The Hague

The Hague is the Netherlands’ fastest-growing student city, and has been Leiden University’s second location since 2010. In addition to housing the Netherlands’ ministries and government bodies, The Hague is the International City of Peace and Justice and is home to countless embassies, political institutions and international courts, as well as international companies.

Leiden University’s The Hague Campus also boasts a distinctly international character. Our campus in the Hague offers a wide range of internationally-oriented English language degree programmes that attract students from all over the world.

The Hague is a cosmopolitan city, and still remains liveable and personal.

Life in the Hague

Most programmes in the Hague are taught in our Wijnhaven building: just a 5 minute walk from central station, this location contains not only classrooms, but study areas, a library, cafés and a cafeteria, social clubs and areas to relax. The Leiden University Honours College (the LUC) is located on the other side of Central Station, in the Anna van Burenplein. Both locations have a great student-centered, international vibe to them.

The Hague has an endless supply of great cafés and restaurants for every taste and budget. Due to the international nature of the city, you can find food from all corners of the world here, including great Chinese food in the Hague’s China Town. Students who like to dance will find plenty to places to let their hair down, like Paard van Troje (Trojan Horse), a celebrated local pop temple near the Grote Markt.

11 Kilometers of beaches are a tram or bike ride away; and it’s a lovely bike ride to nearby Delft. For culture lovers, there are always great events going on in the Hague, including theatre, cabaret, visual arts and dance.

A 15 minute tram ride from the Hague city centre will bring you to an eleven-kilometre long beach.

Getting around

As the Netherlands’ third largest city, The Hague is a lot bigger than Leiden. Yet all the university buildings are within walking distance of one another in the city centre, and the Hague has a good tram system for getting around the city if you prefer to leave your bike at home. Leiden is just 11 minutes away by train, and the cities of Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Utrecht are close by.

The beautiful, historic ‘Binnenhof’ is home to the Dutch Houses of Parliament and the office of the Prime Minister.

Introduction week

As an exchange student living in the Hague, you can choose between two different introductions programmes. The HOP, which takes place primarily in the Hague, and the OWL, which is held in Leiden. Both are a great way to get to know your surroundings, the university and your fellow students.