Mauritshuis

Mauritshuis Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites in The Hague

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

Nestled in the heart of The Hague, the Mauritshuis is a premier destination for art lovers, celebrated for its intimate setting, exceptional collection of Dutch Golden Age masterpieces, and its own storied past. Originally constructed in the 17th century for Count Johan Maurits of Nassau-Siegen, the museum not only showcases iconic paintings—such as Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring,” Rembrandt’s “The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp,” and Carel Fabritius’s “The Goldfinch”—but also invites visitors to explore the rich and sometimes complex history of Dutch art and colonial heritage (Mauritshuis History, Essential Vermeer, Mauritshuis Highlights).

The museum’s central location places it amidst The Hague’s most significant historical and governmental sites, making it a cultural gateway to the city. This guide provides all vital information for planning your visit, including visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, and nearby attractions, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience (hiddenholland.com, thrillophilia.com).

Grand Ducal couple of Luxembourg visiting the Mauritshuis museum in The Hague on June 7, 1956

View of the Hofvijver pond in The Hague with surrounding buildings including Mauritshuis and Binnenhof

Mauritshuis museum in The Hague covered with protest banners pinned by demonstrators on fence during April 1968 protest

Mauritshuis museum in The Hague covered with protest banners pinned by demonstrators on the fence

Dutch Cabinet Lubbers visiting Mauritshuis museum in The Hague, Minister Gerrit Braks and others viewing the painting 'The Bull' by Potter, black and white photo from June 12, 1987

Informateurs De Koning and Lubbers meeting with small party faction leaders during cabinet formation lunch break on June 2, 1981

Final restoration work on Mauritshuis museum in The Hague on May 25, 1987

Last restoration work at Mauritshuis in The Hague on May 25, 1987 with workers and scaffolding

Handwritten letter from Johan Maurits to Constantijn Huygens inside view

Historic letter from Johan Maurits to Constantijn Huygens showing exterior view

Poster announcing the call for tenders for the reconstruction of the Mauritshuis by Paulus Scheltus

Princess Beatrix and Prince Claus at the opening of the Vermeer exhibition at Mauritshuis in The Hague, with Dr. A.B. de Vries explaining

The History and Architecture of the Mauritshuis

Early Origins and Architectural Significance

Commissioned by Johan Maurits of Nassau-Siegen and built between 1633 and 1644, the Mauritshuis exemplifies Dutch classicist architecture. Designed by Jacob van Campen and Pieter Post, its harmonious proportions, classical columns, and symmetrical layout set a precedent for urban palaces in the Netherlands (Mauritshuis History). The mansion’s lavish interiors, such as the Golden Room with its gilded decorations and allegorical paintings, have been meticulously restored to evoke its original grandeur.

Transition to a Museum

Following its use as a residence and guesthouse, the Mauritshuis became a museum in 1822, housing the Royal Picture Gallery. Its collection has grown through royal acquisitions and significant private donations, evolving into an internationally renowned institution (The Low Countries).

Restoration and Modernization

The museum has undergone several restorations, notably after a devastating fire in 1704 and again during major renovations in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. Today’s Mauritshuis blends historical charm with modern amenities, including expanded exhibition space and improved visitor facilities (Mauritshuis History).

The Mauritshuis Collection: Highlights and Significance

Masterpieces of the Dutch Golden Age

The Mauritshuis is home to approximately 200 paintings on permanent display, with highlights such as:

Girl with a Pearl Earring by Johannes Vermeer: The museum’s most iconic work, celebrated for its enigmatic expression and masterful technique (Mauritshuis Highlights).
The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp by Rembrandt: A dramatic example of group portraiture and scientific inquiry (Essential Vermeer).
The Goldfinch by Carel Fabritius: Renowned for its realism and delicate execution.
The Bull by Paulus Potter: A monumental animal painting that astonishes with its scale and detail.
View of Delft by Johannes Vermeer, Self-Portrait by Rembrandt, and still lifes by artists such as Floris Claesz. van Dijck.

The museum’s collection encompasses a range of genres: portraits, landscapes, still lifes, genre scenes, and biblical or mythological subjects, reflecting the diversity and innovation of the Dutch Golden Age (Netherlands Insiders).

Engaging with History and Colonial Context

The Mauritshuis addresses the intertwined histories of art, colonialism, and the transatlantic slave trade. Dedicated spaces and exhibitions, such as “Shifting Image. In Search of Johan Maurits,” invite visitors to reflect on these complex legacies (Johan Maurits at Mauritshuis, The Low Countries).

Visiting the Mauritshuis: Hours, Tickets, and Access

Opening Hours

Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Thursday (extended): until 8:00 PM
Monday: Closed (except some holidays; check the official website)

Ticket Information

Standard Adult Ticket: €16–€19 (prices vary; check the official website)
Discounts: Available for students, seniors, and children; children under 18 often free
Museumkaart: Dutch Museum Card accepted
Advance Booking: Strongly recommended, especially during weekends and holidays
Time Slots: Entry managed to control visitor flow (tiqets.com)

Accessibility & Visitor Facilities

Wheelchair Access: Elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms throughout the museum
Cloakroom & Lockers: Free for coats and bags
Café: On-site for drinks and light meals
Gift Shop: Art books, prints, and souvenirs
Wi-Fi: Complimentary
Audio Guide: Via the free Mauritshuis App (bring headphones)
Guided Tours: Available in multiple languages; book in advance (hiddenholland.com)

Planning Your Visit: Tips and Itineraries

Best Times to Visit: Weekdays (especially Tuesday–Thursday) at opening or late afternoon are least crowded (thrillophilia.com).
Visit Duration: 1.5–3 hours allows ample time for highlights and ambiance.
Photography: Non-flash personal photography permitted; no flash, tripods, or selfie sticks.
Etiquette: Quiet enjoyment and respect for artwork proximity are appreciated.
App: Download the Mauritshuis App for audio tours.

Nearby The Hague Attractions

Combine your museum visit with other notable sites:

Binnenhof: Dutch Parliament, architectural centerpiece of The Hague
Escher in Het Paleis: Surreal graphic art by M.C. Escher
Panorama Mesdag: 19th-century panorama by Hendrik Willem Mesdag
Madurodam: Miniature park of Dutch landmarks
Scheveningen Beach: Accessible by tram for a seaside stroll (earthtrekkers.com)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Mauritshuis visiting hours?
A: Tuesday–Sunday, 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (Thursday until 8:00 PM). Closed Mondays.

Q: How do I buy Mauritshuis tickets?
A: Online via the official website, at the entrance, or via authorized resellers. Advance booking is recommended.

Q: Is the Mauritshuis accessible?
A: Yes, with elevators, ramps, and accessible facilities throughout.

Q: Are guided tours and audio guides available?
A: Yes, guided tours can be booked in advance; the free Mauritshuis App provides an audio guide.

Q: Can I take photos?
A: Non-flash photography is permitted for personal use. Some areas may have restrictions.

Q: How long does a typical visit last?
A: Most visitors spend 1.5–3 hours.

Address and Contact Information

Address: Plein 29, 2511 CS, The Hague, Netherlands
Phone: +31 70 302 3436
Website: https://www.mauritshuis.nl
Public Transport: Short walk from The Hague Centraal Station; trams and buses stop nearby.

Visuals and Media Suggestions

Include images of:

The Mauritshuis exterior (alt: “Mauritshuis museum exterior in The Hague”)
Iconic artworks such as “Girl with a Pearl Earring” (alt: “Vermeer Girl with a Pearl Earring at Mauritshuis”)
Interior period rooms and exhibition spaces
Maps showing the museum’s location among The Hague’s historical sites

Addressing Historical Context

The Mauritshuis is actively engaged in addressing its founder’s involvement in Dutch colonialism and the transatlantic slave trade. Through dedicated exhibits and educational programming, it encourages meaningful reflection on these intertwined histories (Johan Maurits at Mauritshuis, The Low Countries).

Plan Your Visit

Book your tickets in advance, download the Mauritshuis App for a self-guided audio tour, and explore the dynamic art and history of The Hague. For further insights, check out related articles on Dutch art, The Hague historical sites, and follow the museum’s latest updates.

For the latest information, always refer to the Mauritshuis official website.

Summary and Recommendations

The Mauritshuis stands as a crown jewel of The Hague, harmoniously blending historical grandeur, artistic mastery, and a commitment to transparency about its past. With accessible facilities, advanced ticketing, enriching tours, and proximity to other cultural landmarks, it promises a memorable experience for every visitor. Whether you are delving into Dutch Golden Age art for the first time or returning to revisit your favorite masterpieces, the Mauritshuis delivers a unique and profound encounter with art and history (Mauritshuis History, hiddenholland.com, thrillophilia.com).