Escher in The Palace
Escher in The Palace
4.5
Tuesday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
With a collection encompassing more than 120 prints, the most well-known works by M.C. Escher (1898-1972) are always on display at Escher in The Palace. You can enjoy his early Italian landscapes, his distinctive tessellations, his impossible buildings and his world-famous metamorphoses. Escher’s development as an artist is a key focus in the museum. His early work consists of early woodcuts of people and unrivalled depictions of nature and landscapes, in which he explores his talent. In his later work he develops his revolutionary tessellations, metamorphoses and optical illusions. Eternity and infinity are ever-present in his artworks, with his many tessellations providing ample evidence of this. The two themes crop up in many forms in The Palace. On the second floor you can immerse yourself in an interactive world that will teach you to see like Escher. Here you will puzzle with your eyes and play with your hands!
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Voorhout
How to get there
- Den Haag Centraal • 10 min walk
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
1,499 within 3 miles
Attractions
344 within 6 miles
See what travelers are saying
- DinoGVAGeneva, Switzerland19 contributionsExcellent family museum experienceAlthough Escher was not a favorite of ours, we visited based on a friend's recommendation and were glad we did so. Our party ranged from 10 to 50 years old, including teenagers, and all thoroughly enjoyed the museum. Also, well located to combine with other activities in The Hague.Visited December 2022Written January 3, 2023
- Serena GParis, France67 contributionsAmazing and inspiring gallery dedicated to a great artistI have absolutely loved the Escher exhibition. The beautiful classical building creates inspiring contrasts with the modern and psychedelic art by Escher. I believe it is an underrated museum and it fully deserve a visit if you happen to be in The Hague.Visited January 2023Written January 6, 2023
- BusyBerlinerBerlin, Germany64 contributionsFocus: EscherYou like Escher or you do not. This is an excellent overview of his work as a graphic artist and "intuitive mathematician". Some works are simply astounding. The third floor is rather playful, like a childrens' discovery space in other museums, you can safely skip it, if you are interested in Escher himself.Visited January 2023Written January 27, 2023
- Heather CRedbourn, United Kingdom32 contributionsWorth a visitI really enjoyed this. Dragged my 13 and 11 year around. If you are in Den Haag, definitely go and visit. There is free bag storage downstairs. The cafe was closed but they have a small gift shop so I bought a few bookmarks. We took lunch in a cafe around the corner.Visited February 2023Traveled with familyWritten February 16, 2023
- Maureen HJay, New York35 contributionsGreat place to visitWonderful museum! The building itself was interesting as the Winter Palace of the Queen and the museum had information about each room from her era. The main displays were well-done and informative. We especially appreciated the opportunity to see Escher's work alongside that of his mentor. Very interesting and worthwhile.Visited April 2023Written May 3, 2023
- Fraser HCanada20 contributionsFirst class exhibitFabulous exhibit of the work of MC Escher and his mentor, de Mesquita. Having been an admirer of Escher's work for many years, it was a treat to finally see these originals, and learn so much more about his work and the context of his work. A bonus is the fabulous building in which this exhibit is housed.Visited May 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten May 14, 2023
- Codiak!Abbotsford, Canada10,762 contributionsGreat Escher Museum!Enjoying Escher is one thing but doing so when the museum is the house of the former Queen is another. Both are spectacular in their own regard. Additionally the lighting that you see throughout the building is designed by another artist and really makes the whole visit worthwhile. What they have done particularly well is describe how Escher’s teacher and mentor guided his rise to artistic excellence.Visited May 2023Written June 12, 2023
- Hiro Protagonist1 contributionA Must-see when in Den HaagThe Exhibition is aptly housed in an old Palace with wooden stairs and high ceilings. The works and lives of Escher and his Mentor de Mesquita are explained in texts on the walls, so that visitors can connect to the artists and have an enlightening experience. On the third floor it gets interactive and fun. Wouldn't want to miss it!Visited July 2023Traveled with friendsWritten July 4, 2023
- Fabio footstepsPadua, Italy845 contributionsA lovely illusion!!I have to say I loved this museum showing Escher work. The palace is quite eccentric with its over-the-top chandelier. The museum is in three floors and the most well-know works are in the first floor. I visited during the week so the museum was not overcrowded. Definitely recommended to spend here at least few hours for some illusion fun.Visited August 2023Written August 27, 2023
- WKZH59 contributionsMesmerizing!This is a must see if you are into graphic art, Escher's prints are simple mesmerising and you can spend ages just looking at one print, there is so much going on and they are mind blowing. Give me his waterfalls over starry night any day! Great way to spend a few hours in The Hague!Visited August 2023Traveled with familyWritten September 3, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
2,983 reviews
Excellent
1,890
Very good
903
Average
149
Poor
28
Terrible
13
Mingalaba11
Hertfordshire193 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
I knew of Escher’s work and was intrigued to learn more about him. This museum certainly delivered. His early lithographs had entrancing detail, and the captions and information helped understand how his style and technique developed. It was wonderful to see the originals of all the pictures I knew beforehand. And yes of course we had our photo taken in the optical illusion chamber. Recommend this museum
Written January 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
bockbjj
Edmonton, Canada24 contributions
Feb 2020 • Solo
I've done a lot of museum and art gallery tours in the last few weeks but this one definately stands out. Escher had a unique style that blended mathematics and art. The top floor was especially interesting as it allows you to play with perspectives in a similar manner as Escher.
