Delft Historic Center
A charming historic city renowned for its iconic Delft Blue pottery, Vermeer's legacy, and picturesque canals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, blooming flowers
Delft Historic Center
Best Time
Pleasant weather, blooming flowers
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming historic city renowned for its iconic Delft Blue pottery, Vermeer's legacy, and picturesque canals.
"Delft is like stepping into a painting from the Dutch Golden Age, a truly living piece of history."
🚶♀️ Walkable City Center
Delft's historic core is compact and best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes!
🏺 Collect Delft Blue Houses
KLM offers miniature Delft Blue houses as souvenirs on business flights. A fun collectible!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Markt Square & Stadhuis
Markt Square
The heart of Delft, featuring the stunning Renaissance-style City Hall and the medieval belfry tower, Het Steen.
Oude Kerk (Old Church)
Oude Kerkplein
A beautiful Gothic church, famous for its leaning tower and as the burial place of Johannes Vermeer.
Nieuwe Kerk (New Church)
Nieuwe Kerkplein
Home to the Dutch Royal Family's burial vault and offering panoramic city views from its tower.
Delftware Factories & Museums
Various locations
Discover the intricate art of Delft Blue pottery, from traditional workshops to dedicated museums.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Canals and Cobblestones
Delft Blue & Vermeer's Legacy
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walkable City Center
Delft's historic core is compact and best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes! 
🏺 Collect Delft Blue Houses
KLM offers miniature Delft Blue houses as souvenirs on business flights. A fun collectible! +1
🛶 Canal Cruise Views
See Delft from the water! Canal tours offer a unique perspective on the picturesque city.
📅 Market Day Buzz
Experience the vibrant weekly markets on Thursdays and the antique market on Saturdays (April-Oct).
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable City Center
Delft's historic core is compact and best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes!
🏺 Collect Delft Blue Houses
KLM offers miniature Delft Blue houses as souvenirs on business flights. A fun collectible! +1
🛶 Canal Cruise Views
See Delft from the water! Canal tours offer a unique perspective on the picturesque city.
📅 Market Day Buzz
Experience the vibrant weekly markets on Thursdays and the antique market on Saturdays (April-Oct).
☕ Relax in the Markt
Enjoy a coffee and people-watch in the lively Markt square, admiring the Stadhuis.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Delft's stunning historic center, picturesque canals, and the charm of its Delft Blue pottery. The Stadhuis and Markt square are highlighted as architectural gems. Some find the city very quiet, which can be a pro or con depending on preference.
"Visited this place recently on an Open Day.. Despite being centuries old, the building is very well maintained. Also, the building has a replica of first microscope by Antoni Van Leewenhoek, a Dutch Microbiologist, known as Father of Microbiology. He used to work there. Church opposite to this is marvelous."
Mahesh More
"...this city hall (stadhuis) still serves as the center of city government and also hosts important events. This medieval-style building is truly beautiful, with its distinctive ornamentation that captivates all who see it..."
Hendra A Sastradinata
"Visiting the Stadhuis in Delft was like stepping into a painting from the Dutch Golden Age. Located right on the lively Markt square, this Renaissance-style city hall immediately catches your eye with its ornate façade, rich detailing, and beautiful symmetry. It’s not just a building—it’s a piece of living history.
What makes it especially charming is how it stands as a quiet witness to centuries of civic life.
The tower, known as Het Steen, dates back to the 13th century and adds even more historical depth. And even if you don’t go inside, just sitting in the square and admiring it with a coffee from a nearby café is a beautiful experience.
If you're in Delft, don’t miss this. Whether you’re into history, architecture, or just looking for a picturesque photo spot, Stadhuis Delft will not disappoint."
Maribelle Hokayem
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Delft is easily accessible by train from Amsterdam Centraal. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes with one change. Trains are frequent and comfortable.
Yes, Delft is an excellent day trip from The Hague. It's only a short train ride away (about 15 minutes) and offers a charming contrast to the larger city.
Delft has implemented an 'autoluwe' (low-car) policy in its historic center, significantly reducing car traffic. Parking is available in garages on the outskirts.
Delft's historic center is very walkable. For longer distances or to explore the TU Delft campus, consider renting a bike or using local buses.
While direct trains from Amsterdam are less common, you can usually find direct connections from cities like Rotterdam and The Hague. Changes in Leiden or Schiedam are typical from Amsterdam.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the historic center of Delft is free to explore. Tickets are only required for specific attractions like museums or church towers.
