Delft

Delft is a historic city in the province of South Holland, known for its canals, brick façades and blue-and-white pottery. A convenient walk begins around Markt square: the Nieuwe Kerk and the City Hall stand at opposite ends, while streets from the old centre branch away from the square. The Nieuwe Kerk contains the burial vault of the Dutch royal family, and a monument to the humanist Hugo Grotius stands nearby. Another landmark is the Oude Kerk with its leaning tower, beside the Oude Delft canal. Bridges, courtyards and former merchant houses remain throughout the centre, so many sights can be explored on foot or from the water. Delft is associated with painter Johannes Vermeer and Prince William of Orange; Museum Prinsenhof tells part of the city’s role in Dutch history. Royal Delft introduces visitors to the local ceramic tradition: the De Porceleyne Fles manufactory has operated in Delft since 1653 and continues the craft of hand-painted pottery. Delft works well for a full day on foot. Its compact historic centre brings churches, canals, museums and ceramics together, while quieter courtyards and side streets offer a different pace from Markt. A walk along the canals is an easy way to see how water, trade and architecture shaped the city.