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Delft Canals

4.4
·1k reviews·Delft, Netherlands

Delft's enchanting canals, historic architecture, and iconic Delft Blue pottery create a picturesque Dutch escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Keukenhof Gardens (day trip) - Image 1

Delft Canals

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Delft's enchanting canals, historic architecture, and iconic Delft Blue pottery create a picturesque Dutch escape.

4.4
(1k reviews)

"A must-do activity if you’re visiting Delft. Very informative and enjoyable."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Embrace the Canals by Boat

A canal tour offers a unique perspective of Delft's beauty. Opt for a boat with clear windows for better photos.

🚲 Rent a Bike for Exploration

Cycling is a quintessential Dutch experience. Rent a bike to easily navigate the city and its surroundings.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Canal Cruise

Canal Cruise

Various departure points

Glide through Delft's historic waterways, admiring charming bridges and waterside cafes.

Instagram
Oude Kerk (Old Church)

Oude Kerk (Old Church)

Delft city center

Marvel at the leaning tower and intricate Gothic architecture of this historic landmark.

Instagram
Nieuwe Kerk (New Church)

Nieuwe Kerk (New Church)

Market Square

Climb the tower for panoramic city views and explore the royal burial chambers.

Instagram
Delft Blue Pottery

Delft Blue Pottery

Various shops and museums

Discover the iconic Delft Blue pottery, a symbol of Dutch craftsmanship.

Instagram
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Canals

Delft's charm lies in its picturesque canals. Consider a boat tour for a unique perspective, but be aware that some tours might prioritize Dutch commentary. Reddit Cycling is also a popular way to explore, so look into bike rentals if you plan to cover more ground. Reddit

Timing is Key for Photos

To capture the best photos of Delft's historic architecture and serene canals, aim for the 'golden hours' of sunrise or sunset. Instagram This avoids harsh midday light and the peak crowds, offering a more peaceful experience. Instagram

Best Times

When
Spring & Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday evenings
Why
Tranquil atmosphere, dining
Crowd
Low
When
Market days
Why
Vibrant local atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Best experience in Rotterdam. #rotterdam #netherlands #watertaxi #boat #travel #skyline
@48barbershop1
134K likes • 1.3M views

🎯 Embrace the Canals by Boat

A canal tour offers a unique perspective of Delft's beauty. Instagram Opt for a boat with clear windows for better photos. Reddit

🚲 Rent a Bike for Exploration

Cycling is a quintessential Dutch experience. Rent a bike to easily navigate the city and its surroundings. Reddit

24 hours in Delft 🇳🇱💙 A perfect day in one of the most charming cities. Think historic canals, iconic blue pottery, and stunning architecture. All packed into one unforgettable day trip. . . . #delft #visitdelft #citytrip #travelinspo #holland #travel #travelgram
visitdelft
782 likes • 13.9K views
💙You’ve just moved to Delft, and the city’s history is your new playground! 🏰🚲 From cycling past iconic canals to exploring hidden gems for free on Open Monumenten Dag, Delft has a story waiting around every corner. Ready to make this city your home? 🏠💙 Check @monumentdelft for more information, no registration required.🫰 #OpenMonumentenDag #Delftlife #University
tudelft
3.4K likes • 80.7K views

📸 Golden Hour Photography

Capture stunning shots of Delft's canals and architecture during sunrise or sunset. Instagram

🥞 Savor Dutch Pancakes

Try delicious Dutch pancakes, including gluten-free options, at local eateries. Instagram

20/09/2025) Kasavu & Canals - Delft Onam 2025.
daniel_joseph16
201 likes • 7.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Embrace the Canals by Boat

A canal tour offers a unique perspective of Delft's beauty. Instagram Opt for a boat with clear windows for better photos. Reddit

🚲 Rent a Bike for Exploration

Cycling is a quintessential Dutch experience. Rent a bike to easily navigate the city and its surroundings. Reddit

