16 Unforgettable Tourist Places to Visit and Things to Do in Delft, The Netherlands

November 5, 2024 Mustafa Natalwala 172 Views

Delft is a city in South Holland province of The Netherlands. The city sits between the Hague and Rotterdam. The majority of things to do in Delft revolve around history, culture, and art. It is a historic city with a rich artistic and industrial heritage. It was home to several conquerors, artists, scientists, entrepreneurs, and companies.

There are some beautiful places to visit in Delft, The Netherlands. The churches, palaces, and public buildings of the city exhibit amazing architecture. The majority of the best things to see in Delft hails from the Dutch Golden Age. You will note influence of Gothic and Renaissance styles on several of these structures.

The city is also associated with several incredible personalities. It’s history is intertwined with House of Orange-Nassau. Many of the Delft tourist attractions were built during the reign of William of Delft. He took over the city from Spanish occupation and held great influence in shaping its history and culture. The Het Prinsenhof Palace is one of the best places to see in Delft and was home to William of Orange. In fact many of the Royal family members lived in the city and were buried here.

These members have ornate tombs in grand churches which are Delft attractions in their own right. The interiors of these churches are adorned with antique woodworks and great artworks. The churches are also recognized for their spires which you would come across many times during Delft sightseeing.

The city was also home to important historical figures. This includes Jan Vermeer, Antoinne van Leeuwenhoek, Hugo Grotius, Phillipe Charles Schmerling, and Martinus Beijerinck. You can see their former residences when you visit Delft. Some of them have been converted into house museums.

Being a major industrial and trade center, the city also has a rich history of markets. Two of these still thrive and give you an exceptional local experience. Take some time to explore these markets to get local food and handicraft products during Delft travel. The blue pottery from this city is one of the most cherished souvenirs.

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Table of Contents

Top 16 Tourist Places to Visit in Delft, The Netherlands

1. De Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles

This porcelain factory is an integral part of the city’s history. Founded in 1635, this is the oldest one active of the original two. It has been in operation for more than 350 years. It is one of the best things to see in Delft, Holland.

The factory was known for the production of Delft Blue earthenware, which was quite unique. You will get to see the evolution of earthenware production during the colonial period and for centuries after that. The collection also shows some unique pieces created in this factory. You will need about an hour to tour this place when you visit Delft, The Netherlands.

I suggest you should book your Entry Ticket to the De Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles in advance.

2. Science Centre Delft

This museum focuses on research and solutions related to climate change, safety, and gaming. The museum is an extension of the research centre of the Delft University of Technology. It is one of the best things to do in Delft for families.

The museum has several workshops that showcase research projects, experiments, and technological innovations. The place has special workshops for kids. Children can make their own gliders, circuits, solar grids, and more. You can easily spend 2 hours to explore the place.

3. Botanical Garden

These gardens are home to 7000 species of plants, trees, herbs, and flowers. The gardens are spread over 2.5 hectares divided into 4 sections. It is a peaceful place to take nice walks and enjoy the beauty of nature.

It is one of the best Delft attractions for those who are interested in botany. You will see flora brought from around the world. Especially during autumn, the arboretum section becomes a colourful tapestry of flowers. You will need about an hour to explore the gardens.

4. Eastern Gate

This Gate was built during the 1400s to protect the eastern part of the city. The gate is considered one of the finest works in brick gothic architecture of northern Europe. It was one of the eight gates that protected the city.

The gate features an elaborate structure with massive doors and a drawbridge. The distinctive pointed spires give it a dominating appearance. It is one of the most important historical places to see in Delft. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to tour this historical monument.

5. Museum Paul Tétar van Elven

This museum is dedicated to the artist and copyist Paul Tetar van Elven. Aside from his own work, the museum also exhibits his collection of paintings, porcelain, and furniture. It is one of the best places to visit in Delft, Netherlands. The museum itself is held in a 16th century house which was the former residence of the artist.

Paul van Elven held a wonderful collection of porcelain, both oriental and Delftware. This museum is one of the 100 best-preserved interiors of antiques in the Netherlands. You get to experience the grandiose of the bourgeoise lifestyle during the 19th century. It takes about an hour or so to tour this museum during Delft travel.

I suggest you should book your Entry Ticket to the Paul Tétar van Elven Museum in advance.

6. Beestenmarkt

This market is housed in a former Franciscan monastery. It was built in 1449 and became a market in 1595. It was the primary market for cattle trade until 1972. It is one of the best Delft tourist attractions and an integral part of the city’s culture. In 1734, a bell was installed and it still stands. This is called the Sheep Bell to pay homage to its history.

The market now is a popular social spot full of cafes, restaurants, bars, and shops. The square is turned into an ice-skating rink during winter. It’s the place for fun things to do in Delft, Holland. You can easily spend a couple of hours here.

7. Maria van Jesse Church

This neo-gothic church was built during the 1800s. It was the first catholic church that was re-established in the center of Delft. The towers on the church’s flank represent the churches that once stood in the city: Oude Kerk and Nieuwe Kerk. The church is known for its history, architecture, and interiors. You will need 30 to 45 minutes for this church.

8. New Church

This church is the final resting place of several members of the Royal family including Queen Juliana, Prince Bernhard, and William of Orange. This church’s spire towers over the surroundings and you will spot the clock tower many times during Delft sightseeing.

The church is also known for its great interiors and antique collections. You will religious artworks as well as paintings and memorabilia related to the Royal family. One of the best things to do in Delft is to climb the 380 steps to reach the top of the tower and enjoy panoramic views of the old city. You will need about an hour to explore this church.

9. Vermeer Centre

This centre is dedicated to the life and works of Johannes Vermeer, one of the best artists in Holland. It is not an official museum but serves to showcase the works of this artist and delves into his influence over the culture.

The centre has a few of his original works and some of his unfinished creations as well. You will also get to see his studio, personal belongings, and sketches. It is one of the best Delft attractions for art admirers. You will need about an hour to explore this place.

I suggest you should get your Entrance Ticket to the Vermeer Centrum Museum in advance.

10. Markt

The history of this market dates back to the 12th century. The market has about 150 stalls and is one of the best places to visit in Delft to mingle with locals. The market sells all sorts of things from clothes, fish, vegetables, bakery goods, electric goods, local handicrafts, and more. Aside from shopping, this is also a great place for street food. You can easily spend a couple of hours here when you visit Delft, The Netherlands.

11. Delft City Hall

This beautiful building was built in the 20th century in place of a 1618 building that stood in its place. The original building was burned down. The new structure was designed in the original style by Hendrick de Kessey.

The facade exhibits Renaissance styling with ornate designs. It is one of the most beautiful things to see in Delft, Holland. The building has huge historical significance as it served several guilds and markets. You will need 20 to 30 minutes to admire the structure.

12. Old Church

The story of this church dates back to 1246. It is best known for its 75-meter-high tower. You will see this monument too several times during Delft sightseeing. It is the oldest church in the city and has undergone several revivals over the ages.

Within the church, you will see remnants of different periods. This includes 27 stained glass windows, the largest & oldest tolling bell in the country, church organs from the 1800s, and more. The interiors are also adorned with incredible artwork.

The church is also included among Delft tourist attractions for the tombs of several famous people from the city. This includes renowned painter Johannes Vermeer and scientist Anthony van Leeuwenhoek, the inventor of the microscope. You will need about 2 hours to explore this church.

If you want to more about Old Church then I suggest you should book a Half Day Guided Tour of Delft.

13. Museum Het Prinsenhof

This museum is housed in the urban palace that holds great historical significance. It is one of the best places to visit near Delft, Netherlands. The palace was the venue of success for William of Orange over the Spanish occupation in the 16th century. The palace is known for its architecture and the great history is holds.

The museum housed in the palace is dedicated to the Dutch Golden Age. It celebrates the artists and scientists from the period. It is one of the best places to see in Delft to know the country’s culture. You will need about 2 to 3 hours to explore the palace and museum.

I suggest you should get your Admission Ticket of the Het Prinsenhof Museum in advance.

14. Molen de Roos

This is the only one of the 18 windmills of Delft that still operates as a flour mill. It is also a museum dedicated to the famous windmills and their role in the culture of the Netherlands. This particular windmill dates back to 1352. It is one of the most fascinating things to see in Delft.

As an operational windmill, you get to see how these things used to work and how people worked in it. The windmill also has shops selling goods made from freshly ground flour that you can take back as souvenirs. You will need about an hour from Delft travel for this windmill.

