Private Tour of The Hague and Delft with Mauritshuis and Pottery

If you’re considering a guided day trip through two of the Netherlands’ most celebrated cities—The Hague and Delft—this private tour promises a comprehensive experience filled with history, art, and authentic Dutch character. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, I’ve researched it thoroughly and can tell you it’s a well-structured way to see highlights without the stress of planning every detail yourself.

What I love about this tour is how it combines city walking with visits to world-famous museums—namely, the Mauritshuis with its stunning Vermeer collection and the Royal Delft factory, the only remaining Delft Blue manufacturer from the 17th century. Plus, the inclusion of lunch in Delft offers a break from sightseeing, allowing you to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.

One potential consideration? The itinerary is packed, which means you’ll want to pace yourself and be prepared for a full day of walking and sightseeing. It’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and keen to dive into history and art in a structured way. This tour could be just right for culture enthusiasts, history lovers, or anyone wanting an authentic, hassle-free taste of these iconic Dutch cities.

Key Points

• Expert-guided experience enhances understanding of Dutch history, art, and culture.
• Museum visits to Mauritshuis and Royal Delft are included in the price—great value for art lovers.
• Flexible start/end locations allow for tailored trip planning.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers major landmarks, historic sites, and local stories.
• Includes transportation between cities, simplifying logistics.
• Full day of sightseeing with a mix of walking, culture, and leisure.

An Overview of the Tour: What’s Included and What’s Not

This private tour offers a full day (roughly 8 hours) of exploration, starting in The Hague and ending in Delft, with the option to reverse the order. It’s designed to give a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural visits, and a taste of Dutch history, all led by an experienced guide.

The cost is approximately $658.51 per person, which might seem steep at first glance. But when you consider that admission tickets to Mauritshuis and Royal Delft are included, along with lunch, the value becomes clearer. The tour also offers pickup and private transportation, making it a convenient way to see these historic cities without worrying about navigating public transport or taxis.

What’s not included? Tips are optional, and any additional personal expenses. The tour is designed for travelers who want a curated, informative day with all major highlights covered.

Breaking Down the Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

Starting in The Hague: A Political and Artistic Hub

Het Plein kicks off the day in the heart of The Hague. Here, you’ll get a quick history lesson about Willem van Oranje, the father of Dutch independence, and his role in the 80 Years War. It’s a fitting opening because it sets the tone for understanding the city’s importance as a seat of government and a symbol of Dutch sovereignty.

Next, a short walk takes you to the Binnenhof and the Ridderzaal. This complex is still the home of the Dutch parliament, and your guide will explain its significance and history. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of politicians or observe the workings of Dutch democracy in action—though the real highlight here is the history and architecture.

The Hofvijver, a picturesque pond in front of the parliament, offers a charming view and some amusing anecdotes about its past. Close by is the Thorbecke Monument, honoring the father of Dutch constitutional democracy. It’s a great spot for a photo and to reflect on the political legacy of the Netherlands.

The tour continues along Lange Voorhout, often called the “Champs-Élysées” of The Hague. It’s lined with embassies, a renowned art museum, and the famous hotel des Indes. Walking here feels like strolling through the diplomatic and cultural heart of the city.

Visiting the Royal Residence and the Big Church

Next, you’ll see the Noordeinde Palace, still the working palace of the Dutch king. While the interior isn’t open to the public, the sight of the royal flag and the palace façade provide a sense of current monarchy.

The Grote Kerk (Big Church) impresses with its distinctive tower topped by a stork-shaped weather vane. The church itself is an architectural curiosity, and the guide will share stories about its history and the notable figures buried there, including Johannes Vermeer and Antoni van Leeuwenhoek, the pioneer of microbiology.

Art and History in The Hague

Rounding out the city tour is a visit to the Statue of Johan de Witt, the 17th-century statesman who was famously attacked and “eaten” by an angry mob—an odd but fascinating slice of Dutch history. The guide’s storytelling here makes it memorable.

Finally, you’ll step inside the Mauritshuis museum, home to masterpieces like Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring.” The elegant 17th-century building was originally built for the governor of Dutch Brazil, adding a layer of historical charm. Expect about an hour to explore this premier art collection, which showcases Golden Age paintings and provides insight into Dutch artistic achievements.

