It’s one of those times when you’re not expecting anything special, you arrive, and wow! That’s Delft for you. This miniature city may have given way to European heavyweights like Paris, Brussels, and Berlin, but it hasn’t lost the charm of a provincial town. Here, I want to gather as much useful information as possible for those planning to visit this city. As always, I’ll point out the most interesting attractions, cafes, explain how to get there, and provide a list of charming places to stay. So, here it is, my perfect city guide to Delft:
A little about Delft in Holland.
Delft is a wonderful, cozy, and incredibly photogenic city. Walking through its streets, it feels like there’s no more peaceful place on the planet. It’s unhurried, and life here goes on at its own pace. There’s greenery and blooming everywhere, sweet sounds of street musicians’ songs fill the air, and then you understand why Europeans consider this city so welcoming and peaceful.
Everything here is imbued with the modest charm and coziness of Dutch province: canals, narrow streets where artists once worked, all of this has remained untouched, just as it was 400 years ago.
Delft is a city of historical values, centuries-old traditions, and a unique architectural ensemble. This city preserves the medieval atmosphere and does not strive to change, but continues to delight the eye with its unobtrusive yet striking beauty.
The city is proud of its ancient canals, the New and Old Churches, the Prinsenhof Palace—incidentally, this is where the first ruler of Holland met his end. But the city is also famous for its blue and white Delftware porcelain.
Even if you don’t know what I’m talking about, refresh your memory with images of Dutch blue-and-white dishes, and the mosaic will come together. This is where they make them. The whole city is a collection of small family workshops and creative cooperatives. The producers are very protective of their craft and ask you not to buy Delftware anywhere else but in Delft itself. Even when you purchase the smallest trinket, you’ll be given a certificate.
Life in medieval Delft has its own rhythm: plates clink in restaurants; elegant balconies display signs for room rentals; boats dart along the canals; the young race on bicycles, while those of a more respectful age sit with a glass of beer on the already opened summer terraces.
I, too, am getting lost in this city. For one day, I’ll become a resident. I’ll drop by one of the local pubs—I really love places like that. I love it when the walls are covered with little details: paintings, lanterns, figurines, photographs… I order myself a beer and start to enjoy examining each item.
If you’re planning a trip around Holland, I have a post that might interest you. Check out the list of the most beautiful locations in the country to create your perfect itinerary.
5 places to see – A city guide to Delft.
Here are five places in medieval Delft that you simply cannot miss:
The Old Church (Oude Kerk): The Old Church, with its iconic leaning tower, is a symbol of Delft’s medieval past. Dating back to 1246, this Gothic-style church is not just a place of worship but also the final resting place of notable figures, including the famous painter Johannes Vermeer. The church’s stunning stained glass windows and the serene atmosphere inside offer a glimpse into the spiritual life of medieval Delft.
The New Church (Nieuwe Kerk): Contrary to its name, the New Church is also steeped in history, dating back to 1381. It’s renowned for its towering spire, which offers breathtaking views of Delft and beyond. The church is the burial site of members of the Dutch royal family, including William of Orange, the founder of the House of Orange-Nassau. The New Church stands as a testament to the city’s enduring connection to Dutch royalty.
Prinsenhof: Once a monastery, Prinsenhof became the residence of William of Orange during the Dutch Revolt. It was here that William was assassinated in 1584, and today, it houses a museum dedicated to the history of Delft and the Netherlands. The bullet holes from William’s assassination are still visible in the wall, offering a tangible link to a pivotal moment in Dutch history.
The Market Square (Markt): Delft’s Market Square is one of the largest and most picturesque in the Netherlands. Surrounded by historic buildings, including the City Hall and the New Church, the square has been the heart of the city since medieval times. On market days, the square comes alive with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to traditional Dutch goods, providing a lively glimpse into the daily life of medieval Delft.
Delft City Hall (Stadhuis): The Delft City Hall, with its Renaissance facade, may not look medieval at first glance, but its origins date back to the 13th century. The building has been extensively renovated over the centuries, yet it remains a symbol of Delft’s political history. The tower, known as Het Steen, is the oldest part of the building and served as the city’s prison in medieval times.
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Three of the oldest cafes – A city guide to Delft.
No visit to medieval Delft would be complete without a stop at its oldest cafes. These establishments have been serving patrons for centuries, each one offering a unique taste of the past.
