This 13th-century Gothic cathedral, which peers straight over the Binnenhof is a standout landmark of The Hague. Although the original structure of the ‘Great Church’ is built from wood, the 2,200 square metre area that the church now takes up includes stone, marble and iron features as well as impressive touches such as intricate mechanistic clocks, detailed stained glass windows and 51 carillon bells, which were added over the years as the edifice grew in prominence. There are lots of events taking place in the Grote Kerk all year round, so it is worth checking the agenda on their website ahead of time to see what’s on. Book a tour and climb the 288 steps to the top where the entire city centre can be seen.

This art museum in The Hague is home to some of the most eminent paintings in the world including pieces from Monet and Picasso. Dutch abstract painter Piet Mondrian remains the featured artist at the museum with over 300 of his paintings displayed there. Walking through the halls of this remarkable Art Deco building is an eye-opening experience. The early 20th-century architecture fashioned by H.P. Berlage consisting of colourful brickwork, marble flooring and ornamental brass finishes is considered to be his masterpiece. The museum is open to the public and you can skip the queues by booking ahead of time on their website.

The Palais des Nations, once home to the League of Nations, now serves as the UN’s European headquarters. You can take a guided tour (with advance booking) to see spaces like the Assembly Hall and the Council Chamber, where international negotiations still happen today. The building sits inside Ariana Park — a quiet, green space dotted with old cedars, roaming peacocks, and views down to the lake.

The Senso-ji temple is Tokyo's oldest-established Buddhist temple. Though a major tourist attraction, this is primarily a traditional, local site where worshippers cast coins, clap ceremoniously and bow in respect to an image of Kannon, the Goddess of Compassion.