A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Geneva vs. The Hague for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Geneva or The Hague?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Geneva and The Hague. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Geneva

Geneva is a international, professional, and classy city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

The Hague

The Hague is a bustling, diverse, and global city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's also known for food, shopping, and nightlife.

Geneva and The Hague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Geneva or The Hague?

Travelers will generally find more things to do in Geneva than The Hague. While The Hague is larger than Geneva, Geneva has more sights and attractions for tourists. Geneva is more popular for its museums, historical sights, shopping, and impressive beauty, while The Hague is known for its nightlife and music. Geneva is more touristy than The Hague and is popular for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also home to The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau). The Hague is popular for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy.

How is Geneva different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between The Hague and Geneva. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Geneva or The Hague?

Geneva
The Hague

Geneva is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Geneva specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Geneva or The Hague? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Geneva
The Hague

Dining out at restaurants in both Geneva and The Hague can be an enjoyable experience.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Geneva makes for a great culinary experience. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

The Hague has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Is Geneva or The Hague Better for Nightlife?

Geneva
The Hague

The Hague is a great destination for nightlife. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for nightlife and partying.

The people in The Hague know how to have a good time. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

If you're looking for night time activities Geneva has a few options to choose from. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

Is Geneva or The Hague Better for Music?

Geneva
The Hague

The Hague is a great destination for live music. However, Geneva is not a live music destination.

The Hague has become a hotbed of musicians and artists. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Geneva is not a live music destination.


Is Geneva or The Hague Better for its Old Town?

Geneva
The Hague

Geneva is very good for its historic old town. However, The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Geneva is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.

The Hague does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Geneva or The Hague?

Geneva
The Hague

Geneva is an amazing city to visit for shopping. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Geneva. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

The Hague is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Is Geneva or The Hague Better for Families?

Geneva
The Hague

Both Geneva and The Hague are good family-friendly destinations.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Geneva. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

The Hague offers lots of family activities. This city has a bit more of a family-friendly vibe than nearby Amsterdam. Kids enjoy exploring by bike or heading to the Scheveningen Beach Resort.


Is Geneva or The Hague Better for Couples?

Geneva
The Hague

Geneva and The Hague both good destinations for a couple.

Geneva is a nice destination for couples. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.

The Hague makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Is Geneva or The Hague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Geneva
The Hague

The Hague is a good destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers visit The Hague. While most backpackers head to the more popular city of Amsterdam, The Hague has a fun atmosphere with a diversity of activities and restaurants.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Geneva or The Hague Better for Students?

Geneva
The Hague

The Hague is an unbeatable place for students. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its student-friendly activities.

The Hague is a very popular place to visit for students. This is a very popular study abroad destination so you'll find plenty of international students living here. It's an internationally oriented city so everyone feels right at home.

Geneva is a very popular city for students and younger travelers. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.


Is Geneva or The Hague Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Geneva
The Hague

Geneva is an amazing city to visit for times when you don't have a car. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its public transit.

Public transit in Geneva is top-notch. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

The Hague has some very good public transit options. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

Is Geneva or The Hague a more walkable city?

Geneva
The Hague

Geneva is an excellent place to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.

Geneva is very walkable. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

The Hague is a somewhat walkable place. There are a number of walk tours through the city center.

For even more information, also check out Is Geneva Worth Visiting? and Is The Hague Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in The Hague or Geneva?

How long in Geneva or The Hague?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Geneva and The Hague. In our opinion, Geneva has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Geneva than The Hague. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Geneva than The Hague. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Geneva, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Geneva than The Hague. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Geneva that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in The Hague than Geneva if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in The Hague.


  • How many days in Geneva or The Hague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Geneva 1-3 
    The Hague 1-3

One day in Geneva or The Hague?

People visit Geneva because there is so much to do. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Geneva has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting the big city destination of The Hague. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Geneva or The Hague?

People visit Geneva because there is so much to do. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The Hague is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Geneva or The Hague?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the professional city of Geneva. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hague. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Geneva or The Hague?

