tourist map of delft

Delft Printable Tourist Map

Delft Map: The Attractions

City hall Delft

Eastern Gate

Royal Delft

Beestenmarkt

Vermeer Centre

The Prince’s Court Museum

Saint Hippolytus Chapel, Delft

Sygic travel - a travel guide in your pocket.

More Tourist Maps

• Privacy Policy
• STOCK 360° TRAVEL VIDEOS

11 BEST Places to See & Things to Do in Delft (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: December 20, 2023

Thinking of visiting Delft in the Netherlands and wondering what there is to see and do in Delft, or if it’s even worth a visit? In this guide, we share a brief overview of the main landmarks and top places to see in Delft for first-time visitors.

With its old canals, lots of historic monuments, interesting museums, and cozy atmosphere, Delft is one of the most charming towns in the Netherlands. So if you ask me if Delft is worth a visit, the answer is yes, absolutely. We live just an hour’s drive from Delft and the first time we visited, I couldn’t believe how nice it is (or understand why it took us so long to discover it!).

World-famous for the ‘Delft Blue’ porcelain, Delft is also the hometown of Johannes Vermeer, one of Holland’s most renowned painters. But there is more to see and do in Delft and the town deserves a place in any Netherlands trip itinerary.

In this article, we focus mostly on the most important sights and top things to do in Delft for first-time visitors. For each place, we include some practical tips and information for your visit, and you will also find a map of the top places to see in Delft.

These are one-by-one top attractions and places to see in Delft that are worth your time the most. So if you only have half a day to a day and want to get a good idea of what Delft has to offer, this guide will help you do just that.

To give you a better idea of where everything is located and help you plan your trip, we also created a map indicating all the top sights in Delft mentioned in this guide.

Getting around: As you can see below, most places are located really close to each other, so the best way to explore Delft is on foot. It’s a very walkable city, and even the places that are somewhat further away, are just 15-20 minutes walk from all the rest.

Getting there: Because of its central location just near Rotterdam and The Hague, and less than an hour’s drive from Amsterdam, it’s really easy to plan a visit to Delft. You can take a train to Delft from any of the bigger towns in the Netherlands, drive there by car, take a boat from The Hague , or visit with a tour from Amsterdam .

Spring TIP: if you are traveling to the Netherlands in the spring and want to see the famous Dutch tulip fields near Lisse , you can easily combine a visit to the flower fields or Keukenhof Gardens with some sightseeing in Delft. These areas are less than an hour’s drive from each other. There is also a great tour from Brussels that combines the two in one day.

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

These are the top places to see and the best things to do in Delft:

1. Market Square

Markt is the main town square in the heart of the old town. Here you will find some of the main landmarks of Delft, such as the City Hall and the New Church (more information about these places further below).

The market square is lined with nice buildings which house all kinds of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Most stores here are very tourist-oriented. So if you want to buy some Dutch cheese, clogs, or souvenirs, you’ll find it all in this area.

Just keep in mind that the souvenirs here are usually not made locally! For example, an original handmade Delft Blue vase at the factory store will quickly cost a couple of hundred euros, whereas the vases you see in souvenir shops are much cheaper because they are mass-produced (usually in Asia).

Good to know: In addition, just as the name suggests, Markt is the place where weekly markets are being held. If you visit Delft on a Thursday, you can experience a local Dutch market with fruit, vegetables, and all kinds of local specialties including stroopwafels , Dutch cheese, or herring… The prices are very reasonable, and the cheese is way cheaper than the one sold at tourist shops.

2. City Hall

Located at the southern end of Markt Square, the City Hall of Delft (Delft Stadhuis) is probably the most beautiful building in the city.

The old, medieval town hall burned down in 1618 and was completely rebuilt in a new Renaissance style in the 17th century. The new building was erected around the 13th-century Gothic tower, which is the only part of the old building that survived the fire.

You can see the old tower at the backside of the building. In the past, it served as a prison and still houses medieval torture instruments. It is also the only part of the City Hall which can be visited (although on appointment only, so it’s not open to the general public).

TIP: If you stand in front of the City Hall, you have a good view of the entire Markt Square. And if you want to see the aerial view of the square, head to New Church – more info below.

3. New Church

The New Church (de Nieuwe Kerk) is another landmark that you should visit in Delft. Built between the 14th and 17th centuries, its interior is stunning, with colorful stained-glass windows and an impressive Royal Crypt .

The New Church in Delft has been the final resting place of the members of the Dutch Royal Family, the House of Orange, ever since William of Orange was buried here in 1584.

But one of the main reasons to visit the New Church is its tower, more specifically the amazing 360° views from the top . Just be aware that the staircase is really narrow and steep, and it was clearly not built for tall people. But if you take the trouble to climb to the top, the views will definitely make up for it.

Good to know: The New Church now functions as a museum and you need a ticket in order to visit. The same ticket gives you access to the Old Church as well (see further below). You can find more information and book tickets here .

4. Old Church

The Old Church (de Oude Kerk) is another popular tourist attraction in Delft. Located just a short walk from Market Square, this 13th-century church is probably best known for its leaning tower and its bells.

The Skewed tower of the Old Church has been leaning almost from the start when it was built in 1350. This has probably to do with the fact that it was built above an old, filled canal.

Inside the tower, there are two very heavy bells, the Trinitas Bell – better known as Bourdon Bell – from the 16th century and the Laudate Bell from the early 18th century. The Bourdon Bell weighs almost 9 tons and is the heaviest bell in the Netherlands. Because of its weight, it only rings on very special occasions, in fear that regular use could make things worse for the leaning church tower.

The interior of the Old Church is well worth seeing too, mostly for its wooden ceiling, an impressive organ, and beautiful glass-stained windows.

Good to know: Also this church serves as a museum and you need a ticket in order to visit it inside. As already mentioned, the same ticket gives access to the New and Old Churches of Delft.

5. Royal Delft Museum & Factory

Royal Delft could just as well be at the very top of any list of Delft attractions. In fact, I would say it’s worth visiting Delft even if you only have the time to visit the Royal Delft Experience.

This is an old (and still functioning) factory where the famous Delft Blue porcelain has been made since 1653. Even today, they decorate every single piece by hand.

The Royal Delft Experience includes the porcelain factory Porceleyne Fles , the museum, a shop selling handmade porcelain made in the factory, and a restaurant. You’ll need a ticket for the museum/factory visit. The shop and the restaurant can be visited without a ticket. But we highly recommend that you take the time to visit the factory/museum – it’s one of the must-sees in Delft!

The visit starts with a short video presentation about the history of the porcelain industry in Delft. You then move on to the next room for a deeper look at how porcelain is made and painted with a special paint that is produced using a secret recipe. Both of these video presentations take just a few minutes but are very well done. Plus, they are presented in a unique way that the whole family will find interesting.

Next, you visit a small museum where you can see some of the oldest pieces created in this factory. When we visited, they also had a temporary exhibition with some beautiful photographs of flowers in Delft Blue vases.

The last part of the museum visit takes you to the factory where you can see how everything is being made. You can even visit the painter’s room and see how the vases are being decorated. It’s incredible to see how much work goes into each piece, which also explains the high prices of the Delft Blue porcelain at the museum shop at the exit.

Good to know: The museum ticket includes an audio guide (available in English as well). The visit itself is self-guided so you can go at your own pace and spend as much (or as little) time as you want. We spent about 1 hour inside.

In addition, it’s also possible to attend a painting workshop here. For that, check here and be sure to book in advance because walk-ins are almost never possible. They also have a high tea experience at their café ; also for that, you have to reserve at least a few days in advance.

Despite the fact that it’s located about 15 minutes walk from the old town center, Royal Delft is the most popular tourist attraction in Delft. So expect it to be busy. But it’s absolutely worth a walk, and you get to see more of the city along the way too.

5. Vermeer Centrum Delft

Vermeer Center is a small museum in the center of Delft, entirely dedicated to Johannes Vermeer. If you are not familiar with Vermeer, he lived in the 17th century and is one of the most famous painters in the Netherlands, together with Vincent van Gogh and Rembrandt. Vermeer is also called the Master of Light.

Johannes Vermeer (1632-1675) was born and died in Delft and is one of the most famous citizens the city ever had. Only about 36 paintings survived to this day, with the most famous of them being the ‘Girl with a Pearl Earring’.

These paintings are now scattered around the most famous museums all over the world, including several galleries in the USA, but also the Louvre Museum in Paris , Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam , and Mauritshuis in The Hague , to mention just a few.

While they only have reproductions at the Vermeer Center in Delft, it’s still worth a visit. You can see all of his paintings in one place, displayed in chronological order. Be sure to take an audio guide (also available in English and included in the ticket price) as it will give you a much better insight into Vermeer’s life and work.

Technically, this is not a museum, but more an exhibition dedicated to the master and his masterpieces, and it’s really well done.

Good to know: Vermeer Centrum is located just next to Markt Square and is open daily. You can find more information and get your tickets here . Usually, you should also be able to buy tickets on the spot, but it can get very busy at times.

6. Delft Canals

Being quintessentially Dutch, Delft is crisscrossed by canals. So one of the best things to do in Delft is simply walking along its canals, admiring the buildings, and soaking in the great atmosphere of this charming town.

But if this is your first time in Delft and you don’t have lots of time, you may be wondering where exactly to go or which canals are the most beautiful.

As a minimum, we recommend that you visit the following canals in Delft:

• Oude Delft (Old Delft), one of the most picturesque canals in Delft.
• Hyppolytusbuurt , one of the oldest canals in Delft.
• Voldersgracht , one of the most charming little canals.

All three of these canals are located very close to each other and next to the main Delft attractions mentioned in this article. So you will likely pass them anyway. We also indicated them on our map of Delft attractions so you know where to go, but be sure to explore other canals.

7. Canal Cruise

If you are looking for more things to do in Delft, consider taking a canal cruise . This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Delft and it gives you yet another perspective of this cozy little town.

It’s also a good way to see more of the city without having to walk. Plus, it’s always good to rest your legs a bit after all the slow walking through town and museums.

Good to know: This is the most popular canal cruise in Delft . If you don’t mind paying a bit more (or if you are visiting with a family or a few friends), consider this highly-rated private cruise instead.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE TO READ: Tips for Canal Cruises in Amsterdam

8. Maria van Jesse Church

There is one more church that is really worth mentioning among the top places to see in Delft – Maria van Jesse Church (Maria van Jessekerk) . This is a working Catholic church and there is no entrance fee to visit. It’s also completely different than the other (protestant) churches in Delft.

The interior is very lavish with stunning woodwork, paintings, and an impressive altar. Don’t miss the pulpit, which is nothing like any other I have ever seen. Absolutely worth a few minutes of your time!

Good to know: Maria van Jesse Church is also located in the center, just a few minutes walk from Markt Square and the New Church. Entry is free, but donations are welcome.  

9. Museum Prinsenhof

Prinsenhof is a small museum focused on the 3 main themes that make the city of Delft famous: William of Orange and the creation of the country of the Netherlands as we know it today, Delf Blue porcelain, and the Masters of Delft.

If you would like to learn more about the city and its contribution to the country, it’s a nice place to visit, and not nearly as busy as the other attractions in Delft.

The museum is located inside an old cloister, close to all the other places mentioned in this guide. For more information, see here .

10. Eastern Gate

The Eastern Gate (Oostpoort) was a part of an old city wall around Delft, built and enhanced during the 15-16th centuries. This is the only city gate that remains to this day. It has two Gothic-style towers and looks a bit like a small castle. In addition, there is a small ‘water gate’ spanning over the canal here as well.

The Eastern Gate has been restored in the 1960s and is now in private hands. It cannot be visited inside and is best admired from a distance, together with an old white drawbridge, Kleine Oostpoortbrug .

This is really a nice place to see in Delft. The old city gate is very photogenic so you can take some nice pictures, plus, it’s a nice walk along the canals to get there. The East Gate is located about 10 minutes walk from the main square. Canal cruises should normally pass here as well.

11. Blue Heart

And finally, I want to mention one more place that’s nice to see in Delft. It’s not a historic landmark or a museum, but a really special sculpture. It’s called the Blue Heart (Blauwe Hart) and can be found just near the New Church and the main town square.

The sculpture was designed by Marcel Smink in 1998 and represents the city of Delf. The blue color refers to the Delft Blue porcelain, and it stands in the heart of the city.

This is just a quick photo stop that doesn’t require much time. Check it out!

Tips for your visit to Delf

• How much time do you need? Count at least half a day for a quick Delft visit. If you want to see everything from this list, we highly recommend planning an entire day for the city.
• Delft is best explored on foot. Take a canal cruise in the middle of the day, to rest your legs and see a bit more of the city from a different perspective.
• Where to stay. Most tourists just visit Delft for a day, or even just a few hours. That being said, if you are looking for a nice central place to stay when exploring this part of the Netherlands, Delft is an excellent choice. I would much rather prefer it over The Hague or Rotterdam, mostly because it’s much smaller and more laid-back. In that case, you may want to stay at a hotel not too far from the railway station. Hotel The Social Hub is an excellent choice here.
• Thursday is a market day with a big market on the main square in Delft. Visit on a Thursday if you’d like to experience a typical everyday Dutch market, or come on any other day if you prefer to see the beautiful market square and be able to admire the architecture without the market stands covering the view.
• Getting there. You can easily reach Delft by car or by train from any other major town in the Netherlands. If you just want to see the highlights of Delft and also visit a few other places nearby, consider this highly-rated day tour from Amsterdam. It allows you to get a quick impression of several of the best towns in Holland: Delft, Rotterdam, and The Hague.

READ ALSO: Best Day Trips from Amsterdam

So, this is our guide to the very best of Delft. I hope that it gives you a better idea of what to expect and helps you get the most out of your visit.

Delft is truly one of the nicest towns in the Netherlands, well worth a visit even if just for a few hours.

Have a great trip!

More tips for your trip to the Netherlands:

• Best Things to Do in Amsterdam
• Amsterdam Travel Tips
• Where to Stay in Amsterdam
• Best Museums in Amsterdam
• Amsterdam Canal Cruises
• Van Gogh Museum: Info & Tips
• 1 Day in Amsterdam
• 2 Days in Amsterdam
• 3 Days in Amsterdam
• 4 Days in Amsterdam
• Kinderdijk Windmills
• Alkmaar Cheese Market
• Best Places to Visit in Amsterdam Countryside
• Tips for Visiting Keukenhof Gardens
• Lisse Flower Fields
• Amsterdam in June
• Amsterdam in December
• Amsterdam at Christmas

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Tuesday 6th of February 2024

This is such a wonderful article on Delft! The details you listed are incredible. I am planning a trip in March (2024) with a group of friends and you just made our research of the town much easier. Thank you! We are really looking forward to seeing this beautiful area. You did an amazing job writing this. :)

Wednesday 7th of February 2024

Glad to help. Enjoy your trip!

Michael Cicchi

Wednesday 17th of May 2023

Wow. Delft looks wonderful. I would definatly go there when in the Netherlands.

Thursday 18th of May 2023

It's absolutely worth it, Michael!

Monday 15th of May 2023

Hi Jurga, I absolutely love your guides and all the details you provide. I have one suggestion though, could you please mention where areas are wheelchair accessible? That will greatly help disabled people decide which parts of tours they could participate in. Thank you so much for your guides. Paula

Tuesday 16th of May 2023

Hi Paula, we try to do this where we can. For some places like e.g. New Church tower, I guess it's clear from my description that it's not wheelchair accessible. But it's just not feasible for me to research this kind of info for every single attraction I write about - there are just not enough hours in a day. The truth is that unless you visit a place with a wheelchair or a stroller, you don't really pay attention to how (in)accessible everything is. Plus, things might change and there is no way I can keep up to date with that. And I wouldn't want to give the wrong information about something like this. In general, all the attractions in big cities in Western Europe now provide accessibility information on their websites, so I trust that our readers can check that themselves and be sure that they have the most up-to-date information. Thanks for reading!

This is such a great guide, Jurga. Thank you! We visited Delft once but didn't see half of the places you described here. I'm so glad this popped in my mailbox yesterday. We are traveling to Amsterdam in August and now I know that we need to go back to Delft for a day. Do you have more recommendations? We will have 5 days.

Hi Erin, glad to hear that you found some travel inspiration on our blog again. :) We have an article with quite a few recommendations for day trips from Amsterdam. Check it out! With 5 days in Amsterdam, you could probably take at least 1 other day trip in addition to Delft, maybe even more depending on your interests. Have a great trip!

Milorad Trifunovic

Sunday 14th of May 2023

Jurga, Nice! Thanks, all the best!

Thanks for reading, Milorad!

Visiting The Dutch Countryside

Travelblog about The Netherlands | Exploring The Netherlands beyond the crowds

Your Perfect One Day Delft Itinerary: Best things to do in Delft, Zuid- Holland, The Netherlands

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Delft, The Netherlands, keep on reading. Find what to do and how to spend one day in Delft here.

Delft is a beautiful city in the province of Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands. In Dutch Delft has the nickname Prinsenstad or prince city. Delft is the city of the Dutch Royal Family, called the Oranjes. It started all back in the 15th century when Willem van Oranje lived and was murdered in Delft. Now, if you think everything in Delft is connected to the Royal Family, that’s not the case. But there are some special sights that have a connection to the Dutch Royal Family.

What to do in Delft, The Netherlands

Here you will find a complete itinerary to one day in Delft, The Netherlands. There are plenty of attractions that you can and should visit in Delft. However, for spending one day in Delft I personally think that the activities below are a good way to get an introduction to this gorgeous city.

