December gives The Hague a special allure. During the winter months, the historic facades are illuminated with Christmas lights and the city takes on a charming, wintry appearance.
In the historic Hofkwartier, 500 meters from The Hague Christmas market, lies ARQ Paleis Hotel. An intimate boutique hotel with a royal character. Right in the city center, it offers a wonderful place to unwind and experience the holidays in style.
From December 3 through 23, 2026, the Lange Voorhout transforms into a fairytale Christmas village. Between the illuminated Christmas stalls, fire baskets, and thousands of LED lights, you stroll from one beautiful find to the next. There is mulled wine, there are choirs and storytellers, and Santa Claus visits almost every day.
The Royal Christmas Fair is open daily from 12:00 to 21:00 and admission is free. This year is the eleventh edition. From ARQ Paleis hotel, you can walk there in just 5 minutes, ideal.
The Hague is, of course, a true museum city, and the following exhibitions can be seen during the winter:
Mauritshuis: from October 15, 2026 through January 17, 2027, 25 masterpieces from the Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza in Madrid will be on display. European masterpieces centered on the theme of love, right next to the Binnenhof.
Fotomuseum Den Haag: from October 15, 2026 through January 31, 2027, there will be a retrospective exhibition of photographer Eva Besnyö.
Always check the museum’s website for current opening hours before you go, as they may differ around the holidays.
The weekend of December 11 through 13, The Hague is the stage for live jazz. There is live music in several places around the city. You can easily walk from one performance to the next.
ARQ Paleis Hotel is located right in the center, so you can easily get anywhere without having to travel far. Truly luxurious.
On our jazz page you can read more about the performances and our tips for that weekend.
A stay at ARQ Paleis Hotel feels special. Our rooms do not have twenty mattresses stacked on top of each other, but they do have a spacious box-spring bed with wonderfully soft Egyptian bedding. Everything is designed for a good night’s sleep.
ARQ Paleis Hotel is located in the historic Hofkwartier, the stately heart of The Hague. Close to Noordeinde Palace, the working palace of King Willem-Alexander, you will find the city’s oldest streets here. The Molenstraat, where our hotel is located, still winds like the dune paths of old. Surrounded by characteristic stepped gables, you can enjoy the beautiful architecture and aristocratic atmosphere.
