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

Should you visit Southampton or The Hague?

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

Should I visit Southampton or The Hague? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Southampton

Southampton is a up-and-coming, waterfront, and dynamic port city. It's a gorgeous place to visit. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums.

The Hague

The Hague is a diverse, global, and international city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. Visitors also love the shopping, nightlife, and live music.

Southampton and The Hague: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities


Is there more to do in Southampton or The Hague?

Tourists will generally find more to do in The Hague than Southampton. It is bigger and it has more sights, attractions, and activities for travelers. The Hague is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Southampton attracts visitors for its museums and impressive beauty. Southampton is famous for its popularity as a cruise ship port as well as its focus watersports. The Hague is famous for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy. It is also well known for The Peace Palace.

How is Southampton different from The Hague?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Southampton
The Hague

Southampton is very good for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.

Southampton is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. Museums are a favorite activity in town. There are a surprising number of options including SeaCity Museum, the Tudor House and Garden, and Southampton City Art Gallery.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Southampton
The Hague

The Hague is a great city for its local flavors and cuisine. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its local cuisine and restaurants.

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

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Southampton area. While most people used to pass through Southampton on their way somewhere else, the city now offers a dynamic food scene with local restaurants mixed with international options and even fine dining.

Is Southampton or The Hague Better for Nightlife?

Southampton
The Hague

The Hague is a great city for nightlife and partying. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its evening party scene.

The nightlife in The Hague has something for everybody. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Southampton. The nightlife scene is filled with restaurants, pubs, and bars as well as a few nightclubs mixed in.

Is Southampton or The Hague Better for Music?

Southampton
The Hague

The Hague is a great city for its live music scene. However, Southampton is not a live music destination.

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

Southampton is not a live music destination.


Is the Shopping Better in Southampton or The Hague?

Southampton
The Hague

The Hague is a great city for its shopping opportunities. Also, Southampton is not as popular, but is still a nice port city for its shopping areas.

The Hague is well-known for its shopping. There's a dynamic shopping scene with indoor malls, outdoor markets, and a number of neighborhoods that have shops that sell eclectic items.

Many visitors go to Southampton to go shopping. The city has two indoor shopping centers, as well as a range of markets and several independent vendors.

Is Southampton or The Hague Better for Families?

Southampton
The Hague

Kids will enjoy a visit to either Southampton or The Hague.

Southampton offers lots of family activities. This cruise port city offers a handful of fascinating activities for kids including learning about the Mayflower and the Titanic. There are also many parks and gardens as well as the Mayflower Theater, which regularly has kid-family productions.

The Hague is a family-friendly place to visit. 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 Southampton or The Hague Better for Couples?

Southampton
The Hague

Southampton is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Southampton makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Museums, parks, gardens, and chartered boats all offer a romantic experience for couples visiting the area.

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 Southampton or The Hague Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Southampton
The Hague

The Hague is a popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Southampton is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Southampton or The Hague Better for Students?

Southampton
The Hague

The Hague is an amazing city to visit for its student-friendly activities. However, Southampton is not popular with students.

Many students frequent The Hague. 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.

Southampton is not popular with students.

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

Southampton
The Hague

The Hague is a great city for times when you don't have a car. However, Southampton is not known for its public transit.

The public transit in The Hague can get you around easily. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

Public transit is generally limited in Southampton. There are buses around town that make some areas accessible even without a car.


Is Southampton or The Hague a more walkable city?

Southampton
The Hague

Southampton and The Hague are nice when it comes to walkability.

Southampton is a somewhat walkable place. It's possible to walk in parts of Southampton but in general it's easier to take a taxi.

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

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

Should I spend more time in The Hague or Southampton?

How long in Southampton or The Hague?

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in The Hague than Southampton 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 Southampton or The Hague? Ideal Length of Stay
    Southampton 1-3 
    The Hague 1-3

One day in Southampton or The Hague?

You'll find shopping and museums around the port city of Southampton. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Southampton has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

The Hague is a bustling city where you can fill many days. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Southampton or The Hague?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the dynamic destination of Southampton. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this port city has to offer. This port city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

The Hague is a global big city where you can fill many days. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.


Five days in Southampton or The Hague?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the waterfront port city of Southampton. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The diverse city of The Hague offers food and shopping. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

A week in Southampton or The Hague?

Southampton 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.

Many people enjoy the shopping and nightlife when visiting The Hague. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Edinburgh, The Best 10-Day Tours from London, The Best Luxury Tours to Netherlands, and The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, The Hague or Southampton?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Southampton is £132, while the average daily cost in The Hague is £152. 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 Southampton and The Hague in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Southampton £85
    The Hague £89
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Southampton £170
    The Hague £178
Compare Hotels in Southampton and The Hague

Looking for a hotel in Southampton 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 Southampton


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: Southampton Hotel Prices and The Hague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Southampton £8.70
    The Hague £16
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Southampton

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Southampton:


  • Ferry to Isle of Wight
    £16

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Southampton

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

  • Transfers between Southampton and London via famous attractions: $153
  • Transfer from Southampton Port to Southampton Airport (SOU): $35
  • Transfer from Southampton Cruise Terminal to Hotel/Airport: $119
  • Private Transfer to London Hotels and Airports: $437
  • Cruise Transfer to London via Stonehenge: $156
  • Southampton to Southampton Airport (SOU) - Departure Transfer: $35
  • Southampton to London Stansted Airport (STN) - Departure Transfer: $198
  • Southampton to London Gatwick Airport (LGW) - Departure Transfer: $179
  • Southampton To London Private Transfer Service: $209
  • Southampton Port to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) - Departure Private Transfer : $124
  • Southampton Port to Heathrow Airport - Private Transfer: $270
  • Southampton Port to Gatwick Airport I Private Transfer: $300

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: $278
  • From One-Way Private Transfer to Schiphol Airport: $257
  • Private Transfer from The Hague City to Schiphol Airport : $137
  • Private Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam: $137
  • Taxi Transfer from The Hague to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: $126
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Den Haag: $20
  • Amsterdam: Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Den Haag: $17
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16
  • Den Haag: Train Transfer Den Haag from/to Rotterdam: $8.23

Is it cheaper to fly into Southampton or The Hague?

Prices for flights to both The Hague and Southampton 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
    Southampton £37
    The Hague £47
Typical Food Prices in Southampton

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Southampton:


  • Breakfast
    £4.00

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

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Southampton £19
    The Hague £29

Tours and Activities in Southampton

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Southampton.

  • Full Day Private Shore Tour in Winchester from Southampton Port: $112
  • Full Day Private Shore Tour in Windsor from Southampton Port: $160
  • Heritage and Majesty: Private Full-Day Tour from Southampton: $1,997
  • Heritage of the Titanic: Southampton Private Walking Tour: $484
  • Isle of Wight Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • London to Southampton and Portsmouth Cruise: $191
  • New Forest Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (7 Day Pass) UK: $32
  • Oxford and Blenheim Palace Day Tour from Southampton: $191
  • Private Day Tour To Bath And The Cotswolds: $406
  • Private Southampton Walking Tour: $22
  • Private cruise arrival from Southampton to London or airport: $159
  • Shuttle Service Southampton Cruise Terminals to Heathrow Airport and London: $153

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 Delft: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.27
  • Amsterdam: The Hague, Delft and Rotterdam Private Day Tour: $535
  • Bicycle tour The Hague Highlights: $27
  • Boattour The Hague and Scheveningen: $187
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Den Haag: Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $74
  • Discover Delft with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour!: $27
  • Discover The Hague's city center with an Outside Escape game tour: $27
  • Drive it yourself electric Dune & Summer Flower GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric History and Castle GPS audio tour: $97
  • Drive it yourself electric Tulip and Flower Fields GPS audio tour: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Southampton £21
    The Hague £25

Sample the Local Flavors in Southampton

Also in Southampton, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Southampton Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47

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 Southampton and The Hague, we can see that The Hague 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 Southampton Expensive? and Is The Hague Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Southampton or The Hague?

The Hague has a larger population, and is about 93% larger than the population of Southampton. When comparing the sizes of Southampton 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 Southampton or The Hague?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Southampton or The Hague in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Southampton and The Hague. The family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Southampton this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to The Hague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Southampton is generally around the same temperature as The Hague. Daily temperatures in Southampton average around 18°C (64°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in The Hague this time of the year. Southampton usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as The Hague during summer. Southampton gets 195 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 202 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Southampton usually receives less rain than The Hague. Southampton gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Southampton 18°C (64°F) 
    The Hague 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Southampton or The Hague in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Southampton as well as The Hague. Many travelers come to Southampton for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, many visitors come to The Hague in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene.

Southampton is a little warmer than The Hague in the autumn. The daily temperature in Southampton averages around 12°C (53°F) in October, and The Hague fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Southampton often gets around the same amount of sunshine as The Hague. Southampton gets 107 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 105 hours of full sun.

Southampton usually gets less rain in October than The Hague. Southampton gets 58 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Southampton 12°C (53°F) 
    The Hague 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit Southampton or The Hague in the Winter?

Both The Hague and Southampton are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many visitors come to Southampton in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, most visitors come to The Hague for the shopping scene and the cuisine during these months.

The Hague can be very cold during winter. Southampton can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Southampton is much warmer than The Hague. Typically, the winter temperatures in Southampton in January average around 4°C (40°F), and The Hague averages at about 2°C (36°F).

Southampton usually receives more sunshine than The Hague during winter. Southampton gets 52 hours of sunny skies, while The Hague receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Southampton usually receives less rain than The Hague. Southampton gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Southampton 4°C (40°F) 
    The Hague 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit Southampton or The Hague in the Spring?

Both The Hague and Southampton during the spring are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to Southampton for the natural beauty during these months. Also, the spring months attract visitors to The Hague because of the activities around the city.

In April, Southampton is generally a little warmer than The Hague. Daily temperatures in Southampton average around 9°C (48°F), and The Hague fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

In the spring, Southampton often gets around the same amount of sunshine as The Hague. Southampton gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while The Hague receives 158 hours of full sun.

Southampton usually gets less rain in April than The Hague. Southampton gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while The Hague receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Southampton 9°C (48°F) 
    The Hague 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for The Hague and Southampton

Southampton The Hague
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (40°F) 52 mm (2 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 7°C (44°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 13°C (55°F) 51 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 16°C (61°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 18°C (64°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 15°C (59°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 12°C (53°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 5°C (42°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)