The city of Delft is a charming place, brimming with history and must-see sights.
Here’s a list of the most common places to visit and things to do while in Delft
1. Visit Museum Prinsenhof
The Netherlands wouldn’t be linked to the color orange if it hadn’t been for “Willem van Oranje” A.K.A. “Willem the Silent”.
The monastery where he resided and where he was murdered now houses a museum dedicated to the man himself, his life and his struggles with the Spanish rulers and Catholics.
See stunningly beautiful paintings, fascinating objects and see the bullet holes left by the fatal shots that ended his life.
2. Delft Blue Ceramics at the Porceleyne Fles – Royal Delft
When the Netherlands could no longer import Chinese pottery they became creative and started copying the trade. The result is the internationally renowned “Delfts Blauw” pottery style.
This last-of-its-kind factory still produces today. You can see the artists at work and behold the most beautiful and surprising artifacts which are house in a building that’s a work of art in itself!
Possibly the most eye-catching work is the true size reproduction of the The Night Watch by Rembrandt van Rijn, executed in 50.000 ceramic tiles.
And of course the factory museum also boasts a store from where you can bring some brand new Dutch history home.
3. Say “Lactose Intolerant” at a Cheese store
Think of Holland, think of cheese.
Whether you’re into Gouda, Edammer or you just like anything that smells cheesy then you must really visit the typical tourist traps that are the cheese stores around the city.
And yes, you get to try the cheeses as well.
Our advice: Try before you buy!
4. Canal Cruise – Discover Delft from the water
Sit back and watch the scenery go by while the captain explains exactly what it is that you are looking at.
A classic part of any city trip to a watery town is a canal cruise.
5. Visit the Vermeer center
Probably the most famous person Delft has ever brought forth is Johannes Vermeer. Born and raised in Delft he’s also known as the master of light. His paintings of indoor and outdoor scene’s have gained worldwide fame. The girl with the pearl earring stars on many mugs, pillows, puzzles, posters, t-shirts and other paraphernalia.
The museum does not only explain all there is to know about Vermeer’s techniques but even allows you to appear in a real-ish Vermeer setting. Don’t forget to bring your camera and someone to carefully aim it at you under the right angle.
6. See Delft from above
See Delft from above after climbing up 367 stairs.
The Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) on the main market square offers a stunning 360 degree view over the city of Delft and its surroundings.
Not for the weak of health or those who fear heights.
But do try to pick a sunnier day than I did!
And if you visit the insides of the church as well you’ll see the tombs of some of the most historically significant people in all their glory.
7. Visit a historic windmill
Windmolen “De Roos” (The Rose) is a historic windmill. Preserved over the centuries it once was part of the city walls surrounding Delft. It is still serving a real purpose as it mills grains which are sold in the store it houses.
Also one can visit the mill’s museum and learn more about its inner workings and learn about this traditional mill’s rich history.
Take a guided walking tour!
Take a guided walking tour through the historic center of Delft and learn about all there is to see and do, ranging from Delft’s history to modern day Dutch traditions, culinary options and fun things to do.
Bonus suggestion
Visit the temporary Piet Hein exhibition in Delft’s Old Church.
Piet Hein is one of the more iconic, historical figures of the Netherlands who is buried in the Old Church of Delft. I’m personally very enthusiastic about this time-bound event so go there before September 14, 2024!
