Discover the charm of Delft with our easy day trip guide. From must-see landmarks to little-known spots, dive into the heart of this lovely Dutch city for a trip you won't forget.

Since moving to The Hague in 2018 (check our post about The Hague here), Delft quickly became one of our favorite nearby cities to explore. Just a short tram ride away, its charming streets, rich culture, and welcoming atmosphere have made it a regular destination for us and a top recommendation for visitors. Over the years, Delft has become a place close to our hearts, offering the perfect mix of history, local life, and hidden treasures that keep drawing us back.

In this post, we invite you to join us as we uncover the many delights of Delft. We’ve put together a collection of insider tips, favorite spots, and memorable experiences to help you discover what makes this city so special. Whether you’re wandering its canals, visiting world-famous Delftware workshops, or enjoying a cozy café, our guide will help you experience Delft’s unique charm up close.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Delft is a picturesque city in the Netherlands, located just a short trip from The Hague and Rotterdam. Because we live nearby, it’s become one of our favorite destinations to take friends and family on day trips. Known for its peaceful canals, classic Dutch architecture, and lively student community, the city offers a charming and relaxed escape from busier urban life.

Delft is also famous worldwide for its iconic blue and white pottery, known as Delftware, which reflects its rich artistic tradition. Walking through the streets, enjoying cozy cafés, and exploring local shops, visitors can experience a perfect mix of culture and warmth. The beautiful scenery, vibrant student atmosphere, and welcoming vibe make Delft a memorable place to discover authentic Dutch life.

HISTORY

Delft takes its name from the nearby Delf canal, which played a key role in the town’s early development. Around 1075, a Count built his manor here, helping the local market to grow and attracting more people to settle in the area. However, it wasn’t until 1246 that Delft officially received city rights, marking the beginning of its rise as an important center for trade and industry in the region.

During the turbulent years of the Eighty Years’ War, when the Dutch fought for independence from Spanish rule, Delft became a crucial stronghold. William I of Orange, leader of the Dutch resistance, made Delft his home and political base. This made the city a symbol of the struggle for freedom and gave it political importance as the seat of the Prince of Orange after the Netherlands declared independence.

The 17th century, known as the Dutch Golden Age, was a time of great prosperity for Delft. The city gained international fame for its distinctive blue and white pottery, known as Delftware, which is still admired today. Delft was also a flourishing artistic hub, producing world-renowned painters like Johannes Vermeer. Vermeer, called the “Master of Light”, created timeless masterpieces such as Girl with a Pearl Earring, which continue to inspire artists, writers, and filmmakers around the world.

PRACTICAL TIPS

Delft is only 15 minutes from our home, so we visit often, especially when family or friends come over. It’s a great place to visit any time of the year. Summer has warm weather and busy outdoor cafés, spring brings pretty flowers and a calm feeling, and fall covers the city in warm colors, perfect for easy walks. The city gets busy on weekends and especially on market days (usually Thursdays and Saturdays). If you want it quieter, try going on a weekday or early in the morning.

Delft is a perfect day trip from major Dutch cities like Amsterdam or Rotterdam. Since it’s only 15 minutes from our home, we visit quite often, especially when family or friends are around. One day is usually enough to explore the city, enjoy the museums, and relax in the cafés. You can see a lot at a nice, easy pace. Of course, if you want to take your time or visit nearby places, staying longer works too!

Delft is a small and very walkable city, so exploring on foot is the best way to get around. Most of the main sights, shops, and cafés are close to each other, making walking easy and enjoyable. If you want to cover more ground or visit nearby areas, renting a bike is also a great option — just like in most Dutch towns! But honestly, for a relaxed day in Delft, walking is the way to go.

EXPLORING DELFT

The oldest church in Delft has a long story: rumor has it that there was already a tuff stone church here since around 1050 along the "Delf" canal but it was not until 1246 that the Old Church was officially considered to be founded, after Count William II gave Delft its own charter. In the following centuries, the church developed slowly until its current form of an impressive gothic basilica. The most famous addition is its crooked tower: as it was partially built on top of a former canal, the heavy stones of the tower started to subside on this not-so-found foundation. Luckily the builders managed to stabilize it over time and now Delft's Oude Kerk has this charming little detail that is clearly visible from a distance.

| Opening hours - daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. |

| Admission - 5.50 EUR |

De Kaerskorf is an iconic landmark in Delft, known for its striking 16th-century Renaissance-style façade that was beautifully restored in the 1960s to recapture its original charm. Over the years, the building has served various purposes, most famously as a tobacco shop. Today, it houses a charming antique shop that perfectly complements its historic look, giving visitors a true sense of stepping back in time and adding to the timeless atmosphere of Delft’s city center.

