Your Guide to the Things to Do in Delft, Netherlands

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More and more I’m finding that it’s the smaller cities in Europe that leave me wanting more. A perfect example is the small city of Delft between The Hague and Rotterdam in the Netherlands‘ west. Delft is further proof that the Netherlands is home to a whole slew of destinations beyond the capital Amsterdam. Even with only a short stay during my trip to the Netherlands, the picture-perfect cityscapes and sense of calm in this small Dutch city had me enthralled.

Sometimes words just don’t do a place justice and the actual list of things I did in Delft is quite short. Not there isn’t plenty of sights to see in Delft. So with that in mind, showing you through photos seemed the best way to highlight this captivating destination. It’s little wonder with scenery like this, why the Netherlands has produced so many acclaimed artists. Let’s look at the things to do in Delft so it can inspire you too.

Start at Markt, the Main Square

As good a place to start as any is the city’s Markt, a grand square at the core of the city’s Old Town. This wide open square is lined on two sides by low and elegant historic buildings, plying local wares and housing cafes and restaurants. The big draw though is the two major landmarks placed at opposing ends as if they’re about to enter a boxing bout.

In one corner we have the Nieuwe Kerk or New Church, which is more tower than church, at least when viewed from the square. Despite its name, the church and its skyscraping tower date back to the 15th century. The second tallest tower in the Netherlands after Utrecht, it’s said you can see both Rotterdam and the Hague from the top. As it’s closed on Sundays, I missed the chance.

And in the other corner, Delft’s Town Hall, another medieval marvel that was rebuilt in the 17th century. It’s rather reserved look is given a little flash thanks to the patches of gilding on the front facade, including the city’s emblem.

Exploring Delft’s History

From the central square you’re going to probably wander a little through more of the city’s streets. With that in mind, it’s probably worth doing a quick rundown on the city of Delft. As places go in Europe, Delft is kind of young. A town was first established at Delft in the 11th century, centred on the Delf canal.

It grew and grew through the 13th and 14th centuries and even developed a close personal tie with the famed Prince William of Orange. He was buried in Delft’s New Church, starting a trend of Dutch Monarchs being buried in Delft.

Probably the most famous person Delft native though was famed painter Johannes Vermeer who was both born and buried in the city’s Oude Kerk. It make sense then that one of the city’s most popular museums is devoted to Vermeer. Besides the Vermeer Centre, there is also the Royal Delft that shows off the city’s famed pottery and the Museum Het Prinsenhof which explores the history of Delft and the Dutch Republic.

Look for Delft Blue and Cows?

Internationally, the city of Delft is probably best known for its iconic blue and white Delft pottery, also known as Delft Blue. These ceramics have been coming out of Delft since the 16th century. So no surprises as to what colour scheme most souvenirs come in. It seems even the city’s street art can’t escape the Delft Blue style.

The other notable motif that you find around Delft also has to do with its pottery, its obsession with cows. Besides making china, ornaments and figurines were another common creation and in Delft they typically took the form of cows. Not content with having cow figurines on local mantels, you can also find large cow statues positioned about the old town.

Walk along the Canals of Delft

While it may not always be the case, there sure are a few Dutch cities structured around scenic canals. The city of Delft just so happens to be one. Unlike some of the larger cities with canals, here the appropriately-sized canals almost reach the road level making them feel integral to the city. The city would surely lose much of its intimate nature if there were great hulking canals breaking it up.

Find the Oostpoort Gate

While the main canal of the city is the Oude Delft, there are plenty of smaller waterways that branch off and link back up. One way to see quite a few of the canals is to make your way out to the Oostpoort gate, a medieval entrance to the Old Town. This photogenic landmark dates back to the 15th century and had me snapping away. Together these landmarks certainly earn Delft a place as one of the top places to visit in the Netherlands.

Wait for the Reflections

One of the best things to do in Delft on a still day is to simply to stroll by its canals and admire the reflected city. Since the canals are right at street level, the reflections you can get are almost mirror-like. The quaint little bridges crossing here and there also add to the adorable scene, providing even more vantage points.

As the day grew long, the low sun started to draw long shadows over Delft and send a golden wash over everything. Even in winter, the sun had no problem pouring over the low rooftops in the old town. Throw in a few people trundling past on bicycle and you have the perfect afternoon atmosphere to finish your day.

Travel Tips for Visiting Delft

To reach Delft, the closest airport is the nearby Rotterdam – The Hague Airport that’s actually closer to Delft than the Hague. Buses run from Rotterdam train station to the airport but you’ll need to take the train between Delft and Rotterdam. Alternatively, you can fly into the major airport at Amsterdam Schiphol and take the train. Of course, there’s always the option to rent a car and make your own way there.

Getting to Delft is quite easy if you’re already in the Netherlands; it’s just a short train ride from either the Hague or Rotterdam. This makes it an easy inclusion to any Netherlands itinerary. You can do a day trip to Delft from Rotterdam, Amsterdam or the Hague, or simply stay there. And don’t let your luggage be an issue, with luggage storage locations in each of these places.

When staying in Delft, you’ll find a number of mid to high-range hotels and apartments to choose from. One of the more affordable choices is the Hotel Bridges House Delft. My stay in one of their studio apartments with views of the canals was convenient and comfortable.

Have you ever visited Delft during a trip to the Netherlands? What would you say are the best things to do in Delft? Please share your thoughts in the comments below.

This article is now available as a mobile app. Go to GPSmyCity to download the app for GPS-assisted travel directions to the attractions featured in this article.