Is Delft Worth Visiting? Find Out Why It's a Must-See!

Skip Or Visit? We can easily list at least 10 reasons why Delft is worth visiting

After living in the Netherlands, we realized we took things for granted, such as the beauty of its cities. This is what happened with Delft. Once we decided to revisit this Dutch city we were immediately reminded of how lovely and unique it is.

Delft is worth visiting for its charming canals, rich history, and famous Delft Blue pottery. The city offers historic architecture, vibrant cafes, and restaurants, and it was the hometown of the painter Vermeer. Its proximity to Rotterdam and The Hague makes it perfect for a day trip.

A lot of travelers find themselves asking: “Should I skip this small city in the Netherlands and just stick to Amsterdam or Rotterdam?” After all, you’ve already got too much on your itinerary and it’s a tiny place anyway, right? I get it – that said, keep on reading because I’ll share what makes Delft worth visiting, even if you only have a day. Let’s dive in!

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What Makes Delft Worth Visiting?

1. Perfect 1- Day Destination

flowers at a canal with on both sides old historic dutch houses. The old church with its leaning tower is located at the end of this canal — You can see the leaning tower of the Old Church along the *Oude Delft Canal*

The wonderful thing about Delft is that it is small. You can easily stroll through the many narrow streets, along the canals, and see its highlights in just a couple of hours.

This makes Delft worth visiting as a one-day visit trip. You will not feel rushed as everything is located close to each other.

a old historic building with many windows with red shutters located at a canal and a corner of the street, in front are many biked parked — The many beautiful buildings make Delft a special place

To fully experience Delft start in the morning, walk through the city, have lunch, and continue exploring while visiting one of the many museums. This will give you enough time to get a sense of its rich past.

If you wish to stay longer than just one day, this little city has many characterful accommodations.

2. Delft’s Proximity to Major Cities

historic delft train station building located at a square — The old train station (now a restaurant) is located right next to the new one

One of the best things about Delft? It’s super close to big cities like Rotterdam and The Hague. In just about 15 minutes by train, you’re there.

Amsterdam? Just under an hour. This makes Delft perfect for a quick day trip when visiting the famous Dutch capital city.

For current timetables go to the official Dutch Railway Website.

delft train station main hall with stairs leading to the platforms, the ceiling has delft blue decorations — The new train station with Delft Blue touches

The beautiful Delft Blue-decorated train station is located just outside the historic center. You will be wandering along the canals of Delft before you know it.

As you can tell, it is pretty simple to get to Delft and to combine it with a visit to one of the bigger cities nearby such as Rotterdam or The Hague.

3. Relaxed Vibe Compared to Amsterdam

old dutch building with a old styled facade, now a shop — Locally made chocolate makes Delft worth visiting 😊

I love Amsterdam, but let’s be honest—it can be overwhelming. Delft is like the quieter, more charming cousin. Less hustle and bustle, fewer crowds, but still loaded with all the charm you’re hoping for.

Cute cafes along the canals, people just enjoying a slower pace of life. The vibe here is all about unhurried wandering and soaking in the details—no need to worry about being jostled by a thousand other tour

Whether you are traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, Delft has an easy-going feel that welcomes everyone.

If you’re with kids, there’s plenty of space to run around, and if you’re a couple looking for a romantic getaway, the beautiful streets and canals offer plenty of cozy, picture-perfect moments.

trees on both side of the canal in delft where the streets are quiet and have beautiful historic building — The majority of the streets are perfect for pedestrians

4. Pedestiran Friendly

Delft is very pedestrian-friendly, and walking is the best way to see the quaint streets and canals. Everything is within easy walking distance, and you’ll discover plenty of hidden gems just by wandering.

woman walking past a big historical building located along the canal 'oude delft' in the city delft — The beautiful walkable streets make Delft worth visiting

Take a look at the map and you will realize it is pretty straightforward to navigate through the little streets. Most highlights are located around or near the Market Square (Markt).

But if you prefer following a route, check out the one we have created, or consider going for a free guided walking tour.

Many Delft walking tours provide a guide who can tell you everything about the city’s history and culture, often providing interesting anecdotes.

historic houses built at the water of the canal, with a street on the other side of the canal. Flower decorate the streets in Delft — The streets and canals make walking through the city a treat

Either way, you can’t go wrong. The city is picturesque as it is and you will find something beautiful around every corner.

We loved walking along the Oude Delft (one of the many canals). Cars are allowed to come here. Nevertheless, the streets were quiet and we could walk in the middle of the street without bothering the traffic.

Ok, we had to be careful of the bikes. But in the Netherlands, you have to watch out for them everywhere…

5. Small Canal Tours

canal tour boat with open glass ceiling, passenger enjoying the tours through the canal with the delft old church in the background — Canal Tour cruising through the old parts of Delft

You can’t visit the Netherlands without doing a canal tour, and Delft offers a quieter, more personal experience compared to Amsterdam. You can go for the standard group boat or opt for something more intimate with Canal Hopper Delft (check if the skipper speaks English before booking).