📸 Golden Hour Photography

Capture stunning shots of Delft's canals and architecture during sunrise or sunset. Instagram

🥞 Savor Dutch Pancakes

Try delicious Dutch pancakes, including gluten-free options, at local eateries. Instagram

🗣️ Language on Tours

Be aware that some canal tours may have more commentary in Dutch than English. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.4
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Delft's charm, picturesque canals, and historic architecture, making it a highly enjoyable destination. While most boat tours are pleasant, some reviewers noted a preference for Dutch commentary over English, and a few found specific tours to be less engaging or to run over schedule.

"Truly enjoy this trip every time I do it. So fun and informative. The Captains are always great."

Yvonne Wezelenburg

"Nice boat trip. We asked for an English tour. It was half English half Dutch. I speak just enough Dutch to realise that there was quite a bit of information that was missed in English.
That said I enjoyed the tour and the information given. A nice way to pass an hour and get a different perspective of Delft."

Jon Riley

"A must do activity if you’re visiting Delft. Very informative and enjoyable."

Salah Alsaif

What People Like

Charming canals and architecture
Pleasant boat tours
Historic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Limited English commentary on tours
Some tours run long

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Delft is easily accessible by train from Amsterdam. The journey typically takes around 1 hour. Instagram Trains are frequent and comfortable, making it a convenient day trip option. Instagram

Yes, Delft is very close to Rotterdam, with a train journey of only about 15 minutes. Instagram This makes it an easy addition to a trip exploring the South Holland region.

Delft is a very walkable city, and cycling is also a popular and efficient way to get around. Reddit Many visitors rent bikes to explore at their own pace. Reddit

There are several parking garages available in Delft, but it's often easier and more pleasant to arrive by public transport, especially if you plan to explore the city center on foot or by bike.

Yes, you can reach Delft by car, but parking within the historic center can be challenging and expensive. Instagram It's generally recommended to use public transportation.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

While not always mandatory, booking canal tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your spot. Reddit

Opening hours for the Oude Kerk and Nieuwe Kerk can vary. It's best to check their official websites for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

The Delft canals themselves are public spaces and free to access. Fees apply only for specific attractions like boat tours or museum entries.

Wandering through the historic streets, admiring the architecture, and enjoying the market square are all free activities. Instagram Some events, like Open Monumenten Dag, offer free access to historical sites. Instagram

Delft Blue pottery can be purchased at various shops throughout the city, including the Royal Delft Experience museum and numerous souvenir stores. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Delft offers a rich history, charming streets, the Vermeer Centrum Delft, the Prinsenhof Museum, and opportunities to explore its famous Delft Blue pottery. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Delft is incredibly photogenic with its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and charming bridges. Instagram+1 The 'golden hour' is particularly magical for capturing its beauty. Instagram

Key highlights include the Oude Kerk, Nieuwe Kerk, the Market Square, and of course, experiencing the canals via a boat tour or a leisurely stroll. Instagram+1

Yes, it's possible to rent small boats for exploring the Delft canals, offering a more intimate experience. Reddit

Delft is known for its charming, historic, and relatively peaceful atmosphere, especially compared to larger Dutch cities. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Delft is famous for its Delft Blue pottery, but culinary delights include traditional Dutch pancakes Instagram and delicious apple pie. Instagram Many cafes and restaurants offer waterside dining. Instagram

Explore the Market Square and the areas around the canals for a wide selection of restaurants and cafes. Instagram Many offer outdoor seating with lovely views. Instagram

Yes, some establishments in Delft offer gluten-free options, including Dutch pancakes. Instagram It's always a good idea to ask your server about dietary accommodations.

