Delft is a historic canal city between The Hague and Rotterdam, known for its famous painter Vermeer, Delft Blue ceramics and the House of Orange – and today home of TU Delft and a vibrant academic community.
Delft in a nutshell
Delft is a compact, picturesque town located between The Hague and Rotterdam. The historic city centre is easily explored on foot: most landmarks, cafes and canals are within a short walking distance of each other.
The city dates back to the 10th century and grew wealthy as a trading hub after a canal connection to the River Meuse was constructed. Delft later became famous for its blue-and-white earthenware, now known worldwide as Delft Blue.
Today Delft is also one of the main university cities in the Netherlands and a global hub for quantum science and technology in Europe. TU Delft – one of Europe's leading technical universities – gives the city a lively, young atmosphere with a large international student community.
- Historic canal city in South Holland
- Between The Hague and Rotterdam
- Birthplace of painter Johannes Vermeer
- Home of Delft Blue ceramics
- University city: TU Delft campus nearby
The conference venue and most recommended hotels are within walking distance of the historic market square.
City of princes, painters and porcelain
Delft's international fame rests on three pillars:
- Vermeer – Delft is where Johannes Vermeer lived and worked. His 17th-century paintings, with their characteristic Dutch light, are celebrated across the world.
- Delft Blue – local workshops developed their own style of blue-and-white ceramics, inspired by Asian porcelain and later becoming a Dutch icon in its own right.
- House of Orange – Delft is closely linked to the Dutch royal family. William of Orange led the revolt against Spanish rule from Delft and is buried in the New Church on the central square.
For practical information, maps and tickets you can visit the official tourist office VVV Delft at Delft Central Station.
- Address: Stationsplein 7, 2611 BV Delft
- Phone: +31 (0)15 215 40 52
- Website: www.delft.com
The staff can advise on attractions, restaurants, canal tours, transport and luggage storage.
Things to see and do in Delft
The conference programme will keep you busy, but if you have time before or after the sessions, Delft offers plenty to explore on foot, by boat or by bike.
OLD AND NEW CHURCH
The New Church on the market square houses the royal tombs and offers a panoramic tower view over the city. The Old Church is known for its leaning tower and as the burial place of Vermeer.
Website: oudeennieuwekerkdelft.nl
ROYAL DELFT
At Royal Delft, the city's historic earthenware factory, you can follow the full production process of Delft Blue – from design and painting to the museum collection and shop.
Address: Rotterdamseweg 196 · Website: royaldelft.com
CANALS AND BOAT TOURS
A canal tour offers a relaxed way to see Delft's historic warehouses, bridges and churches from the water. Tours typically depart from Koornmarkt and take around 50 minutes. Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) on the canals is a fun, more active alternative.
VERMEER CENTRUM DELFT
The Vermeer Centrum Delft presents high-quality reproductions of Vermeer's paintings, background on his life and working methods, and a walk that guides visitors along Vermeer locations in the city.
Address: Voldersgracht 21 · Website: vermeerdelft.nl