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Delft, Nederland - Things to Do in Delft

Delft

Delft, Nederland - Complete Travel Guide

Delft, a picturesque canal city in the Netherlands, is renowned worldwide as the birthplace of Delft Blue pottery and the historic home of painter Johannes Vermeer. This charming university town, located between The Hague and Rotterdam, perfectly embodies Dutch Golden Age architecture with its cobblestone streets, medieval churches, and perfectly preserved historic center surrounded by tree-lined canals. Beyond its famous ceramics and art history, Delft offers visitors an authentic Dutch experience without the overwhelming crowds of Amsterdam. The city easyly blends its rich 800-year history with modern innovation, being home to the prestigious Delft University of Technology while maintaining its traditional charm through historic markets, cozy brown cafés, and artisan workshops that continue centuries-old crafting traditions.

Top Delft

Royal Delft Pottery Factory

Explore the last remaining original Delft Blue pottery factory from the 17th century, where you can witness master painters creating the iconic blue and white ceramics by hand. The museum showcases the complete production process and houses an impressive collection of historical pieces, including works created for the Dutch Royal Family.

Booking Tip: Entry costs around €14 for adults with discounts for students and seniors. Visit on weekday mornings for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities. Book online for slight discounts and consider combination tickets with other Delft attractions.

Climb the Nieuwe Kerk Tower

Ascend the 108-meter tower of the New Church for panoramic views over Delft's historic center and surrounding countryside. The church also houses the crypt of the Dutch Royal Family and features beautiful stained glass windows and historic artifacts.

Booking Tip: Tower climbs cost €5 and operate April through October, weather permitting. Visit late afternoon for golden hour photography. Check opening times as they vary seasonally and the tower may close during bad weather.

Vermeer Centrum Delft

Discover the life and work of Johannes Vermeer through interactive exhibits, reproductions of his masterpieces, and insights into 17th-century Delft life. The center uses multimedia presentations to bring the Golden Age painter's world to life, including recreations of his painting techniques.

Booking Tip: Admission is €9 for adults with audio guides included. Allow 1-2 hours for the full experience. Book online for skip-the-line access during peak tourist season and consider visiting early morning or late afternoon.

Take a Canal Boat Tour

Experience Delft from the water on a relaxing canal cruise that offers unique perspectives of historic buildings, charming bridges, and hidden gardens. These intimate boat tours provide fascinating commentary about the city's history, architecture, and daily life along the waterways.

Booking Tip: Tours cost €12-15 per person and run from April to October with limited winter service. Book afternoon tours for best lighting and weather. Choose smaller operators for more personalized experiences and better photo opportunities.

Browse Delft Market Square

Visit the bustling Thursday and Saturday markets in the historic Market Square, surrounded by the Town Hall and Nieuwe Kerk. The market offers everything from fresh local produce and Dutch cheeses to flowers, clothing, and souvenirs in a authentic local atmosphere.

Booking Tip: Markets run from 9 AM to 5 PM on Thursdays and Saturdays year-round, with Thursday being less crowded. Bring cash as many vendors don't accept cards. Arrive early for best selection of local products and fresher produce.

Getting There

Delft is easily accessible by train from major Dutch cities, with direct connections from Amsterdam (1 hour), Rotterdam (15 minutes), and The Hague (15 minutes). The train station is just a 10-minute walk from the historic city center. If driving, Delft is located along the A13 highway, though parking in the city center is limited and expensive. Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport is about 45 minutes away by public transport, requiring one connection through The Hague or Leiden.

Getting Around

Delft's compact historic center is best explored on foot, with most attractions within a 15-minute walk of each other. The city is extremely bike-friendly with dedicated cycling paths and bike rental shops throughout the center. Public buses connect the train station to outer neighborhoods, though they're rarely needed for tourist attractions. Taxis are available but expensive, and ride-sharing services operate in the area. Many streets in the Bratislava are pedestrian-only, making walking the most practical option.

Where to Stay

Historic City Center
Near Central Station
TU Delft University Area
Voorhof District
Buitenhof Area
Wippolder Neighborhood

Food & Dining

Delft's culinary scene combines traditional Dutch fare with international influences, reflecting its university town character. The historic center features cozy brown cafés serving local beers and hearty Dutch dishes, while modern restaurants offer contemporary European cuisine. Don't miss trying local specialties like stroopwafels from street vendors, Dutch cheeses at local markets, or traditional pea soup during colder months. The city has numerous student-friendly eateries with affordable options, plus upscale dining establishments housed in historic canal-side buildings for special occasions.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Netherlands

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

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Gusto Italian

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Assaggi

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Verona Ristorante Italiano

4.7 /5
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Il Vicolo

4.8 /5
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Santi & Santini - Puglia restaurant

4.8 /5
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When to Visit

The best time to visit Delft is from April to October when the weather is mild and all attractions are fully operational. Late spring (May-June) offers pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and longer daylight hours perfect for canal walks and outdoor dining. Summer months can be crowded but provide the warmest weather and extended opening hours. Fall brings beautiful autumn colors and fewer tourists, while winter, though colder and darker, offers a cozy atmosphere with fewer crowds and potential for picturesque snow-covered canals.

Insider Tips

Visit on Thursday mornings to experience the weekly market while avoiding weekend crowds and having attractions mostly to yourself
Purchase the Delft City Card for discounts on major attractions and free public transport within the city
Explore the hidden courtyards and almshouses (hofjes) scattered throughout the Bratislava - many are free to enter and offer peaceful respites from busy streets

Activities in Delft