8 Best Things to do in Delft, Netherlands, in 1 day

Introduction

Delft is one of those Dutch cities that feels like it’s been lifted straight from a painting. With its cobbled streets, leaning gabled houses, tree-lined canals, and church towers dominating the skyline, it’s a place where history is everywhere you look. Located between The Hague and Rotterdam, Delft is famous for its iconic Blue ceramics, its ties to the painter Johannes Vermeer, and its role in the Dutch royal family’s history.

It’s a city you can easily explore in a day, but spending a night here lets you slow down and enjoy its beauty without rushing. Whether you’re here to wander the markets, visit the Royal factory, climb the church tower for panoramic views, or simply sit by the canals with a coffee, Delft is one of the most picturesque stops in the Netherlands.

Don’t forget to book your accommodations in advance – the best places always fill up quickly.

Getting there

Delft is very well connected and easy to reach by train, bus, or car.

By train, it’s only about 15 minutes from The Hague and 20 minutes from Rotterdam. If you’re coming from Amsterdam, the journey takes roughly 1 hour with a direct train from Amsterdam Centraal. Delft’s train station is just a short walk from the city center, making it the most convenient option.

By car, Delft is around 60 km from Amsterdam, 10 km from The Hague, and 15 km from Rotterdam. There are several paid parking garages close to the center, such as Marktgarage and Zuidpoort Garage, which are ideal if you plan to explore on foot.

If you’re combining Delft with other Dutch cities, you can also hop on a regional bus, but trains are generally faster and more comfortable.

Check all your transportation options online — from buses to trains and ferries — it makes planning so much easier.

Moving Around

Delft is compact, so the best way to explore is on foot. Most of the main sights, canals, and squares are within a short walking distance from each other, and strolling around is part of the charm.

If you want to see more of the surrounding area, renting a bike is a great idea. The town is very bike-friendly, with plenty of cycling paths leading to nearby villages or even to The Hague and the coast.

Public transport is also available, with local buses connecting different parts of the city and its outskirts. However, for most visitors staying in the center, you won’t really need it.

Parking in the historic center is limited, so if you’re coming by car, it’s best to use one of the parking garages just outside the core, like Marktgarage or Zuidpoort Garage, and explore the rest on foot.

Tip: Don’t forget to bring a good camera, such as the SONY A7 — it makes all the difference for capturing those unforgettable moments.

When to Visit

Delft is charming year-round, but the experience changes quite a bit with the seasons. Whether you’re here for its flower-adorned canals, outdoor cafés, or a cozy winter escape, there’s no wrong time to visit — it just depends on what you’re after.

• Spring (March to May): Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit Delft, especially if you combine it with a trip to see the tulip fields nearby. Temperatures range from 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 63°F), and the city feels fresh and lively.
• Summer (June to August): Summer brings warmer weather, between 15°C and 23°C (59°F to 73°F). It’s the perfect season for canal-side walks, terrace cafés, and cycling trips. Expect more tourists, especially in July and August, but the city never feels as busy as Amsterdam.
• Autumn (September to November): With temperatures between 9°C and 18°C (48°F to 64°F), autumn is mild and peaceful. The tree-lined canals turn golden, making it a photogenic time to visit without the summer crowds.
• Winter (December to February): Winters are cool, with temperatures around 1°C to 7°C (34°F to 45°F). While you won’t get the flower fields, the city feels cozy with festive lights, and its museums and cafés make it an inviting winter stop.

Tip: If you want the best of both worlds — mild weather, fewer crowds, and plenty of daylight for exploring — late April to early June or September is ideal.

We usually travel with Airalo eSIMs, but when we need unlimited data for work, we go with Holafly.

Where to Stay

Delft is compact, so wherever you stay, you’ll likely be within walking or cycling distance of the main sights. You can easily visit as a day trip from The Hague or Rotterdam, but spending a night lets you enjoy the canals and market square when the day-trippers are gone.