Café de Oude Jan: Located near the Old Church, Café de Oude Jan is one of Delft’s oldest and most beloved cafes. With its wooden beams, creaking floors, and walls adorned with historic photographs, this cafe exudes the charm of a bygone era. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a coffee or a traditional Dutch beer while soaking in the atmosphere of medieval Delft.
Kleyweg’s Stads-Koffyhuis: Founded in the 17th century, Kleyweg’s Stads-Koffyhuis has been a gathering place for locals and visitors alike for generations. Known for its cozy interior and delicious Dutch pastries, this cafe has retained much of its original character.
Café ‘t Postkantoor: Once a post office, Café ‘t Postkantoor has been serving coffee and meals since the early 18th century. The building itself dates back to medieval times, and the interior retains many original features, including the old wooden counters and a fireplace. It’s a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to imagine life in Delft centuries ago.
What you need to know – A city guide to Delft.
Best time to visit Delft: Delft is delightful year-round, but the best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is mild and perfect for exploring the city’s canals, historic sites, and vibrant markets. The tulip season, which peaks in April and May, is particularly enchanting as the surrounding countryside bursts into color.
Stay central: Delft’s historic center is compact and walkable, so staying close to the city center will give you easy access to all the major attractions. Plus, the charming streets and canals are best explored on foot.
Explore the markets: If you’re in Delft on a Thursday or Saturday, don’t miss the open-air markets. The Thursday market focuses on fresh produce and local delicacies, while the Saturday market is a larger affair with antiques, books, and, of course, Delftware.
Take a canal tour: A boat tour along Delft’s canals is a must. It’s a relaxing way to see the city from a different perspective and learn about its history.
Try the local cuisine: Don’t miss trying the local specialties like herring, poffertjes (small fluffy pancakes), and Dutch cheese.
Get a museum card: If you plan to visit several museums, consider purchasing a Museumkaart, which gives you access to over 400 museums across the Netherlands, including many in Delft.
How to get to.
Getting to Delft is straightforward, whether you’re coming from within Holland or further afield.
By plane: The nearest airport is Rotterdam The Hague Airport, which is about 15 kilometers from Delft. From the airport, you can take a direct bus or taxi to the city. Check Aviasales for the cheapest flights if you’re traveling from another country.
By train: Delft is well-connected by train, with regular services from major cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. The train journey from Amsterdam to Delft takes about an hour, making it an easy day trip. From Rotterdam, it’s just a 15-minute ride, while The Hague is only 12 minutes away.
By car: If you prefer to drive, Delft is accessible via the A4 and A13 highways. However, parking in the city center can be limited, so it’s advisable to use one of the designated parking areas on the outskirts and walk or take public transport into the center. I highly recommend traveling by car as it’s the most convenient and direct option. If you don’t have a car, you can rent one at very reasonable prices here.
The oldest hotels – A city guide to Delft.
If you’re planning a visit and want to immerse yourself fully in the town’s rich past, staying overnight in one of Delft’s oldest hotels.
Hotel de Emauspoort: Nestled in the heart of Delft, Hotel de Emauspoort is a hidden gem that exudes old-world charm. This hotel, dating back to the 17th century, is a family-run establishment that has managed to preserve its historical essence while providing modern comforts. The building itself is a piece of Delft’s history, with its quaint, gabled façade and warm, welcoming interiors.
Hotel Grand Canal: Situated along one of Delft’s picturesque canals, Hotel Grand Canal is a delightful blend of history and tranquility. This hotel occupies several historic townhouses, some of which date back to the 16th century. As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by the cozy, traditional Dutch atmosphere, with wooden beams, exposed brick walls, and large windows that offer stunning views of the canal.
Hotel Johannes Vermeer: Named after Delft’s most famous painter, Hotel Johannes Vermeer is a charming boutique hotel that captures the spirit of the Golden Age. Housed in a former cigar factory, this historic building dates back to the 17th century and has been lovingly restored to reflect its artistic heritage. The hotel’s interiors are a tribute to Vermeer’s timeless works, with reproductions of his masterpieces adorning the walls.
Delft is a city where history lives on in every brick and beam, every canal and cobblestone. Exploring these medieval sites and cafes, you’ll find yourself transported to a time when the past was present and the present was yet to come.
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