Delft
Delft - Vacation Briefing
Delft, Netherlands is a picturesque town located in the province of South Holland. Known for its historic canals and charming streets, Delft offers a quintessentially Dutch experience. The city is famous for its iconic blue and white pottery, known as Delftware, which can be admired in the Royal Delft factory and museum. Delft is also home to the stunning Nieuwe Kerk, where members of the Dutch royal family are buried. Visitors can explore the vibrant Markt square, lined with beautiful gabled houses and a lively marketplace. With its intimate atmosphere, Delft is a perfect destination for a leisurely stroll, enjoying local cafes and boutique shops.
Popular Sights in Delft
Things to do during your Delft vacation
Discover the charming city of Delft, Netherlands, known for its historic architecture, canals, and world-renowned ceramics. This destination guide provides a list of must-see sights and activities to make the most of your visit.
- Royal Delft: Visit the Royal Delft pottery factory and museum to learn about the city's famous blue ceramics and witness the craftsmanship firsthand.
- Delft City Hall: Explore the historic Delft City Hall, a beautiful Renaissance-style building that showcases the city's rich history and architecture.
- Nieuwe Kerk: Climb the tower of Nieuwe Kerk, one of the tallest churches in the Netherlands, for panoramic views of Delft and its surroundings.
- Vermeer Centrum Delft: Immerse yourself in the world of the renowned Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer at the Vermeer Centrum Delft, where you can learn about his life and works.
- Johannes Vermeer's Birthplace: Visit the birthplace of Johannes Vermeer, a small house in the heart of Delft, to gain insight into the life of the iconic artist.
- Prinsenhof Museum: Discover the Prinsenhof Museum, a former monastery turned historical museum, housing a collection of art and artifacts that tell the story of Delft's past.
- Delftse Hout: Escape the city buzz and enjoy nature at the Delftse Hout, a picturesque park perfect for picnics, walks, and bike rides.
- Delft Canals: Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Delft canals, lined with charming historic houses and picturesque bridges.
- Oude Kerk: Visit Oude Kerk, the oldest church in Delft known for its stunning stained glass windows and unique leaning tower.
- Botanical Garden: Explore the Botanical Garden of Delft University, a green oasis featuring a diverse collection of plants from around the world.
- Climbing the Oostpoort: Embark on a climb up the Oostpoort, one of the last remaining city gates of Delft, offering a bird's eye view of the city.
Why you should visit Delft
Delft, Netherlands is a charming destination with its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and famous Delftware pottery. It offers a unique cultural experience and is worth visiting for those interested in Dutch history and art.
Delft is generally a safe destination with a low crime rate and political stability. However, like any other tourist destination, visitors should remain cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.
Delft is rich in history and culture. It is famous for its connection to the Dutch Golden Age and renowned painters like Johannes Vermeer. The city boasts numerous museums, including the Vermeer Centrum Delft and the Royal Delft pottery factory, where visitors can learn about the city's artistic heritage.
Delft is not known for its vibrant nightlife. The city has a few bars and pubs, but the options are limited compared to larger cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam. Visitors looking for an exciting nightlife scene may be disappointed.
Delft is not particularly known for adventurous activities. It lacks thrilling outdoor experiences like hiking, skiing, or water sports. The city is better suited for those seeking a cultural and historical exploration rather than adrenaline-pumping adventures.
While Delft offers scenic canals and picturesque streets for leisurely strolling, it may not be the most relaxing destination if you're seeking natural landscapes or beaches. However, the city's tranquil atmosphere and charming scenery can still provide a pleasant and somewhat relaxing experience.
Best time to visit Delft
Delft, Netherlands offers a charming experience all year round, but the best time to visit is from May to September. These months provide pleasant weather, bustling markets, and a vibrant atmosphere.
A guide To your first day of Delft vacation
morning
- Visit the iconic Royal Delft Pottery Factory and Museum, where you can learn about the traditional Dutch pottery-making process and admire beautiful hand-painted ceramics.
- Explore the historic city center of Delft, known for its picturesque canals, charming cobblestone streets, and well-preserved medieval architecture.
afternoon
- Take a leisurely boat tour along the Delftse Schie canal, enjoying the scenic views of the city and its surroundings.
- Visit the Vermeer Centre, dedicated to the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, and discover the stories behind his masterpieces.
evening
- Enjoy a delicious Dutch dinner at one of the cozy local restaurants in Delft, where you can savor traditional Dutch dishes such as herring, bitterballen, or stamppot.
- Take a romantic evening stroll through the beautifully illuminated Markt square, admiring the stunning Renaissance-style City Hall and the striking Nieuwe Kerk.
night
- Experience the vibrant nightlife in Delft by visiting one of the many lively bars or pubs in the city center, where you can mingle with locals and enjoy a wide selection of Dutch beers.
- Attend a classical music concert at the historic Prinsenhof, a former court of William of Orange, and immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies performed by talented musicians.
How to get to Delft
By Plane
Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM) is the closest airport to Delft, just 15 minutes away by car. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is also a convenient option, with excellent global connections and a quick 30-minute train ride to Delft's city center.
By other means
Delft is easily accessible by public transport. Delft Centraal is a major rail hub with frequent train services connecting to cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Buses within the city are efficient and convenient for exploring local attractions.
Tips for Booking Your Trip
Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.
Flights: How to Score the Best Deal
First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.
Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot
For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.
Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!
Flights
Accommodation
Best for travelers who are ...
History enthusiasts, art lovers, and those seeking an authentic Dutch experience
How long to stay in Delft?
A weekend getaway of 2-3 days is perfect to explore the main attractions, but for a more immersive experience, a week allows time to discover Delft's hidden gems and nearby attractions.
Nearby
If you're already in Delft, Netherlands you might want to consider visiting these nearby destinations: