Delft
A short train ride from Amsterdam is the city of Delft. Nestled between Rotterdam and the Hague, Delft is one of the most popular Dutch day trip excursions.
The city’s name comes from the Dutch word for digging. Aptly named since canals are one of the city’s highlights. The city is noted for being the birthplace of artist Johannes Vermeer, the home of the Royal House of Orange and famous Delft Blue Ceramics. Delft City Guide
Johannes Vermeer is known as one of the greatest painters of the Dutch Golden Age. He lived his whole life in Delft and very little is known of his personal life. He lived in one house throughout his life and most of his paintings have the same background, a window on the left, all having been done in one room of the house. Most of his subjects are women, focused on daily activities such as pouring milk or reading a letter. Johannes Vermeer
He is known for having painted one of the most famous artworks in history – Girl with a Pearl Earring.
One of Delft’s more notable landmarks is the tower of the New Church. By new, we mean 15th century. You can climb to the top of the tower for a great view of the city. William of Orange lived in Delft during his battles against the Spanish occupation. After his murder, he was buried in the New Church. The New Church is the final resting place for members of the Dutch Royal House.
Not to be confused with the Old Church – 13th century. It started as a wooden church in 1050 and grew into a stone building with a gothic tower. Both churches are worth the time to admire and explore history.
For me, the best way to take in the history and sites of Delft is to walk the city. Delft is one of the cities where you don’t want to be on a time schedule or run from site to site to get everything in before you leave.
The joy of Delft is the ability to wander down canal lined streets, go to city center for a coffee or traverse in an out of the many small shops taking in the sights and sounds and appreciating your surroundings.
We have been to Delft many times and the city is one of my favorite places to visit and enjoy. I feel like my head is a swivel trying to look at the small narrow houses, the dates on many buildings, the unique designs and wondering what life was like living their hundreds of years ago.
There are a number of maps you can download to your phone or use a hardcopy map of the city. Delft Walking Routes
If you’re interested in a fun day of exploring let’s start at the train station, it is a short walk to the Molen de Roos – a windmill that still grinds grain into flour. It houses a museum and its tower provides nice views of the city, Free entry.
Next you head to the Museum Prinsenhof – the museum highlights the history of the Netherlands, Delft, and of the famous blue and white pottery. It is worth a visit, inside and out. There is an entry fee.
From the Prinsenhof you can head to the Vermeer Centrum Delft – a museum displaying reproductions of Johannes Vermeer’s works and details of his lifelong residence in Delft. There is an entry fee.
Now off to Markt – Central Square. The central square is surrounded by old buildings, shops, cafes and one of the most impressive sites in Delft – City Hall. Worth spending some extra time here taking in the sights, lunch (try the Dutch pancakes) and maybe purchasing a piece of Delft blue and white pottery.
Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) is our next stop. Climb the 100-meter tower for excellent views and photo shots of the city. The entry fee covers both the new and old church.
From church to the outdoor market – Warenmarkt. A market selling food, flowers and most importantly cheese.
Beestenmarkt Square is the last stop on this little walk. The courtyard is full of outdoor seating for its many restaurants. Great place for a drink or meal. The name comes from its history as a market selling animals.
These are just suggestions for walking Delft. You can forget the map and just start exploring using your phone when necessary to walk somewhere specific. If you are staying at a local hotel or came by train, you can always, navigate back at the end of the day.
Delft is a great place to visit with the attitude, I don’t need to be at any specific place at any specific time. Walk, observe, enjoy!
Need train tickets from Amsterdam to Delft, start here – Dutch Train Lines