The Hague & Delft

The Hague and Delft, located in the western Netherlands, have made efforts to improve accessibility. The Hague, as the seat of government, has implemented various accessibility measures. Delft, known for its historic center, presents some challenges due to older infrastructure. Both cities adhere to Dutch accessibility standards, which are generally high compared to many European countries.

The Netherlands follows the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, ratified in 2016. Public buildings in The Hague and Delft are required to be accessible. Many streets in both cities have dropped curbs and tactile paving. However, some areas in Delft's historic center have cobblestone streets that may be challenging for wheelchair users. The Hague's beach area, Scheveningen, features beach wheelchairs and accessible boardwalks.

Public transport in both cities is largely accessible. Trams in The Hague are 100% low-floor. Buses in both cities have ramps or lifts. The train stations Den Haag Centraal and Delft are equipped with elevators and accessible platforms. Wheelchair users can request assistance for train travel 1 hour in advance. Accessible taxis are available but should be booked in advance. The OV-chipkaart, used for public transport, offers discounted fares for disabled travelers.

In The Hague, the Mauritshuis museum and Madurodam miniature park are fully wheelchair accessible. The Peace Palace offers accessible tours with advance booking. In Delft, the Royal Delft factory and museum is accessible, with ramps and an elevator. The New Church in Delft has a wheelchair lift, but the Old Church has limited accessibility. Both cities offer accessible boat tours of their canals, but booking in advance is recommended.

Both cities offer a range of accessible accommodations. In The Hague, several major hotels near the city center and beach area have fully accessible rooms. Delft has fewer options, but some hotels in the newer parts of the city offer accessible rooms. It's advisable to contact hotels directly to confirm specific accessibility features. Some accommodations provide mobility equipment rental. Exact numbers of accessible rooms are not publicly available, so early booking is recommended.

1. Use the website toegankelijkdelft.nl for detailed accessibility information in Delft. 2. The Hague's tourist information center provides accessibility maps. 3. Consider purchasing a European Disability Card for easier access to certain facilities. 4. Be aware that some historic buildings may have limited accessibility. 5. In summer, book accessible beach equipment in Scheveningen in advance. 6. Use the 9292.nl website or app for accessible public transport route planning.