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On my mission to discover the best boutique hotels in The Hague, I check into the recently opened hotel De Plesman. Since opening in March 2025, it has already earned a coveted Michelin Key. Much like Michelin Stars for restaurants, this recognition from the Michelin Guide is awarded to hotels that offer an extraordinary experience. A promising start!
From KLM headquarters to luxury hotel
Hotel De Plesman is named after Albert Plesman (1889-1953), the founder of Dutch airline KLM. This beautiful 1930s heritage building once served as KLM’s headquarters.
It’s made up of two sections. The pre-war wing with its copper roof (back when there was more money to spend) now houses the hotel with around 100 rooms and suites. The post-war section has been converted into serviced apartments for longer stays.
Between The Hague city and beach
As a local, I arrive by bike, but there’s a tram stop right outside, making it less than a 15-minute ride from The Hague Central Station. If you’re driving, you can park in front of the hotel (for a fee).
The location is spot on. You’re close to the city centre, but also just 10 minutes from the beach in Scheveningen. Miniature park Madurodam (fun for all ages) is right across the street, and the nearby Scheveningse Bosjes and Westbroekpark are perfect for a peaceful stroll. You can rent a bike from the hotel to explore the neighbourhood, but the tram will also get you anywhere in no time.
Rooms & suites at De Plesman
There are four room categories at De Plesman, ranging from standard rooms to grand suites. And then there’s the Plesman Suite, in a league of its own. This used to be Albert Plesman’s office, and it’s absolutely stunning. I get a quick tour and it really is something special. If you’re in the mood to splurge, this is the one to book.
My stay in the DeLuxe suite
I treat myself to a night in the DeLuxe suite. Located on the 4th floor, the room is beautifully designed with a modern interior and subtle retro touches. High ceilings and large windows make it feel extra spacious. There’s a kitchenette and bar area with stools, a sitting area with two chairs and a sofa, and of course a big, ultra-comfy bed. Both sides of the bed have power outlets with USB-A and USB-C ports, little details that I’m always happy to see in a hotel room. Want to watch a film or binge your favourite series in bed? You can cast your own streaming services to the TV (WiFi works perfectly).
The bathroom has a large bathtub, a separate rain shower, and ‘Den Haag’ bath products by WIJCK, an Amsterdam brand known for its city-inspired labels. From my window, I can see the tower of the Peace Palace and Madurodam. The room feels luxurious, contemporary, and warm. Exactly what I was hoping for.
Art & design in every room
Throughout the hotel, you’ll find striking modern art on the walls. This makes each room slightly different. Mine features photographs of the train station Hollands Spoor (also in The Hague), taken by Scottish photographer Soo Burnell. I love her work, and the series she created in The Hague (including photos taken in this hotel) matches the hotel’s vibe perfectly.
Authentic details meet modern design
De Plesman gets the balance just right: modern interior design that still respects the building’s heritage. Original doors and features have been kept, giving the hotel a sense of history. On each floor in front of where directors and their secretaries once had their offices, you’ll find the original counters where coffee was served and mail was distributed. In the basement, old vault doors are still visible. Even the beautifully restored Plesman Suite retains original elements like wooden wall panels.
Restaurant Suus and The Albert Bar & Lounge
There are plenty of great places to eat nearby, but if you’d rather stay in, you won’t be missing out. Restaurant Suus, named after Albert Plesman’s wife, who was known for hosting legendary dinner parties that sealed major business deals, is popular with both hotel guests and locals. I save my visit to the restaurant for breakfast, but I do spend some time at the Albert Bar & Lounge, a.k.a. the hotel’s living room.
Since this is a staycation in my own city, I settle in with a book, a negroni, and some delicious snacks. Signature cocktails are themed around KLM’s global heritage, with names like “Caribbean” and “Latin American”. I’m definitely enjoying myself here.
Breakfast at Restaurant Suus
Breakfast is served from 7 to 10 am in Restaurant Suus. The buffet is generous, with both hot and cold dishes, sweet and savoury. It’s constantly replenished, so there’s always plenty of choice. The only thing I find disappointing is that coffee comes from a self-serve machine. At a hotel like this, I was really hoping for a proper barista brew.
Suusje: coffee & snacks to go
So after breakfast, I stop by ‘Suusje’, the hotel’s deli, for a freshly made coffee (also available to go). I mention I just had breakfast at the hotel, and they offer the coffee for free. That more than makes up for the earlier coffee letdown.
Suusje is also a kind of “on-demand” minibar. My room has a kitchenette with tea and Nespresso coffee, but if you want anything else, you can pre-order snacks and drinks from Suusje during online check-in or anytime during your stay. On the weekend, they also have homemade bread and fresh pastries.
A photogenic hotel full of stories
After breakfast and my much-needed coffee, I grab my camera for one last lap around the hotel. It’s such a photogenic place, and I keep discovering new details. The staff are just as passionate about the hotel and happily point me toward hidden spots I might have otherwise missed. If you’re curious about the building’s history, be sure to ask. They have lots to share.
Sadly, it’s time to check out and bike back home. I wish I had more excuses to stay overnight in my own city, because I had a fantastic time. If you’re looking for a unique modern luxury hotel in The Hague, I highly recommend hotel De Plesman. I’ll definitely be back soon for dinner at Restaurant Suus and another cocktail at the Albert Bar.
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