
Old Town Delft
Step back in time in Delft's enchanting old town, famous for its canals, Delft Blue pottery, and iconic leaning church towers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Old Town Delft
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time in Delft's enchanting old town, famous for its canals, Delft Blue pottery, and iconic leaning church towers.
"Exploring Delft's old town feels like stepping back in time.
"
🎟️ Combo Ticket for Churches
Get a combined ticket for Nieuwe Kerk and Oude Kerk for great value and access to both.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets, so comfy shoes are a must!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nieuwe Kerk (New Church)
Market Square
Climb the iconic leaning tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Delft and its surroundings.

Oude Kerk (Old Church)
Delft
Marvel at the unique, leaning brick tower and explore the peaceful interior, a resting place for many notable figures.

Delft Blue Pottery
Royal Delft Museum & various shops
Discover the artistry behind the world-famous Delft Blue pottery, a quintessential Dutch craft.

Canal Views
Throughout Old Town Delft
Wander along the charming canals, admiring the historic architecture and picturesque bridges.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Old Town Delft
Navigating Delft's Historic Core
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Combo Ticket for Churches
Get a combined ticket for Nieuwe Kerk and Oude Kerk for great value and access to both.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets, so comfy shoes are a must!
📸 Capture the Canals
Delft's canals offer endless photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
🕰️ Allow 4-5 Hours
A few hours is sufficient to see the highlights and get a feel for the town.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Combo Ticket for Churches
Get a combined ticket for Nieuwe Kerk and Oude Kerk for great value and access to both.
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on cobblestone streets, so comfy shoes are a must!
📸 Capture the Canals
Delft's canals offer endless photo opportunities, especially during golden hour.
🕰️ Allow 4-5 Hours
A few hours is sufficient to see the highlights and get a feel for the town.
🎶 Unexpected Music
You might be surprised by the music played inside the churches, like Queen!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Old Town Delft for its picturesque canals, charming architecture, and the unique experience of its leaning church towers. The opportunity to witness the creation of Delft Blue pottery is a major draw, and many find the town to be a peaceful and historically rich destination. Some find the church towers a bit of a climb, and the town can get busy during peak times.
"The church dates back to the 1200s and you can’t miss its quirky leaning tower, it really tilts. Inside feels peaceful, with colorful stained glass and a sense of old Dutch history, famous for graves of painter Johannes Vermeer and naval hero Piet Hein. When I visited they were renovating Piet's tomb and found out a secret painting behind it so it's a very special occation to come see it. You should visit the Nieuwe Kerk at the central square first because the ticket covers visiting for both churches"
Ho Vinh Thanh
"An impressive church both in terms of its size and its beauty. It also serves as an important element in Delft's history, an aspect that you can read during your visit as it is presented in depth on the info pannels. I swear it leaves nothing out and you'll also find some well known personalities entombed here! Worth at least an hour of your time."
Sabo Radu
"Oude Kerk (Oude Jan) - a Gothic Protestant church in Delft. Its most recognizable feature is a 75-meter-high brick tower that leans about two meters from the vertical. The church is open to visitors and there is a lot of information about the interior."
Emilia Stammler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Old Town Delft from Amsterdam is by train. Direct trains run frequently from Amsterdam Centraal to Delft Station, taking approximately 1 hour. From Delft Station, it's a short walk or a quick bus ride to the heart of the old town.
Absolutely! Delft is a very easy and worthwhile day trip from The Hague. The train journey is short, around 15-20 minutes, making it a convenient option for exploring both cities.
Driving into the historic center of Delft is not recommended due to narrow streets and limited parking. It's best to park in designated car parks on the outskirts of the old town and walk in.
Old Town Delft is very walkable. For longer distances or if you prefer not to walk, local buses are available. Cycling is also a popular way to get around the Netherlands, including Delft.
Yes, Delft is well-connected by public transport. The main train station is within walking distance of the old town, and buses serve various parts of the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Wandering through Old Town Delft itself is free. However, there are entrance fees for attractions like the Nieuwe Kerk and Oude Kerk towers, and museums. A combined ticket for both churches is around €10.
While not always mandatory, booking tickets for the Nieuwe Kerk and Oude Kerk in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid queues.
