With its old-world Dutch flair, the city of Delft offers a wealth of attractions.
Delft is relatively small, but it’s definitely worth the day trip. The city hasn’t yet been spoilt by modern renovations or contemporary architecture, so there are many traditional buildings to see and visit.
Delft is a more compact city than Amsterdam and a good destination if you don’t fancy the hustle and bustle of the bigger cities.
Here, you can admire the many beautiful canals and bridges at your own pace, stop for a cup of coffee, and watch the world go by.
During the summer, Delft’s green spaces and canals are a sight to behold. At Christmas time, you can enjoy the local Christmas markets and other holiday season events.
Discover the best things to do in Delft and how to make the most of your day trip.
Traveling from Amsterdam to Delft
The best way to get from Amsterdam to Delft is by train. There are trains leaving from Amsterdam Centraal (Amsterdam Central Station) to Delft every 30 minutes during the week and on weekends. You can get to Delft from Amsterdam by train in about 1 hour, depending on the time and date of travel.
A day return ticket from Amsterdam to Delft costs about 30 euros (September 2023). Check the correct timetables and prices on the NS website.
Once you get to Delft, you don’t have to walk far from the railway station to reach the city center and its main attractions. The easiest way to get from one place to another in Delft is on foot or by bike. The Old Town area, in particular, is perfectly designed for pedestrians. Cars can only get into some parts of the old town center.
You can walk through Delft’s core center in about 15 minutes, with plenty of pavements. If you rent a bike, you can do so at Delft train station for a small daily rental fee.
Where to Stay In Delft
Delft is perfect for a day trip if you start your day early. But you can (and should!) spend the night if you’re travel schedule allows. Hotels in Delft are cheaper than in Amsterdam, and the city is quite charming.
If you prefer to take your time and enjoy the atmosphere without rushing, you can always book a hotel by the canals. Stay in the center of Delft at Hotel Grand Canal, for instance. The hotel features 18 charming rooms, all overlooking one of the oldest canals in Delft.
Planning A Perfect Day Trip to Delft: Top 15 Things To Do In Delft
There are plenty of things to do in Delft. Here’s a list of the best things to see and do while visiting Delft.
1. Delft Blue Pottery: Visit the Royal Delft Museum
At the Royal Delft Factory Museum, you can immerse yourself in the history and craftsmanship of Delft Blue Pottery. This pottery style dates back to the 17th century. Join a guided tour to witness skilled artisans shape clay into intricate forms, paint iconic blue and white patterns, and fire the ceramics in kilns. It’s a fascinating glimpse into a centuries-old Dutch tradition, and you can even try painting a Delftware piece under expert guidance.
After the tour, you’ll get a chance to visit the Royal Delft shop and buy some highly desired and unique Delft Pottery to take home with you. Some popular Delftware souvenirs include Delft tiles or beautiful hand-painted Christmas ornaments.
A must-see is the beautiful courtyard garden at the end of the tour. You can enjoy lunch or high tea there and enjoy the stunning views. So make sure you visit the garden before leaving!
TIP! If you plan a day trip to Delft and want to squeeze in as many sights as possible, I recommend visiting the Royal Delft Museum first. The museum opens at 9.30, before the other attractions. Also, it’s one of the most popular places for tourists to visit in Delft, so it can get rather busy later in the day.
The courtyard garden at the Royal Delft Museum.
2. Visit the Delft Market Square (Markt)
Markt is the bustling heart of Delft, where you can experience the vibrant ambiance of daily life. Cafes, shops, and restaurants surround the square.
On Thursdays, the square transforms into a lively market with stalls offering various goods, from fresh produce to clothing and souvenirs. There are several Delftware shops in the market square, including the official brand store for Royal Delft.
3. Visit the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) And Climb Up The Tower!
The Nieuwe Kerk is a magnificent Gothic church located in the Market Square. It offers a chance to gain the most amazing views of Delft from its tower. Climbing the tower involves ascending a steep, narrow staircase, but the reward is worth it. Once at the top, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, its canals, and surrounding landscapes. Inside the church, you’ll find impressive tombs, including that of William of Orange and other Oranje-Nassau Dutch Royal family members (members of the Dutch royal family).
You can buy a combi ticket to visit the Nieuwe Kerk and Oude Kerk or a separate ticket to one of the two churches. Or you can opt-in for the all-round experience that allows you to visit both churches and climb up the Nieuwe Kerk tower.
People with mobility issues are advised not to climb the tower. There are 376 steps in total and no lift. Also, climbing up might not be for you if you’re claustrophobic or afraid of heights. The stairs are very narrow, and people climbing up as well as coming down use the same staircase.
Please note that you won’t be able to visit The Nieuwe Kerk on Sundays. (This applies to most churches in the Netherlands, FYI. )
Here’s what it looked like when I was visiting Delft’s Nieuwe Kerk:
4. Admire the Delft City Hall (Stadhuis van Delft)
Delft City Hall is an architectural gem in the center of Delft, at the Grote Markt, opposite the Nieuwe Kerk. Its Renaissance-style façade features ornate decorations, including sculptures and reliefs depicting historical and mythological figures. Initially built in 1200, it was partially destroyed by fire in 1618.
Even if you don’t go inside, take your time to admire the details of the impressive exterior.
5. Visit the Oude Kerk (Old Church) And Vermeers Grave
The Oude Kerk, nicknamed Oude Jan or Schewe Jan (Skewed John), is a Gothic protestant church in Delft. Its most recognizable feature is the leaning tower (hence the name Skewed John).
The Oude Kerk is an excellent example of Delft’s medieval heritage and architecture. You’ll find beautiful stained glass windows inside the cathedral that illustrate biblical stories and historical events. Some important figures from Dutch history, including the painter Johannes Vermeer, have been buried here.
Unlike in the Nieuwe Kerk, you can’t climb the tower in the Old Church.
Also note that the Oude Kerk is closed on Sundays.
Inside the Oude Kerk.
6. Visit Vermeer Centrum Delft
Delft is renowned as the hometown of Johannes Vermeer, a Dutch master of light and perspective. The Vermeer Centrum Delft is a dedicated museum that delves into this iconic painter’s life, art, and techniques. Exhibits include reproductions of Vermeer’s paintings and interactive displays that help visitors understand his innovative use of light and color.
Note that you won’t see Vermeer’s original paintings here. You can admire three original Vermeer masterpieces at Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam or the famous “Girl With The Pearl Earring” in Mauritshuis in Den Haag.
7. Explore The Museum Prinsenhof Delft
Originally a convent, the Museum Prinsenhof Delft is a historical site where William of Orange once resided and was ultimately assassinated.
Explore the well-preserved rooms, including the chambers where key events unfolded. The museum showcases Dutch history, art, and artifacts, making it a comprehensive educational experience.
Here, you can admire the works of Delft artists from the Dutch Golden Era, including Pieter de Hooch, Cornelis Jacobsz, and Hendrick Cornelisz. van Vliet.
8. Explore Delft’s Canals By Boat
A great way to explore Delft’s historic city is to cruise on its famous canals.
Delft’s canals are not just waterways; they’re the veins that flow through the city, pulsating with life.
Cruise through the narrow bridges of Delft and get to know the historic buildings along the route. Knowledgeable guides will share stories about Delft’s history while you glide through its waterways.
9. Go For A Bike Ride
Renting a bike in Delft allows you to go beyond the city center and explore the beautiful Dutch countryside. Follow well-marked bike paths that lead you through scenic landscapes, past windmills, farms, and tulip fields during spring.
10. Visit the Botanical Gardens of Delft (Hortus Botanicus)
If you wish to escape the city hustle, visit The Botanical Gardens in Delft. De Hortus Botanicus Tuin is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city. Here, you can wander through themed gardens with a variety of flora from across the world. It’s the perfect location for unwinding and appreciating nature.
11. Do Some Delft Blue Shopping
Take advantage of the opportunity to purchase authentic Delft Blue souvenirs. Numerous shops in Delft offer hand-painted Delftware items, including plates, Delft tiles, vases, and figurines. Each piece is a work of art, and you can find both traditional and contemporary designs to suit your taste.
12. Enjoy Lunch in Delft
There’s no shortage of cafes or restaurants in Delft. You’ll find nice spots for lunch or coffee along the canals and market squares.