Best hotels and B&B’s in Delft for all budgets

Hostel Delft , click here for the availability.

Hotel Grand Canal , click here for the availability.

B&B Gasthuis 288 , click here for the availability.

Hotel de Emauspoort , click here for the availability.

Casa Julia , click here for the availability.

Best cafe for breakfast in Delft

You cannot start the day in Delft without a good breakfast. One of the best, and cutest, breakfast spots of Delft is Bij Best . Bij Best can be found in one of the small streets behind the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church). The best part? Bij Best serves breakfast the entire day. You can find amazing street food, fresh juices and plenty of more. But what makes Bij Best truly special is the fact that they incorporate the Indonesian kitchen in their food. So, if you’re looking for good places on where to eat breakfast in Delft, then bring a visit to Bij Best.

Vrouwjuttenland 22 2611 LC Delft

Click here for the website of Bij Best for more information.

Walk through Delft

As Delft is one of the many beautiful and old cities in The Netherlands, that means you find pretty canal houses, gorgeous streets, many monuments, and beautiful looking canals. Here you can find a walking tour that you should walk to explore the most beautiful streets and monuments of Delft. This way you can explore Delft, like a local and off the beaten path. The tourists that visit usually don’t go further than the markt square and one of the Delft porcelain shops and museums.

Most beautiful streets of Delft

Achterom, Bagijnhof, Beestenmarkt, Binnenwatersloot, Boterbrug, Brabantse Turfmarkt, Breestraat, Burgwal, Choorstraat, Heilige Geestkerkhof, Hippolytusbuurt, Jabod Gerritstraat, Kerkstraat, Kolk, Lange Geer, Paardenmarkt, Nieuwstraat, Noordeinde, Oosteinde, Oude Kerkstraat, Oude Langendijk, Papenstraat, Phoenixstraat, Pluympot, Rietveld, Verwersdijk, Vlamingstraat, Voldersgracht, Voorstraat, Vrouwjuttenland, Vrouwenregt, Westvest and Wijnhaven.

Special monuments in Delft

Oostpoort : This is the only city gate that Delft has left. It dates back to the 1400s and can be found at Oostpoort 1.

Kleine Oostpoortbrug : In front of the city gate of the Oostpoort you will find a beautiful bridge. This was part of the Oostpoort in 1514.

Stadhuis (city hall) can be found at markt 87. It was first built around the year 1200. It was rebuilt, burned down and eventually reconstructed in 1629.

Visit the Oude and Nieuwe Kerk of Delft

When I’m in a new city, I need to know what the city and surrounding looks like from above. If you’re like me, keep on reading. And if you want to know where the best view of Delft can be found, continue as well.

Visit the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) as the 85-meter tower will give you the best view of Delft. And if the weather is great, you can even see Rotterdam and Den Haag (The Hague). From the tower, you will look at the markt, the city hall and much more. But if you want to climb the tower of the Nieuwe Kerk you have to be physically fit, as there are 376 stairs.

The Nieuwe Kerk dates back to the 1300s, so it’s not that new anymore. Besides the tower, I find the Nieuwe Kerk very interesting because of its history. You will find the royal tombs at the Nieuwe Kerk where almost every member of the Royal Family eventually find its peace. Although you cannot enter them, and which members exactly lay in those graves is unknown to the public, this makes it an interesting mystery.

The Oude Kerk (old church) dates back to around 1050 when it was only a small church. It has beautiful, typical, old Dutch glass windows. And is also beautiful to visit, although the Nieuwe Kerk is more special.

Find opening times and admission fees for the Old and New Church in Delft here.

Address Oude Kerk HH Geestkerkhof 25 2611 HP Delft

Nieuwe Kerk Markt 80 2611 GW Delft

Visit the courtyards (hofjes) of Delft

Courtyards, or hofjes in Dutch, can be found all over The Netherlands. In big and small cities. They were extremely popular in the 17th century, so logically Delft has them as well. Here you can find the courtyards in Delft that you should visit.

Hofje van Almonde

This courtyard dates back to 1607 and was a gift from the sister or a mayor. She gifted her home to virgins and maidservants.

Address Bagijnhof 10- 22 Delft

Hofje van Pauw

Elisabeth Pauw was the daughter of a mayor of Delft but never had any children in her lifetime. So, she wrote in her testament that a hofje should be built with the money she left behind. It was built in 1707 and exists out of 8 houses.

Address Paardenmarkt 54-62 Delft

Klaeuwshofje

This courtyard in Delft was built by the owners of brewery De Klaeuwe in 1603. The courtyard exists out of 12 small houses and a big house for the founders of the courtyard in Delft.

Address Oranje Plantage 58 – 77 Delft

Visit Museum Prinsenhof in Delft

One of the best museums in Delft is Museum Prinsenhof. This museum cannot miss on your one-day itinerary in Delft. Here you will find a beautiful collection of art and ‘Delfts Blauw’. Besides that, you will learn everything about the history of Delft and will see the bullet holes of the murder on Willem van Oranje. He was murdered in De Prinsenhof, which was his own house, on the 10th of July 1584. The body of the prince can be found in the Nieuwe Kerk, where he rests in the Royal grave chambers. Don’t forget to visit the beautiful garden of the museum.

Address Sint Agathaplein 1 2611 HR Delft

For more information about Museum Prinsenhof  click here.

Art gallery Het Prinsenkwartier

As you’re in the area anyway, visit the art gallery of Het Prinsenkwartier. It’s located next to the Museum Prinsenhof. Het Prinsenkwartier in Delft is a centre for the creative industry. Here you can find several expositions, debates and plenty more things to do. What I love about Het Prinsenkwartier is the fact that you’ll see all sorts of people. `so many different age groups and types of people that walk through the expositions.

Admission fee/ ticket price None for the expositions.

Opening times

Tuesday- Friday 10:00 – 17:30 Saturday & Sunday 11:00 – 17:00

Address Sint Agathaplein 4 2611 HR Delft

Winkeltje Kouwenhoven

Winkeltje Kouwenhoven is part of Museum Prinsenhof Delft and is located next to the museum. This cute, little shop is an authentic shop that sells typical Dutch nostalgic products. The interior is more than hundred years old and makes this shop one of the cutest shops of Delft that you should bring a visit. You can buy old Dutch candy, toys, books and much more.

Tuesday – Sunday 13:00 – 16:45

Winkeltje Kouwenhoven is opened on Sunday every second and fourth week of the month.

Eat lunch at one of the best cafes of Delft

One of the best lunch cafes in Delft is Kek . This is a coffee bar and also very famous for latte art. The atmosphere feels cosy and homey, but most importantly, the food at Kek is also very good. No matter what time of day it is, it’s always time for good food at Kek in Delft. Here you can find one of the best organic lunches of Delft.

So, if you’re looking to be environmentally friendly while travelling through The Netherlands, visiting Kek is a great idea. Take a seat at one of the benches at the window and I can assure you that the hours will pass by. One little thing, the menu of Kek changes very often which makes it one of the best lunch spots in Delft for me. I like lunch restaurants that change it up.

Address Voldersgracht 27 2611 EV Delft

Have a look at their website for more information.

Visit Royal Delft De Porceleyne Fles

De Porceleyne Fles is the only Delft blue pottery factory left. And it has been constantly used since 1653, in the 17th century. This factory still makes the Delft porcelain, but the best part is, you can go for a factory tour. At this Royal Delft pottery factory, and museum, you will get to know the history of the Delft blue pottery.

Besides that, you will see historical items, can get a factory tour and can even buy some Delft blue pottery. There’s an audio tour, beautifully painted pieces of Delft porcelain as the Nachtwacht, and plenty of more. Keep in mind that on Sunday no employees are working. So if you want to see the employees work on the Delft porcelain, then visit this factory on other days. Don’t forget the garden at the factory. The entrance is still the same as in 1653 and the garden is lovely.

Address Royal Delft is located just outside the centre of Delft. It’s a 20-minute walk from de Markt and 15-minute from the Delft train station. Otherwise, they are a few bus stops nearby as well.

Rotterdamseweg 196 Delft

Click at this link for more information about visiting Royal Delft.

Visit the botanical garden in Delft

One of my most favourite things to do, no matter what city I visit, is to look for botanical gardens. And you’re in for a treat. Delft has a beautiful botanical garden, called Hortus Botanicus Delft . And it is one of the things you have to see in Delft.

This is not one of the oldest botanical gardens of The Netherlands, as it’s been established in 1917, but still, one you have to visit. It is part of the TU Delft, which is one of the best technical universities of The Netherlands.

What I love about botanical gardens is that they are a quiet space in a bustling city. Delft is a city that is renowned for having a big student population, so it’s great to ease and relax your mind in the Delft Hortus Botanicus. That makes visiting the botanical gardens one of the best things you can do in Delft. The whole garden is bigger than you’d expect, so definitely worth an attraction that you should visit when you’re in Delft. You can buy tickets in the museum shop.

Address Museum Shop Botanische Tuin Poortlandplein 6, 2628 BM, Delft

For more information go to their website here .

Map of the botanical garden of Delft.

Go vintage shopping in Delft

One of the best places to go vintage shopping in Delft is Vintage Island . Although this is a typical vintage shop with brands such as Levi’s you will find whatever your heart desires. This vintage shop has several other locations through The Netherlands. But it will still make your vintage heart flutter in happiness.

Address Hippolytusbuurt 4 2611 HN Delft

The next vintage shop you have to visit in Delft, which is one of a kind, is Offline is the New Black . This shop is a mixed store, so not completely vintage. It has a lot of designer vintage clothing, handmade jewellery, furniture, and Dutch design. They sell products from young Dutch designers and believe in a mixture of old and new. The vintage clothing comes from France and the jewellery is made in the same shop. This store is one of my most favourite spots of Delft if I want to find some different clothing than the big brands such as Zara and H&M.

Address Oude Delft 149 Delft

Best place to get dinner in Delft

One of my most favourite restaurants in Delft is The Living . The Living is one of the best restaurants in Delft, but it’s slightly different than you would imagine. The Living is a takeaway and has a few seats, but no toilets. Why do I recommend this restaurants/ takeaway in Delft then? Because at The Living you pay for your food in weight. 2,15 euros per 100 grams and 3,50 euros for a soup portion.

The reason they do that is because at The Living they want to reduce food waste. They also only have products with the smallest ecological footprint. That means if you’re looking for a vegan or vegetarian restaurant/ take- away in Delft, The Living is your spot. Around 80% of their food is vegan and everything is 100% vegetarian. The menu changes every two weeks.

Address Asvest 8 2611 PK Delft

Go for drinks or dance your worries away at Steck in Delft

Steck is one of the best places for live music in Delft. The atmosphere is great and so is the music. If you want to relax after a busy, long but exciting day, you have to visit club/ bar Steck in Delft. In my opinion, it’s not only the best place for live music but also one of the best bars of Delft. You will find anything from 90’s music to jazz and Dj’s. If you’re not into dancing but just fancy some beers or cocktails in Delft, don’t you worry. Without dancing, you’ll be perfectly fine at Steck as well.

Address Kromstraat 25 2611 EP Delft

How to get to Delft

From Amsterdam: The easiest way to get from Amsterdam to Delft is by train. Take the train from Amsterdam Centraal in the direction of Vlissingen. Get out at Delft train station. This will take you around one hour.

From Rotterdam: The best way to get from Rotterdam to delft is by taking the train from Rotterdam Centraal. Get the train in the direction of Amsterdam Centraal or Den Haag Centraal. Get out at Delft. This will take you around 15 minutes.

From The Hague: If you want to travel from The Hague to Delft I would also recommend you to take the train. Take the train from Den Haag Centraal in the direction of Eindhoven or Dordrecht. Get out at Delft. This will take you around 12 minutes.

This itinerary to spending one day in Delft is pretty packed. So, don’t worry if you’re not able to do all these great things in Delft, as long as you’re enjoying yourself and the city, that’s all that matters. If you’re not into vintage shopping, scratch that, if you’re a fast traveller you might do all these attractions in Delft. Travel how you like. I hope this article was useful again. Click here for all my other articles about The Netherlands. Share this post!!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Map of Delft — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Delft, The Netherlands for travelers! Check out Delft’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Delft? See our Delft Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Delft. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Delft map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Delft by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 17 attractions in Delft

Nieuwe church.

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Vermeer Centrum Delft

Stadhuis delft, royal delft, gemeenlandshuis delft, museum prinsenhof delft, beestenmarkt, delftse hout, madame de berry's hidden house, maria van jessekerk, delft windmill de roos, museum paul tétar van elven, prinsenkwartier, tu delft hortus botanicus, standbeeld van hugo de groot, top 10 restaurants in delft, restaurant kruydt, café einstein - italiaanse keuken, stads-koffyhuis, restaurant la tasca, café restaurant de v, 't postkantoor, hummus delft, thuis by ladera, transportation in delft, nearby airports, amsterdam airport schiphol, highways and major roads.

• A4 Motorway
• A13 Motorway
• N470 Provincial Road
• N211 Provincial Road
• N470/A4 Westland Route
• N468 Kruithuisweg
• N465 Oostpoortweg
• N468 Oude Langedijk
• Martinus Nijhofflaan
• Michiel de Ruyterweg

Top searches in Delft

Popular road trips from delft, what's the weather like in delft.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Delft for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Delft in January
• Weather in Delft in February
• Weather in Delft in March
• Weather in Delft in April
• Weather in Delft in May
• Weather in Delft in June
• Weather in Delft in July
• Weather in Delft in August
• Weather in Delft in September
• Weather in Delft in October
• Weather in Delft in November
• Weather in Delft in December

All road trips from Delft

• Delft to London drive
• Delft to Paris drive
• Delft to Brussels drive
• Delft to Berlin drive
• Delft to Rome drive
• Delft to Barcelona drive
• Delft to Bruges drive
• Delft to Prague drive
• Delft to Dublin drive
• Delft to Edinburgh drive
• Delft to Madrid drive
• Delft to Vienna drive
• Delft to Milan drive
• Delft to Florence drive
• Delft to Budapest drive
• Delft to Antwerp drive
• Delft to Cologne drive
• Delft to Copenhagen drive
• Delft to Venice drive
• Delft to Munich drive
• Delft to Hamburg drive
• Delft to Lisbon drive
• Delft to York drive
• Delft to Istanbul drive
• Delft to Turin drive
• Delft to Liverpool drive
• Delft to Krakow drive
• Delft to Stockholm drive
• Delft to Frankfurt drive

Explore nearby places

• Schipluiden
• Berkel en Rodenrijs
• Leidschendam
• Honselersdijk
• Bergschenhoek
• Vlaardingen
• Scheveningen
• 's-Gravenzande
• Voorschoten
• Zevenhuizen-Moerkapelle

All related maps of Delft

• Map of Delfgauw
• Map of Rijswijk
• Map of Schipluiden
• Map of Pijnacker
• Map of Wateringen
• Map of Voorburg
• Map of Kwintsheul
• Map of De Lier
• Map of The Hague
• Map of Berkel en Rodenrijs
• Map of Leidschendam
• Map of Honselersdijk
• Map of Maasland
• Map of Poeldijk
• Map of Bergschenhoek
• Map of Schiedam
• Map of Naaldwijk
• Map of Vlaardingen
• Map of Zoetermeer
• Map of Maassluis
• Map of Scheveningen
• Map of Monster
• Map of Rotterdam
• Map of Bleiswijk
• Map of Ter Heijde
• Map of Rozenburg
• Map of 's-Gravenzande
• Map of Voorschoten
• Map of Benthuizen
• Map of Zevenhuizen-Moerkapelle

Delft throughout the year

• Delft in January
• Delft in February
• Delft in March
• Delft in April
• Delft in May
• Delft in June
• Delft in July
• Delft in August
• Delft in September
• Delft in October
• Delft in November
• Delft in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Delft?

