Which place is cheaper, Madrid or The Hague?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit The Hague or Madrid?
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 Madrid can help you decide which place is right for you.
The Hague
The Hague is a diverse, global, and international city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. Other reasons to visit include shopping, nightlife, and live music.
Madrid
Madrid is a friendly, authentic, and cultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. Other reasons to visit include shopping, museums, and nightlife.
The Hague and Madrid: Pros and Cons
The Hague
Pros- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Big city activities
- Less walkable
Madrid
Pros- Popular museums and historical sights
- Active nightlife
- Good music scene
- Family-friendly
- Good for couples and romance
- Good for backpackers and budget travelers
- Very walkable
- Big city activities
Is there more to do in The Hague or Madrid?
Travelers will usually find more to do in Madrid than The Hague, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Madrid is more touristy than The Hague and is known for its art and architecture, its tapas and culinary scene, and its lively flamenco dancing. It is also home to The Prado Museum. The Hague is popular for its large international population and its roll in international politics and diplomacy.
How is The Hague different from Madrid?
Which is Better for a Holiday?
Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Madrid 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 Madrid?
The Hague
Madrid
Madrid is very good for its museums and history. However, The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.
Madrid is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are a number of cultural sights in the city including Museo Nacional del Prado, the Royal Palace and Gardens, and Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía.
The Hague does not have museums and landmarks.
Is the Food Better in The Hague or Madrid? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?
The Hague
Madrid
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for its restaurants. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.
Madrid has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. The city has a mix of flavors that come from all of Spain. There are amazing markets where you can grab a meal or snack. There are also many high quality restaurants around town where you're guaranteed a good meal. Local favorites include roast suckling pig, Spanish omelette, and meat and chickpea stew.
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.
Is The Hague or Madrid Better for Nightlife?
The Hague
Madrid
Both The Hague and Madrid have superb vibes after the sun sets.
The Hague has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. Many of the city's restaurants turn into clubs at night. Head to The Grote Markt for some of the most energetic nightlife.
The people in Madrid know how to have a good time. Many tourists and international students hang out in the Huertas area, while Malasaña has a bohemian, hipster vibe with small clubs that play indie music. Chueca is a fun area that's known for being gay-friendly with many good bars. Finally, you'll find that the area around Avenida de Brasil is where famous DJs often perform.
Is The Hague or Madrid Better for Music?
The Hague
Madrid
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for live music. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its live music scene.
Madrid is known as a music capital around the world. Rock, jazz, and flamenco are all popular in the city. Some of the most well known music venues include Sala Caracol, Sala Clamores, and Costello Club.
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.
Is the Shopping Better in The Hague or Madrid?
The Hague
Madrid
Madrid 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 Madrid. Gran Vía is a main thoroughfare in Madrid that is also popular for shopping. Calle Fuencarral is where you'll find the fashion shops and Calle Preciados is a fun pedestrian area to explore.
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 The Hague or Madrid Better for Families?
The Hague
Madrid
Madrid is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.
Madrid is a very family-friendly destination. Kids love splashing around at Madrid Río, taking a ride on the cable car (Teleférico), and exploring the city's many parks and playgrounds. There's even a maze at Sabatini Gardens. Restaurants around the city are also very kid-friendly.
You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in The Hague. 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 The Hague or Madrid Better for Couples?
The Hague
Madrid
Madrid is an excellent place to visit for romance. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.
Madrid makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Fun and romantic activities around town include taking a boat ride at Casa de Campo, riding a bike in one of the many parks, and enjoy dinner and show in the evening.
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 The Hague or Madrid Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?
The Hague
Madrid
Madrid is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.
Madrid is very popular with the backpacker crowd. The many hostels around town make it easy for backpackers to find affordable accommodation while also meeting other travelers.
It's common for backpackers to 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.
Is The Hague or Madrid Better for Students?
The Hague
Madrid
Both The Hague and Madrid are amazing destinations for students.
Students come from all over the world to visit 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.
Madrid is a great destination for students. With several great universities, this city is popular with international and study abroad students. The city also has a diverse population and an active nightlife that appeals to students.
Is The Hague or Madrid Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?
The Hague
Madrid
Madrid 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 Madrid is top-notch. The system includes the Madrid Metro, buses, and a light rail system.
The Hague has some very good public transit options. There are bus and tram lines throughout the city.
Is The Hague or Madrid a more walkable city?
The Hague
Madrid
Madrid is an amazing city to visit for its walkability. Also, The Hague is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its high level of walkability.
It's very easy to get around on foot in Madrid. Most tourists stay in the central part of Madrid where it's compact and relatively easy to walk to most tourist sights.
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 Madrid Worth Visiting?.
Should I spend more time in Madrid or The Hague?
How long in The Hague or Madrid?
In either The Hague or Madrid, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Madrid than The Hague because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for The Hague, and 2-5 days is enough time in Madrid.
Families should spend more time in Madrid than The Hague. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Madrid, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.
Couples should spend more time in Madrid than The Hague. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Madrid that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.
Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Madrid than The Hague 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 Madrid.
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How many days in The Hague or Madrid? Ideal Length of StayThe Hague 1-3Madrid 2-5
One day in The Hague or Madrid?
The Hague is a bustling city that offers something for everyone. One day is often enough time to do most activities.
You'll find nightlife and live music around the city of Madrid. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.
A weekend in The Hague or Madrid?
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.
You'll find live music and food around the diverse big city of Madrid. 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.
Five days in The Hague or Madrid?
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.
You'll find food and shopping around the compact city of Madrid. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. If you have five days, this city makes for a great vacation. Five days should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer.
A week in The Hague or Madrid?
Travelers enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the global 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.
Madrid 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.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Netherlands, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, The Best Contiki Tours to Spain, and The Best G Adventures Tours to Spain.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayThe Hague €178Madrid €136
The average daily cost (per person) in The Hague is €178, while the average daily cost in Madrid is €136. 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 Madrid in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personThe Hague €104Madrid €77
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomThe Hague €208Madrid €154
Compare Hotels in The Hague and Madrid
Looking for a hotel in The Hague or Madrid? 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.
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 and Madrid Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.The Hague €19Madrid €19
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
- 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
- Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Den Haag: $27
- 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: $8.19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Madrid
Some typical examples of transportation costs in Madrid are as follows:
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Taxi Ride€26
Hired Cars and Shuttles in Madrid
Also for Madrid, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:
- Vehicle transfer with driver included in Madrid: $218
- Try find your better than us ! Airport transfer service in Madrid APT-HTL (MAD): $61
- Transfers Madrid Airport to Madrid Center in Vans up to 7 Passengers: $47
- Transfer to Barajas Airport from Madrid: $76
- Transfer in private minivan from Madrid City - Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD): $75
- Transfer in private minivan from Madrid Airport (MAD) - Madrid City: $75
- Transfer in Private Vehicle from Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD) - Madrid City: $61
- Transfer from Barajas Airport to Madrid: $95
- Shuttle Transfer Arrivals: Madrid Airport to City Center: $140
- Segovia: Full-Day Tour with Transfer to and from Madrid: $447
- Roundtrip Transfer Private Minivan Madrid Airport (MAD) - Madrid City: $149
- Round Trip Transfer from Madrid Airport MAD to Madrid by Sedan: $78
Is it cheaper to fly into The Hague or Madrid?
Prices for flights to both Madrid 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
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Food Meals for one dayThe Hague €55Madrid €34
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
Typical Food Prices in Madrid
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Madrid:
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Coffee€2.00
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Ice Cream€3.00
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Kebabs (for 2)€16
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Croissant€1.50
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Lunch at Airport (for 2)€16
Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Madrid
For Madrid, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:
- Tipsy Tapas Food Tour with Drinks and Food: $27
- Drunken Tapas Food Tour with Dinner in Madrid: $32
- Tapas Dinner Party Food Tour with Guide: $33
- Tapas Crawl Food Tour with 6 Tapas and 4 Drinks: $35
- Madrid Tipsy Tapas Guided Food Tour with Dinner: $42
- Madrid Tapas Dinner Party with Guide: $43
- Madrid Tipsy Tapas Tour with Dinner and Drinks: $43
- Paella and Sangria Workshop with Dinner and Drinks: $47
- San Miguel Market and Street Food Tour: $52
- The Authentic Morning Madrid's Food Tour: $59
- Opera and Zarzuela Show and Dinner: $61
- Iberico Ham and Spanish Wine Small-Group Food Tour: $63
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.The Hague €34Madrid €34
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: $3.24
- 2 Hours Walking Tour in The Hague: $3.24
- Amsterdam: The Hague, Delft and Rotterdam Private Day Tour: $532
- Boattour The Hague and Scheveningen: $319
- Delft: Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
- Den Haag: Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $73
- 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 Tulip and Flower Fields GPS audio tour: $138
- Electric Jeep Tour: $135
- Enjoy the tulip fields by bicycle with a local guide! Tulip bike tour!: $49
Tours and Activities in Madrid
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Madrid.
- Madrid Photo Tour with Pro Photographer Lifestyle and Portrait: $82
- Skip the Line Guided Tour Royal Palace Madrid: $72
- Toledo with Cathedral from Madrid Full Day Tour: $134
- "Prado Museum" Tour A Treasure of World Art: $66
- 2 Days Guided Cultural Tour in Madrid Royal Palace and 3 Museums : $208
- 2-Hour Private Walking Tour through the Beautiful Streets of Madrid: $49
- 2-Hour Tour of the Madrid of Mysteries: $14
- 2-Hour Walking Tour on the History of Islamic Medieval the origins: $38
- 2.5-Hour Evening Tapas Tour through Madrid: $37
- 3 Hours Walking Tour in Madrid: $266
- 3-Hour Private Tour of Madrid by Bike: $29
- 3-Hour Tapas Walking Tour of Madrid Food and Drink Included: $93
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayThe Hague €30Madrid €20
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
Typical Alcohol Prices in Madrid
Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Madrid are as follows:
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Beer€5.00
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Drinks and Tapas (for 2)€13
Sample the Local Flavors in Madrid
Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Madrid:
- Pub Crawl with Tapas and VIP Club Entry: $9.58
- Madrid Pub Crawl with VIP Club Entrance: $11
- Visit to the Winery with Wine Tasting and Appetizers in Navarra: $12
- Pub crawl & Party Tour Madrid: $14
- Pub Crawl Madrid Running since 2005 Bar Exploration: $16
- Guided Pub Crawl Madrid Experience and Club Entry: $16
- Pub Crawl Madrid: $19
- Wine Tasting Experience with 4 Spanish Wines: $26
- Wine Tour with tasting in the Natural Park of La Mata: $38
- Wine Tasting Experience: $49
- Toledo Day Trip with Winery Visit and Wine Tasting: $55
- Toledo Full Day with Winery Visit, Tapas & Wine Tasting : $57
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between The Hague and Madrid, we can see that The Hague is more expensive. And not only is Madrid much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Madrid would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Madrid 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 Madrid.
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 Madrid Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, The Hague or Madrid?
Madrid has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of The Hague. When comparing the sizes of The Hague and Madrid, 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.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.