The Mauritshuis is a 17th-century mansion-turned-museum in The Hague, set beside the Hofvijver pond next to the Binnenhof (the Dutch parliament), famous for its compact but exceptional collection of Dutch Golden Age painting. Its signature work is Johannes Vermeer's 'Girl with a Pearl Earring,' alongside masterpieces such as Rembrandt's 'The Anatomy Lesson of Dr Nicolaes Tulp' and Fabritius's 'The Goldfinch.' Note, however, that in summer 2026 the 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' is on loan to Osaka, Japan and the museum is closed for part of that period, so check timing before you go. Because it is small, most visitors comfortably see the highlights in about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Johannes Vermeer, 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' — the museum's icon, often called the 'Mona Lisa of the North' (note: away on loan to Japan from mid-August to early October 2026)
Rembrandt, 'The Anatomy Lesson of Dr Nicolaes Tulp' — a landmark early group portrait
Carel Fabritius, 'The Goldfinch' — a small, jewel-like painting made famous by the novel and film
Rembrandt self-portraits and works by Jan Steen, Rubens and Holbein from the 17th century
The Golden Age building itself — the ornate 'Golden Room (Gouden Zaal)' ceiling and views over the Hofvijver
Good to know
SeasonFrom 15 August to 4 October 2026 the 'Girl with a Pearl Earring' is not on view at the Mauritshuis, as it travels on loan to the Nakanoshima Museum of Art in Osaka, Japan (returning around 5 October). The museum itself is also closed for alterations from 24 August to 20 September 2026. If the painting is your goal, avoid these dates and confirm the latest schedule on the official site.
RulesWeekends and peak season often sell out on the day, so book a date-and-time-slot ticket in advance on the official website. Last entry is usually 30 minutes before closing.
MannersIt is almost always crowded in front of the 'Girl,' with a queue of people waiting to photograph it. Wait your turn and don't monopolise the spot. For a calmer visit, aim for a weekday morning or the Thursday late opening (confirm current hours).
SafetyWatch for pickpockets around The Hague Central Station, trams and busy tourist areas; keep your bag in front of you.
CautionBeware marked-up resale tickets and unofficial 'guided entry' offers; buy tickets only from the official site (mauritshuis.nl).
RulesLarge bags, backpacks and umbrellas must be left in the cloakroom rather than carried into the galleries, and follow on-site photography rules (no flash or tripods). Dutch summers can be wet and windy, so bring a jacket and umbrella.
Practical info
The Mauritshuis is about a 10-minute walk from The Hague Central Station (Den Haag Centraal), also reachable by tram, right beside the Hofvijver pond next to the Binnenhof (address: Plein 29, 2511 CS Den Haag). It is generally open Tuesday to Sunday 10:00-18:00 and Monday 13:00-18:00, with late Thursday hours varying by season. Adult tickets run about €19.5-€21, with free entry for those 18 and under and Museumkaart holders — always confirm current prices, opening hours, late openings and timed-ticket booking on the official website.
On-site reviews📍 Verified on-site
No reviews yet. If you are here, be the first to leave one.