15. Agnetapark

This park was built before the Housing Act of 1902 and was of the highest quality housing area of its time. The housing was purchased by Jacob Cornelis van Marke in 1887. He took the initiative to provide adequate housing for his workers. He believed that providing better living conditions was an investment in employees.

The tour of the complex shows you the leap that was taken by van Marke and the impact it had on society and industrialization as well. It shaped a culture by being ahead of its time in principle. You will need an hour to tour it.

16. De Delftse Pauw

This pottery factory dates back to the 17th century and is one of the only few places that still produces Delftware. It is one of the most historically significant places to visit in Delft, Holland. You will get to see how the famed pottery was created.

The pottery is still made by hand and painted by hand in this factory. You can take away unique souvenirs from here to remember Delft travel. The tour also tells you about the fame of this pottery and how its trade brought wealth to the city. You will need two hours to tour this factory.

If you are looking for more fun things to do in Delft, check out the sections below. We have listed all the attractions and activities that you can enjoy in the city and around it.

Things to do in Delft, The Netherlands

Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Delft, The Netherlands

Museum Prinsenhof
Nieuwe Church
Royal Delft Museum
Delft Old Church
Vermeer Centrum
Museum Paul Tetar van Elven
Windmill de Roos
Marie van Jessekerk
Lambert van Meerten Museum
Gemeenlandshuis
The New Church
Huygens Hofwijck
Wetlands Museum
Smalspoor Museum
Oneindig Noord
Zaans Nature and Environment Center

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Delft, The Netherlands

Delftse
Vlietland
Hollands Diep

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Delft, Netherlands

Madame de Berry’s Hidden House
Pathe Delft
Het Blauwe Hart
Filmhuis Lumen
TU Delft Hortus Botanicus
Escaperoom de Bagijnetoren
Delftse Stadsbrouwerji de Koperen Kat
Gasterji Karrewiel
De Candelaer
Potterji onder de moerbeiboom
Wilhelminapark
Formule X
Droomvlucht
Bird Roc
Zaans Nature and Environment Center

Shopping in Delft, The Netherlands

Beestenmarkt
Antiemarkt
De Hoven Passage
Markt
Oude Langendjik
De Veste
Brabantse Turfmarkt
De Zuidpoort
Nieuwe Langendijk

Beaches & Islands in Delft, The Netherlands

Stradt Kijkduin
Katwijk aan Zee Beach
Vluchtenburg Beach

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventures in Delft, The Netherlands

Hiking

Sightseeing in Delft, The Netherlands

Oospoort
Stadhuis
South Holland
Bergse Maas

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Delft, The Netherlands

Bierhuis de Klomp
De Kurk
Postkantoor
La Tasca
Groots
De Centrale
De Botanie
Lakila
Stads Koffyhuis
Loetje
Uit de Kunst
De Kleine Griek
Kobus Kuch
Delfts Brouwhuis
Kek
Bierfabriek
Eetcafe de Verbeelding
Huszar

Where to Stay in Delft?

Here we have listed Top Rated Hotels in Delft. You can check below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Delft.

Custom Tours Package in Delft

How to Reach Delft, The Netherlands?

By Air

The closest airports to reach Delft include the Amsterdam and the Hague airports. These airports receive direct flights from Europe, Asia, and North America. Both of these cities have several options for Delft travel.

By Road

You can get direct trains to visit Delft from Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Schipol, and The Hague. You can also get buses to get to this city from several towns and cities.

If you are planning to reach Delft by road, you should head for routes A4 and A13.

By Water

There are no direct water routes to reach Delft.

Image Reference

De Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles – M.Minderhoud / Wikimedia Commons
Science Centre Delft – Gerard Stolk / Flickr
Botanical Garden – Natuur12 / Wikimedia Commons
Eastern Gate – Rob Oo / Flickr
Museum Paul Tétar van Elven – Hans Splinter / Flickr
Beestenmarkt – lhongchou’s photography / Flickr
Maria van Jesse Church – Gerard Stolk / Flickr
New Church – michael kogan / Flickr
Vermeer Centre – trinchetto / Flickr
Markt – Nina Stössinger / Flickr
Delft City Hall – djedj / Flickr
Old Church – Mike McGuff / Flickr
Museum Het Prinsenhof – Luke McKernan / Flickr
Molen de Roos – Gerard Stolk / Flickr
Agnetapark – Gerard Stolk / Flickr
De Delftse Pauw – Ymblanter / Wikimedia Commons