Looking for things to do in Delft? This is the guide for you!
Delft is an absolutely adorable, Dutch village less than 30 minutes by tram or car from Den Hague or 1 hour by train from Amsterdam.
Holland is a lovely country and it’s important to explore outside of Amsterdam itself to get more of an immersed experience.
Delft provides the ultimate small-town opportunity with charming things to do like visiting the inside of a giant flour-grinding windmill, enjoying the city center, strolling the quaint canals, and simply getting lost in the charm for the afternoon.
1. Windmill de Roos
It’s surprising to me that visiting the free Windmill de Roos is not at the top of most tourist guides for Delft!
The windmill is one of the first sights of Delf you see upon entrance to the town via a trolley.
You better believe I made a full run towards the windmill as soon as I saw it! Maybe it’s the tourist in me, but giant windmills are right out of my wildest Dutch dreams.
The beautiful, flour-grinding windmill provides a historic operation of the past. Ascend the 4 floors of the windmill while learning about a different operating feature windmill as you climb each floor.
One of the best parts is the view of Delft from the top!
Caution: While not currently grinding flour, the windmill is still in motion. You need to take caution to stay away from the quickly turning blades when you get to the top. Avoid the roped-off area.
2. Markt Square
Much like other neighboring European cities like Bruges, Delft features a Markt Square. This is essential to the main square of town, lined with historic buildings, restaurants, and more.
I think it is one of the most scenic parts of the city, and provides a leaping-off point to Delft’s other main attractions like the New and Old Church and Museum Prisenhof.
The old town is a maze of beautiful buildings with classic Dutch facades, perfect for strolls and photo ops.
3. New Church and Old Church
We opted to not climb the 108-foot tower because we were already a bit towered out with the Dom Tower in Utrecht and Belfry Tower in Bruges on our Europe trip!
The old church is famous for being slightly crooked, and the new church is known for taking a climb to the top for aerial views of Delft.
If I hadn’t toured so many towers this summer, I wouldn’t have skipped this one.
Where to Stay in Delft:
4. Museum Prisenhof
Conveniently located next to the Old Church, Museum Prinsenhof is perfect for a deep dive into Dutch history and culture.
It’s housed in a former monastery and features exhibits on the life of William of Orange, a pivotal figure in the history of Dutch independence.
The museum also showcases Delftware ceramics and offers a glimpse into the city’s artistic heritage.
5. Delft Canals
While exploring Delft’s city center, stroll in and out of the lovely canals or opt for a canal tour.
One of Delft’s most enchanting features is its picturesque canals and charming, narrow streets.
While Amsterdam is famous for its canals, taking a day trip to smaller towns like Delft features tinier canals providing a more relaxed, and less urban feel.
More Canals:
- Utrecht, Holland
- Bruges, Belgium
- Amsterdam, Holland
6. Town Hall
Delft’s Town Hall is a key historical site, showcasing stunning Renaissance architecture and intricate details.
Visitors can explore its elegant façade and grand interior, including the ornate council chambers.
The building is typically open to the public on weekdays, typically from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
7. Delft Botanical Gardens
The Botanic Gardens in Delft are a great spot for nature lovers. You can see plants from all over the world, including tropical and desert varieties. The gardens are well-kept and easy to walk through.
There are clear signs to help you learn about the plants.
We were tight on time and I skipped these botanical gardens, but loved the botanic gardens on my day trip to Leiden.
Holland Travel Planning:
- Best Day Trips from Amsterdam
- Leiden
- Utrecht
8. Oostpoort
Oostpoort is a historic gate in Delft. It’s one of the few remaining city gates from the medieval fortifications that once protected the city.
The gate features two distinctive towers and an arched entrance, showcasing classic Dutch Renaissance architecture. It’s right near a moat, adding to its picturesque and historical charm!
9. Snack or Lunch
Enjoy lunch with a view sitting alongside the lovely canals. Or grab a snack in between shopping the local businesses behind Market Square.
There are tons of local businesses featuring Dutch favorites like Apple Pie and traditional lunch stapes like paninis, burgers, and more.
Highly rated restaurants in Delft:
10. Blue and White Ceramics
Delftware is a type of pottery that originated in the 17th century in Delft. These ornate ceramics are characterized by their distinctive blue decorations on a white background.
(They remind me of ceramics in other places around the world like Portugal and Southern Spain!)
The designs often feature floral patterns, landscapes, or historical scenes, painted in cobalt blue pigment.
The most famous place to learn about Delft’s famous ceramics is The Royal Delft Factory. It is the last remaining Delftware factory from the 17th century.
Conclusion
If you don’t have enough time for a half or full day in Delft, you can opt for a combined day tour with cities like Rotterdam, Leiden, or Utrecht.
However, I highly recommend getting to Delft by public transportation if you are comfortable doing this thanks to ease and affordability.
Delft is famous for its vibrant, blue and white tiles, its ginormous windmill, its and historic architecture along its winding canals.
This traditional Dutch city provides the perfect contrast to bustling Amsterdam and a great way to enjoy a new experience for the day!
