Delft: Historic town known for blue pottery

Visitor Fee

Delft is an open city with no general entry fee, but some attractions and museums require an admission fee:

• Royal Delft Factory (Porcelain Museum & Factory Tour) – €16.50
• Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) & Oude Kerk (Old Church) – €9.50 (combined ticket)
• Prinsenhof Museum (William of Orange’s Residence & History Museum) – €12.50
• Vermeer Centrum Delft (Johannes Vermeer Museum) – €12.00
• Eastern Gate (Oostpoort) – Free to admire from the outside
• Canal Boat Tours – Prices vary by company, around €10–€15

Transportation

Delft is well-connected to other cities in the Netherlands:

• By Train – A 15-minute train ride from The Hague and 1 hour from Amsterdam. Delft Central Station is within walking distance of major attractions.
• By Tram – Tram 1 and 19 connect Delft with The Hague.
• By Bus – Regional buses run between Delft and nearby cities.
• By Bicycle – Delft is very bike-friendly, with many rental options.
• By Car – Parking is available, but the city center is best explored on foot or by bike.

Things to Do in Delft

1. Explore the Markt Square – The heart of Delft, home to the Town Hall, Nieuwe Kerk, and cafes.
2. Visit the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) – Climb the 376-step tower for panoramic views of Delft and beyond.
3. Tour the Royal Delft Factory – Learn about Delft Blue pottery and see artists hand-painting ceramics.
4. Discover the Prinsenhof Museum – Former home of William of Orange, who played a key role in Dutch independence.
5. Admire the Oude Kerk (Old Church) – Burial site of Johannes Vermeer, the famous painter.
6. Walk Along Delft’s Canals – The picturesque canals and bridges make for a charming stroll.
7. Visit Vermeer Centrum Delft – Learn about the life and work of the famous 17th-century painter.
8. Explore the Botanical Garden (TU Delft) – A relaxing green space run by Delft University.
9. See the Oostpoort (Eastern Gate) – The only remaining medieval city gate of Delft.
10. Take a Boat Tour – Discover the city’s canals and historic waterways.

Why People Enjoy Visiting Delft

• Rich History – Delft played a major role in Dutch independence and the Golden Age.
• Delft Blue Pottery – The world-famous hand-painted ceramics originate here.
• Charming Canals & Architecture – The city has aesthetic streets, historic buildings, and cozy cafes.
• Johannes Vermeer’s Legacy – Delft was home to the painter of "Girl with a Pearl Earring".
• Relaxed Atmosphere – Compared to Amsterdam, Delft is quieter and less touristy.
• Walkable City – Easy to explore on foot or by bike.

How Old is This Place?

Delft was founded in the 11th century and officially granted city rights in 1246. It became an important trade hub in the 17th century, during the Dutch Golden Age. Delft is over 775 years old, with some buildings dating back to medieval times.

List of Activities

• Explore Historical Churches – Visit the Nieuwe Kerk and Oude Kerk.
• Tour Delft Blue Pottery Workshops – See artists creating traditional ceramics.
• Museum Visits – Learn about Dutch history, art, and Vermeer.
• Canal Boat Rides – Experience Delft from the water.
• Climb Church Towers – Get the best views of the city.
• Walk Through Markets & Boutiques – Enjoy the Saturday market and unique local shops.
• Photography & Sightseeing – Capture Delft’s beautiful streets, canals, and historical sites.

Additional Nearby Attractions

1. The Hague – Home to the Dutch government, royal palaces, and international institutions.
2. Rotterdam – A modern city with iconic architecture, the Erasmus Bridge, and a lively port.
3. Kinderdijk – A UNESCO-listed site with traditional Dutch windmills.
4. Leiden – A historic university city with museums and canals.
5. Scheveningen Beach – A seaside resort near The Hague with a famous pier.
6. Gouda – Known for cheese markets and medieval streets.
7. Hoek van Holland – A coastal town where the Maas River meets the North Sea.

Delft is a beautiful and historic city offering a mix of Dutch heritage, art, and culture, making it an ideal destination for history lovers, art enthusiasts, and those looking for an authentic Dutch experience.