Seeing the city from the water gives you a whole new perspective. The boat glides smoothly under old stone bridges, giving you glimpses of charming backyards, hidden courtyards, and ivy-covered facades.

The canal tours in Delft often include some fascinating history about the city—like how the canals were originally used for defense, transport, and water management.

The guides are passionate locals who love sharing stories, and their enthusiasm really adds to the experience. Whether it’s tales of Dutch royalty or the history of the Delft pottery trade, you’ll come away with a much richer understanding of this small but mighty city.

6. A Place for Art and History Lovers

entrance to the vermeer centrum delft located within a beautiful historic building with yellow and grew shutters — Entrance to the musuem

woman placing her head into a picture of the girl with the pearl earring painting found outside the vermeer centrum in delft — Entrance to the musuem

Delft has a rich history and is known for its connection to Johannes Vermeer, the famous painter. You can even visit the Vermeer Centrum Delft to learn more about his life and see reproductions of his work. It’s an amazing way to get a deeper sense of the town’s artistic heritage.

Vermeer is just the tip of the iceberg, though. Delft played a key role in the Dutch Golden Age, and the spirit of this era still lingers in its narrow streets and stately buildings.

You can feel it in the craftsmanship of the town’s architecture, in the grandeur of the Town Hall, and in the stories shared at historical sites like the Prinsenhof Museum, where William of Orange was assassinated—an event that set the stage for the Netherlands gaining its independence from Spain.

7. Beautiful Historical Sights

the gothic church in delft is located at the main square in town, and is surrounded by old buildings. the renaissance styled city hall is located accross it — The *Nieuwe Kerk* Tower is the second-highest in the Netherlands

Delft is home to some incredible architecture. The New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) and the Old Church (Oude Kerk) are iconic landmarks, and honestly, the views from the top of the New Church are worth every one of those 376 steps.

You’ll see the entire town spread out beneath you, and on a clear day, you can even spot The Hague and Rotterdam in the distance.

a bridge with bikes parked again the railing, at the end of the canal you can find the leaning tower of the oude kerk in delft — The leaning tower of the Old Church is a typical picture of Delft

The Old Church, with its slightly leaning tower, is where Vermeer was laid to rest, and its interior is as charming as the exterior.

You can easily spend time wandering between the two churches, taking in the intricate details and imagining what Delft must have been like centuries ago.

semi-aerial view of the delft city hall and its market square with its surrounding dutch historic buildings — View of the City Hall at the main square from the Nieuwe Kerk tower

The Market Square between these churches is vast and lively, filled with shops, cafes, and buzzing activity.

If you want to see a windmill up close, check out Windmill De Roos near the train station. It’s an easy stop, and a nice way to add some classic Dutch touch to your trip.

Windmill De Roos is also open to visitors on certain days, giving you a chance to learn how these iconic machines work and how they have shaped Dutch life for centuries.

woman posing on a bridge with in the background the city gates with entrances through the canal or over the cycle path that runs through the gate with two towers — Windmill De Roos

Just outside the town center, you have the beautiful Renaissance-style Eastern Gate. Of the 8 city gates built in 1400, the Eastern Gate is the last remaining. Here you can enter the city over land or water.

8. The Place of Delfts Blue

When you think of Delft, you probably think of that blue and white pottery. And yes, it’s a big deal here.

The Royal Delft Factory offers tours where you can see the production process and explore their museum filled with Delft Blue from different eras.

delft blue porcelain statues of a dutch famers couple

tulip vase decorated with delft blue sold at the delft blue museum shop for 7140 euro

old factory building in delft with the name 'de porcelyne fles' (the porcelain bottle) on the facade — The Royal Delft Museum is found in the old Delft Blue Factory

The factory is more than 400 years old, and stepping inside feels like going back in time. You’ll see the craftsmanship and dedication that goes into making these iconic pieces, from the initial molding to the delicate hand-painting.

If you’re more into hands-on experiences, there are other local ateliers in town where artists are still making traditional pieces by hand.

It’s fascinating to see a piece of history in action, and you can even try your hand at painting your own piece! Imagine taking home a souvenir that you not only picked out yourself but also helped create.

9. Unique Museums

woman sitting on a seating area decorated with delft blue located in a garden of a former monastery in delft — Courtyard at the Prinsenhof musuem

historic building and tower in which the museum is located. Behind the building you can see the leaning tower of the old church in delft — Courtyard at the Prinsenhof musuem

Besides the popular Vermeer Centrum Delft that offers insights into the life and work of the famous painter Vermeer, history buffs should visit the Museum Prinsenhof Delft is a must-visit.