Opening hours for the Nieuwe Kerk and Oude Kerk can vary seasonally and may be affected by services or events. It's best to check their official websites for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Yes, simply exploring the charming streets, canals, and market squares of Old Town Delft is a wonderful free experience. You can admire the architecture and soak in the atmosphere without spending a euro.
Yes, the Royal Delft Museum has an entrance fee. It's a popular attraction for those interested in the history and production of Delft Blue pottery.
📸 📸 Photography
The canals, historic bridges, the leaning towers of the Nieuwe Kerk and Oude Kerk, and the Market Square are all prime photography locations. Look for reflections in the water for extra magic.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer people, perfect for capturing the serene beauty of the canals. Late afternoons, during the golden hour, provide warm, dramatic light that enhances the historic architecture.
Photography rules can vary inside the churches. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted for personal use, but it's always best to check for any specific signage or ask a staff member.
The Oostpoort (East Gate) is a beautiful medieval gate that makes for a striking photograph, especially at dusk. The Market Square with the Nieuwe Kerk is also a classic Delft shot.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wide canal scenes and architectural details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the narrow streets and church interiors. Don't forget a tripod for low-light shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find traditional Dutch dishes like 'stamppot' or 'bitterballen' in many local pubs and restaurants around the Market Square and along the canals. Look for 'eetcafes' for a casual dining experience.
Yes, Delft has numerous charming cafes perfect for a coffee break. Many offer delicious pastries and light snacks, providing a cozy spot to rest your feet while exploring.
While specific recommendations change, exploring the area around the Markt (Market Square) and the canals will reveal a variety of restaurants, from casual eateries to more upscale dining. Many offer outdoor seating with canal views.
Most restaurants in Delft are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus online or ask staff about plant-based choices.
You might find some street food vendors, especially around the Market Square during market days, offering local treats like 'stroopwafels' or fries.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the Royal Delft Museum where live demonstrations of pottery painting can captivate young minds. Many cafes offer kid-friendly snacks, and simply exploring the charming streets and bridges can be an adventure in itself. Pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as there will be plenty of walking.
🚶 Budget Travelers
Opt for a combined ticket for the Nieuwe Kerk and Oude Kerk if you wish to climb the towers and explore the interiors, as this offers better value than separate tickets. Pack your own snacks and water, and consider a picnic by the canals. Many cafes offer affordable coffee and pastries for a budget-friendly break.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early mornings or late afternoons for the best light, avoiding midday harshness and crowds. Experiment with reflections in the canals and capture the charming details of the gabled houses. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the unique tilt of the church towers.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Leaning Towers of Delft
The Oude Kerk (Old Church), also known as 'Oude Jan', features a similarly striking, albeit less pronounced, leaning tower. This Gothic Protestant church is recognized for its unique tilt and its peaceful interior, which houses the tomb of the renowned Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer. Visitors can explore the history presented on info panels within the church, learning about its long and rich past.
Both towers offer a chance to appreciate Delft's skyline from above, but be prepared for a climb! The combined ticket for both churches provides excellent value for those wanting to experience both historical sites.
The Art of Delft Blue
Visitors can witness live demonstrations by master painters, see the evolution of Delft Blue designs, and explore a vast collection of historical pieces. The museum provides a comprehensive understanding of how this craft has shaped Delft's identity. Beyond the museum, numerous shops throughout Old Town Delft sell authentic Delft Blue items, from small souvenirs to elaborate vases, allowing you to take a piece of Dutch heritage home with you.
Exploring the shops and the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into a centuries-old tradition that continues to thrive. It’s a must-do for anyone interested in Dutch art, history, or unique decorative items.
Exploring Delft's Charming Canals
Many visitors enjoy simply wandering without a specific destination, allowing the winding paths and canal views to guide them. You can admire the boats docked along the sides, the lush greenery, and the architectural details of the buildings that line the water. For a different perspective, consider a canal cruise, which offers a relaxing way to see the city from the water and learn about its history from a local guide.
The canals are not just for aesthetics; they are an integral part of Delft's history and charm, contributing to its unique character and making it a truly photogenic destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit