If you’re planning a trip to The Hague and love art, the Mauritshuis is absolutely worth your time. This compact museum is home to some of the most celebrated paintings from the Dutch Golden Age, and it’s set inside a stunning 17th-century city palace right next to the Parliament. While we haven’t personally been there, plenty of visitors rave about how this experience combines history, architecture, and world-famous artworks in a way that’s manageable and truly memorable.
Two things really stand out about this visit: first, the chance to see Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring up close — and apparently, it lives up to the hype — and second, the beautifully preserved historic building itself, with its elegant interiors and picturesque windows overlooking the pond. On the flip side, some may find that the museum’s size means it can get a little crowded during peak times, especially around the Vermeer. Still, if you’re a fan of Dutch art and want a focused, high-quality experience, this is a solid choice.
This tour is best suited for art lovers, history enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates the finer things without wanting to spend hours wandering a sprawling museum. It’s also great for visitors who want a quick but rich dose of Dutch masterpieces in a location that’s easy to fit into a day of sightseeing in The Hague.
Key Points
- World-class collection: Home to masterpieces from Vermeer, Rembrandt, and others, all in one place.
- Beautiful architecture: The 17th-century palace adds a historic and elegant backdrop to the artworks.
- Flexibility: You can explore at your own pace for about 1.5 hours, with no rush.
- Interactive elements: The free multimedia app enhances your understanding of the works.
- Value for money: For $23, you get access to the main collection and temporary exhibitions.
- Accessibility: The museum is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for many visitors to enjoy.
A Closer Look at the Experience
Visiting the Mauritshuis is like stepping into a beautifully preserved snapshot of Dutch history and art. Located in the heart of The Hague, right next to the Parliament buildings, the palace itself is a treat. Its interior features silken wall coverings, sparkling chandeliers, and painted ceilings, giving visitors a sense of stepping back into the 17th century. The building’s design isn’t just aesthetic; it’s an integral part of the experience, framing the art in a setting that’s both historic and intimate.
Once inside, you’ll find over 200 masterpieces on display, all tightly packed into a space that’s easy to navigate. The collection covers everything from genre paintings by Jan Steen to landscapes by Jacob van Ruisdael, still lifes by Adriaen Coorte, and portraits by Rubens. But of course, the main event is Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring — a piece that draws crowds from around the world. Visitors consistently mention the impact of seeing this iconic work in person: “She is beautiful,” one reviewer noted, “just as I imagined.”
Many visitors have praised how well the museum is organized. For instance, there’s advice from those who recommend prioritizing your favorite pieces early on before crowds build. The museum’s staff is described as helpful, adding to a welcoming atmosphere. For a small museum, the collection feels surprisingly comprehensive, offering a significant dose of Dutch art history without the overwhelm of larger institutions.
The Artworks That Make the Visit Special
The collection’s highlights extend beyond Vermeer. Rembrandt’s The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Tulp is a fascinating depiction of 17th-century science and medicine, and Fabritius’s Goldfinch captivates with its delicate realism and subtle symbolism. These works aren’t just pictures; they’re stories, each with a unique touch of Dutch craftsmanship.
The temporary exhibition, like “Facing the Storm,” adds context to the collection, exploring the museum’s turbulent history during wartime. According to reviews, this particular exhibit provides a personal perspective and enriches the visit, especially for those interested in the museum’s resilience and history.
Practical Details and Visiting Tips
At $23 per ticket, the Mauritshuis offers good value considering the quality and rarity of its artworks. The ticket includes access to the permanent collection and any temporary exhibits, plus free WiFi to help you use the multimedia app. The app is a handy addition, providing helpful audio guides and information about each piece — perfect if you like to learn as you go.
Visit duration generally averages around 1.5 hours, which strikes us as just enough time to enjoy the highlights at a relaxed pace. You might spend longer if you wish to linger over certain works or explore the museum’s shop and café. Keep in mind, there are some restrictions: selfie sticks, flash photography, and large luggage aren’t allowed, and time slots are allocated when booking, so plan accordingly.
