Delft, a Wonderful Day Trip Destination

Delft, The Netherlands

Because Delft offers more than Vermeer or blue-and-white pottery, our tiny Kingdom’s history is shaped by Delft. It was founded in the 10th century. The city became a hub of commerce three centuries later when the canal to the Meuse was built. The famous Delfts Blue ceramic trading began shortly after. Inspired by porcelain work from the Far East, but soon became a trademark.
Johannes Vermeer’s 34 famous paintings of dramatic Dutch skies and shy damsels in yellow and blue were created at the end of the middle ages.
The history of the Netherlands as a Kingdom begins in Delft, according to the Dutch. William of Orange, also known as the orange jersey we wear when supporting our national teams, was Governor of Holland in the 16th century. He led a successful rebellion against Spanish oppressors and was later murdered in his Delft home. He is buried in The New Church, and our royal house until today is called The House of Orange.
Today, the city is home to one of the most prestigious and prestigious technical universities in The Netherlands. This explains why Delft has become a vibrant and enjoyable place to visit.

How to get to Delft from Amsterdam

Both Amsterdam and Rotterdam/The Hague are good options for getting to Delft. Seek the best deal on flights to Amsterdam or Rotterdam/The Hague for the best price.
You can reach Delft by train from Amsterdam or Rotterdam/The Hague. Delft is a beautiful weekend getaway destination.
You will need an OV Chip card to travel in The Netherlands on public transport. This can be charged as you go. However, you can also purchase single-use train tickets at the station.
You can also travel to The Netherlands by train. The cheapest tickets will be available if you book three months in advance.

Delft Hotels

Grand Canal Hotel

The Hotel Grand Canal in Delft is a great hotel located in the city’s centre and close to the train station. The hotel is located in the city’s heart, and it’s easy to reach all the major sights. You can also get lost in the cobbled streets. Some rooms even include a large bathtub. The varied breakfast is a highlight of the morning.

Hotel de Koophandel

Hotel De Koophandel is the most romantic hotel in Delft. The hotel’s rooms are decorated in Delft blue, and all rooms feature a mural of Johannes Vermeer, Delft’s most famous resident. Vermeer’s paintings are even printed on curtains in some rooms. Take your time to have breakfast in the morning. Coffee will be served in Delft Blue cups. Beautiful stained-glass windows surround you.

Shanghai Hotel

The Shanghai hotel is an excellent choice if you travel to Delft in a car. You can park your vehicle at no cost. The rooms are spacious, and the beds are very comfortable. This hotel is a great place to relax and has large bathrooms. The hotel offers a delicious breakfast and a great place to have dinner.

What do I do in Delft

Cycling in Delft

A bike is one of the most enjoyable ways to see Delft. Riding along the charming canals, bridges and flower-filled streets of Delft is fantastic. This guided bike tour will take you to the best of Delft in just a few hours. The guide will take you to the most stunning spots of the city, such as the Rose windmill and pretty courtyards, Prinsenhof Museum, the historic market square, and the city brewery. Rent a bike if you prefer to explore the city on your own. It’s easy and cheap (it’s The Netherlands, after all).

Nieuwe Kerk

A visit to Nieuwe Kerk must understand the Netherlands’ history. This is where the father of The Netherlands, ‘William of Orange,’ is buried. After that, alof l The House of Orange royals reburied in Nieuwe Kerk. The best thing about the tower’s 110-meter height is the magnificent view you get of the city. You can even see Rotterdam or The Hague on bright days.

Vermeer Centrum

A visit to the Vermeer Centrum is a must-do during your stay in Delft. Although the historical area of Delft looks exactly like Vermeer’s famous painting, the Vermeer Centrum gives you a great insight into Vermeer’s life. The visit also gives you an insight into the Holland of Golden Age which is quite priceless. The Center does not contain any Vermeer paintings. You’ll need to visit Mauritshuis at The Hague or Rijksmuseum Amsterdam.

Market Square

It’s a delight to take a stroll around Delft Market Square. It’s simple to pick up Dutch souvenirs on Saturdays by just checking out the many stalls. There are cheeses, cookies, fresh stroopwafels, and other goodies. Poffertjes and cheese: A food festival in itself. You’ll find Koos Rosenburgs’ shop behind the beautiful market facade. Here you will find unique antiques. You can’t miss out on the magnificent City Hall, built in the 17th century.

Museum Prinsenhof

Every child in The Netherlands visits Museum Prinsenhof as a primary school student. Why? The Netherlands started in Delft. Prinsenhof was the location where William of Orange was killed in 1584. He had led a successful rebellion against Spain during the 80-year conflict. Museum Prinsenhof has beautiful paintings from the Golden Age and tells you about William of Orange, the war, and the bullet hole in the wall he was shot through.

Delft is visible from the water.

A tour through the canals of Delft is a lot more intimate than the vast canals in Amsterdam. The canal boats depart every hour from Koornmarkt. They take approximately 50 minutes. The canal boats will take you to the top of Delft and allow you to see the canals up close. You can rent a stand-up paddleboard or take a lesson to explore the canals of Delft.

Delft Blue Factory

Delft is the perfect place to see how Delft Blue is made. Get your tickets to Royal Delft. This famous factory will show you that Delft’s iconic earthenware is black painted and baked to get its bright blue colour. You’ll also see ceramic artists at work during the tour.

Follow Vermeer’s footsteps.

It is easy to imagine how Vermeer saw the city when he painted his paintings. You can find the Johannes Vermeer self-guided walk at the Delft tourism office or Vermeer Centrum. It will take you to all the important places in the city centre that this Dutch master was interested in. The tour highlights the areas Vermeer painted and where he lived or worked.

Delft Restaurants

Pleck

Depending on the owner, Pleck can be described as a cafe or a shop. The interior is rustic, green, and cosy. You can also get a great cup of coffee, interior design, paperware, and accessories. You can sit in the few chairs at the front of the shop if the sun is shining. This is the perfect spot for people-watching.

KEK

KEK is the current hotspot. On weekends, it’s best to arrive early to get breakfast, brunch, or coffee. It’s well worth the effort. The juices that are freshly pressed are delicious. Kek also sells fun items.

‘t Postkantoor

The Netherlands has seen its post offices close down more often in the past decade as more people use e-mails to send their mail instead of regular snail mail. It’s a shame because many post offices were in beautiful old buildings. The Delft post office was no exception. Now, ‘t Postkantoor has been transformed into a magnificent cafe. The vast restaurant has a cosy interior with vintage soft rugs and large plants. It makes a great place to have lunch.

Hummus

Hummus is a great place to eat lunch or dinner because of its extensive menu and stylish interior design. The inspiration for all dishes is from the Middle East (and yes, there are four types of hummus), but you can also make your sandwich.