Indeed! Many cafes and restaurants have barges moored on the canals, allowing you to enjoy your meal right on the water. Instagram

Travelers rave about the apple pie in Delft, with one visitor calling it the 'best apple pie of my life'. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The canals, historic bridges, the Oude Kerk and Nieuwe Kerk, and the charming streets are all prime photography locations. Instagram+1

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) offers the most beautiful light for photographing the Delft canals and architecture. Instagram

Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces. However, be mindful of private property and always ask permission before photographing individuals up close.

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide canal views and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the full charm of the streets. Instagram

Visit during weekdays, early mornings, or late evenings to minimize crowds and capture more serene shots of the Delft canals. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Delft is a fantastic destination for families, offering a blend of history and engaging activities. A boat tour on the canals is usually a hit with children, providing a fun and educational way to see the city. Reddit Consider renting bikes for a family cycling adventure, as the city is quite bike-friendly. InstagramReddit Look for places offering kid-friendly food options, like pancakes, which are often a safe bet. Instagram The Vermeer Centrum Delft might also spark curiosity in older children interested in art.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Delft is an ideal city for solo travelers seeking charm and a less crowded experience than larger Dutch cities. Instagram Its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot or by bike, allowing for spontaneous discoveries. Reddit Enjoy a leisurely canal stroll, find a cozy cafe for a coffee and apple pie, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Instagram+1 Be mindful of the language on tours, but the overall experience is very welcoming.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Delft is a photographer's dream, with its stunning canals, historic architecture, and charming bridges providing endless opportunities. Instagram+1 Aim for the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for the most dramatic light and fewer crowds. Instagram Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the full sweep of the picturesque streets and canals. Instagram Don't miss the chance to photograph the iconic Delft Blue pottery. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring Delft's Canals

Delft's canals are the lifeblood of the city, offering picturesque views and a unique way to experience its charm. Instagram+1 Whether you opt for a guided boat tour or rent your own small vessel, gliding along these waterways provides a different perspective on the historic architecture and waterside cafes. Instagram Some visitors note that English commentary on tours can be limited, so be prepared for that possibility. Reddit

For those who prefer to be more active, renting a bike is a fantastic way to explore Delft and its surroundings. Reddit The city is relatively flat and bike-friendly, allowing you to easily discover hidden corners and enjoy the scenic routes. Instagram Remember to lock your bike securely when you stop to explore on foot. Reddit

When planning your canal experience, consider the time of day. Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light for photography and a more tranquil atmosphere. Instagram Evenings can be particularly lovely as the city lights begin to twinkle along the water. Instagram

The Art of Delft Blue

Delft is world-renowned for its iconic Delft Blue pottery (Delfts Blauw), a tradition dating back to the 17th century. Instagram This distinctive blue and white earthenware is a must-see for any visitor. You can learn about its history and production at the Royal Delft Experience, where you can see artisans at work and even try your hand at painting your own piece. Instagram

Beyond the museum, numerous shops throughout Delft sell authentic Delft Blue items, from small souvenirs to elaborate vases and tiles. Instagram It's a perfect place to find a unique memento of your trip or a special gift. Instagram

While the pottery is a significant part of Delft's heritage, don't forget to appreciate the city's other artistic connections, most notably to the painter Johannes Vermeer, who was born and lived in Delft. The Vermeer Centrum Delft offers insights into his life and work.

Culinary Delights in Delft

Delft offers a delightful culinary scene, with many eateries capitalizing on its beautiful canal-side locations. Instagram+1 A popular choice for visitors is to indulge in Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken), which come in both sweet and savory varieties. Instagram Some places even offer gluten-free options, catering to various dietary needs. Instagram

Beyond pancakes, Delft is also celebrated for its exceptional apple pie. Instagram Many travelers have praised it as a must-try dessert. Instagram For a truly unique dining experience, look for restaurants and cafes that have moored barges on the canals, allowing you to dine directly on the water. Instagram

When exploring, don't hesitate to wander through the Market Square, which is lined with numerous cafes and restaurants offering outdoor seating. Instagram This is a great spot to soak in the city's atmosphere while enjoying a meal or a coffee.

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