Opening hours vary by attraction. Museums and churches typically open around 10 AM and close between 4 PM and 5 PM. Check individual websites for exact times.
While the Stadhuis is a functioning city hall, parts of it are accessible, and tours may be available. It's best to check their official website for current access and any associated fees.
Climbing the Nieuwe Kerk tower usually involves a fee, offering panoramic views of Delft. Prices can vary, so it's advisable to check the official website for current rates.
Free walking tours are often available, though they typically operate on a tip-based system. It's a great way to get an overview of the city's history and landmarks.
📸 📸 Photography
The canals, the Markt square with the Stadhuis, the Oude Kerk, and the charming side streets are all incredibly photogenic. Look for reflections in the water!
Drone usage in historic city centers can be restricted due to privacy and safety regulations. Always check local drone laws before flying.
Absolutely! Delft's picturesque streets, historic architecture, and lively squares provide endless opportunities for captivating street photography.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the canals still offer lovely reflections.
The bridges over the canals, the view from the Markt square looking towards the Stadhuis, and the area around the Oude Kerk offer classic Delft photo opportunities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Look for 'eetcafés' or traditional restaurants in the city center. Try local specialties like 'stamppot' (mashed potatoes with vegetables) or 'bitterballen' (fried meatballs).
Yes, Delft has many cozy cafes, especially around the Markt square and along the canals, perfect for a coffee break or a light lunch.
Recommendations vary, but exploring the side streets off the Markt square often leads to hidden culinary gems. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating by the canals.
Most restaurants in Delft are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff.
Dining prices in Delft are comparable to other Dutch cities. You can find budget-friendly options at cafes and snack bars, while sit-down restaurants can range from moderate to expensive.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Look for interactive exhibits at the Delftware museums, or simply enjoy the open spaces like the Markt square for kids to run around. The Vermeer Centrum Delft can also be made interesting for older children by focusing on the stories behind his paintings. Don't forget to keep an eye out for the miniature KLM Delft Blue houses, which are a fun souvenir for kids to collect.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Enjoy leisurely strolls along the canals, discover hidden courtyards, and soak in the atmosphere of the Markt square. The city's rich history, art, and charming cafes provide ample opportunities for personal discovery and reflection. Engaging with locals in cafes or on tours can also enrich the experience.
📸 Photographers
+1Explore the smaller canals and bridges for unique perspectives and reflections. The Oude Kerk and its leaning tower also provide dramatic photographic opportunities. Be mindful of the 'autoluwe' policy, which means fewer cars cluttering your shots in the historic center.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Delft Blue
+1Visiting a Delftware factory or museum is a must for anyone interested in this art form. You can learn about the historical significance, the production process, and the evolution of the designs. Some workshops even offer hands-on experiences where you can try painting your own piece. It's a fascinating glimpse into a centuries-old craft that remains a symbol of Dutch heritage.
Beyond the traditional blue and white, contemporary artists are also reinterpreting Delftware, infusing it with modern themes and techniques. This ensures that the legacy of Delft Blue continues to evolve and remain relevant. Whether you're looking for a classic souvenir or a unique piece of art, Delft offers a wide range of Delftware to suit every taste and budget.
Vermeer's Delft
+1The Vermeer Centrum Delft is dedicated to the artist, providing insights into his life, techniques, and the city that inspired him. Although his original paintings are not displayed here, the center offers a comprehensive understanding of his legacy. You can also visit the Oude Kerk, where Vermeer is buried, and wander through the very streets and canals that likely served as his muse.
Exploring Delft through the lens of Vermeer allows you to connect with the city's rich artistic heritage. Imagine the scenes he witnessed, the light he captured, and the quiet beauty he immortalized. It adds another layer of appreciation to the already charming historic center, making your visit a journey through art and history.
+1TU Delft: A Hub of Innovation
+1Visitors can experience parts of the TU Delft campus, such as the iconic MVRDV amphitheater or the striking architecture of the faculty buildings. The university is a leader in various fields, including aerospace, mechanical engineering, and architecture, and its presence influences the city's dynamic character.
While primarily an academic institution, the energy and innovation emanating from TU Delft are palpable. It's a testament to Delft's blend of historical charm and forward-thinking progress, making it more than just a picturesque old town but also a center for technological advancement.
Social
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