Delft, Historie, Grachten en Delfts Blauw - Village / City
Delft is a city with a unique character. Historic, charming and typically Dutch, yet lively and contemporary at the same time.
Known for Delft Blue, Johannes Vermeer and William of Orange, but also loved for its atmospheric canals, cosy squares and compact city centre. Delft is perfect for a day trip or a relaxing weekend away.
The historic centre of Delft
The centre of Delft feels like an open-air museum, but one where you can simply stroll, shop and relax on terraces.
- A largely car-free city centre, so you can walk around at your leisure and enjoy your surroundings.
- Small streets and alleys where you keep discovering new vistas, little shops and hofjes (almshouse courtyards).
The Markt of Delft
The Markt is the beating heart of the city and one of the largest and most beautiful market squares in the Netherlands.
- A lively square surrounded by historic buildings, cafés and restaurants with plenty of terraces.
- A central meeting place that is always buzzing, from market days to events.
- The perfect starting point for a walk through the rest of the city.
The City Hall of Delft
On the Markt stands the imposing city hall, a real eye-catcher with a rich history.
- A monumental building with a striking tower and a mix of Gothic and Renaissance elements.
- Historical significance as the administrative centre of the city since the Middle Ages.
- A photogenic location, especially in the evening, when the city hall is atmospherically lit.
The Nieuwe Kerk
The Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) is perhaps the best-known sight in Delft and is closely linked to Dutch history.
- Burial church of the House of Orange, where William of Orange, among others, is buried.
- An impressive interior with royal tombs and monuments.
- A climbable tower offering a wonderful view over Delft and, in clear weather, even as far as The Hague and Rotterdam.
The Oude Kerk
Don't skip the Oude Kerk (Old Church) during your visit to Delft either.
- A leaning tower that immediately catches the eye and is an iconic part of the Delft skyline.
- The final resting place of Johannes Vermeer, one of the most famous painters in Dutch history.
- Its location by the canal provides a particularly beautiful and peaceful setting.
Delft Blue and craftsmanship
Delft is world-famous for Delft Blue, and you will see it everywhere in the city.
- Royal Delft, where you can see the traditional process of making Delft Blue.
- Delft Blue shops throughout the centre, selling tableware, tiles and souvenirs.
- A crafted feel that suits the historic character of the city perfectly.
Museums in Delft
For a compact city, Delft has a surprisingly varied range of museums.
- Vermeer Centrum Delft, which highlights the life and work of the painter Johannes Vermeer.
- Science Centre Delft, where technology and innovation take centre stage, fun and educational for young and old.
Canals, bridges and walking
Delft is the perfect city to explore on foot.
- Quiet hofjes hidden behind façades, offering a moment of peace.
- Plenty of greenery in and around the centre, with parks and city moats.
Events and atmosphere
There is plenty to experience in Delft all year round.
- The Delft Christmas market, which transforms the centre into an atmospheric place in winter.
- Summer festivals and markets on and around the Markt and along the canals.
- Heritage Day (Open Monumentendag), when many historic buildings can be visited for free.
Why visit Delft?
- Compact and easy to navigate, so you can see many sights in a short time.
- A rich history, visible in churches, canals and monuments.
- A typically Dutch atmosphere with water, old façades and craftsmanship.
- Perfect to combine with a visit to The Hague or Rotterdam.
Parking in Delft: practical tips
Delft is compact and the historic centre is largely car-free.
- Car parks around the centre, such as Marktgarage, Zuidpoort or Phoenixgarage, are within walking distance of the main sights and ideal for a day visit.
Delft is small in size but big in experience. A city that effortlessly combines history and conviviality.
Furthermore Delft, Historie, Grachten en Delfts Blauw is near the following sights: Jumpsquare Rijswijk (±3,4 km) & Drievliet (±4,9 km).
For information
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