The Binnenhof (“Inner Court”) is where The Hague began. In the 13th century the Counts of Holland built a castle here beside a natural pond, and the great Gothic Ridderzaal, the Hall of Knights, still stands at its centre. Over the centuries the court became the meeting place of the States General, and the Binnenhof grew into a cluster of halls, wings and courtyards that has housed the Dutch parliament for generations.
It is still the symbolic heart of Dutch democracy. On Prinsjesdag, the third Tuesday of September, the King traditionally reads the speech from the throne setting out the government’s plans for the year.
Since 2021 the complex has been undergoing a long and major renovation, and parliament has moved to temporary premises nearby. Large parts are fenced off and the timetable has been extended more than once, so expect scaffolding and check the current situation. The best view has not changed: from across the Hofvijver, where the Binnenhof and the Mauritshuis are mirrored in the water.
Top things to do: Binnenhof & Hofvijver
Admire the view across the Hofvijver
Walk the Lange Vijverberg on the north side of the pond for the postcard view, especially in the evening light. The small island and its fountain sit right in front of the parliament buildings.
See the Ridderzaal
The twin-towered Hall of Knights dates from the 13th century. During the renovation it may be wrapped in scaffolding; whether you can walk through the courtyard depends on the building phase.
Visit parliament with ProDemos
ProDemos, the Dutch centre for democracy, organises visits and tours of parliament and explains how Dutch politics works. Check its website for what is possible during the renovation.
Explore the Buitenhof and Plein
The squares around the Binnenhof are lined with cafés. On the Buitenhof are the Gevangenpoort prison gate and Galerij Prins Willem V; on the Plein, the statue of William of Orange and the Mauritshuis.
See the city from the water
A canal cruise or a guided bike tour puts the Binnenhof in context with the rest of the government quarter.
How to get to Binnenhof & Hofvijver
- On foot: about 10 minutes from Den Haag Centraal station.
- By tram: stops at Buitenhof and Centrum are a short walk away.
Insider tips
- Check ProDemos and official news for current access before visiting — the renovation changes what is open.
- For photos, come early in the morning or at dusk, when the Hofvijver is calmest.
- Expect road closures and crowds on Prinsjesdag in September.
- Security is visible around government buildings; follow staff instructions.
Best activities for Binnenhof & Hofvijver
These well-reviewed experiences pair well with a visit to Binnenhof & Hofvijver:
Boat tour The Hague: City Canal Cruise
An open-boat cruise through the canals of The Hague, starting and ending at the Bierkade, with a live guide telling the story of the city’s posh and working-class neighbourhoods alike.
- Live guide in several languages
- Grand and everyday districts seen from the water
- Bottle of water included, per the listing
Guided bike tour The Hague: Highlights Bike Tour
A guided ride past the city’s landmarks — the Binnenhof, palaces, embassies and parks — at an easy pace on flat cycle paths. Check the listing for the exact route and meeting point.
- The main sights by bike with a local guide
- Learn the Dutch rules of the cycle lane
- Bike included
Private tour The Hague: Private Custom Walking Tour with a Local Guide
A private walk shaped around what you want to see — history, politics, architecture or food — with a guide who lives in the city. Check the listing for durations and inclusions.
- A private local guide for your group
- Route tailored to your interests
- Food or a drink included on some options, per the listing
