Discover Delft | A Visitor's Introduction to Delft

Why is Delft Worth a Visit?

Delft is worth visiting for its combination of Golden Age history, artistic heritage, and beautiful old-world scenery. It’s the birthplace of Vermeer, whose atmospheric paintings reflect the city’s light and architecture. Delft has been the traditional burial place of the Dutch royal family for centuries, and its role in the Dutch Golden Age is still visible in its churches, squares, and canals.

The city is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore at a leisurely pace. You can wander cobbled streets, visit artisan workshops, and enjoy canalside cafés, all without the large crowds often found in nearby Amsterdam.

Delft Highlights: Things to See and Do in Delft

Markt Square (De Markt)

The heart of the city, surrounded by historic buildings. The grand City Hall and the soaring tower of the Nieuwe Kerk dominate the square, which hosts a lively market twice a week.

Nieuwe Kerk (New Church)

A Gothic masterpiece and the burial place of members of the Dutch royal family. Climb the tower for sweeping views over Delft and beyond.

Oude Kerk (Old Church)

Known for its leaning tower, this 13th-century church is the final resting place of Johannes Vermeer and naval heroes like Piet Hein.

Royal Delft (Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles)

The only remaining original producer of Delftware, offering guided tours, demonstrations of hand-painting, and a museum on the history of this iconic pottery.

Vermeer Centre Delft

An interactive museum dedicated to the life and work of Vermeer, located near the sites that inspired his paintings. While it doesn’t house original works, it offers in-depth insights and reproductions.

Prinsenhof Museum

Housed in a former monastery where William of Orange lived and was assassinated in 1584, this museum tells the story of the Dutch Revolt and the birth of the Netherlands.

Beestenmarkt

A lively square lined with restaurants and cafés, perfect for outdoor dining on sunny days.

Delft Botanical Garden

A peaceful green space with themed gardens, linked to the Delft University of Technology.

Delftse Hout

A nearby park and recreational area with lakes, cycling paths, and picnic spots, ideal for a break from the city.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Delft is just under an hour by train from Amsterdam and only 15 minutes from The Hague or Rotterdam. The city centre is a short walk from the train station.

Parking

The old centre has limited car access; use one of the city’s parking garages, such as Markt or Zuidpoort, and explore on foot.

Dining

Delft offers traditional Dutch fare alongside international cuisine. Try poffertjes or fresh herring at the market, and enjoy local beers from Delft breweries.

Shopping

Browse pottery shops for authentic Delftware, explore boutiques in the old town, and visit the Thursday general market or Saturday antique market for unique finds.

When to Visit

Spring and summer bring flowers, outdoor terraces, and boat tours along the canals. Autumn is quieter, with beautiful seasonal colours, while winter offers a cosy atmosphere and festive lights.

Local Events

• Delft Chamber Music Festival (summer) – Intimate concerts in historic venues.

• Royal Delft Days – Celebrations of the city’s pottery heritage.

• Thursday and Saturday Markets – Fresh produce, antiques, and Delftware.

Exploring Beyond Delft

From Delft, you can easily visit The Hague’s museums, Rotterdam’s modern architecture, or the beaches at Scheveningen and Kijkduin.