Delft: Vermeer, Delft Blue and Canals

Church towers, history and a crooked landmark

The tower of the Nieuwe Kerk is 108.75 metres tall and the second-highest church tower in the Netherlands. Visitors can climb it, although weather and operational restrictions may affect access. Check the latest visitor information in advance. The church is also home to the tomb of William of Orange. The Oude Kerk tells a different story: it is Delft’s oldest church and is known as “Scheve Jan” because it leans over the canal on which it was built. Johannes Vermeer and Antoni van Leeuwenhoek are also buried in the Oude Kerk. So, on a visit to the city, you’ll encounter two churches whose distinctive features are connected both to their architecture and to the people Delft remembers.

Vermeer and Delft Blue up close

The Vermeer Centrum Delft is dedicated to the life and work of Johannes Vermeer and his city, across four floors. All 37 of the painter’s known works are displayed there as full-size digital reproductions in chronological order. The presentation makes it possible to view Vermeer’s entire known body of work in context. The Royal Delft Museum offers a different perspective on the city’s history: world-famous Delft Blue has been handcrafted there since 1653. At Royal Delft, visitors can also walk through the nearly 400-year-old factory. Vermeer and ceramics thus offer two different themes for a day of culture: the development of a painter and the handed-down craft tradition of Delft Blue.

Water and trails: experience Delft actively

At the Delftse Hout recreation area, you can walk by the lake, visit the beach or rent a boat. Cycling and walking trails offer another way to explore the surrounding area. The Arboretum-Heempark is located within this recreation area. At De Papaver, you can go on excursions, take part in discovery and play activities, and join special projects; programmes may change. Check access and current activities at Delftse Hout before your visit. If you’d rather experience Delft from the water, you can rent SUP boards for tours through the city-centre canals; beginner lessons are also available.

There are also different themes to explore on foot and by bike. Delft offers themed walks on the history of the House of Orange and a Delft Blue ceramics trail. A cycling route runs from Delft to Maasland and Schipluiden, passing through Delft and the Midden-Delfland meadow landscape. Each route and walk has its own focus: explore history and ceramics on a city walk, or connect Delft with the meadow landscape along the cycling route. Check the current route before setting off. The TU Delft Hortus Botanicus is a 15-minute walk from the Markt; the route passes through the historic Oostpoort gate.

Which focus suits your holiday apartment search?

Your plans for your days away can help you choose a holiday apartment in Delft. If you’d like to focus on churches, Vermeer and ceramics, the city’s historical and cultural attractions offer plenty of specific points of interest. If you’d rather make time for the water and trails, Delftse Hout, boating options and the cycling route offer other points of reference. You can also weigh up both options: a cultural day visiting churches and exhibitions on the one hand, or time by the lake or on a route on the other. As you search, consider which daily rhythm matters more to you and choose accommodation to suit the focus you want for your stay in Delft.

For the main travel overview: Delft.