Get inspired for your trip to Delft with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Delft Itinerary
• 2-Day Delft Itinerary
• 3-Day Delft Itinerary
• 4-Day Delft Itinerary
• 5-Day Delft Itinerary

• Itinerary + map in one view
• Live collaboration
• Auto-import hotels and reservations
• Optimize your route
• Offline access on mobile
• See time and distance between all your places

Account Options

Getty Images

An amalgam of austere medieval magnificence and Golden Age glory, Delft's exquisite town centre is a hugely popular Dutch day-trip destination, awash with visitors strolling its narrow, canal-lined streets and central Markt. The centre is time-capsule-like, having changed little since Golden Age artist Johannes Vermeer, who was born in Delft and lived his whole life here, painted his famous View of Delft in 1660–61.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Vermeer Centrum Delft

Johannes Vermeer was born in Delft in 1632 and lived here until his death in 1675, aged only 43. Although none of his works remain in Delft, this centre…

Nieuwe Kerk

Construction of Delft's Nieuwe Kerk began in 1381; it was finally completed in 1655. The church has been the final resting place of almost every member of…

Royal Delft

Pottery fans will love visiting Royal Delft, the town's most famous earthenware factory, which has been handcrafting its blue-and-white-painted porcelain…

Museum Prinsenhof Delft

William of Orange (William the Silent) was assassinated in this former convent in 1584 (the bullet hole in the wall is preserved), becoming the world's…

Founded c 1246, the Oude Kerk is a surreal sight: its 75m-high tower, which was erected c 1350, leans nearly 2m from the vertical due to subsidence caused…

One of the largest historic market squares in Europe, the rectangular Markt was first paved in the late 15th century. It is edged by the town hall, Nieuwe…

Museum Paul Tetar van Elven

Off the usual tourist radar, this museum is the former studio and home of 19th-century Dutch artist Paul Tetar van Elven, who lived and worked here from…

De Delftse Pauw

This long-operating Delftware factory north of the city centre offers free short guided tours in which the production process is explained. These start…

Latest stories from Delft

Accessible Travel

Oct 25, 2019 • 3 min read

DiscoverEU offers free train travel in the EU to 18-year-olds. Neža has Asperger syndrome and took a solo trip with her free pass. Here's her story.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Delft

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 2.3.1 From The Hague
• 2.3.2 From Leidschendam-Voorburg
• 3.1 By public transport
• 3.2 By foot
• 3.3 By bicycle
• 3.4 By taxi
• 4.1 Markt square and around
• 4.2 Other sites
• 4.5 Museums
• 5.1 Attractions
• 5.2 Theatres and cinemas
• 6.1 Delftware
• 7.1 Pie and lunch
• 7.2 Markets
• 7.3.1 Budget
• 7.3.2 Mid-range
• 7.3.3 Splurge
• 8.1 Specific cafés
• 8.2 Nightlife
• 8.3 Cannabis
• 9.2 Bed and breakfast
• 9.3 Holiday rental houses
• 9.4 Long-term rentals
• 9.5 Camping
• 10.1 General practitioner
• 11.1 Religious services

Delft is a mid-sized city in the west of the Netherlands . It's a beautiful, unspoiled town with traditional architecture, canals and bikes. It's also home to the world famous blue and white ceramics. Delft makes a great destination for a day-trip or can serve as a base to explore the region. And if the bustling crowds of Amsterdam are not really your thing, Delft is a lovely alternative, offering an equally interesting insight into the cultural wealth of old "Holland", on a far more intimate scale.

Delft is more than 750 years old. Its name is derived from the Dutch word 'delven' which means delve or digging . Delft's oldest canal is called The Old Delft (de Oude Delft). Delft expanded around it; later on many other city-canals were dug as life lines through the city. These grachten are still the pride of Delft.

In 1246 Delft received city rights, granted by Holland's Count William II. Delft grew prosperous and new neighbourhoods were added to the city. In 1355 it reached the size it would remain at until the 1900s.

In 1536 a great fire destroyed 2300 houses. The most likely cause was lightning striking the tower of The New Church. About 100 years later, in 1654, an explosion destroyed large parts of town; a warehouse with 36 000 kg of gunpowder blew up. A new warehouse (Kruithuis) was later built, outside the city perimeter.

Delft has long been a centre of art and science. With the foundation of the Vereenigde Oostindische Compagnie (East India Company) in 1602, Delft also became a trading center. The VOC was at one time the largest trading company in the world, with a huge fleet and offices all over Asia. One of the Dutch offices was in Delft.

In 1842, the Royal Academy for Civil Engineering (Koninklijke Academie ter opleiding van Burgerlijke Ingenieurs) was founded. Now known as Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), it is Delft's biggest employer. About 13,000 students study in Delft.

• 52.012371 4.360151 1 VVV Delft ( Tourist Information ), Kerkstraat 3 , ☏ +31 15 - 215 40 51 , [email protected] . Apr-Sepː M 10:00-16:00, Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00, Su 10:00-16:00; Oct-Marː M 12:00-16:00, Tu-Sa 10:00-16:00, Su 11:00-15:00 . All you want to know about Delft. Sells maps, books and tours. ( updated Oct 2021 )

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol ( AMS  IATA ) is 45 min away by direct connection train. If you prearrange a taxi to pick you up at Schiphol, expect to pay at least €60 to Delft. As such, the train is the best option.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport ( RTM  IATA ) is only a few kilometres away but since there is no direct public transport connection it takes around 45 minutes. Travel via Rotterdam Centraal station, where you can take a train. Either take bus 33 directly to Rotterdam Centraal, or the other direction to Meijersplein Metro where you can take metro line E to Rotterdam Centraal (direction Slinge ).

When taking an airport taxi from Rotterdam The Hague Airport, expect to pay about €35 for the trip. Other, cheaper, options are prearranged taxis from Delft.

There are 2 railway stations in Delft.

• 51.9903 4.3651 2 Delft Campus ( formerly Delft Zuid ). It serves the southern residential areas and the southern part of the University quarter, this station is also closest to the historic site 'Het Kruithuis'. Only served by sprinter (stopping train) service. ( updated Sep 2023 )

On the trams you must use the OV-chipkaart or day-pass.

From The Hague

Delft is a short tram ride from The Hague by tram. Tram   1   runs from Scheveningen, through the middle of The Hague and Den Haag HS to Delft. Travelling time is approximately 30 min from The Hague (Centrum) to Delft. From Scheveningen to Delft the journey takes 45 minutes.

From Leidschendam-Voorburg

You can take tram   19   from Leidschenhage to its end point at Delft's train station. From Leidschenhage to Delft it takes 40 minutes. Leidschenhage is on the route of trams   2   and   6   .

Delft, between the A4 and A13 motorways, is easily reached by car. Both highways are easily accessible both from Amsterdam/Schiphol and from Rotterdam. Delft has three exits off the A13 motorway. The city centre is best reached via exit Delft (exit 9). During the weekend this exit can be busy with IKEA shoppers. Then take the North exit (exit 8), or the South exit (exit 10) to reach the University. From the A4 motorway, take exit 14. Then, go along the Kruithuisweg (N470), until the third stoplight. Turn left, then follow signs to 'centrum'. Once you are there, follow the 'P' of your choice. It is best to go to P Zuidpoort.

Buses from The Hague and Rotterdam terminate at Delft railway station. Tram line   1   from Den Haag (HS) runs to Delft and has stops near the city center and railway station.

By public transport

Local public transport in the town is a part of the public transport system of the Hague . As said, the historical centre of Delft is small enough to be explored on foot, but local public transport could be used to reach the Hague and come back. HTM travel cards are also valid here.

There are two frequent tram routes that run north of the city center, although there are several suburban/regional bus routes operated by EBS as well. These are better suited to travelling between towns not directly connected by rail.

Walking - the centre is small enough to walk across in ten minutes. Most streets in the city centre are pedestrianized. But do take care: taxis are allowed to use these streets. Especially at night they drive at inappropriate speeds. When walking through town make sure you leave room for traffic on bikes. The locals are zooming around going about on their daily business.The locals are usually aware of tourists looking up at the gables and are ready for unsuspended side steps, but do try to keep an eye on the traffic. A collision with a bike can ruin your whole day. Walking around without a top is considered uncouth.

The Netherlands is a perfect country for cycling. The land is flat, the views broad and cycle paths are everywhere. For the Dutch cycling is not only useful for the daily commute but also considered an excellent leisure activity. Inexperienced cyclists are few and far between. Cyclist are expected to ride their bikes in an assertive way. If you have a wobbly and uncertain trajectory, cars tend to overtake. This would make the cycling experience a harrowing experience. But realize that even if you have right of way, a car is still a lot harder than you.

Inside the Delft canal streets, most locals will mount the pavement shortly to let cars past on the canals where possible. This is just courteous because the next time when you are driving the car you hope to be let through as well.

At the train station in Delft you can rent bicycles. To rent a bike you will need a valid ID and a deposit (€50 for a simple bike or €145 for a tandem). The rental fee for a normal bike with a back-pedal brake will be €7.50 per day. (including insurance cover for theft). Often it is possible to rent a bike with gears or one with electric assistance. Especially if you are with a group it is best to reserve the bikes per telephone (015-2143033) beforehand. (Please) Make sure you understand the traffic rules before you set off.

• Call-taxi [dead link] telephone: 015 2625425
• A Taxi Delft telephone: 015 2612121
• Deltax telephone: 015 2191919
• Lextax VOF [dead link] telephone: 015 2621211
• Botlektaxi , ☏ +31 10-6666606 . ( updated Oct 2022 )

In brief, getting around by car in Delft is, similar to many other Dutch cities, discouraged through spatial planning and parking fares. The old city has been made largely car-free, but there are three large car parks at the edge of the city centre (Parkeergarage Zuidpoort, Markt and Phoenix). These car parks are expensive, but parking on the few public parking spaces on the streets in or near the city center can be even more expensive. The parking policy differs per area and is not always clear. Beware of the signs "alleen vergunninghouders" ( permit holders only ) in some streets in the vicinity of the city center, especially in residential areas. Sometimes only a floor tile with a "P" is visible. This means Permit parking. Many tourist assume "P" means parking and end up with a parking fine. Parking is energetically policed. Unauthorized parking will cost you about €70. A 10-minute walk from the centre parking for free can be found at the Nijverheidsplein. The University area will have space in the weekends.

Traffic rules on priority consider the vulnerability of the mode of transport. This means a car has to give way to a bike to avoid a collision. Even a bike travelling the wrong way up a one-way street, without lights, driven by someone clearly over the limit colliding with a car will put that car driver at fault. Because of the risk to the cyclist, the car should have done everything to avoid the collision, or he is at fault.

Be sure to check the mirrors before you make a right turn. There is a good chance a cyclist is between you and the pavement.

Markt square and around

• 52.01183 4.35954 3 Hugo de Groot (Hugo Grotius) , on Markt. On the market you will find the statue of Hugo Grotius (1583–1645). Grotius is the Latin version of the Dutch name Hugo de Groot. Grotius was a jurist in the Dutch Republic. He laid the foundations for international law and law of the sea. In 1618 Grotius was sentenced to life imprisonment to the Loevestein Castle, about 75 km south east of Delft. Grotius managed to escape in a book chest. Both the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and the museum Het Prinsenhof in Delft claim to have the original book chest in their collection.
• 52.011331 4.35918 4 Drogisterij De Salamander ( Apotheek De Salamander ), Markt 47 . It's an old-fashioned pharmacy. The gable is adorned by a traditional Gaper. The pharmacist -in white lab coat- provides proper care and attention far beyond current standards. ( updated Jun 2016 )

• 52.011266 4.358018 5 De Waag ( Waaggebouw ), Markt 111 . A former weighting house. It hosts a café and a restaurant. ( updated Jun 2016 )

• 52.01175 4.357837 6 Vleeshal ( Meat Hall ), Voldersgracht 1 . Built in 1650. It is one of the only Hollands Classical buildings in Delft. Built as a meat market, later it was converted for wheat. Nowadays it is a youth society and restaurant. ( updated Jun 2016 )
• 52.011751 4.357609 7 Visbanken , Cameretten 2 . Adjacent to the Vleeshal is the old city's fish market. Try traditional Dutch herring. The taste holds between raw tuna and "gravad lax" (cured salmon). The antique shop opposite the Visbank is the most photographed building in Delft. Note the fence. It is a depiction of the solar system. ( updated Jun 2016 )
• 52.011445 4.362559 8 Beestenmarkt ( 2 min from the main square ). This is a tree-covered square with restaurants, cafés and bars all with outside seating. Very busy all year round. Many pubs have patio heaters to provide comfort after sunset. One of the pubs even provides a sand pit for the children. The name of the square refers to cattle ( beest is animal) market which used to be held here. During December and January, an ice rink is built on the square. ( updated Jun 2016 )
• 52.01265 4.361647 9 Vrouwenregt . This is a tiny street at the back of the New Church. Note the little warped house on the corner closest to the church. It featured in the Girl with a Pearl Earring , a film about the painter Vermeer, and every tourist takes its picture. ( updated Jun 2016 )

Other sites

• 52.008895 4.359976 12 Synagoge Delft , Koornmarkt 12 , ☏ +31 15 256-3371 . Jun-Oct: Sa 14:00-17:00 . This former synagogue was built in 1862 as temple, to a design of Ir. Leon Winkel. The building houses a permanent exhibition to the remembrance of the Jewish victims in the Second World War.  

• 52.00658 4.36037 13 Armamentarium ( ArsenaalDelft ). The building of the former arsenal, picturesquely located at the fork of canals, used to house the Royal Army Museum ( Legermuseum ) until it moved to Soest in 2013. It is now in redevelopment, but you can still admire the building from the outside. ( updated Jun 2016 )
• 52.006887 4.359463 14 Oost-Indisch Huis ( VOC-Huis ), Oude Delft 39 . not open to the public . The Dutch East India Company House consisted of 6 chambers. One of them was located in Delft. Delft had a harbour ( Delfshaven ) at that time, next to Rotterdam. The harbour was later engulfed by the growing city of Rotterdam. ( updated Jun 2016 )

• 52.017028 4.359223 16 Artilleriemagazijn ( Artillery Depot ), Paardenmarkt 1 . As a result of the reformation around 1572, many cloisters were abandoned. This happened to the Clarissenklooster as well. It became a warehouse for sulphur, saltpeter and canon. In 1637 a small tower for firepowder was built. In 1654 this tower exploded, destroying a large part of the city. After this it was rebuilt.  

• 52.002638 4.37552 17 Universiteitsbibliotheek ( University Library ), Prometheusplein 1 , ☏ +31 15 278-5678 . Between the Mekelweg and the Schoemakerstraat sits one of the largest technical libraries of Europe. It is housed in a glass building, with a sloping grass roof penetrated by a concrete cone. Free entrance during opening hours.  
• 52.016055 4.346169 21 Agnetapark ( 10 min walk northwest out of the city's centre ). This small park was built around 1880 by a local factory owner for his workers. It is the first garden city in the Netherlands. It contains the house of the owner and small working-class cottages and has been a state monument since 1989. ( updated Jun 2016 )

In Netherlands towns hofjes (almshouses) were built to host single women.

• 52.016012 4.357439 22 Hofje van Gratie , Van der Mastenstraat 26-38 . This was a hofje for single women, founded in 1575 by Pieter Sasbout. It was built on Korte Geer, but, with the expansion of the Armamentarium, it was moved to its current location. ( updated Jun 2016 )
• 52.016136 4.357093 23 Hofje van Pauw , Paardenmarkt 54-62 . It was built in 1707 as stated in the will of Elizabeth Pauw. ( updated Jun 2016 )
• 52.011519 4.367862 24 Klaeuwshofje , Oranje Plantage 58-77 . This hofje was meant for unmarried or widowed Catholic women. It was founded in 1605 by Dirck and Elizabeth Uyttenhage. ( updated Jun 2016 )

• Stroll through town: suggested streets: Oude Delft, Boterbrug, Wijnhaven, Hippolytusbuurt, Choorstraat, Vrouw Jutteland, Rietveld, Kerkstraat, Markt ending at the Beestenmarkt for a refreshment.
• Rent a bike and visit De Delftse Hout , a park/leisure area to the east of Delft. Cycle through the woods, sail on the lake, have a picnic, walk through the parks
• Visit the bric à brac Markets around the central streets (Hippolytusbuurt, Vrouw Jutteland and Voldersgracht) and canals of Central Delft, every Saturday, April - October (free to visit)
• Visit the Delft Library. DOK Vesteplein 100. This library was set up very different from other libraries. The books are in cupboarts on wheels. It won several national and international prizes because of its innovative layout and the other facilities and activities available. The reading room with the childerens books is very special. The reading room (and coffee corner) on the first floor has a fantastic glass ceiling spanning the whole library. There are many international newspapers and magazines available. Open Monday from 12:00 till 18:00 other days mostly 10:00 till 18:00. Closed on Sundays. More details on their (Dutch) website [1]
• Every week, Studium Generale organises lectures on a wide range of subjects. Usually these are in Dutch, but roughly once a month there may be one in English too. The lectures aim at the interest of students, but other people interested may often attend as well. Admission is usually free [2] [dead link] .
• 52.01322 4.35815 1 Pottery under the Mulberry Tree ( Potterij onder de Moerbeiboom ), Choorstraat 38 , ☏ +31 61 5435179 , [email protected] . Try out the pottery wheel in the middle of this amazing ceramic city. They give regular workshops for 3.5 hours on Saturday afternoons, but if you contact them via their website, they sometimes accomodate on other days of the week. €95 per person . ( updated Jan 2024 )

Attractions

• 52.012432 4.359405 2 Vermeercentrum ( Vermeer Centrum ), Voldersgracht 21 , ☏ +31 15 2138588 . 10:00-17:00 . It offers a view on the work and life of the famous 17th century painter Johannes Vermeer. The souterrain houses reproductions from all of his 37 works in chronological order. On the 1st floor, you find the studio of Vermeer that shows the methods and the famous light of Vermeer. On the 2nd floor, the special exhibition Love Letters from Vermeer reveals secrets from several famous paintings. There are no original Vermeer paintings there: all the images exhibited are reproductions . €12 . ( updated Jul 2016 )
• Windmill Windlust , Oudeweg 70, Nootdorp , ☏ +31 6-27327289 . On the road to Nootdorp 5 km outside Delft, on the IKEA side of the motorway you can find the Windmill Windlust. It is open to the public. Visit their website for the details and exact directions. It is best reached by bike.  
• Petting Zoo ( Kinderboerderij Delftse Hout ) on the Korftlaan 3, is a 15 minutes walk from the city centre, via the "Koepoort" Bridge. Opening hours 10:00-16:00. Admission free.
• Waterpark, next to the Petting Zoo Delftse Hout. You will find this park geared towards young children. A beach, swings, slides, a cable slide, clean toilet facilities and a maximum water depth of 40 cm (1 ft 3) and free admission make this a popular destination on sunny days. Same entrance as the Petting Zoo. The gate to the waterpark is half-way on the left.
• Play grounds. Delft has five outdoor play grounds. These are outdoor areas with swings and various climbing frames. Target audience: 2-12 year olds. The biggest is the one on the Beukenlaan 1. The admission is free. It has toilet facilities and a simple shop for coffee, drinks and ice cream. On sunny days the volunteers sometimes run blow-up paddling pools. Opening hours, Monday till Friday from 13:30 till 17:30.
• Kids Playground Delft (Kleveringweg 35 2616 LZ Delft Tel. 015-2190673) On the other side of the A13 motorway behind the McDonald's restaurant is an indoor playpark. Although staff motivation and facilities both need a polish it can provide a channel for excess child energy on rainy days. Wednesday to Sunday 10:00-18:00 admission €7 children and €1.80 per adult.

