💙 Discovering Delft: Blue Pottery, Market Magic & Mouthwatering Street Food

By Sandy | Timeless Travels with Sandy

Our visit to Delft was everything I hoped for—beautiful, historic, and full of surprises around every cobbled corner. This charming Dutch city is famous for its blue-and-white pottery, but it offers so much more: peaceful canals, stunning architecture, and a lively market square where locals and travelers gather to eat, shop, and soak up the sun.

We were especially blessed to spend our time in Delft with Gerda and the twins. Exploring this enchanting city with family made the experience even more meaningful. The joy and laughter of the twins, paired with Gerda’s thoughtful presence, added a warmth that made Delft feel like home.

We started our day at the Royal Delft Museum and factory, home of the iconic Delft Blue pottery. Walking through the museum, we were immersed in the centuries-old artistry that has made Delft ceramics world-renowned. Watching the artisans hand-paint intricate floral and scenic designs with that signature cobalt blue pigment was mesmerizing. I gained a whole new appreciation for the skill, patience, and tradition behind each beautiful piece.

What made our visit even more special was the temporary exhibition of works by Pablo Picasso—yes, that Picasso. Seeing his artwork showcased alongside traditional Delftware was an unexpected and fascinating blend of old and modern art. It was truly the best of both worlds.

Of course, we didn’t leave empty-handed. The museum store was a treasure trove—plates, tiles, vases, jewelry—all echoing the timeless elegance of Delft Blue. It was the perfect place to pick up a meaningful souvenir or two (or five).

Afterward, we wandered into the heart of Delft’s bustling outdoor market, held on the Markt square right beside the towering Nieuwe Kerk (New Church). The vibe was lively, with locals chatting, vendors calling out their wares, and the smells of fresh produce, flowers, cheeses, and sizzling street food in the air.

We ended the day like true locals—with a delicious helping of kibbeling and lekkerbek (battered and fried white fish) served hot and crispy, straight from the fryer. But the real magic? That garlicky dipping sauce—known as knoflooksaus in Dutch. Creamy, flavorful, and slightly addictive, it was the perfect companion to our golden bites of seafood. I still dream about it.

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🏛️ Historical and Cultural Highlights

• Royal Delft (Koninklijke Porceleyne Fles): Founded in 1653, it’s the last remaining original Delftware factory from the 17th century. The museum and factory tour provide a glimpse into traditional ceramic craftsmanship.
• Nieuwe Kerk & Oude Kerk (New & Old Church): The Nieuwe Kerk is the burial site of Dutch royalty, including William of Orange, while the Oude Kerk is known for its leaning tower and as the resting place of painter Johannes Vermeer, a Delft native.
• Market Square (Markt): One of the largest historic squares in Europe, surrounded by cafes, shops, and iconic architecture, including Delft’s City Hall. It’s also where the weekly market takes place.
• Canal Views: Like Amsterdam, Delft is laced with canals—but with fewer crowds and more of a relaxed, storybook feel.

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💡 An Interesting Fact

Delft played a central role in the Dutch Golden Age and was the home of Johannes Vermeer, the painter of Girl with a Pearl Earring. The Vermeer Centrum Delft lets you dive into his life and legacy in the very city that inspired his masterpieces.

😄 A Fun Fact

Every single Delft Blue piece is hand-painted using only one color: cobalt oxide. It looks black when applied but turns that iconic blue once fired in the kiln!

Jason and I absolutely got lost in the museum store, marveling at everything from tiny tiles to full dinner sets. No regrets—and yes, I’d do it again!

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🌍 Why Visit Delft?

Delft is a perfect blend of history, beauty, and charm. It offers the elegance of a classic Dutch canal town without the overwhelming crowds of Amsterdam. With its royal connections, artistic heritage, and laid-back market atmosphere, it’s ideal for a day trip or a peaceful overnight stay.

Whether you’re into art, architecture, shopping, or just soaking up the culture with a cone of fries and a view of a 13th-century church—Delft delivers.

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🚆 Practical Tips for Visiting Delft

Getting There:

• Delft is just a 1-hour train ride from Amsterdam or 15 minutes from The Hague or Rotterdam. The train station is a short walk from the city center.
• You can also drive or take a guided day tour from nearby cities.

When to Visit:

• Spring to early fall (April–October) is ideal. The weather is pleasant, and the market and café terraces are in full swing.
• Try to visit on Thursday or Saturday, when the weekly markets fill the town square.

Where to Stay:

Hotel Johannes Vermeer—Located in a former cigar factory, with vintage vibes and views of Delft’s old streets

For a cozy experience, book a night in a canal-side boutique hotel or family-run B&B in the historic center.

Great picks include

Hotel de Plataan Delft Centrum—Eco-friendly, quirky, and centrally located

Casa Julia—A charming and stylish small hotel near the university