In the heart of the city (also know as the Markt), this Renaissance style building gives us the dimension of how Delft has been an important city in the past. It was originally built around the 13th century with its impressive belfry as a sign of the prosperity of the town but only the "Het Steen" (The Stone) tower survived after a fire in 1618. Afterwards, a new building around the tower was designed by the famous architect Hendrik de Keyser and this is the stunning facade we can see nowadays. Under the tower, there is a medieval prison where the assassin of Willem of Orange was kept before sentencing. It can still be visited as part of a guided tour.

This is the heart of Delft! The Markt is the large main square of the town which hosts a market every Thursday for centuries. Once part of the property of the Count, De Markt evolved over time as Delft grew in importance for its trade and administrative role. In the late 1400's, it was first paved and afterwards the Nieuwe Kerk was erected on the east corner of the square. Buzzing during the weekends and on Thursdays, the square is also framed by many shops and restaurants with very traditionally-Dutch-architecture façades selling souvenirs, cheese and the famous Delft blue ceramic. The wind rose at the center of the square is also worth-checking.

Facing the Town Hall, the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) is the other church that dominates the skyline of Delft. Built formerly as a Catholic church in the 14th century, it took almost 300 years for it to achieve the form that it has nowadays. Its tower is the second highest in the Netherlands with a total of almost 110 meters and it is possible to climb its 376 steps to behold Delft (and even Rotterdam or The Hague) from above. With the Reformation, the Nieuwe Kerk became a Protestant church with a rather simple interior. However, its impressive organ (with more than 3000 pipes) and the magnificent mausoleum of William of Orange (and almost every deceased member of the royal family also) pays off the simplicity.

| Opening hours - daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. |

| Admission - 5.50 EUR |

At this point you might be thinking there is only churches in Delft. This has to do with the Reformation process in the Netherlands. After the city council opted for Protestantism in 1572, other religions were banned from the town but their followers kept practicing their faith. The Catholics created a neighbourhood called Papenhoek (Papists' Corner) and , with the Old and New Churches now protestant, they start to hold celebrations in secret churches in residential houses. In 1733, the Jesuits managed to build a small church which couldn't be seen from the street. With the religion freedom of the 19th century, the Christians put in practice their plan of building the first Catholic church in the center of Delft after Reformation and built the neo gothic Maria van Jessekerk where once stood the Papenhoek. Its two towers represent the two former Catholic churches in Delft: Oude Kerk and Nieuwe Kerk.

This is not a historical site but while strolling around Delft we stumbled on this jewel of a shop. De Groene vingers or Green fingers is a paradise for plant lovers. It is a pleasant experience to walk around this green oasis with its beautiful decortation. It is undeniable that you will fall in love with this unique garden centre. And believe us, it is hard to leave without a new purchase!

| Opening hours |

daily from 10 a.m. to 5.30 p.m.

| Admission - free of charge |

This square has a rich history — it was once the site of a Franciscan Monastery that was destroyed during the Iconoclasm of the Protestant Reformation. In 1595, the monastery was replaced by a square, which became Delft’s cattle market and remained so until the 1970s. Today, the square has transformed into a lively and charming spot filled with a variety of restaurants and cafés, many offering terraces where visitors can relax and enjoy the beautiful view while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere.

A bit further away from the city center but definitely worth visiting, the Eastern Gate is the only remaining of the eight city gates and walls originally built around the year 1400. The high city walls and gates were precisely the reason why Willem of Orange chose Delft as the headquarters of the resistance against the Spanish occupation. The Eastern Gate is a very well preserved example of Brick Gothic Northern European architecture and consists of a two-tower gate with high spires and a drawbridge over the canal surrounding the city center. There is a nice little park around for you to take a break and let the charm of this scenery sink in or to simply take a photo.

