Delft, see and do
Delft is one of the oldest cities in The Netherlands, which was already established as early as 1246. Delft is nicknamed ‘de Prinsenstad’ (the Prince’s City), because of William of Orange, the first in the Dutch royal line, held court in Delft in the 16th century. Other famous historical figures who once lived and worked in Delft are the painter Johannes Vermeer, the inventor of the microscope Anthonie van Leeuwenhoek, and lawyer Hugo Grotius, who laid the foundations for international law.
The city has a beautiful, well-preserved, lively historical center, with characteristic canals, ancient merchant houses, old churches, and the splendid city hall, making it valued by tourists throughout the year. Visitors can choose from a variety of good-quality accommodations.
Delft is situated in the province of South Holland between the cities of Rotterdam and The Hague, in the central (western) part of the Netherlands.
William of Orange, the “father” of the Netherlands, Delft Blue a world brand and masters in innovation. Delft is creating history. Discover Delft in a beautiful monumental building.
The Vermeer Center in Delft offers an exploration through the life, work, and city of Dutch master Johannes Vermeer. Step into the 17th century and look at the images of his entire work and listen to the stories behind the world-renowned paintings.
Royal Delft, founded in 1653, is the only remaining Delft ceramics factory from the 17th century. You may discover the world of Delft Blue and you can watch how it is still authentically produced in the 21st century.
Old & New Church
In 1383 they started building the New Church, which is inextricably associated with the Dutch Royal family. Since William of Orange, all members of the royal family have been buried in the royal burial vaults in the New Church. The extraordinary beautiful grave monument of the “Father of the Fatherland” can be admired in this church.
The beginning of the oldest church of Delft traces back to the early middle ages. Around 1050, within the settlement along the “Delf” a small tuff church (12×30 meters) was found. In 1240, the church was expanded with two aisles and a choir. In 1246, Delft received city rights which is also the official “year of birth” of the Old Church.
Delft city hall is situated on the market square across from the New Church. The first building dates back to 1200 after it was renovated in 1400 AD. In March 1618 it burned down in a large city fire after which it was rebuilt based on a design of Hendrick de Keyser, an example of Dutch renaissance.
The Botanical Garden
The botanical garden of the Technical University is an oasis of calm, smell, color and quiet. It houses a voluminous collection of technical plants. Discover the world of spices, (sub)tropical fruits and organic resources.
Science Centre Delft
The Science Centre is part of Delft University of Technology and is located in the building of the old Mining Faculty from 1911. This center shows the position of technology and science in society. It is an exciting quest that has not ended yet, just like science.
Canal Cruises Delft
During a 45-minute canal cruise in the beautiful Delft canals, you get to know Delft a bit better with a view from a completely different angle. You navigate along old patrician houses, historical sites and underneath old arched bridges.