(€) The Social Hub – A fun, modern hotel right by the train station, perfect if you’re planning day trips. Rooms are stylish, and the communal areas have a great social vibe.

(€€) Hotel Arsenaal – Set in a beautifully restored 17th-century building on the canal, this boutique hotel combines history with a contemporary touch.

(€€€) Uylenburg – Du Midi – A charming family-run guesthouse just outside the city center, ideal if you want a peaceful, homely stay surrounded by greenery.

Don’t forget to book your accommodations in advance – the best places always fill up quickly.

What to Eat

Delft doesn’t have a signature dish that stands out nationally, but it’s full of cosy cafés, bakeries, and restaurants serving Dutch classics and fresh, seasonal food.

If you have a sweet tooth, stop by a local bakery for stroopwafels or appeltaart (Dutch apple pie). For something savoury, try a broodje kroket (crispy croquette sandwich) or enjoy cheese tasting at one of the many cheese shops in town.

One spot we really loved was Kek – De Koffiebar van Delft. They serve great coffee, fresh juices, and a healthy but creative brunch menu in a relaxed, stylish setting — perfect for a late breakfast before exploring the canals.

Things to do in Delft

Visit the Nieuwe Kerk

Visit the Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), Delft’s striking Gothic-style landmark towering at 108.75 metres. Located right on the main square, it’s one of the city’s most recognisable sights. Step inside to see the royal crypt of the House of Orange-Nassau, or climb the tower for sweeping views over Delft’s rooftops and canals — especially rewarding on a clear day.

Read: All the best things to do in Amsterdam

Explore the Oude Kerk

Explore the Oude Kerk (Old Church), once the main Protestant church of Delft. Its leaning tower rises 75 metres above the ground, giving it a unique charm. Inside, you’ll find beautiful stained-glass windows and the tombs of several notable Dutch figures, including the painter Johannes Vermeer.

Admire the Stadhuis Delft

Admire the Stadhuis (City Hall) of Delft, a striking Renaissance-style building on the Markt, right across from the Nieuwe Kerk. Once the seat of the city’s government, it’s still used today for official functions and is a popular venue for civic wedding ceremonies. Its ornate façade and central tower make it one of Delft’s most photogenic landmarks.

Walk Through the Eastern Gate

Walk through the Eastern Gate (Oostpoort), Delft’s only remaining city gate, built around 1400 in the Brick Gothic style typical of northern Europe. With its twin towers and charming location by the canal, it’s a beautiful reminder of Delft’s medieval past and a great spot for photos while exploring the quieter side of town.

Enjoy Delft’s Old Centre

Enjoy wandering through Delft’s charming old centre. Stroll along the canals lined with historic houses, linger in the lively main square, and browse the boutiques for souvenirs or a wedge of Dutch cheese. The mix of cozy cafés, picturesque bridges, and small artisan shops makes it a perfect place to slow down and soak in the atmosphere.

Tip: We use the DJI Action 4 to film our vlogs — compact, durable, and perfect for capturing every adventure.

Visit Windmill De Roos

Visit De Roos, the last surviving windmill in Delft, dating back to 1679. Once used for milling grain, it still operates today and offers a glimpse into the city’s historic connection with wind power. You can even climb up for a closer look at its impressive sails and enjoy views over the city.

Visit the Royal Delft Museum

Visit the Royal Delft Museum, the last remaining 17th-century earthenware factory still in operation. Learn about the history and craftsmanship of the famous Blue pottery, watch artisans at work, and browse beautiful hand-painted pieces in the showroom.

Visit The Hague

Don’t forget to book your accommodations in advance – the best places always fill up quickly.

Delft Itinerary

Day 1

• Explore the Old Centre and stroll along the canals
• Visit Nieuwe Kerk
• Admire Stadhuis Delft
• Visit Oude Kerk
• See the Eastern Gate
• Stop by Windmill The Rose

Day 2

• Visit the Royal Delft Museum
• Take a day trip to The Hague
• Enjoy shopping and relaxing in the Markt Square before leaving

Read: All the best things to do in Amsterdam