7 days in Delft, Netherlands: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
The charming Dutch city of Delft, famous for its picturesque canals and famous blue pottery, offers a delightful experience for those who seek a blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. Stroll down the cobblestone streets and you might just feel like you’ve stepped into a real-life postcard. As you explore this quaint city, don’t forget to visit the historic Markt Square, marvel at the stunning architecture of the Oude Kerk, Nieuwe Kerk, and enjoy the serene beauty of the canals running through the city. If you’re an art enthusiast, you’ll be thrilled to discover that Delft was the birthplace of the famous painter Johannes Vermeer.
Things to Consider Before Arriving to Delft
Rich history and stunning architecture
Charming canal-side cafés perfect for people watching
Limited nightlife options
Great for history buffs, art lovers, and couples seeking a romantic getaway
Expect to communicate mostly in Dutch or English
What to Bring with You
– Comfortable walking shoes – you’ll be exploring those charming cobbled streets
– An umbrella or light raincoat – the weather can be unpredictable
– A camera – the picturesque beauty of this city deserves to be captured
Best Time of the Year to Visit
The best time to visit Delft is in the spring and summer months, from April to September. During these months, you’ll have the best chance of enjoying sunny weather, and the blooming tulip fields nearby are a bonus.
How to Get into the City
1. **By train**: Delft is well-connected by train and can be easily reached from major Dutch cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. The train journey from Amsterdam to Delft takes around an hour, while Rotterdam and the Hague are only about 15-20 minutes away.
2. **By car**: If you prefer a road trip, the city is accessible via the A13 motorway, which connects Rotterdam and The Hague. However, be mindful that parking in the city center can be limited and can be paid for at designated spots.
7 day city guide trip to Delft, Netherlands
Day 1 – Arrival and Exploring the Old Town
Upon arriving in Delft, take a stroll through the charming old town and admire the picturesque canals and historic buildings. Visit the market square and snap a photo of the towering Nieuwe Kerk. For lunch, head to Stads-Koffyhuis for delicious Dutch pancakes. In the afternoon, visit the Vermeer Centrum Delft to learn about the famous Dutch painter, Johannes Vermeer.
Day 2 – Delft Blue Pottery and Royal Delft Factory
Start the day with a visit to the Royal Delft factory, where you can learn about the history of Delft Blue pottery and see artisans at work. Afterward, head to the Museum Prinsenhof Delft, which features paintings, artifacts, and exhibits about the history of Delft. In the evening, enjoy some traditional Dutch cuisine at Locus Publicus.
Day 3 – Day Trip to The Hague
Take a train to The Hague and visit the famous Binnenhof complex, which houses the Dutch parliament and several government buildings. Walk around the city center and visit one of the many museums, including the Mauritshuis, which features works by Vermeer and other Dutch Masters. For lunch, try some Indonesian cuisine at Garoeda.
Day 4 – Cycling Tour to the Countryside
Rent a bike and take a scenic cycling tour through the countryside around Delft. Stop by the picturesque town of Schipluiden and have lunch at ‘t Packhuys. In the afternoon, visit the Porceleyne Fles factory to learn more about Delft Blue pottery and see the beautiful pieces on display.
Day 5 – Day Trip to Rotterdam
Take a train to Rotterdam and admire the modern architecture, including the famous Cubic Houses and the futuristic Markthal. Visit the Kunsthal museum for contemporary art, and try some local craft beer at Kaapse Brouwers.
Day 6 – Canals Tour and Botanical Garden
Take a guided boat tour of the canals to see Delft from a different perspective. In the afternoon, visit the Botanical Garden in the city center. Have some savory Dutch pancakes for lunch at Kuch or try some traditional Dutch herring at Haringhuisje.
Day 7 – Visit the Windmills
Head to the outskirts of Delft and visit the charming windmills of the area. Have lunch at Molen de Roos, which offers great views of the surrounding countryside. In the evening, enjoy some live music and drinks at the cozy Bebop Jazz Cafe.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in Delft?
If you’re looking for another charming Dutch town to explore, head to Leiden, just a short train ride away from Delft. Stroll along the canals and visit the renowned Rijksmuseum Volkenkunde. Alternatively, take a train to Amsterdam, where you can explore the famous canals and museums, including the Van Gogh Museum and the Anne Frank House.
