Discover Delft: A Guide to the City's Top Attractions
Delft, nestled between Rotterdam and The Hague in The Netherlands, is a charming city known for its historic Old Town, canals, and the iconic blue and white Delftware pottery. As a significant university city, Delft is also the birthplace of notable figures such as Hugo Grotius, Jan Vermeer, and Antoni van Leeuwenhoek. Today, it's a vibrant cultural hub with plenty to offer tourists, including museums and a bustling Saturday Flea Market.
1. Royal Delft: Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles
Visit the last remaining Delftware factory, established in 1653, to witness the traditional hand-painting process and explore historical collections. Combine your visit with a canal cruise or a painting workshop for a memorable experience.
Official site: www.royaldelft.com/en_gb/
2. Nieuwe Kerk: Delft's "Not-So" New Church
The New Church, dating back to the 14th century, features a towering Gothic structure and houses the tomb of William I of Orange. Climb the 376 steps for a panoramic view of Delft.
Official site: https://oudeennieuwekerkdelft.nl/en
3. Oude Kerk: Delft's Historic Old Church
Known as "Old John," the Old Church features a leaning tower and houses notable tombs, including those of naval heroes and the painter Jan Vermeer.
Official site: https://oudeennieuwekerkdelft.nl/en
4. Prinsenhof: A Historic Ensemble
Explore the Prinsenhof, a former nunnery turned residence of the Princes of Orange. Visit the spot where William the Silent was assassinated and enjoy the tranquil gardens.
5. Prinsenhof Museum
The museum showcases the Dutch struggle for independence and features portraits of the House of Orange and Delftware history.
Official site: www.prinsenhof-delft.nl/en/
6. Delft City Hall
Admire the Renaissance architecture of the City Hall and explore its historic rooms and old prison, complete with torture devices.
7. Lambert van Meerten Museum
Discover a vast collection of applied art, period furniture, and Delftware in the former home of collector Lambert van Meerten.
Official site: www.museumhuizen.nl/en/huis-van-meerten
8. Oude Delft: The Old Canal
Stroll along the Old Canal, flanked by historic houses and the Begijnhof with its hidden church.
9. The Eastern Gate (Oostpoort)
Admire the twin towers of the Eastern Gate and enjoy the scenic canal views.
10. Museum Paul Tetar van Elven
Explore the 19th-century painter's collection in a well-preserved historic interior.
Official site: http://tetar.nl/?lang=en
11. Science Centre Delft
Engage with interactive exhibits and student projects at the University of Technology's Science Centre.
12. Vermeer Center
Delve into the life and works of Johannes Vermeer with informative displays and a studio setting.
Official site: www.vermeerdelft.nl/en/
13. The Rose Windmill
Visit the historic Rose Windmill for stunning city views and a glimpse into traditional milling.
14. TU Delft Botanical Garden
Wander through diverse plant species and gardens at the TU Delft Botanical Gardens.
Official site: www.tudelft.nl/en/botanicgarden
Where to Stay in Delft for Sightseeing
Mid-Range Hotels: Consider Hotel de Emauspoort, Hampshire Hotel - Delft Centre, and Best Western Museumhotels Delft for their central locations and amenities.
Budget Hotels: Hotel Leeuwenbrug and Hotel Grand Canal offer affordable accommodations with traditional Dutch charm.
Visiting Delft from Amsterdam: Guided Tour Options
Delft and The Hague Tour: Experience Delft's Royal Delft factory and The Hague's highlights, including Madurodam miniature park, on a combined tour from Amsterdam.
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Explore nearby cities like The Hague, Rotterdam, and Breda, or delve into history in Arnhem, Eindhoven, and Leiden. Don't miss the cultural treasures of Amsterdam, Utrecht, and Maastricht on your Netherlands vacation.
