Delft and Delftware: Famous blue pottery

Visitor Fee

• Public areas in Delft are free to explore.
• Museums, Delftware factories, and historical sites may have entrance fees ranging from €5 - €15 per person.
• Guided Delftware painting workshops have additional costs.

Transportation

Delft is a historic city in South Holland, located between The Hague and Rotterdam.

• By Train – Direct trains run from Amsterdam (1 hour), The Hague (15 minutes), and Rotterdam (12 minutes).
• By Tram – Tram 1 from The Hague offers a scenic route to Delft.
• By Car – Delft is about a 45-minute drive from Amsterdam, with paid parking available.
• By Bicycle – The city is bike-friendly, with rentals available at the train station.

Things to Do in Delft

1. Visit the Markt Square – The heart of Delft, surrounded by historical buildings, cafés, and market stalls.
2. Tour the Royal Delft Factory – The last remaining Delftware factory from the 17th century, showcasing the traditional blue-and-white pottery.
3. Explore the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) – Home to the tombs of the Dutch Royal Family and offering panoramic views from its tower.
4. See the Oude Kerk (Old Church) – A leaning medieval church with the grave of painter Johannes Vermeer.
5. Learn at the Museum Prinsenhof – A museum dedicated to William of Orange, Dutch history, and Delftware.
6. Stroll Along the Canals – Delft’s picturesque canals are perfect for walking or taking a boat tour.
7. Visit the Vermeer Centrum – A tribute to Johannes Vermeer, Delft’s most famous painter.
8. Shop for Delftware Souvenirs – Hand-painted Delft Blue pottery is available in shops and studios around the city.
9. Try Local Dutch Food – Enjoy stroopwafels, poffertjes, and fresh herring at the weekly markets.
10. Explore the Botanical Garden – A peaceful green oasis affiliated with Delft University of Technology.

Why People Enjoy Visiting Delft

• A Charming, Historic Atmosphere – Delft is rich in history, architecture, and culture.
• Famous for Delftware – The city is world-renowned for its traditional blue-and-white ceramics.
• Beautiful Canals & Scenic Views – Delft has a quieter, more relaxed version of Amsterdam’s charm.
• Connection to Dutch Royalty – Delft is deeply tied to the history of the Dutch royal family.
• Great for Art & History Lovers – Delft is the hometown of Vermeer and a center of Dutch Golden Age art.

How Old is This Place?

Delft was founded in the 13th century and officially became a city in 1246, making it over 775 years old. Delftware, its famous blue-and-white pottery, has been produced since the 17th century as an alternative to Chinese porcelain.

List of Activities

• Exploring the historic city center and canals
• Visiting the Royal Delft Factory and Museum
• Climbing the tower of the Nieuwe Kerk for city views
• Discovering the history of William of Orange at Prinsenhof Museum
• Walking through Delft’s markets and shops for Delftware souvenirs
• Taking a boat tour along Delft’s canals
• Visiting the Vermeer Centrum and learning about Dutch art
• Enjoying traditional Dutch food in the Markt Square

Additional Nearby Attractions

1. The Hague – Just 15 minutes away, offering museums, government buildings, and beaches.
2. Rotterdam – A modern city with impressive architecture and the famous Markthal.
3. Kinderdijk – A UNESCO-listed site featuring 19 historic windmills.
4. Leiden – A charming university city rich in history, canals, and museums.
5. The Westland Greenhouses – Home to huge flower and vegetable greenhouses, showcasing Dutch horticulture.

Delft is a must-visit for history, art, and culture lovers, offering a perfect blend of tradition, beauty, and craftsmanship!