This museum is located in a former monastery and tells the story of William of Orange, the father of the Dutch nation.

It was here that William was assassinated in 1584, and you can still see the bullet holes in the wall. It’s a somber yet fascinating piece of history that brings to life the struggle for Dutch independence from Spain.

The museum also showcases a variety of exhibits on the city’s history, the role of the Dutch Royal Family, and the development of Delftware. It’s an incredibly informative place, but also visually stunning—set in a building that feels like stepping back in time.

10. Unique Cafes & Restaurants

lunch place with signs outside indicating they serve lunch, coffee, tea, juice, smoothis and homemade applepie. But they also sell presents and curiosa — Lunch, cakes, coffee, and a cozy place to sit at Koffie & Zo

Delft has its share of quirky little cafes, like Koffie & Zo, where you can grab a slice of homemade apple pie. Sit by the canal and watch the world go by—it doesn’t get more Dutch than that.

Franchises or international fast-food chains are not found here. No, in Delft you find characterful restaurants with a tasty menu.

Restaurants are often set in traditional Dutch buildings or along a canal that provides a wonderful eating experience.

people enjoying drinks and lunch on a outdoor terrace nearby other restaurants and cafes with the nieuwe kerk towering in the background — When the sun is out, have lunch at an outdoor terrace

people enjoying lunch on a boat terrace floating in one of the canals in delft — When the sun is out, have lunch at an outdoor terrace

For outdoor seating and a local buzz, head to The Beestenmarkt. The entire square is shaded by trees, and the atmosphere is always lively without being hectic. You’ll find families, students, tourists, and locals all enjoying the mix of eateries that surround the square.

11. Local Markets & Shops

flower shop in delft with colourful display of flower, pots and candles — Local flower shop

window shop with a display of women cloths set in a old historc delft building — Local flower shop

If you’re into shopping, Delft’s market days (Thursdays and Saturdays) are perfect for finding local goods—whether it’s a Delft Blue vase, local produce, or a bouquet of flowers from the market. The energy in the market is infectious, with vendors calling out their deals, the smell of fresh stroopwafels in the air, and locals bustling about.

Additionally, every Saturday from April until October there is a flea market where you can hunt for precious antiques, curiosa, and books. You can find market stalls around town such as at the Old Church, the City Hall, and along the canals.

heinen delft blue store with all kinds of delft blue products such as postcards, teapots, cups and saucer, vases and so on — Unique Delftware at the Heinen Delfts Blauw Concept Store

The shops in Delft are also worth a look. You’ll find everything from boutique clothing stores to specialty shops that sell Dutch cheese, sweets, or handmade candles. If you’re a fan of antiques, take some time to browse one of the many small antique shops—you might just find a hidden treasure.

Looking for a typical Dutch souvenir? Then you can find the ‘I ❤️ The Netherlands’ t-shirts, wooden tulips, bags and more here too. There are enough souvenir shops to choose from.

delft blue antique store located in a beautiful historic building in delft — Antique store ‘Blauwe Roos’ (Blue Rose)

FAQs About Delft

Is Delft good for a day trip?
Delft is an excellent city to visit in just one day. All highlights are within walking distance, you don’t even have to rush to see most of it. If you have more time we highly recommend staying overnight so you can experience the evening atmosphere and enjoy the canals that light up when it gets dark.

How far is Delft from Amsterdam?
If you hop on a train from Amsterdam you will be in Delft within an hour. Trains go frequently, at least every 30 minutes. This is the fastest and most convenient way to get to Delft.

What is Delft famous for?
Delft is famous for its Delft Blue (blue pottery), canals along the historical houses and churches and it’s the birthplace of Johannes Vermeer who painted the Girl With The Pearl Earring.

What can you do in Delft at night?
Delft is pretty romantic when the sun has set. Stroll walk along the canals, dine at the many characterful restaurants, and enjoy a beer at one of the breweries in town. The churches and town hall are beautifully lit, just like the streets along the canals.

Is Delft family-friendly?
If you are traveling with kids you should consider going canal tour in a private boat, stay a bit longer at the market square where there is enough space to run around, and enjoy lunch where they serve delicious Dutch pancakes. The Science Centre Delft at the university is a great interactive spot for children to learn and play.

Conclusion: Is Delft Worth Visiting?

woman and man posing in front of the east gate (bridge and towers) in Delft — Delft was a pleasant surprise for both of us

As you can tell we highly recommend visiting Delft. It offers a bit of everything for those interested in art, and history or just want to soak up the relaxed vibe of a wonderful small Dutch city.

While we love visiting Amsterdam, Delft gives you the chance to slow down and admire the canals and historic houses without the chaos. Trust me—visiting this unique place will give you a whole new look at the Netherlands.

Whether it’s your first time in the Netherlands or your tenth, Delft offers something refreshingly authentic.

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