Hubertustunnel

Hubertustunnel The Hague: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Hubertustunnel in The Hague, Netherlands, is a cornerstone of the city’s transport infrastructure. Since its opening in 2008, it has connected the city center to northern districts and Scheveningen beach, easing traffic congestion and protecting green and historic areas, notably the Haagse Bos (The Hague Forest). It was the first major Dutch tunnel built under dense urban zones with a tunnel boring machine, showcasing significant engineering innovation. While the tunnel is not accessible to pedestrians or tourists, its impact on urban mobility, sustainability, and international connectivity makes it a notable feature of The Hague.

This guide provides a detailed overview of the Hubertustunnel’s historical context, engineering achievements, visitor information, and practical travel tips. Whether you’re a commuter, resident, or visitor with an interest in modern infrastructure, this resource will help you navigate the tunnel’s role in The Hague and plan your journey effectively. For the latest updates, consult official resources like Zuid-Holland Bereikbaar, The Hague Partners, and ICT Group.

Introduction
Historical Context and Urban Significance
Visitor Access and Experience
Travel Tips and Accessibility
Engineering Highlights
Environmental and Urban Benefits
Strategic Importance in The Hague’s Urban Network
Economic Impact and Urban Development
Resilience and Future-Proofing
Visitor Information: Access, Safety, and Nearby Attractions
2025–2026 Renovation: Closure Dates, Detours, and Upgrades
Practical Tips and Local Etiquette
Emergency Contacts and Safety
Summary and Recommendations
Sources

Historical Context and Urban Significance

The Hubertustunnel serves as the final link in The Hague’s northern ring road, improving connections between the city center, the A4 motorway, and Scheveningen. It was the first large-scale Dutch tunnel constructed under a densely developed area using a tunnel boring machine, setting a new standard for urban engineering. The tunnel’s creation reduced surface congestion, protected green zones, and helped maintain the historic character of The Hague’s neighborhoods.

Visitor Access and Experience

Is the Hubertustunnel Open for Visitors?

The Hubertustunnel is exclusively a vehicular tunnel. There is no pedestrian or guided visitor access, and no ticketing or visiting hours apply. The tunnel’s primary function is to facilitate motorized traffic, supporting efficient travel across the city.

How to Experience the Area

While you cannot tour the tunnel itself, the surrounding area offers several points of interest:

Hubertusviaducten: Historic viaducts from the 1960s, adjacent to the tunnel and notable for their engineering.
Madurodam: A miniature park displaying Dutch landmarks, ideal for families.
Scheveningen Beach: A vibrant seaside destination, easily reached via routes connected by the tunnel.

Driving through the tunnel offers an appreciation of its scale and importance in The Hague’s infrastructure.

Travel Tips and Accessibility

By Car: Access the tunnel via the A4 motorway and local ring roads for a direct route between the city center and coast.
Public Transport: The tunnel is not accessible to buses or trams, but The Hague has excellent public transit options near the tunnel’s entrances.
Cyclists and Pedestrians: Dedicated cycle paths and pedestrian routes are available above ground but not within the tunnel.

Engineering Highlights

Built with a Herrenknecht Mixshield tunnel boring machine (10.51m cutterhead).
Two parallel tunnel tubes, each approximately 1,490 meters long.
Precast segmental lining, advanced safety, and fire protection systems.
Ongoing upgrades for improved safety, operational efficiency, and sustainability (ICT Group).

Environmental and Urban Benefits

The tunnel has significantly reduced surface traffic, noise, and pollution, preserving The Hague’s green environment and enhancing livability. Diverting vehicles underground has allowed for better landscaping, safer crossings, and the creation of pedestrian-friendly spaces.

Strategic Importance in The Hague’s Urban Network

The Hubertustunnel is essential for:

Linking the city center, international district, and Scheveningen.
Alleviating congestion on major surface roads, especially during events like the NATO summit (DutchNews.nl).
Providing reliable access to institutions such as the International Court of Justice and World Forum convention center (Diplomat Magazine).

Economic Impact and Urban Development

Facilitates logistics for international organizations and NGOs, supporting The Hague’s role as a global city.
Has revitalized neighborhoods and spurred investment in residential and commercial spaces.

Resilience and Future-Proofing

Functions as a flexible route during emergencies and major events, accommodating fluctuating traffic needs.
Supports The Hague’s sustainable mobility policies by integrating with cycling and public transport initiatives (The Hague Partners).

Visitor Information: Access, Safety, and Nearby Attractions

Access and Traffic Updates

The tunnel operates 24/7 for cars, taxis, and select public vehicles.
For live updates, use city transport apps or the Audiala app.

Safety and Maintenance

State-of-the-art systems for ventilation, lighting, and emergency response.
Regular maintenance ensures reliability and safety for all users.

Nearby Attractions

World Forum: International conference venue.
Peace Palace: Iconic seat of international law.
Haagse Bos: Historic urban forest, home to Huis ten Bosch.
Madurodam and Scheveningen Beach are both nearby.

2025–2026 Renovation: Closure Dates, Detours, and Upgrades

Scope and Timeline

From 27 July 2025 to 30 April 2026, the tunnel will be fully closed for a comprehensive renovation. The closure is coordinated with other infrastructure projects to minimize disruption (Zuid-Holland Bereikbaar, Den Haag).

Key Renovation Activities

Replacement of over 40 technical installations (fire safety, ventilation, control systems).
Resurfacing tunnel walls and roadways.
Installation of solar panels at the northern entrance, supporting renewable energy.
Upgrades to the Hague Tunnel Standard for enhanced safety (ICT Group).

Detour Routes

Traffic will be rerouted via Raamweg, Waalsdorperweg, and other designated detours (Indebuurt).
Public transport and cycling routes remain accessible, but expect increased congestion.

Future Developments

Centralized tunnel management for improved safety and efficiency.
Sustainability initiatives including solar power and eco-friendly materials (Den Haag).

Practical Tips and Local Etiquette

Use navigation apps for the latest traffic updates.
Plan travel outside rush hours (07:00–09:00, 16:00–18:00) for smoother journeys.
Observe Dutch traffic laws: keep to speed limits (usually 50 km/h in the tunnel), use indicators, and avoid unnecessary honking.

Emergency Contacts and Safety

ANWB Roadside Assistance: 088 269 2222
Emergency Services: Dial 112
Emergency phones are located throughout the tunnel for urgent situations.

Summary and Recommendations

The Hubertustunnel is not a tourist attraction but is crucial to The Hague’s urban life, supporting mobility, sustainability, and economic activity. Its ongoing renovation (2025–2026) will deliver enhanced safety and environmental performance. While access is restricted to motor vehicles, the tunnel is a vital link to many of The Hague’s key destinations. For real-time updates and travel guidance, use the Audiala app and consult official city websites.

Nearby attractions such as Scheveningen Beach, Madurodam, and the historic city center are easily accessible via routes connected by the tunnel. Plan ahead, especially during the renovation period, to ensure a smooth visit.