Living in Schilderswijk, The Hague
Schilderswijk is a truly multicultural and bustling neighborhood, renowned for its vibrant street life and affordability. It offers a rich tapestry of cultures, making it an exciting and budget-friendly option for students and those seeking an authentic, diverse urban experience.
🏙️Lifestyle & Culture
Living in Schilderswijk is an immersive multicultural experience. The streets are always lively, filled with the aromas of international cuisine and the sounds of diverse languages. Hobbemaplein, with its bustling market, is the heart of daily life, offering fresh produce and unique finds. The community is predominantly international, fostering a strong sense of solidarity among residents. While it's known for its affordability, it's also a neighborhood undergoing significant development and revitalization. It's an ideal place for students and budget-conscious individuals who appreciate cultural diversity and don't mind a more raw, urban environment.
🏠Housing & Flatshares
Shared housing in Schilderswijk offers some of the most affordable rents in The Hague, typically ranging from €500-€700. Rooms are often found in older, converted multi-story houses, shared by 3-5 students or budget-conscious individuals. While rooms might be smaller or more basic, they provide a practical and economical living solution. Landlords usually require one to two months' rent as a deposit. Due to the low prices, competition for available rooms can be fierce, especially during peak academic seasons. Many rooms come unfurnished, but some landlords offer basic furniture.
🚇Getting Around
Schilderswijk benefits from good public transport connections, with several tram (e.g., tram 6, 11, 12) and bus lines running through the neighborhood, providing easy access to the city center, both train stations (Den Haag HS is particularly close), and university campuses. Walkability is high, with most daily necessities, shops, and markets within easy reach. Cycling is a popular and efficient way to get around, with flat terrain making it ideal for commutes within the city.
🍽️Food & Nightlife
The food scene in Schilderswijk is an absolute highlight, offering an incredible array of authentic international cuisines at very affordable prices. Hobbemaplein and the surrounding streets are packed with Surinamese, Turkish, Moroccan, and other ethnic eateries, bakeries, and specialty grocery stores. It's a culinary adventure waiting to be explored. While not known for its traditional nightlife, you'll find plenty of casual cafes and local spots to enjoy an evening meal or a quiet drink. For vibrant nightlife, the city center is a short tram ride away.
Pros & Cons of Living in Schilderswijk
✓Pros
- •Among the most affordable shared housing options in The Hague.
- •Rich multicultural environment with diverse food and shops.
- •Vibrant Hobbemaplein market, offering fresh and unique products.
- •Good public transport connections and high walkability.
- •Authentic urban experience with a strong sense of community.
✗Cons
- •Safety can be a concern in certain areas, particularly late at night.
- •Can be very busy and noisy, especially on market days and main streets.
- •Fewer green spaces and less polished aesthetics compared to other districts.
- •Housing quality can vary significantly, with many older properties.
- •Competition for affordable rooms remains high due to demand.
💡 Insider Tips
Bargain for fresh produce at the Hobbemaplein market for the best deals and an authentic local experience.
Seek out specific Surinamese roti or Turkish kebabs from local, family-run establishments – they are truly delicious.
Explore the side streets for hidden shops selling unique international goods and spices you won't find elsewhere.
✨ Highlights
🎓 Nearby Universities
The Hague University of Applied Sciences
👥 26,000 students (20% international)
📚 International Business, European Studies, IT & Design
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Inholland University of Applied Sciences The Hague
👥 5,000 students (15% international)
📚 Tourism Management, Creative Business, Applied Psychology
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