Budget Europe. 6 ways to save in The Hague

Planning a trip to Europe from Singapore? Then make sure The Hague is on your wish list. This really is one of Europe’s hidden gems.

This Dutch city conjures up images of grand palaces, stunning architecture, imposing art galleries, high-end shops and gourmet restaurants. It is not the place you would expect to do ‘on the cheap’.

Well the travel experts at Budget Direct Insurance say you can!

What’s more you can do so without compromising on style, taste or comfort. Here’s what you need to know from one of our own…

Quieter = Cheaper
A mere 40-minute train ride from Amsterdam, The Hague is perfect if you want cheaper out-of-town accommodation. Hotels here are a fraction of the price of Amsterdam plus you’re far from the madding crowd.

As a family we much preferred spending time in The Hague compared to the packed streets of Amsterdam - where the vibe can at times be menacing, especially in the evenings.

Of course Amsterdam is a must-do but so is The Hague, known locally as Den Haag. It’s good enough for the Dutch royals who have made it their home and it’s also the seat of the Dutch government. Rest assured you’re in good company.
Accommodation
easyHotel is 2 stars, basic but good. A real bargain in the heart of the city and a 20 minutes walk to the train station or a quick hop on a tram. A night here will set you back about $80 for two sharing. Hotel ibis is another decent budget option that is a little pricier at around $90 for two people sharing.
Eating out
Restaurants, cafes and bakeries line every cobbled street so competition is high. We liked t’Ogenblik , which caters to all the family. Get a hearty set lunch of soup, sandwich and salad for about $15.

Asian restaurants are in abundance here too. For a little taste of Singapore-style Chinese fare check out Ming Kee in Chinatown. As close to a hawker as you can get. No frills but delicious. About $10 per dish. Located at Gedempte Gracht.
Beach and harbor
Just a few minutes from the centre by tram to Scheveningen. Stroll along the trendy and vibrant boulevard with cafes and quirky boutiques. Costs nothing to breathe in the fresh sea breeze and enjoy the big skies.
Museums and art galleries
Totally amazing, and too many to mention! One must-see is the Mauritshuis. With world-famous paintings by the Dutch masters, including Vermeer’s The Girl with a Pearl Earring. And all in a beautiful setting. It’s a snip at around $20.
Shopping
There are plenty of second-hand clothes and furniture shops plus vintage vinyl and art stores. Here you’ll find stylish, quality items at rock-bottom prices. Boots, jumpers, coats, leather jackets, fake furs and other quirky ‘colder weather wear’ that you can’t get so easily in Singapore. Pay budget prices for clothes that, let’s face it, you’re probably not going to get that much wear out of back on the Little Red Dot. So, an excuse to travel again!