On my train journey from Finland to Portugal, my first longer stopover was in Delft, the hometown of the Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer. So pack your bags, put on your beret, and let’s go: here are 7 things to do in beautiful Delft, the birthplace of Johannes Vermeer!
1. Johannes Vermeer’s birhtplace
Johannes Vermeer was born in Delft in 1632. The painter spent his whole life in the city, and Delft’s beauty is reflected in his art. Visiting Delft is an opportunity to see a small piece of the world through Vermeer’s eyes, walk the same streets, and admire the same buildings that may have inspired his most famous works. Keep an eye out for the view familiar from his painting “The Little Street”: researchers have long been puzzled about where this scene captured by Vermeer might be located.
2. The birthplace of Vermeer’s famous works
Vermeer’s famous works such as “The Girl with the Pearl Earring” and “View of Delft” were also born in Delft. In 2023, there was a unique exhibition in Amsterdam where you could see almost all of Vermeer’s works under the same roof at the Rijksmuseum – if you managed to book a ticket, that is. The second-best option for getting to know Johannes Vermeer is visiting Delft, just under an hour’s train ride from Amsterdam.
Tip: I enjoyed a complimentary PR stay in Hotel Arsenaal which is a good base to explore Delft. The hotel is located in an old warehouse of the Dutch East India Company and dates from 1601.
3. Visit the Vermeer Centrum & Museum Prinsenhof
At the Vermeer Centrum in Delft, you can explore Vermeer and his work in more detail. Copies of all Vermeer’s works are hung here, and they can be viewed in chronological order with an audio guide. The exhibition space also showcases, for example, with different kinds of lamps how Vermeer used light in his works.
In Museum Prinsenhof, visitors can explore the life and times of Vermeer in Delft through objects. I loved the carpets and the kitchen ware on display, and as it is also a beautiful building, you can really sense how Delft was in Vermeer’s time!
4. Rich cultural heritage
Delft’s cultural heritage extends beyond Vermeer. Delft was an important center of trade and industry during the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century, and the city’s historic buildings and canals are evidence of its wealth and influence. Delft’s economic affluence manifests in the grandeur of its buildings, from canalside townhouses to the Oude Kerk (Old Church), where Vermeer is buried (photo below), and Nieuwe Kerk (New Church). Opposite the New Church, you’ll also spot the 17th-century Town Hall, since repaired in a Renaissance style.
5. Royal ceramics
In fact, there seems to be some kind of aesthetic magic in Delft, as, in addition to Vermeer, the city is also known for its blue-patterned Royal Delft ceramics, which have been made in the city for over 350 years. The Royal Delft Experience allows visitors to learn about the history of the pottery and see how it is made, and the Royal Delft Museum displays a collection of rare and valuable ceramics. I had an amazing visit to Roayl Delft as the old factory building is aesthetically pleasing. My favourites were seeing how the ceramics are made and painted as well as the showroom of tiles that Royal Delft used to make. There is also a serene courtyard and striking staircase, as you can see from the last photo of this post.
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6. Pretty as a picture
Delft is simply a charming city and will keep you entertained even if you decide just to stroll around. With its narrow canals, historic buildings, and lively squares, Delft is a wonderful place to wander around and enjoy the atmosphere. Visit the Markt square where you can see the New church and the Town Hall. To buy pretty souvenirs, pop into the Droom conceptstore, with a selection of beautiful homeware and jewellery. You will also spot gorgeous flower shops, charming cafés, antique shops and inviting restaurants around every corner.
7. A culinary city
Finally, Delft is a culinary paradise. Whether you’re looking for traditional Dutch cuisine or international flavours, you’ll find it here. Try HANNO – Groots café for an evening out with cocktails and food from around the globe. Or grab a bite at ‘t Postkantoor, a cosy restaurant and café located in an old Post Office. For a modern coffee break, head to Kek. Their menu includes smoothie bowls, juices and vegan treats.
While in Delft, don’t forget to try also the famous Delft blue liqueur, made from blueberries and juniper!
And here they are, the best things to do in Delft – whether you want to get into the spirit of Johannes Vermeer or just have an easygoing city break in a beautiful setting!
