Things to see and do in Rijswijk
Rijswijk is a perfect destination for those who appreciate history, culture, and nature all within easy reach of major Dutch cities like The Hague, Rotterdam, Leiden or Utrecht. Whether you’re exploring its historic landmarks, relaxing in one of its scenic parks, or enjoying delicious local cuisine, Rijswijk offers a unique and authentic Dutch experience.
If you want to escape the hustle of bigger cities while still being close to everything, Rijswijk is the ideal place to visit or even call home.
Top things to do in Rijswijk
When visiting this unique town in the Netherlands, be sure to check out these highlights that showcase Rijswijk’s fascinating past and lively present.
1. Old Town and the Oude Kerk
The historic center of Rijswijk is full of character, with cobblestone streets, charming boutiques, and cozy cafés. One of the most prominent landmarks is the Oude Kerk (Old Church), a striking 15th-century building with a serene atmosphere and a beautifully preserved interior. Walking through the old town feels like stepping back in time.
2. Museum Rijswijk
Housed in a 17th-century mansion, Museum Rijswijk showcases exhibitions on local history, contemporary art, and the town’s renowned textile traditions. The museum is particularly famous for its international paper art exhibitions, held every two years.
3. Landgoed Te Werve
Te Werve is one of Rijswijk’s best-kept secrets a beautiful estate with a historic manor house, woodland trails, and a serene lake. Perfect for a relaxing walk or a picnic, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.
4. Rijswijkse Bos and the Peace Palace connections
Rijswijkse Bos is not just a green escape; it also has a deep historical significance. It was the site of the 1697 Treaty of Rijswijk, which ended the Nine Years’ War. A monument still stands here to commemorate this pivotal event. The park is also a great spot for cycling and walking.
5. Shopping at In de Bogaard
For those who love shopping, the In de Bogaard shopping center offers a variety of stores, from well-known brands to unique boutiques. It’s the perfect place to experience Rijswijk’s modern side, with plenty of cafes and restaurants to relax in after a day of browsing.
6. Hofrust Park
This beautiful park surrounds the Hofrust estate, once home to aristocrats and dignitaries. With its peaceful ponds, grand trees, and elegant walkways, Hofrust Park is ideal for a quiet afternoon stroll.
Staying in Rijswijk for the night
Rijswijk is not your first pick when you are a tourist, but it can be a very comfortable place to stay for business travellers as its location is suburb in the Randstad. When you are here for business we can recommend the Hotel & Spa Savarin – Rijswijk else you should go for Hotel Hoevevoorde. But to be fair we would rather stay in Voorburg (directly adjacent to Rijswijk, you can walk between the cities without knowing it) in the Central Park Voorburg – Relais & Chateaux much better in everything plus also for some free time to spare around. You can walk from here to Rijswijk in just 5 minutes.
Food and local specialties of the area
Rijswijk’s culinary scene offers a mix of traditional Dutch cuisine and international flavors. Some must-try specialties include:
- Stroopwafels – The famous Dutch caramel-filled waffle, best enjoyed fresh from the market.
- Poffertjes – Small, fluffy pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar.
- Herring with onions – A classic Dutch delicacy, best eaten in one bite the traditional way.
- Indonesian cuisine – Due to the Netherlands’ colonial past, Rijswijk has excellent Indonesian restaurants serving dishes like satay, nasi goreng, and rendang.
For the best dining experience, visit the charming eateries around the old town or try one of the stylish restaurants near Landgoed Te Werve.
Events and festivals
Rijswijk hosts a variety of events throughout the year that bring the community together:
- Rijswijkse Jaarmarkt – A lively annual fair featuring market stalls, food vendors, and entertainment.
- Paper Biennial at Museum Rijswijk – A prestigious international art exhibition showcasing innovative paper artworks.
- Christmas markets – In winter, Rijswijk transforms into a festive wonderland with twinkling lights, cozy stalls, and seasonal treats.
Living in Rijswijk
For expats and newcomers, Rijswijk offers the perfect balance between city life and suburban comfort. With excellent public transport connections, you can easily reach The Hague, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam. The town is also home to a mix of modern housing developments and historic neighborhoods, making it an attractive place to live.
Some of the most popular neighborhoods include:
- Rijswijk Oud (Old Rijswijk) – Known for its historic charm and beautiful canals.
- Te Werve – A peaceful area surrounded by greenery.
- Eikelenburg – A newer development offering modern amenities.
The main shopping street, Herenstraat, is the heart of Old Rijswijk, lined with boutiques, cafés, and cultural landmarks.
A rich historical background
Rijswijk’s history dates back to the Middle Ages, and it has played an important role in Dutch diplomacy and trade. The Treaty of Rijswijk (1697) was a major event that shaped European history, and remnants of this period can still be found in the town’s architecture and parks.
During the Golden Age, Rijswijk became a popular retreat for wealthy merchants, who built elegant estates in the countryside. Today, many of these grand houses still stand, offering a glimpse into the town’s aristocratic past.
Getting to Rijswijk
Rijswijk is conveniently located near The Hague and has excellent transportation links:
- By train: Direct trains run frequently from The Hague to Rijswijk Station, taking just a few minutes.
- By tram: Several trams connect Rijswijk to The Hague, Delft, and other nearby towns.
- By car: Easily accessible via the A4 and A13 motorways, with plenty of parking options available.
Nearby attractions
If you’re staying in Rijswijk, consider visiting these nearby attractions:
- The Hague – Just minutes away, offering world-class museums, shopping, and the famous Binnenhof.
- Delft – A historic city known for its canals, Delft Blue pottery, and connections to the Dutch royal family.
- Scheveningen – The Netherlands’ most famous beach, perfect for a day of sun, sea, and fresh seafood.