Things To Do
in Delft
Delft is a picturesque city located in the western Netherlands, known for its historic charm and beautiful canals. It is famous for Delftware pottery, characterized by its blue and white hand-painted designs. The city is home to the iconic leaning tower of the Nieuwe Kerk, as well as the burial site of renowned artist Johannes Vermeer.
Delft is a popular destination for tourists seeking a mix of culture, history, and scenic beauty.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at a local café, enjoying a traditional Dutch breakfast. Don't forget to try the famous Dutch pancakes with a variety of toppings.
Visit the historic Markt square, home to the stunning Nieuwe Kerk. After exploring the square, enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the nearby bistros.
As the sun sets, take a stroll along the canals. Choose a cozy restaurant for dinner and savor some local cuisine.
Begin your morning at the Prinsenhof Museum to learn about Delft's rich history and the life of William of Orange. Wander through the museum's beautiful gardens.
Head to the Royal Delft factory to witness the traditional pottery-making process. Grab a light lunch at their café and perhaps pick up a souvenir.
End your day with a scenic boat tour of the canals. Enjoy the picturesque views as you dine on a delightful evening meal in a waterside restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with beautiful historic architecture
- Vibrant student community due to proximity to Delft University of Technology
- Canals and scenic views, providing a picturesque environment
- Strong emphasis on sustainability and green living
- Well-connected transportation system, making it easy to explore nearby cities
- Cost of living can be relatively high compared to other Dutch cities
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities like Amsterdam
- Small size may lead to a feeling of isolation for some
- Public transport can become crowded during peak student seasons
- Weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain
Best Activities in Delft
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Delft is equipped with an extensive network of cycle paths, making cycling a popular and enjoyable way to explore the city and its surroundings.
Take a leisurely stroll around Delft to discover its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and charming streets. Guided walking tours are also available for a more in-depth exploration of the city's rich history.
Embark on a scenic canal cruise to admire Delft from a different perspective. Relax as you glide along the waterways and take in the sights and sounds of the city.
Tours
Uncover the best of Delft with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Delft
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of the city from the top of its tower
Historic city gate with picturesque views of the surrounding area
Perfect for capturing the essence of the city and its connection to the famous artist Johannes Vermeer
Food in Delft
Delft Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A famous Dutch treat, stroopwafel, consists of two thin waffle layers filled with caramel syrup. Try freshly made stroopwafels at the Delftse Stads-koffyhuis or the market on Thursdays.
Must-Try!
For a taste of authentic Dutch herring, head to the Visbanken fish market or local fishmongers. Served with onions and pickles, it's a delicacy not to be missed.
These mini, fluffy pancakes are a favorite in Delft. Indulge in poffertjes at various cafes around the city or at the Thursday market.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Delft better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling Thursday market in Delft is a treasure trove of local delicacies, fresh produce, cheeses, and street food. Try traditional Dutch fries, fresh stroopwafels, and a variety of international cuisine.
This market square hosts a mix of food stalls offering delectable street food options, ranging from Vietnamese spring rolls to fritters and seafood snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Delft, it is important to be punctual for meetings and appointments as it shows respect for other people's time.
Dutch people value their personal space, so it's important to maintain a respectful distance when interacting with others.
It's customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact as a sign of respect and friendliness.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Delft with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Delft
Ensure a smooth experience
In Delft, tipping is not obligatory but is generally appreciated if you receive good service. A typical practice is to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants, cafes, and for other services.
In Delft, electronic payment methods such as debit and credit cards are widely accepted in most establishments including restaurants, shops, and public transportation. Cash is also commonly used, especially for small transactions and in markets.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Delft.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Delft, with mild temperatures and blooming flowers, especially in April and May. Expect crowded streets due to tourism.
Peak tourist season, with warm temperatures and long days. Many outdoor events and activities, but also crowded attractions and higher prices.
Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, making it a quieter time to visit. The changing colors of the leaves in parks and gardens are beautiful.
Less crowded and cheaper, with a chance of snow. Some attractions may have reduced hours or be closed. The Christmas market in December is a highlight.
Delft at Night
Hiking in Delft
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large park and nature area just outside of Delft, offering trails for walking and hiking alongside a lake and various nature spots.
A nearby forest area with several walking paths and natural landscapes, perfect for a peaceful hiking experience.
Located a bit further in Rotterdam, this expansive park features trails around a large lake and is a popular destination for hiking and cycling.
A natural area approximately 20 km from Delft, offering a mix of trails through forested areas and dunes, ideal for a longer hiking adventure.
A natural park in the vicinity of Delft, featuring various trails suitable for hiking, surrounded by beautiful greenery and wildlife.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Delft through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Delft by plane.
The main international airport serving Amsterdam and the Netherlands, located approximately 45 km north of Delft.
An international airport located about 15 km north of Delft, serving both Rotterdam and The Hague.
An international airport located approximately 120 km southeast of Delft, primarily serving low-cost airlines.
An international airport located about 150 km southwest of Delft, serving the Brussels metropolitan area and beyond.
A small international airport located about 110 km southwest of Delft, mainly serving regional and limited international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Delft, comprising a significant portion of the population.
A notable minority group in Delft, reflecting historical connections between the Netherlands and Indonesia.
A prominent immigrant community in Delft, contributing to the cultural diversity of the city.
Another significant ethnic group in Delft, representing part of the wider Moroccan diaspora in the Netherlands.
This group reflects the historical ties between the Netherlands and Suriname, contributing to the multicultural fabric of Delft.
Includes various nationalities and ethnicities, particularly as immigration has increased in recent years.
A diverse group encompassing various nationalities, including Chinese and Indian communities.
Represents individuals from various African countries, adding to the multicultural aspect of the population.
The Soul of Delft
Discover the essence of Delft through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Field hockey is a widely popular sport in Delft, with several clubs participating in local and national competitions.
Football is one of the most popular sports in Delft, with numerous teams and a strong community engagement in the local football clubs.
Tennis enjoys a strong following in Delft, supported by various local clubs and facilities where residents can play.
Volleyball is played in both recreational and competitive capacities, with local clubs providing training and matches.
Running is a popular activity in Delft, with various running clubs and events taking place throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Delft.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Delft offer diverse vegetarian and vegan options, from plant-based burgers to creative vegetable-based dishes. Kek, Voldaan, and De Vegetarische Snackbar are popular choices for vegetarian and vegan fare.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary restrictions can find accommodating options at several eateries in Delft. From gluten-free pancakes to pasta dishes, restaurants like Kek and Hummus offer dedicated gluten-free menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Delft with these cultural adventures.