Written February 6, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Yum
The Netherlands160 contributions
Mar 2020 • Friends
This is one of the best museums in the city from Escher lovers and those who are not familiar with his work. Anyone can appreciate the art showcased here. The only thing missing is a video showcasing the method used in the making of lithographs.
Written March 9, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
tripsandfood55
London, UK3,874 contributions
Jun 2022
Since 2002 - A permanent exhibition of Escher art work in the Lange Voorhout Palace. The fee was 11 Euro (Adult) when we visited. We very much enjoyed the visit and thought that it was great value for money. Friendly polite staff. Worth a visit if your in the area.
Written August 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Andrea
Milan, Italy239 contributions
Jun 2021
Embarrassed to say I haven't heard of Escher before visiting the palace. I was a bit wary at first because I thought that museums like these are a thing only people with an art education can enjoy. However, this really isn't the museum for art snobs — it's just a super fun place for those who enjoy detailed paintings and optical illusions. I got stuck in front of nearly every piece trying to understand how it was made. I feel it would be especially cool to visit with children, that's definitely the kind of place you enjoy more at younger age. The palace itself is absolutely gorgeous as well!
Written June 23, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
colinsewell
Yorkshire, UK129 contributions
Sep 2022
As a child I liked Eschers' work and so decided we had to visit here on our trip to the Hague. Anyone who appreciates art or Eschers work should like this place. I have to say I thought some of the works a bit boring and uninspiring, particularly the ground floor, but the works did get better later with some of the more famous works.
We particularly liked the optical illusions on the top floor and these made the exhibition a little more interesting. The building is also very nice and enjoyable.
We spent about 1.5 hours here and think that would be enough unless you wanted to read every little bit of information on the exhibits. This would also be a good place to visit if the weather in the Hague was a bit overcast or rainy.
We particularly liked the optical illusions on the top floor and these made the exhibition a little more interesting. The building is also very nice and enjoyable.
We spent about 1.5 hours here and think that would be enough unless you wanted to read every little bit of information on the exhibits. This would also be a good place to visit if the weather in the Hague was a bit overcast or rainy.
Written September 6, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ken D
Ottawa, Canada127 contributions
Jul 2022
This was a great place to spend a couple of hours learning about Escher, his methods and history, and optical art. The setting is a former royal palace, so we also learned more about the royal family and the palace itself. Our teenage daughter enjoyed the hands on activities upstairs.
Written July 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
vanessabK6664WX
Cambridge, UK22 contributions
Sep 2023 • Solo
I got a bit lost walking from our hotel, but the added benefit of that was that I bumped into the rehearsals for Prince's Day - all the King's horses and all the King's men, followed by a road sweeper lorry for everything the horses left behind.
There was a short queue to pay to get in to the gallery, but that only took a few minutes. I had a handbag with me that they decided was too big, so I had to take a locker and leave my things in it. Their decisions as to which bags can be taken in and which must be put in a locker seemed a little random, but it was no problem to put my wallet in my pocket and leave my bag.
The gallery itself is wonderful. I was so impressed with Escher's skill and draftsmanship. It was great to get really close to things and be able to see the detail. Some of the interactive stuff with moving lights made me feel a little seasick, but I had a great visit.
The little cafe only takes credit cards, not cash.