Moving to Delft: A City of Blue and History

After a morning immersed in The Hague’s political and artistic atmosphere, a short transfer takes you to Delft, a city synonymous with Delft Blue pottery and historic charm.

Your first stop is a quick visit to the Prinsenhof Museum site, where William of Orange was assassinated—a sobering yet vital piece of Dutch history. The guide shares stories about his life and the significance of Delft in the Dutch revolt.

Next, the Old Church (Oude Kerk), famous for its leaning tower, buries some of Delft’s most notable figures, including Vermeer. If open, you’ll step inside to admire its architecture and history.

From there, the tour visits Hoogheemraadschap van Delfland, the Water Board building, showcasing Delft’s long-standing relationship with water management—a key element for the city’s prosperity.

Lunch and Local Delights

A highlight is a sit-down lunch at De Waag, a historic weighing house that dates back centuries. Here, you can relax, enjoy traditional Dutch fare, and reflect on the morning’s discoveries.

Following lunch, you’ll explore Delft’s market square, viewing the town hall, the Father of International Law statue, and soaking up the lively atmosphere of this picturesque setting.

The Nieuwe Kerk, known for its towering spire and royal burial site, offers a chance to appreciate Delft’s religious architecture and history—depending on its opening hours.

Delft’s Historic and Artistic Gems

Your guide will also take you to the Maria van Jessekerk, a Catholic church where Vermeer supposedly made his paints, adding an artistic touch to the city’s religious sites.

Continuing through Delft, you’ll see the Vrienden van de Synagoge, reflecting the city’s diverse religious history, and the historic office of the Dutch East India Company—a reminder of Delft’s global trade role during the Golden Age.

The Royal Delft Experience

The final highlight is a visit to Royal Delft, the last remaining Delft Blue pottery factory from the 17th century. You’ll tour the factory and museum, learning about the craft’s history and processes. As the only producer still operating fully in its original location, it offers an authentic window into Dutch craftsmanship.

Why This Tour Offers Value for Travelers

This private tour is a thoughtful way to see key landmarks in both cities without the hassle of navigating public transport or rushing through sites. The inclusion of museum tickets and lunch makes it easier to budget, and the small group size ensures a more personalized experience.

At roughly $658.51, it’s a significant investment, but considering the all-inclusive format, expert guidance, and convenient logistics, many travelers will find it offers good value—especially those who want a deeper understanding of Dutch culture and history.

The knowledgeable guides garnered praise for their storytelling, making complex history accessible and engaging. Several reviews mention how the guides’ insights made the experience memorable, especially at sites like the Mauritshuis and the Prinsenhof.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Benefit Most?

This tour is best suited for culture enthusiasts, history buffs, and art lovers who appreciate guided storytelling and want to cover a lot of ground comfortably. It’s ideal for those who prefer a curated experience with minimal planning and a focus on key sites and stories. The inclusion of museum visits and a quality lunch adds value for travelers seeking an immersive day.

While it’s a full day, the pace is well-managed, with enough breaks and points of interest to keep everyone engaged. If you’re interested in exploring the Netherlands’ Golden Age, royal history, and iconic art in a single day, this tour can deliver a memorable, enriching experience.

FAQs

Is transportation between The Hague and Delft included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transport, either by train or car, for the short transfer between the cities, simplifying your logistics.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 9:00 am, giving you a full day of sightseeing from morning to late afternoon.

Can I customize the start or end location?
The tour normally starts in The Hague and ends in Delft, but you can request to have it the other way around.

Are the museum tickets included?
Yes, tickets to Mauritshuis, Old and New Churches in Delft (if open), and the Royal Delft factory are included.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While it involves walking and some standing, it’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness. Be prepared for a full day on your feet.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts—ideal if your plans change unexpectedly.

To sum it up, this private tour offers a compelling, well-organized way to explore two of the Netherlands’ most charming cities. With expert guides, included museum visits, and authentic experiences, it’s a smart choice for travelers eager to understand Dutch history, art, and culture firsthand. Perfect for those who value a hassle-free day with engaging storytelling and a balance of sightseeing, learning, and leisure.