How long does it take to walk through the Zeeheldenkwartier?

The walk typically takes 90 to 120 minutes. This includes time to appreciate the architecture on Piet Heinstraat and enjoy the atmosphere at squares like Anna Paulownaplein.

Is the Zeeheldenkwartier neighborhood safe for solo travelers?

Yes, it is one of the safest and most welcoming neighborhoods in The Hague. It is a residential and boutique shopping area with a friendly, local vibe.

Can I visit the Peace Palace at the end of this walk?

You can view the exterior and the Peace Flame at Carnegieplein anytime. To enter the Peace Palace, you must book a guided tour The Hague visitors often schedule months in advance, though the visitor center is easier to access.

Are the courtyards in The Hague free to enter?

Most historic 'hofjes' or courtyards like Hof van Wouw are free to enter during the day, but they are private residences, so visitors must remain quiet and respectful.

What is the most famous square in the Zeeheldenkwartier?

Prins Hendrikplein is the main square of the neighborhood, known for its large fountain and central location. Anna Paulownaplein is also famous for its high-end dining and French-style architecture.

Is this walking route accessible for people with limited mobility?

Yes, the route is mostly flat. While some older courtyards have cobbles, the main streets and squares are paved with standard sidewalks, making it an easy-flat walk.

Where can I find Art Nouveau architecture in The Hague?

The Zeeheldenkwartier, particularly Piet Heinstraat and the streets surrounding Prins Hendrikplein, contains some of the city's best-preserved Art Nouveau and Eclectic style facades.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Escape the bustling government district and step into the bohemian charm of the Zeeheldenkwartier, one of The Hague’s most beloved historic neighborhoods. This neighborhood stroll invites you to discover a side of the city often missed by those sticking to the main palace routes. Known as the 'Sea Heroes Quarter,' this area was developed in the late 19th century and remains a vibrant hub of local culture, Art Nouveau architecture, and secret green spaces. This self-guided walk begins at the edge of the city center at the Hof van Wouw, a 17th-century almshouse that offers a peaceful glimpse into the charitable history of the Netherlands. From there, you will transition into the heart of the Zeeheldenkwartier, where the streets are named after famous Dutch naval explorers. As you explore independently, you will witness the architectural shift from the intimate brickwork of the Golden Age to the grand, ornate facades of the fin de siècle. The route highlights the community spirit of the area, particularly at the Zeeheldentuin, a hidden garden reclaimed by residents. You will also experience the elegance of Anna Paulownaplein, a square that feels more like a corner of Paris than a Dutch administrative center. The walk concludes at Carnegieplein, home to the world-renowned Peace Palace, providing a powerful contrast between the local intimacy of the neighborhood and the international significance of The Hague. Whether you are interested in historical architecture or simply want to find the best local spots for a coffee away from the crowds, this walking route provides a comprehensive look at the city's living history. This is an ideal walking tour The Hague offers for those who prefer the flexibility of an audio walk without the constraints of a group. Enjoy the freedom to linger in a courtyard or browse the boutiques of Piet Heinstraat at your own pace.

Highlights

The 17th-century tranquility of the Hof van Wouw almshouse

Art Nouveau architectural details along the Piet Heinstraat

The historic fountain and sundial at Prins Hendrikplein

The community-led green oasis of the Zeeheldentuin

The elegant, French-inspired atmosphere of Anna Paulownaplein

A stunning view of the Peace Palace at Carnegieplein

Tour Stops (6)

De Hof van Wouw

Welcome to the Hof van Wouw, a true sanctuary established in 1647. This 'hofje' or almshouse was founded by Cornelia van Wouw to provide housing for single women of the Reformed faith. As you stand in this meticulously maintained courtyard, notice the Garden of Hesperides, filled with citrus trees and historic flora. These courtyards were the social safety nets of the 17th century, offering protection and community. While many of these spaces are still private residences, the Hof van Wouw remains one of the best-preserved examples in the city, showcasing the transition from the Dutch Golden Age to the modern era. Take a moment to appreciate the silence before we head toward the 19th-century streets ahead.

Piet Heinstraat

You are now entering the Piet Heinstraat, the primary artery of the Zeeheldenkwartier. Named after the 17th-century naval hero Piet Hein, this street captures the neighborhood's eclectic spirit. Look up as you walk; many of the buildings here feature beautiful Art Nouveau elements, such as curved window frames and decorative tiling. Unlike the formal city center, this street is lined with independent boutiques, design shops, and local bakeries. It serves as a perfect example of how The Hague expanded in the late 1800s to accommodate a growing middle class, creating a neighborhood that was both stylish and functional. It remains a favorite spot for locals to gather and shop far from the global retail chains.

Prins Hendrikplein

Prins Hendrikplein is the beating heart of the Sea Heroes Quarter. This circular square is dominated by a grand monument and fountain, originally erected to commemorate the national independence of 1813. Around the square, you will see some of the most impressive architecture in the district, including houses designed in the eclectic and neo-Renaissance styles. The square often hosts local markets and festivals, acting as a communal living room for the neighborhood. Notice the sundial and the intricate paving patterns. This spot perfectly illustrates the Dutch concept of 'gezelligheid'—a sense of coziness and social belonging that defines the Zeeheldenkwartier.

De Zeeheldentuin

This hidden gem is a testament to community power. The Zeeheldentuin, or 'Sea Heroes Garden,' was once the site of a school building. When the school was demolished, residents fought to turn the vacant lot into a public garden rather than a parking garage. Today, it is a lush, sustainable park maintained by volunteers. It features a vegetable garden, a playground made of natural materials, and quiet corners for reading. It represents the modern evolution of the Dutch 'hofje' tradition—a shared green space that fosters local connection. It is one of the neighborhood's best-kept secrets and a perfect place to pause and enjoy the sound of birds in the middle of the city.

Anna Paulownaplein

Often cited as one of the most beautiful squares in The Hague, Anna Paulownaplein exudes a distinct European elegance. Named after the Russian Grand Duchess who became Queen of the Netherlands, the square is surrounded by stately white-plastered buildings and towering trees. The atmosphere here is sophisticated yet relaxed, with several high-end cafes and restaurants spilling out onto the pavement. The architecture reflects the wealth and international outlook of The Hague during the late 19th century. As you walk through, you might feel as though you have been transported to a quiet corner of Paris, showcasing the diversity of urban design found within a single neighborhood.

Carnegieplein

The walk concludes at Carnegieplein, dominated by the majestic Peace Palace. This building is the seat of the International Court of Justice and the Permanent Court of Arbitration. Funded by American philanthropist Andrew Carnegie and completed in 1913, it symbolizes the city's role as the International City of Peace and Justice. At the entrance to the square, you will find the Eternal Peace Flame, surrounded by a path of stones from countries all over the world. Standing here, you can see the contrast between the local, lived-in streets of the Zeeheldenkwartier we just explored and the formal, global significance of this monumental site. It is a fitting end to a journey through The Hague's many layers.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Zeeheldenkwartier walk is highly recommended for hidden gems. It takes you away from the main tourist sites to discover secret almshouses like the Hof van Wouw and community gardens like the Zeeheldentuin.