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Oude Delft Canal

4.4
·582 reviews·Delft, Netherlands

Historic canal-side property in Delft offering comfortable rooms with canal views and a prime location for exploring the city.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Oude Delft Canal - Image 1

Oude Delft Canal

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Historic canal-side property in Delft offering comfortable rooms with canal views and a prime location for exploring the city.

4.4
(582 reviews)

"Excellent location for my Netherlands trip, easy access to the train station and the charming town of Delft is engaging and lovely."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Walkable City Exploration

Delft is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes to wander along the canals and discover hidden gems. :athletic_shoe:

🚲 Embrace Cycling Culture

Rent a bike to experience Delft like a local. It's a fantastic way to see more of the city and its surroundings. :bike:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Oude Delft Canal Stroll

Oude Delft Canal Stroll

Along the Oude Delft Canal

Wander along the historic Oude Delft Canal, admiring the charming gabled houses and tranquil waters. A quintessential Delft experience.

Delftware Pottery

Delftware Pottery

Various shops and museums

Discover the iconic blue and white Delftware pottery, a craft deeply rooted in the city's heritage. Perfect for souvenirs.

Johannes Vermeer's Legacy

Johannes Vermeer's Legacy

Oude Kerk and Vermeer Centrum Delft

Explore the sites connected to the Dutch Master painter Johannes Vermeer, including his burial place and a dedicated center.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Charm of Delft

Delft's Oude Delft Canal offers a picturesque glimpse into Dutch history. Plan your visit to coincide with fewer crowds for a more serene experience. Consider booking accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred spot in this charming canal-ringed city.

Getting Around Delft

Delft is a highly walkable city, and the Oude Delft Canal is best explored on foot. Many visitors also enjoy cycling, a quintessential Dutch experience. Public transport is efficient for day trips to nearby cities like The Hague or Amsterdam.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium
When
Early evenings
Why
Golden hour light on canals
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Il Grand Canal Boutique Hotel è un elegante hotel affacciato sul suggestivo Keizersgracht, nel cuore di Amsterdam. Ospitato in un edificio storico del 1680, offre camere e appartamenti dal design raffinato, con travi a vista e comfort moderni. La posizione è perfetta per esplorare la città e le boutique delle “9 Straatjes”. Per info e prenotazioni, contattaci su WhatsApp.
@andreaviaggiando
3.3K likes • 214.1K views

🚶‍♀️ Walkable City Exploration

Delft is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes to wander along the canals and discover hidden gems. :athletic_shoe:

🚲 Embrace Cycling Culture

Rent a bike to experience Delft like a local. It's a fantastic way to see more of the city and its surroundings. :bike:

Delft, a canal-ringed city in the western Netherlands, is known as the manufacturing base for Delftware, hand-painted blue-and-white pottery. In its old town, the medieval Oude Kerk is the burial site of native son and Dutch Master painter Johannes Vermeer. Once the seat of the royal House of Orange, the 15th-century Nieuwe Kerk houses the family’s tombs and overlooks Delft’s lively market square.
bonitafbn
25 likes • 892 views
We left our heart in Delft. 🥰😉 Don’t mind our counting 😅 #delft #holland #netherlands #travelgram #travelbudDEEs #reels Delft, a canal-ringed city in the western Netherlands, is known as the manufacturing base for Delftware, hand-painted blue-and-white pottery. In its old town, the medieval Oude Kerk is the burial site of native son and Dutch Master painter Johannes Vermeer. Once the seat of the...
yandee
0 likes • 887 views

📸 Capture the Charm

The canals and historic buildings offer endless photo opportunities. Visit during the 'golden hour' for magical light. :camerawithflash:

☕ Enjoy Local Cafes

Stop at a canal-side cafe for a coffee or a local treat and soak in the relaxed atmosphere. :coffee:

Delft, a canal-ringed city in the western Netherlands, is known as the manufacturing base for Delftware, hand-painted blue-and-white pottery. In its old town, the medieval Oude Kerk is the burial site of native son and Dutch Master painter Johannes Vermeer. Once the seat of the royal House of Orange, the 15th-century Nieuwe Kerk houses the family's tombs and overlooks Delft's lively market square....
xtine_the
21 likes • 565 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Walkable City Exploration

Delft is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes to wander along the canals and discover hidden gems. :athletic_shoe:

🚲 Embrace Cycling Culture

Rent a bike to experience Delft like a local. It's a fantastic way to see more of the city and its surroundings. :bike:

📸 Capture the Charm

The canals and historic buildings offer endless photo opportunities. Visit during the 'golden hour' for magical light. :camerawithflash:

☕ Enjoy Local Cafes

Stop at a canal-side cafe for a coffee or a local treat and soak in the relaxed atmosphere. :coffee:

🕰️ Plan for Vermeer

If you're a fan of Vermeer, allocate time to visit the Vermeer Centrum and the Oude Kerk. :art:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(582 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Guests consistently praise the hotel's excellent location, offering easy access to Delft's train station and city center, making it ideal for exploring the Netherlands. The staff are frequently highlighted for their helpfulness and friendliness. However, some guests have experienced significant noise disturbances, particularly on weekend nights, due to a lack of double glazing.

"It's just a perfect place to stay the night. We didn't have breakfast as it's so close to city center that we wanted to walk around. The beds are good, we had a really comfortable room with a bathtub. It's a five minute walk from the train station and a five minute walk to the terraces."

Jan-Volkert Meuldijk

"This hotel was in an excellent location for my Netherlands trip, it has easy access to the Delft train station and I was able to spend time in multiple Dutch cities. The charming town of Delft is engaging and lovely.  Not too busy, not too quiet. The staff at this hotel are excellent. Everyone made me feel comfortable and they were easy to talk to and learn from. I had lots of questions about sightseeing, etc.  They ably handled each question I put forth. I will be back to this hotel again if I return to the Netherlands"

Jill Hackenberg

"We stayed for 2 nights in the loft apartment. Lovely room but the ear plugs on the bedside tables were a clue! Thursday night was noisy until about midnight, then Friday was another level!! Noise until around 0400!! No double glazing and no A/C so caught between a rock and a hard place!! Shame because super location and lovely room!"

Jim hawkins

What People Like

Excellent central location
Helpful and friendly staff
Clean and comfortable rooms

What People Dislike

Weekend night noise
Safety concerns (mirror incident)

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Oude Delft Canal is located in the heart of Delft. If arriving by train, it's a pleasant 5-10 minute walk from Delft Station. Many visitors also arrive from nearby cities like The Hague or Rotterdam via train. :train:

Yes, it's very easy! Direct trains run frequently from Amsterdam Centraal to Delft, taking approximately 1 hour. This makes Delft a popular day trip destination. :train:

Driving in Delft's city center, especially near the canals, can be challenging due to narrow streets and limited parking. It's recommended to park in designated parking garages on the outskirts and walk or cycle into the center. :car:

Delft is a compact city and is best explored on foot or by bicycle. Many attractions, including the Oude Delft Canal, are within easy walking distance of each other. :walking:

While not as extensive as Amsterdam's canal tours, some local operators may offer boat tours on Delft's canals, providing a unique perspective of the city. Check local tourist information for current availability. :boat:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Oude Delft Canal itself is a public waterway and can be enjoyed freely. You can stroll along its banks and admire the scenery without any admission fee. :canal:

The canal area is accessible at all times. However, shops and museums in the vicinity will have their own operating hours, typically from morning to late afternoon or early evening. :clock:

While the canal is free to access, attractions like the Vermeer Centrum Delft or the Royal Delft Experience do have entrance fees. It's advisable to check their official websites for current pricing and booking information. :ticket:

Yes, booking guided walking tours or canal tours in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your spot. :calendar:

Information on specific tourist passes for Delft can be found at the local tourist information center. These passes might offer discounts on attractions and public transport. :moneywithwings:

📸 📸 Photography

The bridges crossing the canal, the reflections of the historic buildings in the water, and the charming gabled houses themselves offer fantastic photo opportunities. Look for picturesque corners and quiet stretches. :camerawithflash:

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) provides the most beautiful light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Sunrise and sunset can be particularly stunning. :sunriseovermountains:

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. However, always be respectful of private property and any signage indicating restrictions within specific museums or buildings. :iphone:

A versatile lens, such as a 24-70mm equivalent, is great for capturing both wide canal views and details of the architecture. A tripod can be useful for low-light shots or long exposures. :camera:

Drone usage is often restricted in urban areas and near historical sites due to privacy and safety regulations. It's crucial to check local drone laws before flying. :drone:

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Numerous cafes and restaurants line the canals and are scattered throughout the city center. You'll find options ranging from traditional Dutch cuisine to international flavors. :forkandknife:

Don't miss trying stroopwafels, poffertjes (mini pancakes), bitterballen (fried meatballs), and of course, herring if you're adventurous! :cookie:

Yes, look for 'eetcafés' (eating cafes) or snack bars for more affordable meals. Supermarkets also offer ready-to-eat options. :moneywithwings:

Absolutely! Many restaurants and cafes along the Oude Delft Canal offer outdoor seating with lovely canal views, perfect for a relaxing meal. :restaurant:

Most restaurants serve lunch from around 12 PM to 2 PM and dinner from 6 PM to 9 PM. Some cafes are open all day. :clock:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Delft is a wonderfully family-friendly city. The Oude Delft Canal area is safe for children to explore on foot, and the flat terrain makes it ideal for strollers. Consider a visit to the Royal Delft Experience where kids can see how the famous pottery is made, often with interactive elements. Instagram For a fun, active experience, renting bikes is a must – many paths are separated from traffic, and children can enjoy the novelty of cycling like Dutch locals. Instagram

Look for cafes offering kid-friendly snacks like poffertjes (mini pancakes) and stroopwafels. The Vermeer Centrum Delft might be more engaging for older children interested in art history. Overall, Delft offers a relaxed pace that's perfect for families looking for a charming and educational Dutch experience without the overwhelming crowds of larger cities. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers

Delft is an excellent destination for solo travelers seeking a peaceful and authentic Dutch experience. The Oude Delft Canal provides a beautiful and safe environment for leisurely walks and reflection. Instagram The city is compact and easy to navigate, with most attractions within walking distance, making it stress-free to explore independently. Instagram

Solo travelers will appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the ease of striking up conversations with locals or fellow visitors in cafes and guesthouses. The city's manageable size means you can explore at your own pace without feeling rushed. Consider joining a guided walking tour to get insights into the city's history and culture, or simply find a cozy canal-side cafe to people-watch and enjoy the ambiance. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Oude Delft Canal

The Oude Delft Canal is not just a picturesque waterway; it's the oldest canal in Delft and a vital part of the city's historical fabric. Flowing through the heart of the city, it has witnessed centuries of Delft's development, from its medieval origins to its golden age as a center for trade and art. The canal's banks are lined with beautifully preserved 17th-century gabled houses, many of which were once homes to merchants and artisans. Walking along its path offers a tangible connection to Delft's rich past. Instagram

Historically, canals like the Oude Delft were crucial for transportation and commerce, allowing goods to be moved efficiently within the city and to larger ports. The prosperity brought by trade, particularly in Delftware pottery, is reflected in the elegant architecture that still stands today. The canal also played a role in the city's defense and its overall urban planning. Experiencing the Oude Delft Canal is like stepping back in time, offering a serene and beautiful contrast to the bustling modern world. Instagram

Today, the Oude Delft Canal remains a central feature of Delft's charm, attracting visitors who come to admire its beauty, learn about its history, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. It's a reminder of how water has shaped Dutch cities and continues to be an integral part of their identity. The canal is also a popular spot for local life, with residents often seen cycling or enjoying the waterside. Instagram

Delftware: A Blue and White Legacy

Delft is world-renowned as the home of Delftware (Delfts Blauw), a distinctive style of tin-glazed earthenware that has been produced in the city since the 17th century. The iconic blue and white pottery, often decorated with intricate floral patterns, biblical scenes, or Dutch landscapes, became a symbol of Dutch craftsmanship and artistry. The Oude Delft Canal area is dotted with shops and galleries where you can admire and purchase authentic Delftware. Instagram

The origins of Delftware are closely tied to the city's prosperity during the Dutch Golden Age. As trade routes expanded, Chinese porcelain became highly sought after, but its scarcity and cost made it inaccessible to many. Delft potters ingeniously developed their own techniques to replicate the look and feel of Chinese blue and white porcelain, creating a more affordable and equally beautiful alternative. This innovation cemented Delft's reputation as a center for ceramic production. Instagram

Visiting Delft offers a chance to delve deeper into the world of Delftware. You can explore museums dedicated to its history, such as the Royal Delft Experience, where you can see the entire production process and learn about its evolution. Many smaller workshops also offer demonstrations and the opportunity to try painting your own piece. It's a unique way to connect with a significant part of Dutch cultural heritage. Instagram

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