Enjoy a delicious organic homemade lunch in an inviting ambiance at Kek. Most of the dishes are vegetarian or vegan. Still, you can find traditional BLTA’s or beef carpaccio on their menu, too.
Kek is extremely popular, especially during the weekend. So be prepared to wait for a table. You can put your name on the list if there’s a line.
Alternatively, you can grab a bite at Delfts Brouwhuis, a brewpub with food options for all tastes and a good selection of locally brewed beers. Delfts Brouwhuis is located opposite the Oude Kerk, and their terrace is a great spot to watch people pass by.
13. Take A Photo At Oostpoort
The Oostpoort, Eastern Gate, is the only remaining city gate in Delft. The gate was built in the 15th century as part of the city’s defensive walls and used to play a crucial role in the city’s defense efforts.
The two towers of this Gothic gate remain standing and have become a tourist attraction seen in many artworks and photographs.
You can walk up to Oostpoort from the Grote Markt in about 10 minutes.
14. Visit Beestenmarkt, The Old Cattle Market
From 1595 to 1972, the Beestenmarkt square was a site of the Delft cattle markets, where farmers used to show their cattle. Nowadays, you won’t see many cows here (apart from the artwork “Stier” by artist Rob Brandt).
Instead, the Beestenmarkt is now a place to have a drink or grab a bite in one of the many restaurants along the square.
15. Explore De Delftse Hout
De Delftse Hout is a nearby park that offers an escape from the city hubbub. It’s a perfect spot for outdoor activities, including hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The park also features a large lake where you can go boating or relax by the water.
Whether planning a day trip to Delft or spending the night, these tips on what to do in Delft will help you make the most of your visit.
Map of Delft and the best attractions to visit
Interesting Facts About Delft
History: Delft was a prominent city during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century and played an essential role in the nation’s political and economic development. It’s also where William of Orange (Willem van Oranje), a key figure in Dutch history, resided and was eventually assassinated in 1584. William of Orange is the ancestor of the monarchy of the Netherlands. He is also known as the Father of the Fatherland.
Delft Blue Pottery: Delft is renowned for producing Delftware, hand-painted blue and white pottery. Inspired by Chinese porcelain, this ceramic art form has a unique charm and is highly collectible. Visitors can explore the Royal Delft Factory and immerse themselves in the history and craftsmanship of Delftware.
Johannes Vermeer: The city boasts a rich cultural heritage, including the works of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer. Delft’s picturesque streets and canals inspired Vermeer to paint his stunning masterpieces, such as The View of Delft. The Vermeer family grave can be found in the Oude Kerk in Delft.
Architecture: Delft showcases stunning architecture, particularly in its historic city center. The Oude Kerk, Nieuwe Kerk, and Delft City Hall are prime examples of the city’s architectural prowess. The well-preserved buildings and charming canals create a picturesque atmosphere.
Educational Hub: Delft is home to the prestigious Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), a world-renowned institution known for its contributions to science and engineering. The university adds a youthful vibrancy to the city. It contributes to its reputation as a hub for innovation and technology.
Canal Culture: The city’s canals, although less famous than those in Amsterdam, offer a unique charm. Strolling along the canals or taking a canal tour provides an intimate view of Delft’s history and architecture.
Bike-Friendly: Delft is part of the Netherlands’ extensive cycling network. The city’s bike-friendly infrastructure makes it easy for locals and visitors to explore the city and its surroundings on two wheels.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Unlike larger Dutch cities, Delft has a more relaxed and calm atmosphere. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a slower pace and a quieter escape while still enjoying Dutch culture.
Dutch Traditions: Delft preserves many Dutch traditions, including a bustling market square, charming cafes, and shops selling traditional Dutch treats like stroopwafels and herring.
Gateway to Countryside: Delft is ideally situated to explore the Dutch countryside. You can reach beautiful polder landscapes, windmills, and flower fields within a short bike ride or drive.
Is Delft Worth Visiting?
Yes, Delft is very much worth visiting! The charming canals, historic architecture, and famous Delftware pottery make it an excellent destination for a day trip or a more extended stay.
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