Delft
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Famed for its namesake blue-and-white pottery and for being the birthplace of Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, Delft is ringed by scenic canals and offers a much more tranquil atmosphere than nearby Amsterdam. The quaint Dutch town is also notable for its medieval buildings and its lively market, which is the perfect place to people-watch and enjoy a traditional stroopwafel (caramel-smothered waffle).
The Basics
Delft is easy to explore on foot due to its small size. Take a guided walking tour to see highlights such as the Delft pottery factory, the Old Church (Oude Kerk), and the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk), which doubles as a royal burial ground for Prince William of Orange and other Dutch royal family members. For a more personalized experience, opt for a small-group or private tour. You can also visit Delft on a day tour from Rotterdam, The Hague, or Amsterdam.
Things to Know Before You Go
Many of the museums and attractions in Delft offer free entrance with the Holland Pass.
Free Wi-Fi hotspots are located around Delft.
Most Delft attractions are wheelchair accessible, but it’s best to check in advance.
How to Get There
Delft is located in South Holland, about nine miles (15 kilometers) northwest of Rotterdam and seven miles (11 kilometers) southeast of The Hague. The town is roughly 40 minutes by train from Amsterdam and 45 minutes by train from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, the Netherlands’ main international airport.
When to Get There
Summer is the most popular and busiest time to visit, when the mild weather is ideal for bike rides and boat tours. In winter, visit over the holidays to see the town adorned with festive lights and decorations, and to explore the local Christmas market.
Delft Blue Pottery
Delft has been renowned for its traditional earthenware since the early 17th century. Now, the town’s distinctive Delft Blue porcelain is known around the world. Visitors can learn more about this ancient craft at the Royal Delftware Factory, admire pottery in local shops, and purchase these hand-painted creations, which are often decorated with traditional Dutch emblems like windmills and tulips.
Ways to explore
Take a walking tour to see highlights such as the Royal Delft Museum, the Old Church (Oude Kerk), and the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk), which doubles as a royal burial ground for Prince William of Orange and other Dutch royal family members. To supercharge your social media, opt for a photography tour to capture Delft from its best angles. You can also visit Delft on a day tour from Rotterdam or Amsterdam; these excursions often combine it with The Hague, home to the seat of the Netherlands’ government.
Accessibility
The city center and most major attractions are accessible, including the Royal Delft Museum.
Age limits
None, but there are fewer family-friendly attractions here than in larger Dutch towns.
What to pack
The Netherlands is prone to rain, so pack an umbrella and waterproof clothing in case showers threaten.
What to wear
Wear closed-toe shoes with a good grip to navigate cobbled streets and climb on and off canal boats.
Not allowed
Smoking in some outdoor areas
Amenities
Hotels, restaurants, cafés, museums
Address
Delft is located in the western Netherlands between Rotterdam and The Hague. It’s easy to explore on foot thanks to its small size, so you won’t need to rent a vehicle when you arrive.
Driving
From Amsterdam, take the A10 (Ring Road) heading south or west, depending on your starting point. Follow signs for Den Haag (The Hague) and stay on A4 for most of the journey. Near Rijswijk, take exit 12-Delft toward Delft, continue on N470, and follow signs for Delft Centrum.
Public transportation
Like most places in the Netherlands, Delft is designed for cycling. You can rent a bike using the Bondi bikeshare system; you just need to register online. You can use the app to see where bikes are available near you.
Best times to visit
Staying overnight in Delft allows you to get up and explore in the morning before the day-trip crowds from Amsterdam arrive around lunchtime.
Best days to visit
Thursday and Saturday are market days in Delft, so visit then to browse stalls selling flowers and antiques.
Best months to visit
The spring and summer months are ideal for cruising Delft’s canals and wandering its waterfront streets.
Special events
The Delft Fringe Festival in June celebrates performing arts, while the Delft Jazz Festival takes place during the fourth week of August.
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