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

Should you visit The Hague or Howth?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between The Hague and Howth can help you decide which place is right for you.

The Hague

The Hague is a bustling, diverse, and global city. Travelers will also find plenty of sights and attractions here, as it's a big city that attracts lots of visitors. And you can't forget about the food, shopping, and nightlife.

Howth

Howth is a coastal, beautiful, and picturesque fishing village. This is a charming small with plenty of activities, too. Other reasons to visit include beaches, hiking, and museums.

The Hague and Howth: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Big city activities
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in The Hague or Howth?

Travelers will usually find more to do in The Hague. Although The Hague and Howth are popular destinations, The Hague has more sights and attractions for tourists. The Hague is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Howth attracts visitors for its museums, beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Howth is more touristy than The Hague and is popular for its scenic coastline, charming character, and its accessibility to Dublin. 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 The Hague different from Howth?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

The Hague
Howth

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

Howth is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. The surrounding coastline is the main draw to this picturesque town but there is also a nice harbor, pier, and lighthouse that you can visit.

The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.


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

The Hague
Howth

The Hague is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

Eating is part of the travel experience when you visit The Hague. The city has a diverse population and the large number of ethnic restaurants reflects that.

Howth is becoming an appealing option for foodies. There are seafood restaurants and a few pubs where you can enjoy some fresh food and the local ambiance.

Is The Hague or Howth Better for Nightlife?

The Hague
Howth

The Hague is well known for nightlife and partying. However, Howth is not particularly known for its evening party scene.

The Hague is a popular destination for visitors looking to party into the night. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.

Howth doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. There are a few pubs around town but if you're looking for a real nightlife scene then your best bet is to head into Dublin.

Is The Hague or Howth Better for Music?

The Hague
Howth

The Hague is well known for its live music scene. However, Howth is not a live music destination.

Music is a popular form of entertainment in The Hague. There's an active music scene here and the city actually played an active role in the development and popularity of electronic music.

Howth is not a live music destination.


Is The Hague or Howth Better for Beaches?

The Hague
Howth

Howth is an excellent place to visit for its beaches. However, The Hague is not a beach destination.

Howth is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. Many people head to this coastal town specifically to hang out on the beach. There's also the Howth Cliff Path which is fun to explore. Some of the top beaches in the area include Red Rock Beach, Claremont Beach, and Balscadden Bay Beach. The beaches can be rocky and rough so make sure you understand the water conditions before heading to the beach.

The Hague is not a beach destination.

Is The Hague or Howth Better for Hiking?

The Hague
Howth

Howth is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, The Hague is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Howth. The best way to experience Howth is to explore the The Howth Cliff Walk. There are several versions of the hike that cater to different experience and skill levels.

The Hague is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in The Hague or Howth?

The Hague
Howth

The Hague is well known for its shopping opportunities. However, Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

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.

Howth is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is The Hague or Howth Better for Families?

The Hague
Howth

You'll find nice kid-friendly activities in either The Hague or Howth.

The Hague is a family-friendly city. 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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Howth. It has a beach where kids can run around. There are also playgrounds, a lighthouse, and a pier to explore.

Is The Hague or Howth Better for Couples?

The Hague
Howth

Both The Hague and Howth are nice destinations to visit as a couple.

The Hague is a nice destination for couples. Couples can enjoy the diverse restaurants and the busting atmosphere that the city offers.

Howth makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The small fishing village has some great seafood restaurants and a beach where couples can pass the time.

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

The Hague
Howth

The Hague is a popular place for backpackers. However, Howth is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

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.

Howth is not the best destination for backpackers and budget travelers due to its high prices. It a small village outside of Dublin so most backpackers don't make it this way.


Is The Hague or Howth Better for Students?

The Hague
Howth

The Hague is an amazing city to visit for students. However, Howth 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.

Howth is not popular with students.

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

The Hague
Howth

The Hague is well known for its public transit. Also, Howth is still popular, but not quite as popular for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in The Hague can get you to some places easily. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.

While Howth offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. It's easy to reach the town from Dublin by DART.

Is The Hague or Howth a more walkable city?

The Hague
Howth

Howth 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.

Howth is very walkable. It's a small town that's easy to explore on foot. There are also many walks through the cliffs.

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 The Hague Worth Visiting? and Is Howth Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Howth or The Hague?

How long in The Hague or Howth?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in The Hague or Howth to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in The Hague than Howth because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for The Hague, and 1-2 days is enough time in Howth.

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

Couples should spend more time in The Hague than Howth. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in The Hague 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 Howth 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 The Hague or Howth? Ideal Length of Stay
    The Hague 1-3 
    Howth 1-2

One day in The Hague or Howth?

Each neighborhood in The Hague has its own distinct appeal, so there are pleny of areas to explore. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

You'll find food and museums around the fishing village of Howth. Many visitors spend time at the beach while visiting the area. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Howth has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in The Hague or Howth?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in The Hague. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

You'll find museums and food around the coastal destination of Howth. Hikers are also drawn to this area. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this fishing village has to offer. This fishing village offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Five days in The Hague or Howth?

The Hague is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting the big city destination of The Hague. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the picturesque fishing village of Howth. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. It's also a great beach destination, too. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


A week in The Hague or Howth?

You'll find live music and food around the international big city of The Hague. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Howth is a popular choice for travelers. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Netherlands, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best 2-Week Tours in Ireland, and Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Ireland.


Which place is cheaper, Howth or The Hague?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in The Hague is €178, while the average daily cost in Howth is €135. 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 The Hague and Howth in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    The Hague 104
    Howth 64
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    The Hague 208
    Howth 128
Compare Hotels in The Hague and Howth

Looking for a hotel in The Hague or Howth? 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 The Hague


Hotels in Howth


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: The Hague Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    The Hague 19
    Howth 41

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
  • 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: $8.23
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $28
  • 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
  • Utrecht: Train Transfer Utrecht from/to Den Haag: $16

Is it cheaper to fly into The Hague or Howth?

Prices for flights to both Howth and The Hague 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
    The Hague 55
    Howth 44

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.
    The Hague 34
    Howth 25

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: $3.27
  • 2 Hours Walking Tour in Delft: $3.27
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.56
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.95
  • The Historical Heart of A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $8.02
  • Gilde Den Haag: City Walking Tour NL-DEU-ENG: $8.56
  • The Hague Self-Guided Audio Tour : $9.00
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.36
  • Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • The Hague Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Escher in The Palace Museum Ticket: $12

Tours and Activities in Howth

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

  • Dublin: Full-Day Howth and Malahide Castle Tour: $52

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    The Hague 30
    Howth 21

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between The Hague and Howth, we can see that The Hague is more expensive. And not only is Howth much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Howth would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Howth and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in The Hague would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in The Hague than you might in Howth.

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



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

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 The Hague or Howth in the Summer?

Both Howth and The Hague during the summer are popular places to visit. Most visitors come to The Hague for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Howth because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, The Hague is around the same temperature as Howth. Typically, the summer temperatures in The Hague in July average around 17°C (62°F), and Howth averages at about 16°C (60°F).

It's quite sunny in The Hague. In the summer, The Hague often gets more sunshine than Howth. The Hague gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Howth receives 166 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets more rain in July than Howth. The Hague gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Howth receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    The Hague 17°C (62°F) 
    Howth 16°C (60°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Howth in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both The Hague and Howth. The autumn months attract visitors to The Hague because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Furthermore, the hiking trails and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Howth this time of year.

In October, The Hague is generally around the same temperature as Howth. Daily temperatures in The Hague average around 11°C (51°F), and Howth fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

The Hague usually receives more sunshine than Howth during autumn. The Hague gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 97 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, The Hague usually receives around the same amount of rain as Howth. The Hague gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Howth receives 70 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    The Hague 11°C (51°F) 
    Howth 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Howth in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to The Hague as well as Howth. The shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to The Hague this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Howth for the museums and the cuisine.

It's quite cold in The Hague in the winter. The Hague is much colder than Howth in the winter. The daily temperature in The Hague averages around 2°C (36°F) in January, and Howth fluctuates around 6°C (42°F).

In the winter, The Hague often gets less sunshine than Howth. The Hague gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Howth receives 56 hours of full sun.

The Hague usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Howth. The Hague gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Howth receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    The Hague 2°C (36°F) 
    Howth 6°C (42°F)

Should I visit The Hague or Howth in the Spring?

Both Howth and The Hague are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to The Hague for the activities around the city. Also, many visitors come to Howth in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, The Hague is cooler than Howth. Typically, the spring temperatures in The Hague in April average around 8°C (46°F), and Howth averages at about 8°C (47°F).

The Hague usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Howth during spring. The Hague gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Howth receives 157 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, The Hague usually receives around the same amount of rain as Howth. The Hague gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Howth receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    The Hague 8°C (46°F) 
    Howth 8°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Howth and The Hague

The Hague Howth
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 6°C (42°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (42°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 11°C (52°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 14°C (57°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 16°C (60°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (60°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 14°C (56°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 70 mm (2.7 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.5 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (44°F) 76 mm (3 in)