I find shuffling around a gallery more tiring than walking, but most of the rooms have benches if you need a sit down.
As with almost everywhere in The Netherlands, all the staff speak perfect English.
There was a short queue to pay to get in to the gallery, but that only took a few minutes. I had a handbag with me that they decided was too big, so I had to take a locker and leave my things in it. Their decisions as to which bags can be taken in and which must be put in a locker seemed a little random, but it was no problem to put my wallet in my pocket and leave my bag.
The gallery itself is wonderful. I was so impressed with Escher's skill and draftsmanship. It was great to get really close to things and be able to see the detail. Some of the interactive stuff with moving lights made me feel a little seasick, but I had a great visit.
The little cafe only takes credit cards, not cash.
I find shuffling around a gallery more tiring than walking, but most of the rooms have benches if you need a sit down.
As with almost everywhere in The Netherlands, all the staff speak perfect English.
Written October 6, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Dancing Goat
3 contributions
Aug 2022
Really nice little gallery, with lots of interesting pieces by Escher. Well worth a visit. Only 4 stars as the interactive elements at the end of the tour were a little broken (often the case in museums it seems) and the perspective room cost extra (for a photoghraph). It would be much better if you could try out a few poses for fun and only have to pay if you choose to keep a photo.
Written October 28, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jan D
The Hague, The Netherlands45 contributions
Oct 2020
The Escher museum is very interesting and great fun and insightful to visit. The museum really did a great job of also showcasing the fantastic building. Was really interesting and the entire family enjoyed the visit.
Written January 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
onemorepet
Jacksonville, FL91 contributions
Thanks for your review. How long did you spend at the Escher?
Jeroen
Gelderland Province, The Netherlands13 contributions
i hope my answer will be still usefull. We spend there between 2 and 3 hours. We went with family from an other country and bought a combination ticket with Madurodam, it saved ua some money and was a perfectly filled day trip.
cruisequeen1947
San Clemente, CA98 contributions
Can we purchase the ticket upon arrival as our date is not fixed?Is the museum open on Sunday?
Thanks
meerja
Den Bosch, The Netherlands30 contributions
Hi,
There are direct trains from Amsterdam airport to The Hague. From there on it is a 10-15 minute walk to the museum. a visit takes about an hour and a half so no problem on a sunday. They close at 5 p.m.
amit s
6 contributions
I am planning to visit the museum.
Is it interesting for kids, ages 9-12?
meerja
Den Bosch, The Netherlands30 contributions
Hi Amit, There is treasure hunt/quest for kids to "guide" them trough the exhibtion, the quirky chandeliers are worth looking at. There is also an interactive part on the top floor where kids and adults can play with perspectives and let your eyes be fooled :) Enjoy!
arizka2
Jakarta, Indonesia109 contributions
Hi, how much is the ticket price to enter this museum? Do they allow us to bring our camera?
Thank you.
MarcelW1969
The Hague, The Netherlands
Dear Arizka,
The entrance fee is € 9,- and you are allowed to bring your camera. Using your flash is prohibited though.
We wish you a very pleasant stay in our museum.
Best wishes,
Team Escher
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Claim your listingEscher in The Palace - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Escher in The Palace
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience Escher in The Palace:
- Kinderdijk and The Hague Small-Group Tour with Mauritshuis, Escher or Madurodam (From $232.40)
- Hague Outdoor Escape Game: The Heart of Old Town (From $8.88)
- Self-Guided Pub Trail in The Hague with Online App (From $16.12)
- e-Scavenger hunt The Hague: Explore the city at your own pace (From $34.47)
- Private Walking Tour with a Local Guide in The Hague (From $111.20)
- Hotels near Escher in The Palace:
- (0.05 mi) Hotel Des Indes The Hague
- (0.19 mi) Holiday Inn Express the Hague - Parliament, an IHG Hotel
- (0.19 mi) Staybridge Suites the Hague - Parliament
- (0.33 mi) Hotel Indigo The Hague - Palace Noordeinde, an IHG hotel
- (0.28 mi) Movenpick Hotel The Hague
- Restaurants near Escher in The Palace:
- (0.03 mi) Chiqueolatte Den Haag
- (0.05 mi) Cottontree City by Dimitri
- (0.06 mi) Impero Romano
- (0.11 mi) El Mercat Den Haag
- (0.05 mi) Jagertje
Escher in The Palace Information
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