Theatres and cinemas

• There are a few theaters in the inner city; Theater de Veste, Vesteplein 1 [3] is the largest theater, with shows almost every night (except during summer). The Microtheater, next to the New Church is a small theatre with around one show per week. On the rietveld there is a small theater called the Rietveld theatre .
• There are two cinemas in Delft. Filmhuis Lumen is a small pleasant cinema run mostly by friendly volunteers. It has a very nice foyer. It shows mostly non-Hollywood and art-house movies. Also the film "Girl with a pearl earring" is shown here once a week. Doelenplein 5 [4] . Hollywood blockbusters can be seen in Pathé Delft, Vesteplein 5 [5] . This is a new, large scale cinema near the Theater de Veste in the Zuidpoort (big screen, large comfy seats, expensive drinks and pre-made perfectly round popcorn).
• Channel cruise ( Rondvaart Delft ), Koornmarkt 133 , ☏ +31 15 2016385 . daily 11-17 . Experience a different view on Delft from a canal boat (Dutch and English tour guide). €6 .  
• The Canal taxi boat takes you to all the main tourist spots. You can flag a boat on the canals or you can order one by phone on 06 - 22 99 2795. Single fare €2.50 per person. It is also possible to rent the whole boat for €35 per hour for max 8 persons, it will pick you up from where you want.
• Tour the sights of Delft in a horse-drawn tram if you like a bumpy ride surrounded in the smell of manure. It starts on the market square.

Especially during summer there are several annual events to visit, most of them are in the open air and free to visit. For a list of upcoming events, you can check out the Event calendar: [6] [dead link] . An incomplete list of annual events:

• Mooi Weer Spelen , creative event with street theatre (free), exhibitions and theatre shows on special locations (some of them are free), one entire weekend, usually somewhere in June [7]
• Taptoe , National event of non-military marching bands performing parades and demonstrations, usually the first weekend of September (free)
• Westerpop , (rock) music festival with local, national and international artists, usually the last weekend of August (free) [8]
• Varend corso , flower decorated boats sailing from the Westland (the glasshouse area where special flowers are grown) to Delft, usually a Sunday in the beginning of August (free)
• Lichtjesavond ("evening of lights"), evening with Christmas atmosphere, where Christmas songs are sung, a large Christmas tree on the central market square and many, many lights. Usually on a Tuesday evening, halfway December (free)
• Open Monumentendag ("day of the open monuments"), on this national event, many monumental buildings can be visited for free, which are otherwise closed to the public. This includes climbing to the top of "Molen De Roos", the windmill on Phoenixstraat 112, and visiting the former city prison and torturing room (backside of the City Hall), where the alleged murderer of William of Orange was tortured in 1584. It usually takes place on a Saturday. Inform at the tourism office when the next open monumentendag is held.
• Muziek op de Gracht ("Music on the canals"), in July and August free concerts are given on boats on the Vrouw Jutteland Canal.
• Delft Jazz . Four days in August at least 20 pubs and outside podia are participating in Delft Jazz. It attracts a friendly crowd of people.  

The shopping area in the city spreads roughly from the "Zuidwal" on the south to the "Choorstraat" on the north. The national and international stores like C&A, H&M and McDonald's concentrate on the southern part of the city, while the more alternative small stores and gift shops can be found more to the north. Apart from some supermarkets, shops are usually closed on Sundays and on Monday mornings.

• Vrouwjuttenland : In this short street along a canal, near the New Church, alternative clothing and gift stores can be found. Pipe or cigar smokers should definitely visit "Van Renssen". The street also contains an organic/health food supermarket. On summer evenings, once a week there are performances of musical artists, performing from a boat on the canal. Check the health food supermarket for the exact dates.
• Choorstraat : Just around the corner from the Vrouwjuttenland, the Choorstraat can be found. This pleasant small street offers a variety of stores, like a drugstore selling all sorts of tea, an international gift store selling everything from tajines to Buddha statues, a chocolate store, a gameshop and a large book store with many international newspapers.
• Hippolytusbuurt : At the end of the Choorstraat, until Wijnhaven is Hippolytusbuurt. This is one of the two major canals. It boasts the one of the oldest shops in the world. The Fish shop dates from 1342. The Tourist information point is here. A funny little sweets shop, two toy shops, two hairdressers, a Moroccan butcher with an excellent selection of olives and tapanades and two upmarket restaurants.
• Bastiaansplein : The newest shopping area in town, consisting of a large supermarket (7 days a week open until 22:00) and several clothing stores. Tiles in the street light up at night.
• Voldersgracht : For those who need good advice on tasteful alcoholic beverages, they definitely should visit the store Wines and Whisky's. Furthermore, the Voldersgracht holds a large record shop, which sells a wide range of LP's and CD's from all ages. The street also has a religious gift shop, the Bijbel-In.
• Martinus Nijhofflaan : The "Hovenpassage" is a covered shopping area, 15 minutes of walking outside the city centre. The shops are smaller and less alternative, but it contains a wide variety of stores and a large supermarket, the "Jumbo". Another large supermarket, the Albert Heijn, is on the other side of the street.
• Oude Delft : Wine shop "Van Dorp" is near the Old Church. The shop is in the vaulted basement of a monumental house. The atmosphere inside is cool and tranquil and worth a visit by itself. The shop has an extensive selection of wine in every price category. The customer service is highly personal and very friendly. Because the shop doesn't lend itself to much browsing the shopkeeper (a wine connoisseur himself) will try and find out what is to your liking and then recommend a suiting wine without pushing expensive wines. The venue can also be hired for wine tasting sessions. A visit here will cure you from supermarket wine forever.

Delfts Blauw (Delft Blue) is a traditional Delft pottery. In the 18th century the city was famous for its porcelain. Around 1750, 32 earthenware factories were located in Delft. Avoid anything that says "Holland" on it, or depicts windmills. Check out the antique stores if you want something really traditional.

• 52.012521 4.360569 2 Aardewerkfabriek De Candelaer , Kerkstraat 13 , ☏ +31 15 213-1848 . De Candelaer is a little porcelain factory in the inner city.  
• 52.012471 4.360547 4 De Blauwe Tulp , Kerkstraat 12 , ☏ +31 15-2148092 .  

Restaurants on the central marketplace can be more expensive than those in back-streets.

• Chocolaterie De Lelie , Voorstraat 10, 2611 JP Delft , ☏ +31 15 212 0363 . Great place to get ice cream. Try the dark chocolate. They also make their own chocolates. ( updated May 2015 )

Pie and lunch

• Kobus Kuch , Beestenmarkt 1 . The café Kobus Kuch has a nice choice of lunch breads, but is probably best known for its home made pies, and particularly its appeltaart with whipped cream. If the personnel is not to busy to bake one for you, you can even order an entire pie to take home.  
• Lunchroom Leonidas , Choorstraat . Named after the Belgian chocolates (which they sell too), has nice lunch breads and a wide variety of tea. During summer time you can take your lunch out in the patio at the back. Bonus here : no background music!  
• Kleyweg's Stads-koffyhuis , Oude Delft 133 . Kleyweg's Stads-koffyhuis is a favorite lunch place of many locals and undoubtedly sports the best sandwiches in town. It can be a bit crowded around lunch time however, so be on time. Otherwise stop there for coffee, Dutch coffee is consistently excellent, and goes well with the ubiquitous (and delicious) Dutch apple cake. It has a terrace boat in summer time which provides a lovely view of the oude delft canal.  
• 52.01287 4.35562 1 Michel Boulanger , Oude Kerkstraat 3, 2611 HT Delft, Nederland , ☏ +31 6 24 34 94 15 . M-F 08:00-17:00, Sa 08:30-17:00, Sa 09:00-15:00 . Great little bakeries that does breads, sandwiches and cakes. €5-10 . ( updated May 2015 )
• Jans Delft ( Jans ), Brabantse Turfmarkt 87 , ☏ +31-15 - 8200970 , [email protected] . 10:00-17:30 . Jans is a patisserie and lunch place located right in the centre of town. They serve their own baked goods, pies and have ice cream. Open for breakfast (on some days) and lunch. €5-10 . ( updated Apr 2019 )

On Thursday (at the Grote Markt and brabantse Turfmarkt) and Saturday (at the Brabantse Turfmarkt only) a market is held in Delft centre. Fresh produce, fish and flowers and non-food at bargain prices. Services like watch repair and mobile phone unlocking are also available. Try the sweet smelling freshly made "Stroopwafels" (syrup waffles). Try a herring or "Kibbeling" deep-fried battered fish. Every Tuesday a market is also held at the Papsouwselaan.

Restaurants

If you are on a really tight budget, many student societies provide food, for a modest price (around €4). To check what is on offer look here [dead link] .

• Pizzeria Dennis , Nieuwstraat 8 , ☏ +31 15 215-8677 . 16:00-22:00 daily . Reasonable pizzas and Middle Eastern dishes (shawarma/kebab). Relatively cheap. The place is much more oriented on take-aways than on eat-ins. No reservation needed. Has a nice website especially the registered users section. Pizza €5-7.50, Meals €10-14.50, Drinks €1.50 .  
• Thuis bij Ladera ( Ladera ), Oosteinde 123 , ☏ +31 15 212-5950 , [email protected] . M-F 16:30-20:00 . Affordable traditional Dutch menu in a tradiational Dutch 'living room diner' setting. Join the locals for a chat at the main table, have your own table, or eat in the garden (out the back, not indicated). Service fast and friendly, no reservation needed. Ask for special dishes, not indicated on the menu. Dinner €6.50-9.50, coffee €1 .  
• Snackbar Kockie ( Kockies ), Krakeelpolderweg 45 . Tu-F 11:30-21:30, Sa Su 11:30-20:30 . A bit of the beaten path, one can find a true Dutch snackbar. For many locals this is the best snackbar in town. This family business offers the full range of Dutch snacks, including 'kroketten' and 'patatje stoofvlees' and also full snackbar meals. Most people order take away, but sit-down is also possible. €5 . ( updated Apr 2019 )
• Eettafel Sint Jansbrug , Oude Delft 50-52 , ☏ +31 15 212-0619 . The largest venue of Delft with a changing clientele of students and non-students. On weekdays you can enjoy a meal from 17:30 to 19:30 for a small price. Soup, main course and dessert for less than €4.50 .  
• De Parel van Flores , Voldersgracht 31 , ☏ +31 15 213-0946 . Authentic Indonesian cuisine (unlike the other indo-chin-thai places in town). Family-owned with reasonable prices and OK food. The service and quality get mixed reviews. No reservation needed. Appetizers €5, meals €10 .  
• Spijshuis de Dis , Beestenmarkt 36 , ☏ +31 15 213-1782 . Tu–Sa 17:00–close . Authentic Dutch fare, based on recipes of the Dutch Golden Age. €17–24 . ( updated May 2016 )
• Eetcafé de Ruif , Kerkstraat 22-24 , ☏ +31 15 2142206 . Excellent food at acceptable prices, the best place in Delft for a sunny summer day, food served in the garden and on a barge with sunshine till late in the evening. Daily menu at low prices is usually out at about 20:00. Dinner €15-20 . ( updated May 2016 )
• Japanese Restaurant FuSha , Choorstraat 36 , ☏ +31 15 212-6026 . Japanese sushi restaurant. Nice, serene atmosphere. A set sushi meal takes a whole evening. Limited choice of wine. Not too expensive. Take away possible. Sushi making workshops available.  
• Café de V , Voorstraat 9 , ☏ +31 15 2140916 . food served 18:00–22:00 . Excellent food, probably the best price/quality ratio in Delft, where food and hotels are generally overpriced. Daily menu at unbeatable prices (except maybe "De Ruif"). €7.50. Dinner about €10-20 .  
• LEF Restaurant , Doelenplein 2 , ☏ +31 15 2120617 . Very nice Paris bistro style restaurant/bar. Sit outside under the trees in the summer. Great place for sundowners. Sandpit for the kids available. Great food, low prices. €12-18 .  
• Stadscafé De Waag , Markt 11 , ☏ +31 15 2130393 . Not so simple restaurant, caters often for groups. Prices are OK.  
• Malee , Voldersgracht 29 , ☏ +31 15 2120781 . Tu–Su 17:00–22:00 . Authentic Thai food in a small restaurant. Every day, "auntie Malee" cooks a 3 course dinner for her guests. Not as spicy as you'll get in Thailand, but still a treat for your taste buds. Reservation advisable for larger groups. 3-course meal €18 . ( updated May 2016 )
• De Beren , Beestenmarkt , ☏ +31 15 212-6390 . Very busy restaurant. It works according to the more than you can eat principle. The portions are large. The meat servings are big. Every thing is served with plenty of carbs like chips, potato or rice. A token amount of salad is added. Very good place to go with a group. Very good value and quick service. Not the best place for a diner for two. Delivery also possible. 12–24 . ( updated May 2016 )
• Cafe Einstein ( Einstein ), Spoorsingel 24 , ☏ +31 15 2127014 , [email protected] . W-Su from 16:00 . Einstein offers great Italian meals for a reasonable price served by a very friendly staff. The real attraction for a visitor is the beautiful historic interior and the large selection of home made liqueurs. It is advised to reserve in advance. €16-20 for a main course . ( updated Apr 2019 )
• 'Le Vieux Jean , Heilige Geestkerkhof 3 , ☏ +31 15 213 04 3 . Lunch 12:00-14:30, dinner 18:00-22:30 . Le Vieux Jean is an expensive French restaurant with very good food. Expect to pay €80 per person for a starter, main, desert and wine. The restaurants has a very extensive wine list. Make sure you reserve seating in the downstairs restaurant. A private room is available. Their lunch menu will satisfy the most critical customer. Expect the highest quality in both the service and food in Delft. The price reflects this.  
• Stadsherberg De Mol , Molslaan 104 , ☏ +31 15 2121343 . Who wants to eat having a medieval experience, should definitely visit this restaurant. Bring a bag of money, it's not cheap. €16–35 . ( updated May 2016 )

The city centre of Delft is full of small bars, finding seating is sometimes a challenge. In summer the grote markt, Beestenmarkt and Brabantse turfmarkt are filled with terraces, other bars have terrace barges out front. The great beer history is alive and well again in Delft. Many bars feature an extensive beer menu, and one can try a beer from the local brewery (De Koperen Kat) or the historic brew 'Delftse Mueselare Bier'

• Al fresco at one of the many bars around the market square, or on a floating terrace (apparently unique to Delft) on a canal.
• "De Beestenmarkt"; around this square in the city centre are many pubs and bars. In the summer it is filled with people drinking a beer under the maple tree canopy.
• Many students get a drink at their fraternity (extremely cheap). Mostly you need to be a member or be introduced.

Specific cafés

• Jazzcafé Bebop , Kromstraat, a good café where the music is not so loud that you can't hear each other speaking, where the bartender is friendly and the visitors are on average around 25-30 (outside the weekends maybe somewhat older). It has a wide variety of beers and during summer the patio at the back is open.
• Knus , Zavelpad 3, 015–2122990. In the forest next to Delft lies a pleasant establishment for coffee and snacks. Most people arrive by bike after a tour around the woods. There is a sandpit with water for the children and a few other play things. It has water bikes for rent. Popular with children. [9]
• Café du Midi , Noordeindseweg 70, Delfgauw, 015 2157469. In the fields next to the Delft forest (behind Ikea) lies a relaxed café. It takes great pride in serving high quality local products. Petting zoo on the premises. Walkabout chickens everywhere. Tree shaded sitting area. usually busy. Also pleasantly priced. Most visitors are cyclists. Certainly worth a visit if you have a bike. (it also is accessible by car) [10]
• Bierhuis de Klomp ( de Klomp ), Buitenwatersloot 5 . Su-W 16:00-1:00, Th-Sa 15:00-2:00 . De Klomp (the wooden shoe) is the oldest bar in Delft. It is staffed by a very professional team that gladly will tell you about the history of the place. Since 2010 the bar has been featured in the Dutch 'Café top 100'. The bar serves a large selection of craft beers. What is really special is the large Jenever selection. This Dutch drink is sometimes called the Dutch gin, the staff will be happy to tell you about it and serve you a tasting of three different Jenevers. ( updated Apr 2019 )
• Cafe het Klooster ( Klooster ), Vlamingstraat 2 . Klooster has a large selection of craftbeer on draft (20 beers) and in their firdge. The staff give great recommendations. A recent change of ownership brought a large increase in seating area, which means you probably can get a table. ( updated Apr 2019 )

There are a few places to go out and dance:

• The Koornbeurs (alternative student fraternity and youth society, no membership needed) has regular live music on Friday, and the occasional parties on Saturday.
• The Lorre . This is a student disco that belongs to a fraternity (DSC). It is not always open to the public.
• Cine Dans Cafe (still under construction, not open yet). This one is near the theatre (theater de Veste).
• Ciccionina , Kromstraat 24 , [email protected] . Opening hours: each Friday and Saturday from 23:00 till 05:00, other opening times may vary. A small venue in the city centre with a huge variety of electronic music and concerts. The crowd is mixed, usually there are mostly students. Sometimes the place is half-empty, sometimes its packed (about 100 people) Entrance fee: usually between 0 and 4 Euro.  

