Plan Your Adventure in Delft
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Must do's and try's in Delft
Delft is a treasure trove of unique flavors and quirky traditions waiting to be discovered. Beyond the picturesque canals and historic architecture, the city invites you to dive into its local delicacies and delightful experiences that reveal the heart and soul of this charming Dutch gem. So, grab your fork and your sense of adventure—Delft is calling!
- Delft Blue Pottery: While not a food, it’s hard to resist this iconic local craft. Visit a pottery workshop and try your hand at painting your very own piece of Delftware. Just don’t forget: it’s a lot harder than it looks, and you might end up with a plate that resembles a toddler’s art project!
- St. Joseph’s Day: If you find yourself in Delft on March 19th, don’t miss this quirky local festival! The streets fill with traditional music, parades, and the scent of poffertjes—tiny fluffy pancakes served with powdered sugar. It’s a sugar rush you won’t soon forget, even if you end up covered in batter!
- De Waag: Tucked away in a lesser-known corner of the city, this historic weigh house is now a cozy café where you can sip coffee and enjoy a slice of traditional Dutch apple pie. It’s a slice of history that pairs perfectly with a slice of pie—because who doesn’t love a little multitasking?
- Stroll the Botanical Garden: For an unexpected adventure, wander through the beautiful Botanical Garden at the Technical University. This serene oasis is filled with exotic plants, and if you’re lucky, you might even stumble upon a rare plant species, or at least a good spot for an Instagram photo!
With its delightful food, charming traditions, and hidden corners, Delft invites you to explore beyond the usual tourist trails. Prepare for a delightful adventure, where every bite and every experience tells a story. Happy exploring!
Sightseeing in Delft
- Markt Square
- Delft Blue Pottery Factory
- New Church (Nieuwe Kerk)
- Old Church (Oude Kerk)
- Vermeer Center
- Science Center Delft
- The "Not-So-Secret" Secret Garden
Plan your activity
What to do in Delft?
Where to go?
The best areas in Delft
Delft is a city where every corner has a story to tell, and its charming areas are like chapters in a novel waiting for you to read. From picturesque canals to vibrant markets, each district offers a unique flavor of local culture that makes exploring a delight. So grab your walking shoes and let’s dive into some of the best spots that’ll make you feel like a local—or at least give you something to brag about at dinner parties!
Oude Delft
Step back in time in Oude Delft, where the historic canals and stunning architecture will make you wonder if you’ve stumbled onto a movie set. Just be careful not to slip into a canal while trying to snap the perfect Instagram shot—trust us, wet socks are not a good look!
Vermeer Centrum
Art lovers rejoice! The Vermeer Centrum is dedicated to the life and works of the famous painter Johannes Vermeer. Immerse yourself in his world and maybe even try to recreate a masterpiece. Just remember: “The Girl with a Pearl Earring” isn’t going to pose for you!
Market Square (Markt)
Feel the buzz at Market Square, where you can dive into a sea of local produce, cheeses, and, yes, those irresistible Dutch pancakes. Just try not to get too distracted by all the deliciousness—you might forget what you came for!
Hugo de Grootplein
This quaint square is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick coffee break. With its cozy cafes and lively atmosphere, it’s a great spot for people-watching. Just don’t stare too long; it’s awkward when you get caught!
Tanthof
For a slice of local life, head to Tanthof. This residential area showcases Delft’s community spirit, complete with parks and playgrounds. It’s so cozy you might just decide to relocate—don’t worry, the neighbors won’t mind your questionable dance moves!
Where to stay?
Where to stay in Delft?
Transportation tips
How to get around in Delft
Getting around Delft is a breeze with various transportation options available to suit every traveler's needs. Whether biking, walking, taking public transport, or hailing a taxi, you'll find your way around this charming city without a hitch.
Bike it!
Delft is incredibly bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes and a flat landscape. Renting a bike gives you flexibility and allows you to navigate the city like a local. Many shops offer rental services, often with hourly or daily rates.
The cost to rent a bike typically ranges from €10 to €15 per day, with discounts for longer rentals. Don't forget to lock it up, as bikes are a popular target for thieves!
Public Transport
Delft's public transport system is reliable, mainly consisting of buses that connect you to nearby cities and attractions. Buses run frequently, making it easy to hop on and off as you explore.
A single bus ticket costs around €3.50, and day passes are available for €7.50. Don’t forget to check the schedule, as some routes may have limited service during weekends.
Taxi Services
If you're in a hurry or prefer door-to-door service, taxis are available. While not as common as biking or public transport, they can be booked via apps or found at taxi stands around the city.
Expect to pay around €3.50 to start plus €2.00 per kilometer. It's a convenient option, especially late at night when other transport might be less frequent.
Plan your journey
Ready-to use itineraries for Delft
Browse our itineraries and find the perfect plan for your trip!
Get to know Delft
Frequently asked questions about Delft
Can I just walk into a cheese shop and start tasting without buying?
Not unless you want to be the tourist everyone talks about. While Dutch cheese shops are indeed tempting with their samples, many places, especially in Delft, expect you to at least pretend to be interested in buying something. If you’re just there for the free samples, you might get some side-eye from the staff. Play it cool—try a few bites, ask some questions, and maybe buy a small piece of cheese to avoid the awkwardness. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy some legit Dutch cheese!
What’s the deal with the bike lanes? Can I just walk in them?
Absolutely not. You’ll get a real-life Dutch lesson in bike etiquette. The bike lanes in Delft are sacred. If you find yourself wandering into one, be prepared for a chorus of bells and possibly some colorful Dutch curses. Stick to the sidewalks, and don’t be surprised if locals give you a look that says, “What are you doing?” If you’re walking and see a bike coming, just step aside and let the cyclist pass. It’s an unspoken rule of survival here!
Is it true that the canals smell bad sometimes?
Yup, especially in summer. Bring your nose plugs! The canals in Delft can have a bit of a funky smell, particularly during the warmer months. It’s a mix of algae and the occasional unfortunate fish. If you’re sensitive to smells, you might want to avoid lingering too close during peak summer. But hey, it’s all part of the charm, right? Just hold your breath and snap those Instagram pics quickly!
What’s the unspoken rule about tipping in cafes?
Leave some change, but don’t go crazy. In Delft, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If you’re at a sit-down café, rounding up your bill or leaving a couple of euros is a nice gesture. But if you’re just grabbing a quick coffee, don’t stress about it. The locals aren’t throwing fistfuls of cash at their baristas, so you shouldn’t feel pressured to either. Just be cool about it!
Can I get a decent meal after 9 PM, or am I doomed to snack on stroopwafels?
Good luck! It’s a culinary desert after dark. Most restaurants in Delft start closing around 9 PM, and if you’re not in the mood for a late-night stroopwafel binge, you might be out of luck. A few places might still serve food, but don’t expect a full menu. If you’re planning on late-night dining, check ahead or go for a kebab shop. They tend to stay open longer and might save your stomach from a sugar crash!
Are the local shops really closed on Sundays?
Yup, prepare for a mini heart attack. Many shops in Delft shut their doors on Sundays, and if you’ve planned a shopping spree, you’re in for a rude awakening. The grocery stores might be open for a few hours, but if you’re looking for souvenirs or local crafts, you’ll need to adjust your schedule or face a day of window shopping. It’s a quaint tradition, but it can be a real buzzkill if you’re not prepared!
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