The Passage

De Passage is not just a shopping center, but a true historical gem in the heart of The Hague. Opened back in 1885, it proudly holds the title of the oldest functioning shopping arcade in the Netherlands. This is a place where elegance and history intertwine with modern shopping, creating a unique atmosphere that attracts both tourists and locals alike. The architecture of the arcade, inspired by similar galleries in Paris, impresses with its arcades, carved facades, and magnificent glass domes that fill the space with light in any weather.

The building is an outstanding example of Neo-Renaissance architecture and is rightfully considered an important national monument. Its cultural and historical value is highly regarded across the country. Walking across its marble floors is a journey through time, where every step serves as a reminder of the site's rich past.

Inside the covered galleries connecting several busy streets, you'll find a variety of boutiques, specialty shops, and cozy cafes. Here, you can find exclusive goods and famous brands alongside unique souvenirs, or simply enjoy a cup of coffee in an exquisite setting. De Passage in The Hague stands alongside the famous shopping galleries of Milan and Brussels, offering visitors something more than just shopping—an unforgettable aesthetic experience.

For up-to-date information regarding individual store hours, current promotions, or any other inquiries, we recommend contacting the shopping center administration directly. Key contact details, including the address and official website, are provided below.

The main reason people visit De Passage is, of course, shopping. Numerous shops and boutiques are nestled under the elegant arches of this historic building. You can find everything here: from fashionable clothing and accessories by famous brands to unique souvenirs, art pieces, and delicacies. The hallmark of this place is the unique blend of modern shopping with an atmosphere of 19th-century elegance, which turns a regular purchase into a special event.

Beyond shopping, De Passage offers other ways to spend your time pleasantly. After browsing the shops, you can relax in one of the cozy cafes or restaurants, enjoying a cup of coffee while watching the leisurely life of the arcade. Be sure to pay attention to the architecture itself: the Neo-Renaissance style, impressive glass domes, and exquisite decorative elements make De Passage a true work of art. Many visitors come specifically to take beautiful photos of the interiors, as it is one of the most photogenic spots in The Hague.

De Passage is located in the very heart of The Hague, making it easily accessible for visitors. If you are already in the city center exploring landmarks like the Binnenhof or the Old City Hall, the arcade is just a few minutes' walk away. A stroll through the picturesque central streets is the perfect way to begin your visit to this historic site.

For those who prefer public transport, The Hague offers an extensive network of tram and bus routes. Many of these pass through the city center, stopping right near De Passage. The nearest major stop is conveniently named “Centrum,” located just a few minutes' walk from the entrance. It is served by trams No. 1, 4, and 6, as well as buses No. 25 and 44, making it easy to reach from various parts of the city.

For travelers arriving from other cities in the Netherlands or from abroad, it is most convenient to take a train to Den Haag Centraal station. It is only a 10-15 minute walk from De Passage. Alternatively, you can take one of the numerous trams or buses departing directly from the station square toward the city center. Taxis are also readily available, and a ride from the station takes just a few minutes.

The history of De Passage is inextricably linked to the development of The Hague itself. Its construction began in 1882, marking an important milestone for the city. Built in an elegant Neo-Renaissance style, the arcade was designed not only as a commercial space but also as an architectural gem intended to emphasize metropolitan sophistication. It emerged in a city with centuries of history, founded as far back as the 13th century, and harmoniously blended into its aristocratic character, becoming part of the rich heritage of the Netherlands.

One of the most notable facts is the international recognition of its value. De Passage is included on the UNESCO tentative list of World Heritage sites, highlighting its exceptional cultural and architectural significance not only for the country but for the entire world. It is not just the oldest shopping arcade in the Netherlands, but also a beautifully preserved monument that allows visitors to literally touch history.

It is remarkable how De Passage has managed to maintain its historical appearance through various eras and modernization. Although it now houses modern boutiques and cafes, the building has kept its authentic atmosphere. A walk under its famous glass domes is a journey through time, where 19th-century elegance meets 21st-century dynamism. This unique combination makes De Passage more than just a shopping center; it is one of the key and most beloved attractions in The Hague.

For most visitors, 1 to 2 hours will be enough to explore De Passage. This is sufficient time to leisurely walk through the entire historical arcade, admire its magnificent architecture with glass domes, browse a few unique shops, and enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the local cafes. Such a visit will allow you to fully experience the atmosphere of this landmark in The Hague.

If you are planning a serious shopping spree or are an architecture enthusiast, you should set aside more time. To carefully explore the selection of all the boutiques—ranging from exclusive clothing to delicacies and antiques—you might need half a day. The same applies to those who wish to examine in detail all the Neo-Renaissance refinements of the oldest arcade in the Netherlands. Ultimately, the duration of your visit depends entirely on your interests and pace.

De Passage is open to visitors year-round, seven days a week, and no prior booking or ticket purchase is required for entry as it is a public shopping space. The general opening hours of the arcade are typically as follows: on weekdays and Saturdays, shops are open from approximately 10:00 to 18:00; on Mondays, they usually open at 11:00 or 12:00; and on Sundays, they operate on a reduced schedule from 12:00 to 17:00. Thursday is traditionally the evening shopping day in the Netherlands, so some shops in De Passage may remain open longer, for example, until 21:00.

It is important to remember that these hours are general for the arcade itself. Each individual shop, boutique, or cafe within De Passage may have its own schedule. Therefore, if you plan to visit a specific place, it is highly recommended to check its current operating hours in advance on the shop's official website or the shopping center's main website to avoid any inconvenience.

A visit to De Passage is just the starting point for exploring the rich cultural and historical heritage of The Hague. Thanks to its central location, you are at the heart of the action, with many of the city's key landmarks within walking distance. A stroll through the surrounding areas will allow you to immerse yourself deeper in the atmosphere of this amazing place and gain a fuller understanding of the life and history of the Netherlands.

Exploring the districts around De Passage, you will find that history and modernity coexist harmoniously here. From majestic government buildings to cozy squares and world-renowned museums—everything is literally around the corner. To help you plan your route, we have prepared a list of interesting places located nearby.