Use of cannabis, weed or hashish is legal in small amounts (5 grams or less) in the Netherlands. Dutch law enforcement tolerates its use in so-called coffeeshops. There are 5 coffeeshops in Delft. The Future in the Peperstraat 8, de Vlouw on the Vlouw 27, The Game on the Breestraat 30, 't Keldertje on the Kromstraat 22a and De Boeddha on the Achterom 19a. The Game and The Future are both exceptional places for Lattes and herbs.

• Hotel Coen Delft , Coenderstraat 47 , ☏ +31 15 214-5914 . Comfortable, clean, reasonably priced and right next to the railway station, the only hotel in Delft offering a free sauna for its guests. Also offering a free Wi-Fi service and a lobby computer. 40 rooms. Double room €110, breakfast €12 .  
• Hotel de Emauspoort Delft , Vrouwenregt 9-11 , ☏ +31 15 219-0219 . Right behind the New Church. 23 rooms. Double room €100, breakfast included .  
• Hotel Grand Canal , Breestraat 1 , ☏ +31 15 215-7133 . Housed in a historic building (former city prison and VOC building) overlooking the canals, 2 minutes from the railway station. Clean and well-furnished, not very wheelchair-friendly. Wi-Fi available. Double room €95-150, breakfast €16 .  
• Hotel de Plataan , Doelenplein 10 , ☏ +31 15 212-6046 . Unique and stylish hotel. Themed rooms are available. Look at their website for details. Great location, reasonable prices. Free Wi-Fi. Single/double room €99/114. breakfast €15 .  
• Westcord , Olof Palmestraat 2 ( Exit Delft centrum ), ☏ +31 15 888-9010 . WestCord Hotel Delft is a showcase for Ikea. Everything is Ikea. The chairs, the bed, the cutlery, everything. Odd atmosphere, like sleeping in an Ikea store. 110 .  
• Hostel Delft , Voldersgracht 17 , ☏ +31 6 16496621 .  
• Hampshire Hotel Delft Centre , Koepoortplaats 3 , ☏ +31 15 212-2125 , [email protected] . Hotel parking at kKepoortparking.  

Bed and breakfast

There are several bed and breakfasts in Delft [11] [dead link] .

Holiday rental houses

There are several international websites offering canal houses for rent. Mostly these rentals need to be organised some time in advance. Because they are only slightly more expensive then a hotel room, they can work out to be cheaper for families with children who want their own room. Add the privacy and the facilities and they can be a very good alternative to a hotel or B&B. The three mayor websites competing are: [12] , [13] and [14]

Long-term rentals

Most estate agents in the Netherlands are a working together. This means real estate for sale and rent are pooled on a website covering nearly everything on the market. The advantage is that one website has most properties. The disadvantages of a near monopoly are also obvious. Long term stay houses for expatiates and PhD students can be found here .

There are three campgrounds in Delft.

• Camping Delfse Hout is located near a small artificial lake, suited for swimming. A camping spot for two persons, including a car costs between €19.50 and €24. Cabins (for three/four persons) are also available for €36. Cottages can be rented for €265 per week. Services include a restaurant, recreation room, supermarket, launderette, playground, table tennis, bike rent, swimming pool. This is not a quiet place. Korftlaan 5, tel: 015 2130040.
• Uylenburg does not offer camping spots anymore but there is a very pleasant guesthouse. Rooms are €80/115/130 for 1/2/4 persons including breakfast as of 2021. ☏ +31 15-2143732 , e-mail: [email protected].
• Even smaller is De Grutto . This is definitely only for the real nature lover. You have to be a member of NIVON to camp here. There are only 25 spots. For more information call Mrs. W. Klunder ☏ +31 79-341 83 25 (18:00 - 20:00). Directions, take bus 64 from Delft Station. Ask the driver to let you out at Rietzangerstraat, it is a 30-minute walk from there.

Stay healthy

The European telephone number for emergencies is 112. Fire, ambulance or police can be called out on this number. Mobile phones without caller credit can still call this number.

General practitioner

Family doctors (GPs) outside working hours (08:00 till 17:00) and for non-registered patients can be found at the "huisartsenpost", Reinier de Graafweg 3a, 2625 AD. (the white portacabin, next to the ambulance entrance), telephone (015) 251 19 30. Call before you visit. Visit: €65.14, consultation at home: €97.40. Paid parking on hospital grounds.

For prescription medication outside working hours, got to Apothecary "Buitenhof Apotheek" on the Rossinistraat 1, 2625 AP Delft. Telephone: (015) 245 42 00.

• Delft City Government website

Religious services

There are several church services available also in English. Some of them offer partly English spoken services, others offer translations by a headset or written on paper (both handed over at the entrance). The list below is not complete, but gives an impression of the possibilities.

• International Reformed Evangelical Fellowship [dead link] (Ecumenic service), Heilige Geestkerkhof 25. Su 12:00 (in English)
• Delft Christian Fellowship (Evangelistic/Charismatic service), Cort van der Lindenstraat 1. [15] [dead link] (Indonesian, English, Dutch)
• Levend Water (Evangelistic/Charismatic service), Hermesstraat 65. [16] [dead link] Su 10:00 (Dutch, English)
• Gereformeerde Kerk vrijgemaakt (Reformed), Schoemakerstraat 1. [17] [dead link] Su 11:00 (Dutch, with English translation on paper)
• The beach at Scheveningen — Tramline 1 takes about 1 h and terminates right on the beach (the same trip by train is faster, you have to change in The Hague).
• The Hague is a city worth a visit on its own (and it's on the way to Scheveningen). You can cycle to The Hague in 30 min. Start at the Oostsingel and follow the canal. It is well-sign-posted, and The Hague is visible as soon as you leave Delft.
• Schipluiden is a very small town on the outskirts of Delft, with a large canal with beautiful bridges and colorful boats. It's a popular watering hole for cyclists. There are also kayak and paddleboat rentals (€6 for first hour, €2/hr after).
• Schiedam is the next small city south along the train line. The small historic city centre is an undiscovered gem.
• Hook of Holland has a quieter and cleaner beach than Scheveningen's, and it faces the Port of Rotterdam so is nice when you want to see the big seagoing ships: Great views. Cycling from Delft takes you past farms, sheep, and greenhouses. If you only want to cycle one way there is a train station at the Hook of Holland. You can take your bike on the train for about €7.50.

• Has custom banner
• Has map markers
• Has mapframe
• Maps with non-default size
• Articles with dead external links
• Go listing with no coordinates
• Do listing with no coordinates
• Eat listing with no coordinates
• Drink listing with no coordinates
• Sleep listing with no coordinates
• Has routebox
• Usable cities
• Usable articles
• City articles
• Rotterdam-The Hague Metropolitan Region
• All destination articles
• Has Geo parameter
• Pages with maps

Navigation menu

• Français

Vermeer Centre Delft

Meet the master of light.

Highlights in Delft

Find out how the world famous Delft Blue earthenware is produced at Royal Delft, the factory that has been producing the hand-painted, blue motives since the sixteenth century, and at Delft Pottery De Delftse Pauw, this family owned factory exclusively produces entirely hand-painted Delftware.

The Vermeer Center presents the life and works of painter Johannes Vermeer, master of light and creator of ‘The Girl with the Pearl Earring’. While the Old and New Church and ‘Prinsenhof’ explain the strong connection between Delft and the Dutch Royal House.

Did you know

The world-famous earthenware has been produced in the city of Delft since 1602.

Your privacy settings

By loading the photos, you accept that Holland.com uses cookies to share data with third parties as described in our privacy statement (holland.com/privacy).

Frequently Asked Questions

Delft is famous for its ceramic Delft Blue pottery. It is known as the birth place of the famous painter Johannes Vermeer, known from "the girl with the Pearl". And it is known as a charming canal-ringed town with historical monuments and medieval architecture.

The distance between Amsterdam and Delft is 55 km. The road distance is 61 km. From Amsterdam to Delft by train takes 50 minutes.

Delft is well worth a visit. Delft is renowned throughout the world thanks to its relationship with Johannes Vermeer, Delft Blue pottery, and the royal family. But there is more! Thanks to the city’s rich history, there are many interesting attractions here. Stand amazed at the attractive markets, the little alleys with their fantastic ambiance, the beautiful canal-side houses with their extraordinary facades, and the wonderful canals, for instance.

Other places that might interest you

Soaking up culture in Amsterdam

Rotterdam: The premier port of Europe

The Hague: Green city by the sea

Utrecht: The most cycle-friendly city

15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Delft

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 28, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

The picturesque city of Delft in The Netherlands lies on the River Schie between Rotterdam and The Hague. It's also an easy day-trip from Amsterdam , the country's capital city, less than an hour's train ride away.

In addition to being an important university city, Delft has long been associated with trades and industry. It's particularly well-known for the manufacturing of Delftware , a world-famous form of pottery has been around since the 17th century. Now experiencing a comeback, you'll recognize Delftware by its distinctive blue and white coloring. In fact, much of the town's most significant architecture dates from the 1700s, when the pottery's popularity was at its peak.

Today, this vibrant cultural and tourist hub ranks as one of the top cities to visit in the Netherlands and is home to some of the country's best museums, numerous entertainment opportunities, and endless other fun things. It's a delightful city to explore on foot, especially around the lovely historic Old Town area. Bordered by canals, this historic area is home to a delightful market square, many churches, and a number of well-preserved medieval-era houses.

To help plan your trip, be sure to read through our list of the top tourist attractions and things to do in Delft in the Netherlands.

See also: Where to Stay in Delft

1. Begin Your Delft Adventure in the Historic Market Square (Markt)

2. take a tour of royal delft: koninklijke porceleyne fles, 3. visit delft's "not-so" new church (nieuwe kerk), 4. see delft's historic old church (oude kerk), 5. explore the prince's court, 6. tour the museum prinsenhof delft, 7. delft city hall, 8. the lambert van meerten museum, 9. take a stroll along the old canal (oude delft), 10. the eastern gate (oostpoort), 11. museum paul tetar van elven, 12. science centre delft, 13. visit the vermeer center, 14. the rose windmill, 15. tu delft botanical garden, where to stay in delft for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in delft.

There's no better place to begin your exploration of Delft than in the city's historic Market Square (Delft Markt). Standing in front of the picturesque old City Hall it's easy to spot other important Delft points of interest you'll no doubt have on your itinerary, including the beautiful New Church at the opposite end of the square.

As you wander, look out for great angles from which to take photos of the square. Two of our favorites include using the statue of famed Dutchman Hugo de Groot as well as the much more modern Blue Heart statue, both near New Church, as anchors for a great selfie.

Interested in experiencing an authentic Dutch market? The square's popular and always busy markets draw both locals and visitors from far and wide, all here to explore stalls stacked with things to buy. The best days to visit depend largely on your interests, with popular markets including the general (and largest) market on Thursdays, while a flower market (also Thursdays) and antiques market (Saturdays) are also held weekly.

De Porceleyne Fles , the manufacturer of Royal Dutch Delftware also, sometimes referred to simply as Royal Delft, was established in 1653. It's the last remaining maker of this world-famous pottery; at its peak in the 17th century, 32 such manufacturers were based in and around Delft.

Now considered one of the top tourist attractions in the Netherland s, a visit to this still-working historic factory provides a fascinating look at the history and production process of Blue Delftware, which is hand-painted to strict, centuries-old standards. A highlight of a visit is watching the painters in action, followed by a visit to the factory.

You'll also have the chance to view their historical collections. A number of fun experiences are available that combine a visit with a cruise along the nearby canals, painting workshops, afternoon teas, and tours.

English language guides are available on-site.

Address: Rotterdamseweg 196, 2628 AR Delft, Netherlands

Standing tall in Delft's spacious Market Square (Markt), the majestic New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) is, in fact, anything but new. Built between 1396 and 1496, this splendid church's Gothic tower rises a tad over 108 meters above the large square, offering great views over the market square. But be warned: with 376 steps to tackle, it's a bit of a climb.

The church is especially pleasant if you're close by when the chimes from its 17th-century carillon ring out across the square. Highlights include a monument to King William I, who died in Berlin in Germany in 1843. There's also a memorial relief of Prince Frederick William of Orange, who died in 1799. A marble monument of Hugo Grotius, along with his burial place, can also be visited.

The church's most important feature, however, is the magnificent tomb of William I of Orange (William the Silent). One of the great masterpieces of Dutch Baroque sculpture, it was made by Hendrick de Keyser between 1614-21.

Richly decorated under a white canopy borne on black marble columns is a white figure of William surrounded by bronze allegorical figures including Justice, with scales; Freedom, with scepter and hat; Valor, clad in a lion's skin; and Faith, with a book and a model of a church.

In a vault below the tomb, 41 princes and princesses of the house of Orange are buried. These include Queen Wilhelmina, who died in 1948.

Address: Markt 80, 2611 GW Delft, Netherlands

Delft's Old Church (Oude Kerk), affectionately known among locals as "Old John," was built around 1250 and is notable for its slightly leaning tower, along with its fine timber vaulting from 1574.

The 75-meter-tall tower was rebuilt in 1450 in a style characteristic of the Coastal Gothic movement then so popular in Northern Europe. It's also notable for its distinctive four corner turrets around the pyramidal roof, and its slight lean, which is estimated to be two feet off kilter.

Be sure to pay a visit inside, too, as the church also contains a number of important works of art. These include a carved pulpit from 1548, and the marble tomb of Admiral Piet Hein, famous for having captured the Spanish silver fleet in 1628. Also worth a mention is the tomb of Admiral Maarten Tromp, who commanded the Dutch navy in 32 naval battles during the 17th-century. Famed Dutch painter Jan Vermeer is also buried in the church.

Almost as old as Oude Kerk, Saint Hippolytus Chapel (Sint-Hippolytuskapel) was built in the early 15th century in the Old Town and is worth a visit.

Address: Heilige Geestkerkhof 25, 2611 HP Delft, Netherlands

One of the most attractive corners of Delft, Prinsenhof consists of a picturesque group of buildings built around 1400 as the nunnery of St. Agatha. Secularized after the Reformation, it was the residence of the Princes of Orange until the seat of government moved to The Hague in the 16th century.

As beautiful as the buildings are, they stand as a reminder of one of the bleaker moments in Dutch history. It was here that William the Silent was assassinated in 1584, with the marks of the bullets that killed him still visible. A statue to the slain leader stands in the center of the courtyard.

Be sure to spend a little time enjoying the property's lovely garden.

Location: Prinsenhof, Delft, Netherlands

While exploring the Prinsenhof area, be sure to allocate some time for a visit to the Museum Prinsenhof Delft (Stedelijk Museum het Prinsenhof). Founded in 1911, this fascinating museum is devoted to the country's 80 years of war with Spain from 1568-1648.

Numerous items of local interest are also to be found here, including portraits of members of the House of Orange and displays illustrating the history of Delftware. In the oldest part of the convent is a unique two-story cloister dating from 1430.

If time allows, be sure to also visit the nearby Medical and Pharmaceutical Museum (Medisch Farmaceutisch Museum). Highlights include numerous fascinating displays of original surgical and medicine-related instruments. English language guided tours are available.

Address: Sint Agathaplein 1, 2611 HR Delft, Netherlands

On the west side of the Markt stands the Renaissance Delft City Hall (Stadhuis). Set in the heart of one of the most photographic urban settings in the Netherlands , this attractive building was reconstructed in the 17th century on the site of the original 13th-century Town Hall. Today, this impressive structure retains one surviving component of its predecessors: the 15th-century stone tower known as Het Steen.

Richly decorated with pilasters and sculptures, along with a small gable with a figure of Justice, it's a delight to explore. Interior highlights are its many handsomely decorated rooms. These include the Orange Gallery and the Council Chamber, along with numerous fine paintings from the 16th to 18th centuries.

The building's old prison, used to hold the assassin of William the Silent, can be visited as part of a guided tour and contains an interesting collection of old torture devices.

Behind City Hall is the old municipal Weigh House (Waag), now the Municipal Theater , and the adjoining Meat Hall (Vleeshal), easily identified by its two ox heads. While in the vicinity, be sure to pop into the city's impressive modern central train station. This architecturally pleasing structure was designed with a nod to its rich history, including using Delft Blue tile fragments.

Address: Markt 87, 2611 GS Delft, Netherlands

The Lambert van Meerten Museum (Museumhuis Lambert van Meerten), reopened in 2019 after a major renovation, is a must-visit tourist attraction in Delft. It's home to an important collection of applied art, as well as period furniture, paintings, and an extensive display of Delftware.

Housed in the former home of the city's best known collector of antiquities and art, Lambert van Meerten, the museum opened in 1909 and also contains impressive collections of Chinese porcelain and Dutch tiles. Afterwards, stroll over to the Dyke Office (Gemeenlandshuis). Built in the early 15th century, it's notable for its lovely stone gable decorated with numerous coats of arms.

Address: Oude Delft 199, 2611 HD Delft, Netherlands

Just a short walk from the attractions around the Old City of Delft is the Old Canal (Oude Delft). Traversing the city from north to south, this lovely stretch of water is believed to have been built in the early 1100s, and s lined with many picturesque houses. Fun things to do day or night include exploring this romantic area on foot or by bike.

