷 They say the Netherlands has two "capitals" – Amsterdam is the official one, while The Hague is the political, commercial, and financial heart of the country. Though the Dutch constitution designates Amsterdam as the capital, The Hague is where the real action is: it houses the central government, parliament, Supreme Court, most ministries, and foreign embassies. It’s even home to the International Court of Justice and the UN’s International Criminal Court, making it the second-largest UN-hosted city after New York! 🌷 One-day citywalk itinerary: 1️⃣ Binnenhof (Parliament Complex) Take Tram ① to Den Haag Centrum. By the lake, you’ll find this 800-year-old castle-like complex (currently under renovation). The Dutch Prime Minister’s office is here – admire it from across the water! 2️⃣ Mauritshuis Museum Walk around the lake and turn right to reach this compact but world-class museum. Spend 1-1.5 hours admiring masterpieces like: ✨ Girl with a Pearl Earring (the "Dutch Mona Lisa"!) ✨ The Anatomy Lesson and The Bull by Rembrandt 3️⃣ Peace Palace Hop back on Tram 1 toward Scheveningen and stop at Vredespaleis. This stunning building hosts the UN’s International Court. Snap photos outside (the small museum is free to visit). ⚖️ 4️⃣ Scheveningen Beach No one can resist this moody North Sea coastline! 🌊☁️ Even on rainy days, the endless horizon blends sea and sky into a melancholic, cinematic scene. The pier’s Ferris wheel makes for epic photos. 🏨 Beachfront Stay: Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus 📍 Right on Scheveningen Beach ✨ History: Opened in 1885, rebuilt after an 1886 fire, and now a protected heritage site. ✨ Chinese Connection: Famous for hosting Qing Dynasty statesman Li Hongzhang, who even penned a poem here! 💰 €170/night (incl. breakfast for two) #TheHague #Netherlands #EuropeTravel #HiddenGems #CityGuide