Geneva is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the international big city of The Hague. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland, The Best Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, The Hague or Geneva?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Geneva is $210, while the average daily cost in The Hague is $193. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Geneva and The Hague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Geneva $145
    The Hague $113
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Geneva $290
    The Hague $226
Compare Hotels in Geneva and The Hague

Looking for a hotel in Geneva or The Hague? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Geneva


Hotels in The Hague


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Geneva Hotel Prices and The Hague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Geneva $9.38
    The Hague $21

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • VIP Transfer: $72
  • Private Transfer: Geneva Airport to Zermatt Tasch Station: $689
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airpot to Geneva City: $108
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Verbier: $576
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Annecy: $171
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Adelboden: $678
  • Private Transfer From Geneva City to Lyon City : $109
  • Private Transfer From Geneva Airport to Veysonnaz: $557
  • Private Transfer From Geneva Airport to Valmorel: $553
  • Private Transfer From Geneva Airport to Val-d'Illiez: $438
  • Private Transfer From Geneva Airport to Val d'Isere: $826
  • Private Transfer From Geneva Airport to Saas-Fee: $689

Hired Cars and Shuttles in The Hague

Also for The Hague, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Amsterdam: Private Transfer to/from The Hague: $277
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.19
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $27
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $255
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $136
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $136
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $125
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16

Is it cheaper to fly into Geneva or The Hague?

Prices for flights to both The Hague and Geneva change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Geneva $52
    The Hague $60

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Geneva.

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $145
  • City Tour and Fondue Cooking Class: $185
  • Food tour in Geneva: $2,406

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in The Hague

For The Hague, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • WALKING DINNER DELFT | 3 courses incl. 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87
  • WALKING DINNER ZOETERMEER | 3 courses + 3 drinks and a lot of fun: $87

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Geneva $30
    The Hague $37

Tours and Activities in Geneva

Here are a few actual costs in Geneva for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • (KTG210) - Geneva City Tour and Yvoire: $176
  • (KTG353) - Winter Tour: Gruyeres, chocolate tour from Geneva: $169
  • (STTG04) - Sightseeing Cruise at Geneva with Wine and Aperitif: $33
  • 2-Hour Small-Group Bike Guided Tour in Geneva: $34
  • 3 Hour Private Chocolate and Watch Walking Tour of Geneva: $168
  • Annecy - Venice of the Alps - Tour from Geneva: $84
  • Annecy Private Guided Tour from Geneva: $354
  • Audioguided sightseeing cruise of Geneva: $21
  • Best of Geneva City Tour with optional boat cruis3e: $65
  • Best of Geneva City tour with Panoramic Bus: $17
  • Chamonix Mont-Blanc Full Day Guided Tour : $112
  • Chamonix Self-guided Sightseeing Tour from Geneva: $89

Tours and Activities in The Hague

For The Hague, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.24
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.24
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.51
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.92
  • The Historical Heart of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $7.98
  • Gilde Den Haag: City Walking Tour NL-DEU-ENG: $8.51
  • Tour of the Tulip Fields in a Typical Ducth Tulip Farm: $8.62
  • The Hague Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.31
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Geneva $22
    The Hague $32

Sample the Local Flavors in The Hague

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in The Hague:

  • The Hague Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12


When comparing the travel costs between Geneva and The Hague, we can see that Geneva is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Geneva Expensive? and Is The Hague Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Geneva or The Hague?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Geneva. When comparing the sizes of Geneva and The Hague, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Geneva or The Hague?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Geneva or The Hague in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Geneva as well as The Hague. Many travelers come to Geneva for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, many visitors come to The Hague in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

Geneva is a little warmer than The Hague in the summer. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 22°C (71°F) in July, and The Hague fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in The Hague. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Geneva this time of the year. In the summer, Geneva often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 202 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets less rain in July than The Hague. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Geneva 22°C (71°F) 
    The Hague 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Geneva or The Hague in the Autumn?

Both The Hague and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Geneva in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to The Hague for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months.

In the autumn, Geneva is a little warmer than The Hague. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Geneva in October average around 14°C (56°F), and The Hague averages at about 11°C (51°F).

Geneva usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during autumn. Geneva gets 127 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Geneva usually receives more rain than The Hague. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Geneva 14°C (56°F) 
    The Hague 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Geneva or The Hague in the Winter?

Both The Hague and Geneva during the winter are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Geneva for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to The Hague because of the shopping scene and the cuisine.

The weather in The Hague can be very cold. Geneva can be very cold during winter. In January, Geneva is generally much warmer than The Hague. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 4°C (39°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Geneva often gets more sunshine than The Hague. Geneva gets 62 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 47 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets less rain in January than The Hague. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Geneva 4°C (39°F) 
    The Hague 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Geneva or The Hague in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Geneva and The Hague. The spring months attract visitors to Geneva because of the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, the activities around the city are the main draw to The Hague this time of year.

Geneva is much warmer than The Hague in the spring. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and The Hague fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

Geneva usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during spring. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Geneva usually receives more rain than The Hague. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Geneva 11°C (53°F) 
    The Hague 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for The Hague and Geneva

Geneva The Hague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)