Other interesting old houses can be seen in the neighboring Voorstraat, Hippolytusbuurt, Wijnhaven, and Koornmarkt, many of them overlooking stretches of the Old Canal. Also of note is the Begijnhof with its Late Gothic tower.

There's a Baroque "hidden church" that's also worth seeing, built by Daniël Marot in 1743, in which Catholics worshipped in secret during times of persecution.

Along the East End Canal (Oosteinde Canal) is the picturesque old Eastern Gate, or Oostpoort. Located at the junction of a number of canals at the southeast corner of the old town, the building's twin towers were constructed around 1400 and enlarged in the 16th-century with the addition of octagonal upper stories and pointed roofs.

Although privately owned, it's possible to wander around the building's exterior with its wonderful canal views.

Another tourist attraction worth seeing is De Watertoren , the city's old water tower. Built in 1895, this fine old structure now houses a fascinating Camera Obscura and offers superb views over the old part of the city.

Located in the historic Corn Market (Koornmarkt) area, the Paul Tetar van Elven Museum contains an impressive collection assembled by the 19th-century Dutch painter and teacher. With its old furniture and exquisite Delft tiles, the artist's original studio is in fact located in a 17th-century canal house and is regarded as one of the country's best-preserved historic interiors.

Highlights of a visit to this historic museum which opened in 1927 include a number of exquisite artworks, many framed in groups and collages, some of them originally presented to Dutch royalty. English-language guided tours are available.

Address: Koornmarkt 67, 2611 EC Delft, Netherlands

Located on the grounds of the University of Technology, founded in 1863, Science Centre Delft is great for those traveling with kids. Housed in one of the university's historical older buildings, this one dating from 1911, the Science Centre offers numerous hands-on activities.

Topping the list of fun things to do here include testing experimental model racing cars and airplanes to the fun Dyke Patrol simulator (yup, plugging holes in dykes is fun!). There's also a fascinating virtual reality surgery simulator. Equally interesting are the open workshops, where you can interact with students working on a variety of projects.

Address: Mijnbouwstraat 120, 2628 RX Delft, Netherlands

For those wanting to learn a little more regarding the life and times of Delft's best-known painter, Johannes Vermeer, a visit to the informative Vermeer Centre (Vermeer Centrum Delft) is just the ticket.

Chock full of informative displays relating to the artist and his leading contemporaries, the museum contains exact copies of the artist's work with detailed explanations providing fascinating facts regarding its creation, meaning, and influences.

Along the way, you'll find numerous useful multi-media displays adding additional perspective and understanding, as well as a fascinating look at his techniques in an authentic studio setting. Other highlights include numerous artifacts, a short film, a Camera Obscura, an on-site shop, and a café. English-language guided tours are available at no cost.

Address: Voldersgracht 21, 2611 EV Delft, Netherlands

One of the top free things to do in Delft is to visit the perfectly preserved Rose Windmill (Delft Windmill de Roos). Erected in 1679 as a means to produce ground corn, this 350-year-old structure was in fact built on the site of an older mill known to have been in existence in the mid 1300s.

The last survivor of 15 windmills that once graced Delft, this attractive stone building extends some seven stories tall and offers wonderful views over the city and its top tourist attractions and historic landmarks. It's a steep climb using ladders, so unfortunately this attraction is not suitable for young children or those with mobility issues.

Inside are interesting displays on the history of this and other area windmills. If visiting on a Saturday, you can even see the old milling tools in use to grind a variety of grain. English language guided tours are available, and a blue flag is flown from this fine old windmill when it's open to the public.

Address: Phoenixstraat 111, 2611 AK Delft, Netherlands

Just a short walk from Delft's old city center, tucked away on the grounds of the Delft University of Technology, is the TU Delft Botanical Gardens (Botanische tuin Delft). Founded in the early 1900s and based on specimens from the Dutch colonies in the East Indies, this attractive space is home to more than 7,000 different plant species, including numerous varieties of plants, herbs, trees, and flowers.

Set amid four separate garden areas spread over six acres, highlights include the arboretum, with its vast collection of shrubs and trees, and the herb garden, with specimens used for both medicinal purposes and cooking. You'll also want to visit the central garden, with its wonderful floral displays, as well as the large greenhouse complex, housing rare and tropical species.

A shop selling garden related books and other items is located on-site. English language guided tours are available.

Address: Poortlandplein 6, 2628 BM Delft, Netherlands

Mid-Range Hotels :

• A great choice for those seeking a good central location with a canal view, Hotel de Emauspoort offers mid-range rates in a family-run establishment boasting an intimate, quaint feel, a lovely courtyard area, and a fantastic breakfast.
• Other good options include the larger Hampshire Hotel - Delft Centre , a four-star hotel built in a modern style with an interesting music theme, just a short walk to the old town and popular for its good buffet breakfast. Another option is the Best Western Museumhotels Delft, with its affordable rates and great location opposite the city's famous Old Church and an easy walk to the train station.

Budget Hotels :

• The pleasant Hotel Leeuwenbrug offers budget-friendly pricing and traditional Dutch décor on a picturesque canal in the old town and near the train station; be sure to check out the buffet breakfast with pancakes.
• Also worth considering are the Hotel Grand Canal Delft Station , popular for its location overlooking the Oude Canal and its pleasant nature-themed décor, and Hostel Delft , a no-frills hostel-style property with rooftop terraces.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Easy Day Trips : Just a 15-minute train ride northwest of Delft is The Hague, the country's capital and home to great tourist attractions such as the Mauritshuis museum and Binnenhof palace.

The same distance to the south is the port city of Rotterdam , with must-sees including the Old Harbor and its marine museums and historic vessels.

Although a little farther afield (it's an additional 30 minutes south of Rotterdam), the city of Breda is great to visit for its fine old architecture and castle.

History's Footsteps : Popular Dutch destinations for those with an interest in history include Arnhem , famous as the location of fierce fighting between the Allies and Germany in 1944, and picturesque Eindhoven , famous for its museums... and it's world-beating football team. The old university town of Leiden is also a must-visit for history buffs and boasts some of the oldest-surviving buildings in the country.

Netherlands Vacation Ideas : No vacation to the Netherlands should fail to include the highlights of Amsterdam , as famous for its art galleries such as the incredible Rijksmuseum as it is for its endless entertainment opportunities.

Other great vacation destinations include Utrecht , popular for its magnificent cathedral and castle, and Maastricht , a great place to visit (and stay) for its fine pedestrian-friendly old streets and riverside district.

More on Netherlands

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

A perfect day trip to Delft: Interesting things to do in Delft

July 9, 2020 by Karen Turner 18 Comments

I used to think of myself as a big city girl, but after moving to the Netherlands, I fell in love with the smaller quieter cities in the Netherlands. One of my favorite cities in the Netherlands, which is an easy day trip from Amsterdam, is Delft.   I’ve been living in the Hague for some months now and I routinely visit Delft each month.

Delft has one of the most prestigious universities in the Netherlands, so despite the history, Delft feels like a young town if you know where you’re looking.

This itinerary for Delft is a mix of historic sights and new modern shops/restaurants, so you get to experience both sides of this beautiful city.  Keep reading for things to do in Delft in a compact one day itinerary for Delft.

If you’re visiting Delft for a day trip, I recommend starting off early (let’s be reasonable and start around 9:30am). I have a full day in Delft planned for you all although I’d recommend spending a night in Delft if you can as hotels in Delft are more affordable than Amsterdam  and  you’ll love the cafes here.

There’s plenty to do in Delft and this Delft itinerary is a start.  This itinerary focuses on locally owned businesses and cafes in Delft based on our time regularly visiting Delft. (I firmly believe in giving back to the local economy.)  There’s a map with this Delft itinerary at the bottom!

• 1 Start off at Delft Centraal
• 2 Explore along Oude Delft canal
• 3 Optional: Oude Kerk (The Old Church in Delft)
• 4 Explore the historic city center of Delft
• 5 Have lunch in Delft
• 6 Explore Markt
• 7 Visit Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) in Delft
• 8 Optional: Take a detour to one of the last remaining Delft factories in Delft
• 9 Explore the Beestenmarkt
• 10 Local Dinner in Delft
• 11 Night in Delft: Have a tea OR Beer in Delft!
• 12 Not included on this itinerary
• 13 Must-Do Tours to Elevate Your Delft Experience
• 14 Where to stay in Delft
• 15 Have you been to Delft?

Start off at Delft Centraal

You can easily get from Amsterdam to Delft by train.  It takes forty-five minutes on a direct train (often with a destination going somewhere else).  The train from Amsterdam to Delft costs 28 euros (ish) as of 2020.

From the Hague to Delft, you can take the Tram 1 (€ 4,00 each way with buying a ticket on the tram as of 2020), which takes about 25 minutes.   

You can save time by taking the NS train from Den Haag HS or Den Haag Centraal to Delft.  The train ride costs 5.20 euros round-trip (2020 prices) and takes only ten minutes.  It only takes fifteen minutes to get from Rotterdam to Delft as well!

Explore along Oude Delft canal

 From there, enter the old city.  People fall in love with Delft for the canals. Do you blame them? Many people go crazy over the  Stads-Koffyhuis for Dutch breakfast with a coffee. 

I recommend walking just a little down the canal to get a pastry (or a coffee) at Galerie ‘Uit De Kunst’.  This hybrid cafe/art gallery has a unique flair and delicious pastries with an unforgettable view.

Thrift store lovers will want to browse the thrift store across the way.  You might find a steal or a good tip about the stock market from the friendly owner who is really into the stock market.

Optional: Oude Kerk (The Old Church in Delft)

Note: If you’re only interested in the best view of Delft and not the church, skip the Old Church and skip ahead in the Delft itinerary.  You’ll save a couple euros this way and if you’re coming in time for the flea market, you’ll have more time to explore.

From there, be sure to visit the leaning Oude Kerk (sometimes called Scheve Jan (“Skewed John”)) and to buy the combination ticket for both churches in Delft that gets you into the Old and the New Church.  

If you’re a student, be sure to show your ID to save money. Save this for later, so don’t lose it.  In case you’re wondering about the origin of the name Delft, ‘delf’ is an old canal.

The old church was built along an older canal, however when the tower was erected, a canal was in the way.  So, the architects filled in the canal to make room for the church tower. Unfortunately, canals aren’t the best foundations for large stone towers…so the tower leans about two meters.

Explore the historic city center of Delft

The church building as it stands today is said to date back to the 1200s-1300s and it’s considered to be the oldest building in Delft.  Enjoy the beautiful organ, the stained glass windows, as well as the massive bell. Here, you can see the grave of Vermeer.  The church is a must-see if you’re into gothic cathedrals.

One of the things that I love about Delft is how compact it is.  You can walk across the historic city center of Delft in 25 minutes flat, so city wandering is a must although you’ll end up going a lot slower than you realize you’re walking as you’ll be just enjoying the atmosphere.

Once you leave the Old Church, be sure to pass by Stadsbakkerij de Diamanten Ring , the oldest bakery in Delft with a gorgeous interior,  Before you spoil your appetite, keep in mind that lunch will be huge and delicious, so maybe save that bread/pastry for the way home.

As you turn the corner, note De Winkel , an eccentric local shop specializing in random toys, stationary, and sewing supplies.  Perfect for a unique gift.  Take in the scenery along the canal and turn towards Voldergracht , one of the prettiest canals in Delft.

(For some reason, I always read Voldemort  whenever I see the sign…) I absolutely love the backs of the Delft shops with tower of the New Church rising behind them.

  Personally, I have chosen to skip the Vermeer Centrum Delft as they don’t have any originals from Vermeer, but if you’re interested in learning more about Vermeer’s paintings as well as his life (in the city that inspired him), it might be interesting to you.  ​

Have lunch in Delft

Take it all in—and stop off at Kek.   Kek  is one of those restaurants in Delft that everyone loves.  It’s instagrammable, vegan-friendly, healthy, and delicious.  

I’m low-key obsessed with their Salted Caramel Latte with real caramel pieces.  I’ve had a lot of different sandwiches/desserts  and the portions are always huge.

Be warned that it’s quite popular on the weekends (especially for lunch), so it’s best to walk by to put your name on the list if there’s a line.

Otherwise, there’s plenty of other good places to eat in Delft, including the  ‘t Postkantoor  with more traditional Dutch food (tostis, uitsmijters, pancakes, sandwiches).

Explore Markt

After a feast, I recommend taking a walk to enjoy the beautiful city center to enjoy the surroundings and burn off that lunch.  ( Don’t worry, you’re going to be climbing 350+ stairs! )  As soon as you follow the alleyways, you’ll end up in the middle of Markt , the epicenter of Delft.

On one side, you have the Delft city hall, a stunning building, and the other side, the New Church .  There are tons of Delftware shops in the square and expect this part of Delft to be crowded in April/summer.  Don’t expect a steal, however you still might end up with some beautiful souvenirs from the Netherlands .  (Just pack it very carefully!)   

If you’re into old things, you will definitely want to peek into Drogisterij Salamander  to see a functional vintage pharmacy.

If you’re visiting Delft on a Thursday OR a Saturday from April to October, be sure to visit the antiques flea market along Hippolytusbuurt and Voldersgracht.   The  Saturday flea market in Delft  is slightly larger than on Thursday, but you might want to look here prior to checking in the Delft shops. 

Visit Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) in Delft

The New Church, included in your combination ticket, is the reason that many people flock to Delft and it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Delft.  The infamous William of Orange lived in Delft until his murder.

At this point he was buried at the New Church, which is now the resting place for members of the Dutch royal family. More generally, people visit the New Church in Delft for the incredible view over the city.

The tower is 85 meters high with a narrow, winding staircase up the tower.  Once you’re horribly out of breath, you’ll reach the top for stunning views of the city as well as the nearby cities (if you’re lucky).

There are 376 steps each way, so climbing the New Church in Delft is definitely a work out and not for those with bad knees. Be sure to keep your ticket as you need to scan it to get out of the door.

Optional: Take a detour to one of the last remaining Delft factories in Delft

The Delftse Pauw is one of the last remaining Delft Blauw factories where Delftware is produced entirely in Delft.  It’s free to visit although it’s best to rent a bike or take the 1 tram.  Click for my guide to visiting this free Delft factory .

Explore the Beestenmarkt

From here, head towards the Beestenmarkt .  This area was first used as a monastery, but with the rise of Protestantism, the monks chose to close the monastery.  Starting in the late 1500s, this area in Delft was used as an animal market up until 1972.

With more centralized markets and the city becoming more urbanized, the market ceased to exist although there’s a cow statue to mark the historical use of the square.  

It’s a bit hard to imagine now, however it was revamped in the 1990s into a pleasant square with restaurants and shops. The Beestenmarkt is especially charming at night and you’ll find numerous bars here.

  ​On the square, I recommend Bij Marlies  for Dutch fashion and lifestyle goods.  It’s just kind of a joy to browse and I am still stoked about the 70 euro skirt that I bought for 5 euros on clearance.  ​

Local Dinner in Delft

Right off the Beestenmarkt, you’ll turn onto another canal and you’ll see one of my favorite places to eat in Delft, another vegan-friendly place, called Hummus .  This Algerian-street food inspired restaurant has really delicious vegetarian food, a good craft beer selection, and massive portions.

Don’t get over ambitious with ordering as you will not finish your food. It’s also incredibly reasonable for a meal out with a large platter enough for one very hungry person that costs under ten euros.

It’s not strictly vegan and for all of you worrying that vegan food isn’t going to be exciting/tasty, I write this as a meat-eater: My dinner at Hummus was one of my most memorable meals in the Netherlands. I’m very fond of Sabich after my time in Israel and they nailed it 100%.

If you’re looking for some other places to eat in Delft, you can head back towards the Beestenmarkt or Markt where you’ll have a ton of great food options to choose from, ranging from Dutch to Japanese to Indonesian. I have a full regularly updated food guide to Delft here.

  If you don’t arrive too late, you’ll be able to explore  Loco Lama , a Dutch design store with a lot of really cool and fascinating decorations. I had a blast looking at all the decorations although my favorite by far was the raven chandelier that I want for my house. 

Night in Delft: Have a tea OR Beer in Delft!

Whether you’re solo or traveling together with a significant other, I just love walking around the historic part of Delft at night.  Regardless, end your night with a fresh mint tea or a beer.  A fresh mint tea is not what you  think it is although I guarantee that it’s minty and non-alcoholic.

End your evening with a pint of beer at the oldest beer cafe in the Delft (supposedly).   De Klomp  dates back to 1651 while the building itself is older than the cafe.

The atmosphere instead of the cafe is very Dutch and classic although they have a modern and good beer selection from local Dutch breweries.

Game lovers will love the selection of games sitting in the first room although be warned that most are in Dutch.  Even if you’re not a beer drinker, you can get a fresh mint tea to enjoy the historical atmosphere.  I personally prefer the second room with the hanging Delft plates.  It’s close to the train station.

I’m also partial to  locus publicus ​, which has an extensive local beer selection, and is located in the Brabantse Turfmarkt.

Not included on this itinerary

I didn’t include the Royal Delft Factory (and the tour of the Royal Delft Factory) as it’s a bit outside of the city (about one mile) and you can see A LOT of delftware without going to the factory at the various delft stores around Delft as well as the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam.

It is cool to see the delftware being painted and to learn about the history, but I ended up cutting it out to give you a better glimpse into the less touristy side of Delft that most tourists don’t see while showing you more of the city.  

I recently visited a  free Delftware factory on the city limits where Delftware is still handmade.  Click to read about visiting this Delftware factory.

