More about Delft
Discovering Delft: Fun Facts and Reasons to Visit
Delft is a charming city located in the province of South Holland, Netherlands. Known for its picturesque canals and historic architecture, Delft is a popular destination for travelers seeking a quintessential Dutch experience. Here are some fun facts and reasons why you should add Delft to your travel bucket list.
Did you know that Delft is the birthplace of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer? You can visit the Vermeer Centrum Delft, a museum dedicated to the artist's life and works, and see some of his most celebrated paintings, including "Girl with a Pearl Earring."
Aside from Vermeer, Delft is also home to the Technical University of Delft, one of the oldest and most prestigious technical universities in the Netherlands. The university's Faculty of Aerospace Engineering is particularly renowned for its research and innovation in the field of aviation.
But perhaps the biggest draw of Delft is its rich history and culture. The city was a prominent center of trade and commerce during the Dutch Golden Age, and its historic city center is filled with stunning examples of Dutch Renaissance architecture. The Nieuwe Kerk (New Church), for instance, is a must-visit attraction, not only for its beautiful Gothic architecture but also because it houses the tombs of members of the Dutch royal family.
Getting to Delft: Your Ultimate Travel Guide
Delft is conveniently located between two major Dutch cities, The Hague and Rotterdam, making it easily accessible by train, bus, or car. If you're flying in, the nearest airport is Rotterdam The Hague Airport, which is about 15 kilometers away from Delft.
From Rotterdam The Hague Airport, you can take a direct bus to Delft, which takes around 25 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the train from Rotterdam Central Station to Delft, which takes about 15 minutes. If you're coming from Amsterdam, you can take the train from Amsterdam Central Station to Delft, which takes around 1 hour.
Once you're in Delft, you can easily explore the city on foot or by bike. The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, and there are plenty of bike rental shops around if you want to experience the city like a local.
Top Things to Do in Delft: Exploring the City's Hidden Gems
Delft may be a small city, but it's packed with interesting things to see and do. Here are some of the top attractions and hidden gems that you shouldn't miss:
- Royal Delft: This is the only remaining factory that produces the famous blue-and-white Delftware, a type of pottery that has been made in Delft since the 17th century. You can take a tour of the factory and see how the pottery is made, or visit the museum to learn more about the history and art of Delftware.
- Markt: This is the main square in Delft and is surrounded by historic buildings, including the Nieuwe Kerk and the Town Hall. The square is also home to a weekly market, where you can find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.
- Oostpoort: This is one of the few remaining city gates of Delft and is a great example of Dutch Renaissance architecture. You can climb to the top of the gate for a panoramic view of the city.
- Botanical Garden: This hidden gem is located behind the university's Faculty of Architecture and is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city. The garden features a variety of plants and trees, as well as a small pond and a greenhouse.
Why Book Your Delft Hotel with Agoda.com
If you're planning a trip to Delft, booking your hotel with Agoda.com is a smart choice. Agoda.com offers a wide range of hotels in Delft, from budget-friendly options to luxurious boutique hotels. With Agoda.com, you can easily compare prices, read reviews from other travelers, and book your hotel with confidence.
Agoda.com also offers a Best Price Guarantee, which means that if you find a lower price on another website, Agoda.com will match or beat that price. Plus, Agoda.com's 24/7 customer service ensures that you have support whenever you need it, whether you have a question about your booking or need help with your travel plans.
The Best Time to Visit Delft: Seasonal Highlights and Events
Delft is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and interests. Here are some seasonal highlights and events that you might want to consider when planning your trip:
- Spring (March to May): This is the best time to see the famous Dutch tulips in full bloom. Keukenhof, one of the world's largest flower gardens, is located just a short drive from Delft and is a must-visit attraction during this season.
- Summer (June to August): This is the peak tourist season in Delft, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor events and festivals. The Delft Chamber Music Festival, held in July, is a popular event that attracts music lovers from around the world.
- Fall (September to November): This is a great time to visit Delft if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy cooler weather. The city's museums and galleries also offer a variety of exhibitions and events during this season.
- Winter (December to February): Delft is especially charming during the winter months, with festive decorations and cozy cafes and restaurants. The Christmas market in December is a highlight, with stalls selling traditional Dutch treats and gifts.
Travel Tips for Your Delft Adventure: Do's and Don'ts
Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your Delft adventure:
- Do bring comfortable shoes: Delft is a walkable city, and you'll be doing a lot of walking if you want to explore its many attractions. Make sure to bring comfortable shoes that can handle cobblestone streets and uneven terrain.
- Don't forget to try the local food: Delft has a rich culinary scene, with plenty of restaurants and cafes serving traditional Dutch dishes, as well as international cuisine. Don't miss out on trying some of the city's specialties, such as stroopwafels (thin waffles with syrup filling) and haring (raw herring).
- Do visit the museums: Delft is home to several museums and galleries that showcase the city's art, history, and culture. Make sure to visit the Vermeer Centrum Delft, Royal Delft, and Museum Prinsenhof Delft, among others.
- Don't forget to bring a camera: Delft is a photogenic city, with plenty of picturesque canals, historic buildings, and charming streets. Make sure to bring a camera or smartphone to capture your favorite moments.
Where to Stay in Delft: A Guide to the City's Neighborhoods
Delft has several neighborhoods that offer different types of accommodations and atmospheres. Here are some of the most popular neighborhoods to stay in:
- City Center: This is the heart of Delft and is home to many of the city's top attractions. There are plenty of hotels and guesthouses in this area, ranging from budget-friendly options to luxurious boutique hotels.
- TU Delft: This neighborhood is located near the university and is popular among students and budget travelers. There are several budget-friendly hotels and hostels in this area, as well as some apartments and guesthouses.
- Buitenhof: This neighborhood is located just outside the city center and is a quieter and more residential area. There are several mid-range and upscale hotels in this area, as well as some guesthouses and apartments.
Tasting Delft: Must-Try Local Food and Drinks
Delft has a rich culinary scene, with plenty of traditional Dutch dishes and international cuisine. Here are some must-try foods and drinks in Delft:
- Stroopwafels: These thin waffles with syrup filling are a Dutch specialty and are available in many cafes and bakeries in Delft.
- Haring: This raw herring is a popular snack in the Netherlands and is often served with onions and pickles.
- Jenever: This is a Dutch gin that is often flavored with juniper berries and other botanicals. You can try different types of jenever at many bars and cafes in Delft.
- Poffertjes: These small, fluffy pancakes are a popular Dutch dessert and are often served with butter and powdered sugar.
Getting Around Delft: Transportation Options and Tips
Delft is a small city that is easy to explore on foot or by bike. However, if you need to travel further, here are some transportation options:
- Bus: There are several bus lines that connect different parts of Delft, as well as nearby cities and towns.
- Train: Delft has a train station that connects the city to other major Dutch cities, such as Rotterdam and Amsterdam.
- Bike: Delft is a bike-friendly city, with plenty of bike rental shops and bike lanes. Renting a bike is a great way to explore the city like a local.
- Taxi: There are several taxi companies in Delft that offer services for short and long distances. However, taxis can be expensive, so make sure to check the prices before you book.