Travel Essentials

GETTING THERE

Delft has excellent train connections to major Dutch cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. The Delft railway station is located right in the city center, making it easy to start exploring immediately upon arrival. One-way tickets from Amsterdam Central Station to Delft usually cost between 14-15 EUR, with a travel time of about one hour. From Rotterdam Central, the journey takes around 12 minutes and fares range from 3-4 EUR. Trains from The Hague Central Station to Delft run every 5 to 10 minutes, taking approximately 12 minutes with ticket prices around 2-3 EUR. You can check schedules and book tickets on the Dutch Railways (NS) website.

If you’re staying in The Hague, tram number 1 is an easy way to get to Delft, taking about 15 to 20 minutes. Trams run regularly, and tickets can be bought on board or through the HTM app. The tram stop is close to Delft’s city center, making it a stress-free option to visit without worrying about parking. For schedules and ticket info, check the HTM Public Transport site.

Delft is also served by several regional bus routes connecting it with surrounding towns and cities. This provides flexible options for travelers who prefer buses or need alternative transport. Check bus routes and schedules on Connexxion or 9292 for comprehensive public transport planning in the Netherlands.

If you plan to drive to Delft, be aware that the city center has a milieuzone (environmental zone) restricting access to vehicles that don’t meet certain emissions standards. Make sure to check if your car qualifies before entering. Parking is available in and around the city center, but it’s a good idea to book or plan ahead, especially during busy times. You can find parking details and options on the official Delft website.

EATING THERE

- Il Tartufo Delicatessen Traiteur Catering: For real Italian food, Il Tartufo is a great pick. This italian eatery has a wide range of dishes that taste amazing and don’t cost too much.
- Stads-Koffyhuis: A cozy café with simple and tasty brunch options and great coffee. Prices are usually between 8 and 15 EUR, perfect for a relaxed morning.
- HANNO - Groots Café: This lively café is a great place to enjoy a tasty meal, with main dishes usually costing between 15 and 20 EUR. They also serve a nice selection of craft beers and cocktails, making it a perfect spot to relax and enjoy with friends.

- Hummus: This place serves different kinds of hummus. Try their homemade combos, like a falafel or shawarma sandwich with hummus and two side salads. Combos cost about 10-15 EUR.
- Ramen Nikkou: Get ready for a delicious treat at Ramen Nikkou, where you can enjoy some of the best ramen in town. Each bowl costs around 10 to 15 EUR, and the fresh ingredients and rich flavors make every bite special and worth the price.
- Restaurant Le Vieux Jean: A charming French restaurant with a romantic and cozy feel. They offer a three-course meal for around 50 EUR, making it a great choice for a special dining experience in Delft.

- Chocolaterie De Lelie: Since 2013, this chocolate shop has been making some of the best ice cream in town, using natural ingredients and traditional methods. One of the flavor you have to try is called “Delftenaartjes”, a combination of white chocolate, almond praline, roasted hazeltnuts and almonds. Other combinations with traditional chocolate are also great!
- Boulangerie Michel: At Boulangerie Michel, you’ll find a wonderful variety of fresh breads and pastries. The prices are fair, and the quality is excellent, making it a perfect stop for a snack or to pick up something delicious to enjoy later.
- Kek - De Koffiebar van Delft: Kek is a cozy spot loved by locals for its tasty coffee and fresh pastries. With prices usually between 3 and 5 EUR, it’s an affordable place to start your day with a relaxed breakfast or a casual brunch.
- Les Gâteaux: Famous for their savory pies, Les Gâteaux offers fresh, tasty options that make a great quick snack or a light meal. Their pies usually cost between 5 and 8 EUR, and each bite is full of flavor and warmth.

- Delfts Brouwhuis: If you enjoy craft beers, Delfts Brouwhuis is the place to visit. They serve a variety of locally brewed beers, each full of unique flavors. A pint usually costs between 4 and 6 EUR, making it a great spot for beer lovers.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Delft ranks in our top 3 cities in the Netherlands for those who seek a truly Dutch experience. We also recommend you to stroll around the streets of the city center for nice perspectives on the traditional architecture, especially the cute Voldersgracht, Oude Delft and Oosteinde. If you are looking to Dutch up your experience with a visit to a windmill, the still-operating Molen de Roos (Rose Windmill) is located within a 10-minute walk from the Markt Square and is the only remaining mill in town.

And now it's your turn to let us know your impressions, thoughts and also tips to visit this cute little Dutch town. Have you already visited Delft? We look forward to reading your comments in the section below.

Tags: Netherlands