Must-Do Tours to Elevate Your Delft Experience

Delft is a picturesque city known for its rich history, iconic blue pottery, and charming canals. While you can explore its beauty at your own pace, there are some tours that can enhance your experience. Embark on a canal cruise and listen to intriguing stories about Delft’s past. Dive into the world of the famous Delft Blue pottery with a visit to the Royal Delft: Delftblue Factory and Museum . For beer enthusiasts, a craft beer tasting in a medieval cellar is a must. If you’re looking to explore more of the Netherlands, consider the guided day tour from Amsterdam , which covers Rotterdam, Delft, and The Hague. Lastly, for those who love a challenge, the Highlights of Delft: Outdoor Escape Game offers a fun way to discover the city’s landmarks. These tours promise to make your Delft trip truly unforgettable.

Where to stay in Delft

Personally, I think the joy of Delft is enjoying the scenic canals at sunset, which is why I recommend staying at least one night in Delft.  There’s nothing like enjoying Markt without the crowds in the morning!

If you’re considering staying in Delft overnight, consider staying at Hotel de Emauspoort . This unique hotel right in the center of Delft has two caravans and twenty-four rooms, including one Vermeer-inspired room.  

There are also many bed and breakfasts in Delft as well as entire historical apartments.  For those on a lower budget, Delft has a hostel.

Have you been to Delft?

Looking for more inspiration for the Netherlands ?   I live here, so browse my site for insider tips for Amsterdam (my home for 2+ years), other beautiful cities in the Netherlands that you won’t want to miss , and Dutch alcohols that you’ll want to try, and my guide to what to do in the Hague .

• Click for a guide to the best places to eat in Delft that I regularly update!
• Secret Delft: Off the beaten place places
• Voorburg and Leideschendam, a pretty bike ride from Delft

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

January 29, 2018 at 9:25 am

Wow!! Fab account of a wonderful city. I have to go back now as soon as possible.. you’ve inspired me!

January 30, 2018 at 11:44 pm

you forgot to include Oostpoort and TU Delft campus

January 31, 2018 at 9:49 am

I’ll make a note about Oostpoort and TU Delft. I debated including both, but it’s a further walk from Center. I’ll be writing another guide about Delft, so I’l be definitely putting it in there. 🙂

January 31, 2018 at 11:16 am

I really liked your picks! On the Beestenmarkt there is a very old paint store called Verbeek and it’s another cool place to poke your head in and see that it’s like a little museum! They have been in business there for about 130 years!

September 7, 2018 at 6:31 pm

I’ve stumbled across your site and I’m finding it a wealth of information. My husband and I are preparing for a 1 week trip to Amsterdam in October. We’re spending one night in Bruges at the end of our week before heading back to Amsterdam to catch our flight home. We’d like to stop over in one other place on our way back to Amsterdam by train. We can’t decide between Ghent, Antwerp, or Delft. Thanks so much for all the great information about each of these places!

June 11, 2019 at 11:57 pm

Hi Excellent guideline for a first timer visiting Delft…me and a friend are planning to do a day trip from Amsterdam to delft and throw in either haarlem or The Hague..what would you recommend and what is the cheapest way of commuting to and from Amsterdam with both these stops in mind .? Thanks much

June 12, 2019 at 1:06 pm

Hi Nikki, The best way is to get a train ticket via the NS machine. There’s not really a better way, however once you are in Delft, you can take the train or the tram from Delft to the Hague prior to taking the train back from the Hague. If you look on my blog for “How to buy cheap train tickets in the Netherlands”, you’ll find some tips, but the Dutch system is not well designed for stopping off like this without getting individual tickets to each place. I

July 6, 2019 at 7:57 pm

Great article. Thank you. My wife and I have lived in NL for 4 years (Amsterdam) and have been trying to visit more Dutch cities for day trips. We found this driving down the A4 on our way there. PERFECT information for us. Thank you!!

September 13, 2019 at 6:16 pm

Thank you for the recommendations, we had a lovely day in Delft and your guidance helped make the most of it. Didn’t make it to dinner because we headed back to Rotterdam but everything else was fantastic, including lunch at Kek and all the local shops.

November 5, 2019 at 2:52 pm

Visited all the spots you have mentioned and I had a blast travelling around delft with your guide. I enjoyed Kek and Stads-Koffyhuis specially

November 6, 2019 at 2:50 pm

Very glad to hear that Tyf! 🙂

July 29, 2020 at 1:58 pm

Dear Karen, I just wanted to thank you so much for your wonderful blog. I am a Canadian living in The Hague and have stayed in the Netherlands this summer. I’ve made use of your Amsterdam, Antwerpen and Delft guides. Thank you and maybe we will run into each other in The Hague someday! Best, Erin

July 29, 2020 at 7:30 pm

Hi Erin, I’m so glad to hear that! I’ve been a bit less active with meet-ups due to corona, but hopefully we’ll meet in the future!

I’m a bit behind on producing more guides, but more of those will come this fall! If any cities aren’t covered that you’ve been looking for a guide for, shoot me a message as I’ve been to most cities in the region, but the question is more if I have had time to write about them. 🙂

October 5, 2020 at 10:56 pm

Wow! I was doubting about going to Delft but this post is amazing!

October 3, 2021 at 10:38 am

Hey. Thanks for detail itinerary. I am living in the Hague and visiting Delft based on your blog. Thank you

July 23, 2023 at 2:12 am

HELLO, I am going to Amsterdam at the end of August with my daughter, Plan on doing a day trip to The Hague and Delft. Do you have any recommendations for The Hague as far as sight seeing? We are more of the off the beaten path type of gals. Thank you, Hermine

July 23, 2023 at 9:09 pm

Please check my Hague posts!

[…] A Perfect Day Trip to Delft […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• The Netherlands
• New York State
• Other European destinations
• Work With Me
• Disclosure and Privacy Policy
• Jeju SEO Tool: Free SEO Writing Tool

You can unsubscribe anytime. For more details, review our Privacy Policy.

You have successfully joined our subscriber list.

TreasureHunter USA Inc. 251 Little Falls Drive Wilmington, Delaware 19808 +1 (915) 4632387 EIN 88-2174128

www.wanderlustingk.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also participate in other affiliate programs

www.wanderlustingk.com all rights reserved © 2023 | Privacy Policy | Cookie Policy |

An Insider’s Guide to the 10+ Best Things to do in Delft

By: Author Sophie Nadeau

Posted on Last updated: 29th January 2024

Categories Netherlands

Last Updated on 29th January 2024 by Sophie Nadeau

Delft is the old Dutch word for canal/ river/ stream and this is the perfect word to describe a city which feels, at times, as if it has quite literally been built atop of the water. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Delft , as well as what to know before you go.

Delft is a stunning city in the Netherlands which is perhaps best-known for its Delft blue, a local ceramic which has been produced since the 17th-century. Today, the small settlement is a delightful maze of cobbled lanes and historic brick houses punctuated by numerous gently flowing canals.

I love Delft and it’s easily one of my favourite cities in the Netherlands. On my most recent trip to the city, it was during the spring when the Holland region was filled with tulip flowers and the weather was starting to warm up. Away from the hustle and bustle of Amsterdam, perhaps what I love most about this city is its relaxed pace of life and wealth of restaurants.

What is Delft known for?

Where is delft, getting around delft, how long do you need in delft, wander around the town, shop for delft pottery, statue in market square, sample local food, visit a flea market, visit a windmill, museums of delft, canals of delft, where to eat in delft, where to stay in delft.

As mentioned, Delft is most famous for its Delft blue, a type of fired ceramic that got its name because the most traditional form is in white and blue (which is referred to as Delfts Blauw in Dutch). However, if should be noted that this pottery can be purchased in multicolours as well.

The city’s most famous resident is undoubtedly Johannes Vermeer, who painted ‘Girl With a Pearl Earring’ in the latter half of the 17th-century. Today, there is an entire museum dedicated to the iconic Dutch painter.

Delft is located in the region of the Netherlands known as Holland (it’s important to note that all of Holland is in the Netherlands, but not all of the Netherlands counts as Holland). The city lies to the southwest of Amsterdam and is just over an hour away from the Dutch capital by train.

Truth be told, like many Dutch cities, the best way to get around Delft, particularly its historic city centre, is on your own two feet. Cobbled lanes can be found in abundance and so be sure to leave the high heels at home and stick to comfortable walking shoes such as sneakers or other flats.

If you want to head further out of town, then you could consider a bicycle rental. I personally recommend avoiding bringing a car to Delft as it can be difficult to find parking, and most of the centre is pretty pedestrianised, meaning that you won’t be able to see much by car anyway.

Delft is a fairly small city, with all of the main attractions grouped pretty close together, meaning that you can easily walk between all of them. It is often considered as a perfect destination for a day trip from Amsterdam.

You only need a day or so to explore the whole of the city, but you’ll want to set aside two or three days if you’re the kind of traveller who prefers to explore at a slower pace or if you’re looking for a quiet weekend getaway.

Things to do in Delft

Thanks to its abundance of gorgeous canals and historic canalside houses, one of the greatest joys in Delft is simply to stroll around and allow the city to reveal itself to you.

The city was founded as early as 1075 and was chartered in 1246 (which is when it gained city rights). Unfortunately, large swathes of Delft were destroyed in the 16th-century and then again in the 17th-century when it was damaged by an accidentally gunpowder explosion.

Much of what you see today dates back to just after this period. If you would prefer to learn more about the town with a local guide, then consider booking a private walking tour like this one.

As its name suggests, the old church (known as Oude Kerk in Dutch) is one of the oldest churches in Delft and fittingly sits right above one of the most important canals in the city.

You have to pay to visit the church, but you can buy a combi ticket ( buy your combi ticket here in advance – must purchase the tower access additionally) which allows access to both the New and Old Churches.

The main peculiarity about this church is that it’s steeple is actually leaning, so much so that local residents fondly refer to it as ‘crooked Jan’. If you look at the church from a distance, you can see just how far the  75-meter-high brick tower is leaning (about two metres from the vertical).

Of course, if you have purchased access to both churches, then your next port of call should be to walk towards the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk in Dutch), which was constructed over the course of a century between 1396 and 1496.

For an extra fee, you can pay to climb the belfry, which is actually the second tallest tower in the Netherlands. The climb up to the top comprises of 376 wooden steps and allows for 360-degree panoramic views over the city. 

However, I should warn you that the climb to the top is certainly not for the faint of heart owing to the spiral staircase and the numerous people using the stairs to go both up and down. There are two viewing platforms, one halfway up to the top, and one at the very top.

If you’re looking for an extra special souvenir from your time in Delft, you’ll want to look no further than Royal Delft, where you can pick up fine examples of Dutch porcelain in the most traditional shapes and colours.

The ceramics are definitely on the pricier end of things but are a joy for those who are interested in all things pottery-related owing to their fine details and extensive craftsmanship. If you want to learn even more about Royal Delft, then you can visit the Delft Blue factory. Purchase your ticket here in advance.

The bustling heart of Delft is undoubtedly Markt, a pedestrianised market square which is filled with shops, cafés, and restaurants. On one end you can spy the illustrious town hall (known as stadhuis in Dutch), while the other end boasts the impossibly high New Church and its famed tower.

One of the main highlights for many visitors to Delft is that a market is still held in the market square every Thursday morning.

Visit during this time and you can expect to find plenty of local produce, including cheeses, jams, fresh vegetables, and more. The Market Square is also where the annual Delft Christmas Market is held.

Aside from the town hall and new church one of the defining features of Markt (Market Square) is a statue of Hugo de Groot.

Also known as Hugo Grotius, this 16th- 17th-century Dutch scholar is widely regarded to be one of the greatest thinkers and scholars in Dutch history and he was one of the fore-thinkers in Dutch enlightenment.

Delft has no shortage of small restaurants, independent boutiques, and lesser-known cafés. As such, one of the best things to do in Delft is to sample some of the local food. There’s even a Henri Willig on the Market Square where you can try some traditional Dutch cheese!

If you would like to learn more about the local food and drink scene together with a local guide, as well as sample some tastings, then you can book a city tour like this one. If you would prefer to sample some craft beers, then book this craft beer tasting in a medieval cellar.

If you’re on the lookout for a vintage treasure or unique souvenir from your time in the Netherlands, then you’ll want to check out the Delft flea market.

This weekly event is held every Saturday from April through to October and sees vendors popping up along the inner canals of the city. If you want to buy a print, unique object, etc, be sure to bring cash along as not all vendors accept card payments!

One of the more unusual finds right in Delft city centre is the presence of a windmill. In times gone by, the mill would have been used to ground flour and it still functions to this day. Free to visit, the mill now has several functions.

There’s a café where you can buy snacks and drinks and enjoy them in a cosy room or alternatively outside in the shadow of the sails, there’s a shop where you can purchase local coffee and flour, and there are guided visits of the mill if you want to learn more about the workings of a windmill.

If you’re the kind of person who enjoys checking out museums (or if you’re looking for an interesting way to spend a rainy day in Delft), then there are a collection of over 10 different museums to check out while in the city:

• Museum Prinsenhof Delft: One of the main museums in Delft, this museum is a former palace constructed during the Middle Ages, which later served as a residence for William the Silent. There’s plenty of historical exhibits to read and art works to enjoy. Book your ticket and audio guide here in advance.
• Vermeer Centrum: As I mentioned, Delft was the birthplace of iconic Dutch painter Vermeer, and so now there is a museum in the very heart of the town dedicated to Vermeer. The museum was established in the very heart of Delft in 2007 and can now be visited on a daily basis. Book your tickets here in advance.
• Museum J.C.J van Speijk: This museum showcases the life of J.C.J. van Speijk, a Dutch Naval Lieutenant who became a hero when he opposed the Belgian Revolution in the early 19th-century.
• Gereedschap Museum Mensert: One of the more unusual museums in the city, this space exhibits displays on hand tools for every sort of trade imaginable. The museum is only open every first Saturday or the month or by appointment.
• Lambert van Meerten Museum: This house museum is the former home of a 19th-century wealthy collector who became bankrupt. Many visitors report particularly enjoying the garden and being given a coffee during their visit!
• Museum Paul Tétar van Elven: Set within a beautifully appointed historic brick building, the former home of Paul Tétar van Elven houses antiques, porcelain, paintings, and exhibits detailing the life of the artist.
• Medisch-Farmaceutisch Museum “de Griffioen”: this pint-sized museum is located close to market square and is a small museum containing an old collection of old medical, nursing, dental and pharmaceutical instruments. You can visit the museum on the first Sunday of the month or request a special visit if you’re between 5 – 25 people visiting.

There are several canals in Delft, which form rings around the city centre, and with the first being dug all the way back in 1100. The Nieuwe Delft canal was constructed at the end of the 12th-century and further canals were created in the 13th and 14th-centuries.

At the turn of the 15th-century a series of defensive walls and city gates were constructed, but only one such gate, the Eastern Gate (Oostpoort), remains standing to this day. If you want to view the canals from another perspective, consider booking a canal cruise like this one.

Bierhuis de Klomp: First founded as a café and beer house back in the 17th-century, the Bierhuis now touts itself as the oldest beer bar and café in Delft. Although the building dates back much earlier, to 1538, the café itself has been open for all manner of drinks since 1652.

San Marco: If you’re looking for traditional Italian food, then I recommend checking out this restaurant. There are pizza, pasta, and salads on the menu. You’ll want to book in advance if you want to guarantee a spot (especially on the weekends).

Koffie & Zo: My personal favourite spot to eat in Delft is none other than the well-located Koffie & Zo. Step inside and you’ll find plenty of plant inspired decor, a gorgeous view of the canal houses, and gifts for sale. The menu has plenty of hot drinks, cakes, and toasties.

We personally stayed at the four-star Hotel Royal Bridges. The best part about the hotel was that it was on the Koornmarkt, just a few minutes walk away from the most important attractions in town. The hotel was on the pricier end of things but was clean and comfortable and our room for three people was pretty spacious. Check prices and availability here.

Enjoyed reading about the best things to do in Delft? Pin this article now, read it again later:

Sophie Nadeau loves dogs, books, travel, pizza, and history. A Francophile at heart, she runs solosophie.com when she’s not chasing after the next sunset shot or consuming something sweet. She splits her time between Paris and London and travels as much as she can! Subscribe to Sophie’s YouTube Channel.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Home » Travel Guides » The Netherlands » 15 Best Things to Do in Delft (the Netherlands)

15 Best Things to Do in Delft (the Netherlands)

Delft is a city that is full of culture, traditions and a network of fantastic canals. Located in the South Holland province, Delft is directly in-between The Hague and Rotterdam , and Zoetermeer is just 15 minutes to the north east. With origins in the 11th century, delft has always had an association with canals and it was developed into a city around the 13th century.

The renowned Dutch leader William of Orange had a residence in Delft and during the 1500’s it was one of the prominent cities in the Netherlands for many years. In modern times, Delft has become well known for its ceramic pottery industry and also has a plethora of historical monuments and stunning architecture such as the city hall and Oostpoort.

Lets explore the best things to do in Delft :

1. Nieuwe Kerk

Translated as the New Church, this wonderful religious structure can be found on the popular and central Markt Square.

Although named the new church, the structure actually dates back to the 1300’s and was completed in 1496. Its main feature is a huge bell tower that stands at a monumental 108.75m high.

Built in a gothic style, the exterior and tower of the church look fantastic and create a real centrepiece for the Markt square opposite the city hall.

Entombed inside the church are a myriad of Dutch royalty including William the Silent and other prices of Orange.

A main attraction of the church is to climb the bell tower for unparalleled views of Delft – From the viewing platform you can see for miles!

2. Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles

This is the last remaining Delft Blue pottery factory from the 17th century.

Here you can see the art of hand-painting earthenware and watch techniques that have been handed down for hundreds of years.

For an insight into this fascinating world, the Royal Delft Experience is recommended.

During this interesting tour you will learn about the history of Delft pottery, the factory and the craft that is used to create the signature blue and white collections.

There is also a museum, a shop, and a delightful tile workshop where you can learn how to paint a Delft design on your very own 13×13 pottery tile!

3. Oude Kerk

While the Nieuwe Kerk is not really new, the Oude Kerk (Old church) is not that much older! Constructed in 1246 around 100 years before the new church, the Oude Kerk has a distinct leaning tower that stands at 75m tall.

The exterior of this church features a combined brick and stone design with many arched stained glass windows, while the main entranced is accessed over a beautiful bridge on one of the cities canals.

Inside this stunning structure there are three ornate pipe organs dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries, a decorative stone floor with many carvings and a series of high vaulted ceilings.

4. Prinsenhof

This historical museum features a plethora of information and artefacts relating to the Dutch Golden age, together with information about William the Silent and Delft pottery.

Originally a palace for the prince, the Prinsenhof marks the location that he was actually assassinated in 1584 and the bullet holes are still visible.

Now serving as a museum, inside this fine establishment you can find a collection of paintings, including many works from Vermeer.

Furthermore, there is also a permeant exhibition displaying the impact that the citizens of Delft have had on the country, and a detailed look at the life and assassination of William of Orange.

For a slice of local history and an interesting insight into Dutch political figures, the Prinsenhof is a wonderful place to visit.

5. Delft City Hall

Another fine building located on the fantastic Markt square, the City Hall stands out as a fine piece of architecture.

The front façade of this structure features beautiful stonework, a series of red shuttered windows, many trappings of gold and several impressive stone statues.

Its central tower has a large clock face and the symbol of Delft is proudly displayed above the main entrance.

Although you cannot enter the building as it is used for weddings and ceremonies, it is still a wonderful structure to admire and photograph.

When walking through the Markt square, this building should be high up on your list of sights.

6. Oostpoort

Part of the remaining city defences, the Oostpoort stands proudly as a reminder of the city former military glory during earlier centuries.

Constructed in the 1400’s, this gatehouse was once on of the main entrance points into Delft.

While currently serving as a private residence, you can still admire the fantastic architecture of this building with its two spiral towers and circular turrets.

Accessible by a bridge, the surrounding landscape is simply divine – Canals sit on either side of the gatehouse and it stands out as a beautiful photographic opportunity.

7. Delft canals

As with many cities in the Netherlands, Delft has a network of canals that is a true pleasure to walk around.

In the old town centre you can find several different inter-joining canals that are lined with beautiful trees and typical Dutch architecture.

Particular pleasant canals include the stretch on the Hippoltusbuurt street with its cafes and quaint bridges, and the stretch on Voldersgracht street where the water comes right up to the doorsteps of the houses! Simply take some time to enjoy walking the lengths of the canals and exploring the streets of Delft.

8. Markt square

One of the main squares in Delft, the Markt square hold regular markets and events, contains the fantastic city hall and Nieuwe Kerk buildings and is a fantastic place to see some local culture.

Located in the middle of the old city centre, the Markt square is a great starting point for a walking tour of Delft, and as place to enjoy a meal or a drink.

The City Hall and Nieuwe Kerk are two amazing historical buildings located on the square that shouldn’t be missed, and if you are lucky enough to arrive on a market day, you will be treated to a wide variety of products and themed stalls.

9. Molen de Roos

This windmill is actually the last standing windmill from the many that once stood in Delft.

Created in 1679, this mill was used as a corn mill and was created in stone to replace the old wooden version.

Various restoration works have been carried out on the windmill to ease its crooked tilt and to maintain its quality.

Admire the fine structure of this windmill, and on certain days, take a tour of the structure and see the mill in action.

Just a short walk down the road, there is also an associated shop that sells various delicious baked goods.

10. TU Botanical Garden

Located in the grounds of the Technology University of Delft, the Botanical gardens are simply stunning and for anyone interested in nature, are a real treat.

The university and gardens can be found on the outskirts of the city centre not far from the Oostpoort gatehouse.

Inside the gardens, you can find a colourful and mesmerizing display of tropical and sub-tropical plants, herbs, technical plants used for medical purposes and several greenhouses.

A truly pleasant place to walk through, the Botanical gardens offer a combination of education and natural sight-seeing.

11. Canal boat trip

Due to the large network of canals in Delft city centre, there are plenty of boat trips that you can take.

This is the perfect way to see the city from a different angle and admire the fantastic waterways first hand.

Originally serving as a defence system for the city, the canals are now used for leisure and transportation.

You can find many tour operators who provide boat trips most of which will last for an hour or so.

During these tours a guide will regale you with the history of Delft and give you interesting facts about the canals.

12. Wilhelminapark

This English Landscape park can be found to the northern edge of Delft, next to the busy A4 road.

Created in the 1930’s, this public park has seen much renovation after World War II and is maintained to a high standard.

In the grounds of this fantastic natural area, you can find several different lakes, many well-manicured lawns and a plethora of hiking and cycling trails.

For a family outing and to get away from the city, Wilhelminapark (named after Queen Wilhelmina no less) offers the perfect opportunity.

13. Beestenmarkt

Another of the fantastic squares in Delft city centre, the Beestenmarkt offers a quieter alternative to the busy Markt square.

Located next to the Maria van Jessekerk, this square is accessible by foot and is a pleasant place to visit during a sightseeing tour of Delft.

Surrounded by a square of charming quaint buildings, the square is full of tall trees that provide an ample amount of shade.

You can also find a myriad of superb cafes and restaurants to enjoy a quiet coffee or a bite to eat.

14. Day trip to the Hague

When located in such close proximity to this wonderful city, it would be a shame not to visit The Hague.

As the political centre of the Netherlands, this city has a great deal of importance and has played a major role in the countries development for hundreds of years.

If you want to visit the country’s political capital from Delft, there are regular buses and trains, and you can reach the city centre in 15 minutes.

Sights of The Hague include the Madurodam model city, the spectacular Peace Palace, the interesting Mauritshuis museum, and the royal Binnenhof and Ridderzaal court.

15. Cycle tour through midden-delfland

This region of Holland is home to some truly stunning natural landscapes and is the perfect area to enjoy cycling.

An area known as midden-delftland provides a mind-boggling myriad of cycle trails and published routes for the enthusiastic biker.

You can literally spend days traversing through the countryside and enjoying the sights of Delft and the small villages found on the outskirts.

A standard route is the Delft cycle route and encompasses 40km of trails including the city centre.

Bicycles can be hired at the main train station or the Markt square and you can find information about the trails at the tourist information centre.

15 Best Things to Do in Delft (the Netherlands):

• Nieuwe Kerk
• Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles
• Delft City Hall
• Delft canals
• Markt square
• Molen de Roos
• TU Botanical Garden
• Canal boat trip
• Wilhelminapark
• Beestenmarkt
• Day trip to the Hague
• Cycle tour through midden-delfland

Ostrich Trails

Because it is a walking bird and walking is what we do.

Delft Walking Tour

Home » Europe » Netherlands » Delft Walking Tour

By Vicky · Published Jul. 12th, 2022 · Updated Nov. 21st, 2022

When you buy through links highlighted with an asterisk (*) on this site, we may earn a small affiliate commission at no cost to you.

In the small university town of Delft, famous for the blue and white tiles, explore the historic sights on this walking tour.

Page Contents:

This walk starts from Delft train station . It’s about 1 hour on the train from central Amsterdam and 10-15 minutes from both The Hague and Rotterdam.

Delft Walking Tour Map

Get the route by downloading the .gpx or .kml file below. For navigation with Maps.me on your mobile phone, simply download the .kml file and open to add it to the Maps.me bookmarks.

Tips for Delft Walking Tour

• Some museums are closed on Mondays.
• This walking tour lasts roughly 2-3 hours depending on how long you spend in the museums, garden and churches.
• If you enjoyed Delft, try exploring the nearby town of Leiden , similar to Delft but with more museums and fewer blue-and-white tiles.
• Check out other walks and hikes on our Netherlands Hiking Page .

Top Sights in Delft

On this self-guided walking tour you’ll see the main sites and attractions of Delft. Half a day is the perfect amount of time to spend in Delft, though you could easily spend a full day if you spend a long time in the Museum Prinsenhof and the Royal Delft Factory. If you have very little time in the Netherlands, you can visit Delft, the Hague and Rotterdam on a guided day-trip from Amsterdam *.

• Molen de Roos
• Museum Prinsenhof
• Vermeer Centrum Delft
• Markt – Central Square
• Nieuwe Kerk
• Beestenmarkt Square
• Botanic Gardens
• Royal Delft Factory

Delft Walking Tour Route

This walking trail starts from Delft train station .

Directions: Leave the train station and walk left along the canal. When you get to a triangular island head right over the bridge and the trams tracks and then left along a newly pedestrianised area. Continue 600 metres and you’ll be at the windmill.

1. Molen de Roos

Key Information: Open Wed/Fri/Sat from 11am/1pm/10am until 4pm. Free entry.

Molen de Roos ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) is a windmill in Delft containing a museum. The museum is run by volunteers who can tell you about the history of the windmill. The windmill still grinds grain into flour when the wind is right – not too strong and not too weak – and you can see this happening before your eyes. It’s also nice to walk around the walkway beneath the huge blades, from which there are nice views over town. There are some very steep wooden steps to reach the top of this museum!

Directions: Head left a few metres from the windmill and right down a cute little street. Follow the road as it bends right, then head left. At the canal turn right. Opposite the church, walk underneath an archway towards the Museum Prinsenhof.

2. Museum Prinsenhof

Key Information: Open 11am-5pm Tue-Sun, closed Mondays. Tickets €13.50, discounts for concessions.

Museum Prinsenhof ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) gives an overview of the history of the Netherlands, of Delft, and of the famous blue-and-white Delftware. The collections are housed in a wonderful historical building, once used by William of Orange. It’s worth looking at the outside even if you don’t go in the museum itself.

Directions: Return back out of the archway. Before heading to the church, turn right to walk down Oude Delft canal to the first bridge. This canal has many old buildings along it. Cross the bridge and head left back up to the church.

3. Oude Kerk

Key Information: Open 10am-5pm Mon-Sat (11am-4pm weekdays Nov-Jan). Tickets €6.50 for both the Nieuwe and Oude Churches, tower of Nieuwe Kerk €5.50, combination €10. Discounts for concessions.

The Oude Kerk ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) is famous for its tall tower that leans two metres at the top – you can’t go up it. The church was constructed and expanded between 1246 and 1654, with stained glass windows from the mid-20th century. The interior is bright with tall white columns and a wooden roof.

Directions: Cross over the canal at the back of the church and turn right. Walk along the canal and then head left along the next small canal for 150 metres.

4. Vermeer Centrum Delft

Key Information: Open 10am-5pm every day. Tickets €10, discounts for concessions. On Sundays at 10:30 there are free guided tours in English.

The Vermeer Centrum Delft ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) is a museum displaying Vermeer’s work (reproductions) and giving some background to the famous painter’s life.

Directions: Cross over the bridge in front of the Vermeer Centrum into the central square.

5. Markt – Central Square

The central square of Delft ( Tripadvisor Reviews *) is surrounded by old buildings, shops and cafes. You’ll see the impressive Delft City Hall ( Tripadvisor Reviews *) on your right.

Directions: First head left to walk all the way around the cute streets surrounding the Nieuwe Kerk before returning to the entrance on the main square.

Explore more of the Netherlands on our other walking tours

• Delft Walking Tour – near Rotterdam
• Leiden Walking Tour – not far from Amsterdam
• Kinderdijk Windmills Walk – near Rotterdam
• Amsterdam Walking Tour – Amsterdam
• Wassenaar Dunes Hike – not far from The Hague

6. Nieuwe Kerk

The Nieuwe Kerk ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) has a tower over 100 metres tall that you can climb for excellent views over Delft. This church took 100 years to build, with construction ongoing from 1396 to 1496 when the tower was finally completed.

Directions: Walk through the central square to the other end on the left of the City Hall. Head left across a bridge and left again along a canal. Take the next right and you’ll see the street market.

7. Warenmarkt

Key Information: Open Thu and Sat only, 8:30am–5pm.

The Delft Warenmarkt is a great market selling everything from food to flowers and of course cheese.

Directions: Walk through the market to its end at a large open square full of tables and trees.

8. Beestenmarkt Square

Beestenmarkt Square ( Tripadvisor Reviews *) is a courtyard full of outdoor seating for restaurants. It’s a lovely place to sit and have a drink or meal. The name comes from its history as a market selling animals. It can get busy on weekends around lunchtime and dinner.

Directions: Head out of the square and to a canal. Turn right and through an old gate at a junction of canals.

You’ll walk through the famous Oostpoort ( Tripadvisor Reviews *), the symbol of Delft. It’s a historic tower and bridge complex across a canal, one of the reaming parts of the old city fortifications.

Directions: Walk across the bridge in front of the Oostpoort and then left across another bridge. Turn right to walk alongside the large canal.

History of Delft

Delft was founded back in 1075. An extensive fire destroyed much of the city in 1536 but the city recovered in the 16th and 17th centuries to become a centre for trade. Delftware became famous from 1600 onwards and became a major industry with exports across Europe. Willem van Oranje, leader of the northern Netherlands and uniter of seven provinces, lived in Delft and was assassinated here in 1584.

Johannes Vermeer was born in Delft in 1632, baptised in the Nieuwe Kerk and spent most of his life here in the flourishing town. Delft University of Technology was founded here in 1842 and you can see many students about the town. Today Delft is a lively town with much to explore on this walking tour.

9. Botanic Gardens

Key Information: Open 10am-5pm Tue-Sat. Closed Mondays. Tickets €6, discounts for concessions.

The Delft Botanic Garden ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *) is a peaceful, pleasant space to pass some time near the centre of town. There are a few greenhouses and a lovely cafe in the grounds.

Directions: Continue walking along the edge of the large canal. After the second bridge turn left up a street. After 500 metres you’ll see the Delftware Factory on your left.

10. Royal Delft Factory

Key Information: Open 10am-5pm every day. Tickets €11.50, discounts for concessions.

Royal Delft ( Website , Tripadvisor Reviews *), founded in 1653, is the only remaining original factory for Delftware still making hand-painted products in the time-honoured way. You can visit both the factory and an onsite museum with a large collection of Delftware and explanations of its history and importance.

Directions: After leaving the factory/museum, turn left towards a canal. Cross the bridge and turn left along the canal. Before the tunnel head up and right, then left through a different tunnel. There’s a nice harbour area here. Keep walking along the historic Oude Delft canal and at the bridge head left through a narrow alley to Delft train station. To head back into town, head right across the bridge instead. This is the end of the self-guided Delft walking tour.

Guidebooks to explore more of the Netherlands

If you enjoyed this walk, discover Leiden , Amsterdam or the nearby Kinderdijk Windmills .

FAQS – Delft Walking Tour

Delft is best known for white-and-blue Delftware and for being the birthplace of Johannes Vermeer, the famous painter.

In Delft it’s best to explore by walking as the city centre is not that big. You can see lovely canals, blue-and-white Delftware, artwork by Vermeer and many historic buildings.

To visit Delft you need between half a day and one day depending on how long you spend in the museums and churches.

Related Posts

Kinderdijk Windmills Walk

Amsterdam Walking Tour

Leiden Walking Tour

Imstenrader Bos and Putberg Hike

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

World Map » Netherlands » City » Delft

Delft Location Map

Online Map of Delft

Large detailed map of Delft

Delft tourist map

Delft city center map

About Delft

Maps of Netherlands

• Netherlands Maps
• Sint Maarten
• Caribbean Netherlands
• Sint Eustatius

Cities of Netherlands

• Philipsburg
• Oranjestad (Aruba)
• Oranjestad (Sint Eustatius)

Provinces of Netherlands

• North Brabant
• North Holland
• South Holland
• North America Map
• South America Map
• Oceania Map

Popular Maps

• Australia Map
• Germany Map
• Singapore Map
• United Arab Emirates Map
• United Kingdom Map
• United States Map
• New York City Map
• Los Angeles Map

U.S. States

• California Map
• Colorado Map
• Florida Map
• Georgia Map
• Illinois Map
• New York Map
• North Carolina Map
• Virginia Map

Delft Netherlands Attractions

Delft Netherlands Tourist Information and Vacation Guide

•  Home 
• Attractions
•  Maps 
•  More 
•  Feedback 

Other Cities | Travel Map | About Us | Facebook   

• Extreme Spots
• Cities in 3D
• All countries

• Country selection
• Netherlands
• Almere-Stad

• Stylish design-hotels
• Hotels with history
• Luxury accommodation
• Romantic hotels

• Hotels in Delft
• Guest houses
• Family rooms
• Budget hotels
• Luxurious hotels
• Bed & Breakfast

Detailed hi-res maps of Delft for download or print

Additional maps of Delft

City tours, excursions and tickets in delft and surroundings, moving around in netherlands - transportation.

Economy roadmap of Netherlands

Search for services, infrastructure and sights on map of Delft

Photogallery of Delft sightseeing

Our guide chapters over Delft

Active recreation.

Festivals and events in Delft

Hotels for romantic escape, advices for travellers, hotels with history of delft, shopping, streets and outlets, detailed maps of neighbouring cities to delft.