Around Plein, the Binnenhof and De Passage

Why go

Plein's government-facing edges and the statue of William of Orange set up the civic story. Nearby, the Binnenhof's layered buildings face the Hofvijver, showing how a medieval court grew into the seat of Dutch government. De Passage adds a different nineteenth-century layer: a covered shopping gallery rather than another state building. These places make a useful short orientation walk, even if access around the Binnenhof changes during renovation.

What to look for

• The statue of William of Orange at the centre of Plein.
• The Binnenhof's buildings reflected in the Hofvijver.
• De Passage's covered nineteenth-century shopping gallery.

Useful to know

• Use Plein and Hofvijver for exterior orientation; check current Binnenhof access before planning an interior visit.
• Pair this walk with the Mauritshuis if you want art as well as civic history.