Accessibility-wise, the museum is wheelchair friendly, with some size restrictions on wheelchairs. The staff is described as friendly and helpful, ensuring a smooth experience for most visitors.
The Surroundings and Additional Amenities
The Mauritshuis’s location is superb — right in the city center, close to other attractions like the Binnenhof and the historic city center. After your visit, you can walk to nearby cafes or grab a snack at the museum’s own coffee shop. Many reviewers mention that the venue itself is charming and makes for a perfect cultural outing.
While the museum doesn’t include guided tours, the multimedia app and helpful staff do a lot to fill that gap. The museum’s small size and the well-curated collection mean you won’t need a guide to appreciate what’s on display. For those interested in combining art with history, the temporary exhibitions like the wartime-themed “Facing the Storm” are especially meaningful.
More Great Tours NearbyShould You Visit the Mauritshuis?
If you’re traveling with a keen interest in Dutch art and want to see Vermeer’s Girl with a Pearl Earring, this ticket is a no-brainer. You’ll love how quickly you can take in some of the world’s most famous paintings in a setting that is both elegant and thoughtfully organized. The ability to explore at your own pace, combined with multimedia guides, makes it an engaging yet manageable experience.
The museum is perfect if you prefer quality over quantity — a small, focused space that delivers plenty of wow moments. It’s also a good choice for those who don’t want to spend hours in a sprawling museum but still want to walk away with a deeper appreciation for Dutch masters.
However, if you’re someone who thrives on large, diverse collections or prefers guided tours, you might find this experience a bit limited. Similarly, if you’re visiting during peak hours, the crowds around the most famous works like Vermeer can be intense, so planning an early visit or booking in advance can help.
The Mauritshuis combines history, architecture, and art into a compact package that’s perfect for a half-day visit in The Hague. Its collection of masterpieces, especially Vermeer’s iconic painting, makes it a must-see for art lovers and those interested in Dutch culture. The building itself adds to the charm, offering a glimpse into 17th-century grandeur.
For a fair price, you’re getting access to a curated experience that highlights some of the finest paintings from the Netherlands’ Golden Age. The inclusion of multimedia guides and the flexibility to explore as you wish make this experience both educational and enjoyable.
This tour is especially suited for visitors who value high-quality art in a manageable setting. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or even with a small group of friends, the Mauritshuis offers a memorable cultural highlight in the heart of The Hague.
The Hague: Mauritshuis Entrance Ticket
“Wonderful pieces of art! Great way to visit The Hague”
FAQ
Is this ticket valid for the main collection and temporary exhibitions?
Yes, the ticket includes entry to both the main collection and any temporary exhibitions on display during your visit.
How long should I plan to spend at the museum?
Most visitors spend around 1.5 hours exploring at a relaxed pace, but you can stay longer if you wish.
Is the museum wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the Mauritshuis is wheelchair accessible, with some size restrictions for wheelchairs.
Does the ticket include an audio guide?
No, the ticket does not include a physical audio guide, but you’re encouraged to download the free multimedia app for helpful information and audio tours.
Are there any items or photography restrictions I should be aware of?
Selfie sticks, flash photography, and large luggage aren’t allowed inside to protect the artworks and maintain a pleasant environment.
Can I buy tickets on the day of my visit?
It’s recommended to book in advance, as time slots are allocated to manage capacity. Many visitors have found last-minute tickets online to be very convenient.
Is the museum suitable for children?
While not specifically geared for children, the collection’s visual impact and the multimedia app can make the experience engaging for younger visitors, especially those interested in art.
What makes the Mauritshuis stand out?
Its stunning historic building combined with an exceptional collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, especially Vermeer and Rembrandt, makes it a truly special experience.
To sum it up, the Mauritshuis offers a beautifully curated glimpse into Dutch art history housed within a stunning 17th-century palace. It’s an experience that balances quality, history, and accessibility, making it perfect for art aficionados and casual visitors alike. If you’re in The Hague and have a few hours to spare, it’s absolutely worth including in your itinerary.
You can check availability for your dates here:
