Discover Delft: Historic Streets, Market Square & Dutch Heritage

Set off at the Eastern Gate, the only remaining entrance of the 15th-century old city walls. The sharply pointed spires, drawbridge, moats, and arrow loopholes of the defensive brick structure make an exciting introduction to the journey through the rich history and culture of Delft.

Next, stop by the picturesque courtyard of Klaeeuwshofje, consisting of serene 17th-century peasant houses home to Catholic laywomen who devoted their lives to praying and living peacefully away from the hustle and bustle of the city center and the main road nearby, Oosteinde Street.

Continue to take a relaxing stroll through Oosteinde Street, where you can spot a wealth of lovely bridges spanning a scenic tree-lined canal and vintage-looking brick houses. The picturesque street leads you straight to the atmospheric Market Square.

The main square is one of Europe’s largest historic market sites which has hosted a traditional Thursday market offering a variety of local specialties and produce as well as regional handcrafts, most notably Delft blue pottery, since the 15th century. The aroma of fragrant flowers and freshly cooked foods, the opportunities to sample local cheese, and the lively atmosphere of bustling terrace cafes make the square the best place to watch locals in their daily lives and get immersed in the vibrant culture.

On its eastern borders, the New Church and its second highest church tower in the Netherlands looms over the square. The stunning crown-looking spire of the 14th-century church heralds its close connection with Dutch monarchies as the eternal resting place for most royal members.

Across the square prominently stands the magnificent Delft City Hall. Its mesmerizing 20th-century Renaissance façade forms a perfect architectural landscape with the opposite New Church, whereas its looming clock tower from the 13th century hides thrilling stories about historic prisons held in captivity there in the Middle Ages.

Leaving the atmospheric square, continue to stroll along scenic streets and canals of Delft and stop by the Old Church whose 75-meter-high brick tower leans up to two meters from the vertical! Dating from the 13th century, the oldest church in Delft is home to the tombs of many eminent residents, including the world-famous artist Jan Vermeer and "the Father of Microbiology", Antonie van Leeuwenhoek.

Finally, try out coffees and delicious pastries made from the freshly ground wheat flour produced by the 14th-century Windmill ‘de Roos’. The last standing windmill, which is in continuous use, of Delft gives you a glimpse into the rich culture and history of the city, a perfect end to the journey into the soul of Delft.