Delft’s historical tours offer a window into Holland’s Golden Age. The city’s compact medieval core makes it perfect for walking explorations.
The best-value option is the self-guided GPS audio tour, letting you stop and linger at your own pace. For water-level perspectives, I love the 90-minute canal cruises – they give you the best angles of the city’s preserved merchant houses and bridges.
Walking tours led by local guides are particularly engaging, especially through the Old Church quarter and past Vermeer’s old haunts.
At Christmas time, the seasonal walking tours become magical with stops at illuminated historic sites.
For those seeking historical accuracy mixed with entertainment, the guided city walks earn my top recommendation. Joining a small group keeps things intimate and allows for better interaction with guides.
Let’s look at the essential tours worth your time in Delft.
Key Points
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The Delft: Historical Walking Audio Tour offers a self-guided exploration of iconic landmarks at a flexible pace, providing informative commentary through a GPS-enabled audio guide.
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The Delft: Vermeer History Open Boat Cruise is a 1.5-hour boat experience showcasing the city’s highlights, suitable for art enthusiasts with a 4.8/5 rating from 17 reviews.
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The Charms of Dutch Heritage Delft Walking Tour focuses on the cultural richness and historical significance of Delft, including guided visits to Museum Prinsenhof and Old Church.
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The Delft: Private Historical and Cultural Guided Walking Tour provides a 2.5-hour private tour exploring iconic landmarks, with availability in multiple languages.
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The Enchanting Delft Christmas Walk With Historic Market Square offers a 2-hour guided walk showcasing the city’s Christmas atmosphere, including stops at Markt Square, New Church, and Old Church.
Delft: Historical Walking Audio Tour on Your Phone (ENG)
Explore Delft’s captivating history at your own pace with the Delft: Historical Walking Audio Tour on Your Phone (ENG). This self-guided tour allows you to discover the city’s rich past and iconic landmarks, such as the Royal Delft ceramic workshop and the New Church, at your convenience.
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours and costs $20.03 per person.
Enjoy Delft’s cultural heritage as you follow the GPS-enabled audio guide, which provides informative commentary on the city’s architecture, art, and history. The tour can be accessed anytime, giving you the flexibility to explore Delft at your own rhythm.
Whether you’re interested in Vermeer’s legacy or the city’s role in Dutch history, this audio tour is an affordable and convenient way to gain a deeper understanding of Delft’s remarkable past.
Read our full review: Delft: Historical Walking Audio Tour on Your Phone (ENG) Review
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Delft: Vermeer History Open Boat Cruise
Enjoy the captivating history of Delft’s most renowned artist, Johannes Vermeer, with the Delft: Vermeer History Open Boat Cruise.
This 1.5-hour open boat experience allows you to see the city’s highlights from the water and learn about the famous painter’s life and work.
Priced at just CZK 2,010 for a group of up to 8 participants, this tour offers exceptional value. You can reserve your spot now and pay later, with the added flexibility of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Climb aboard the electric sloop, Canal Hopper, and take in the picturesque scenery as you explore the city where Vermeer lived, worked, and ultimately passed away.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from 17 reviews, this tour is a must-do for any art enthusiast or history buff visiting Delft.
Discover the city’s timeless beauty and the lasting impact of Vermeer’s artistic legacy during this immersive and enjoyable experience.
Read our full review: Delft: Vermeer History Open Boat Cruise Review
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Charms of Dutch Heritage Delft Walking Tour
Set out on a captivating 2-hour walking tour through the charming city of Delft, where you’ll uncover the cultural richness and historical significance of its renowned landmarks. Priced from €9,826 for up to 4 participants, this private group experience showcases the best of Delft’s Dutch heritage.
Beginning at the Museum Prinsenhof Delft, you’ll explore the past with guided tours of the Old Church, Papenstraat, Stadhuis Delft, and the Markt. Admire the architectural marvels and learn about the historical importance of these sites.
Wander through the enchanting canals of Oude Delft, taking in the charming streets and lively market squares. The tour includes entrance fees to the Museum Prinsenhof Delft and the Old Church, ensuring a comprehensive experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the ability to reserve now and pay later, this Charms of Dutch Heritage Delft Walking Tour offers a hassle-free way to explore the city’s rich heritage.
Read our full review: Charms of Dutch Heritage Delft Walking Tour Review
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Delft: Private Historical and Cultural Guided Walking Tour
Dive into the rich history and cultural heritage of Delft with this captivating 2.5-hour private walking tour. Priced at €110 per person, this excursion offers an intimate exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks, from the Mausoleum of William of Orange to the charming courtyards and historic bridges.
Discover the legacy of Dutch artist Johannes Vermeer and witness a master painter at work. Along the way, you’ll encounter the medieval square, the towering city town hall, and the ancient church and Prince’s Court.
The tour is available in a range of languages, including English, Dutch, German, French, Spanish, and Japanese, ensuring an immersive experience for all.
With a flexible booking policy and a free cancellation option up to 24 hours in advance, this private tour provides the perfect opportunity to explore Delft’s rich tapestry of history and culture at your own pace.
Read our full review: Delft: Private Historical and Cultural Guided Walking Tour Review
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Enchanting Delft Christmas Walk With Historic Market Square
Adorned in the warm glow of twinkling lights, Delft’s enchanting streets beckon you to explore its captivating Christmas atmosphere on this 2-hour guided walk.
Priced from $509.27 for up to 4 participants, this private tour showcases the city’s historic gems, including the Markt Square, New Church, Old Church, Museum Prinsenhof Delft, and Oostpoort.
You’ll enjoy 10-15 minute guided tours at each key stop, enjoying the festive vibes and Dutch heritage stories. The tour culminates at the Beestenmarkt, the perfect spot to indulge in seasonal drinks.
With a professional local guide leading the way, you’ll wander through Delft’s beautifully lit historical sites, experiencing the city’s iconic churches and Christmas charm.
Offering flexible travel plans and easy booking options, this enchanting Christmas walk is an ideal way to discover Delft’s captivating holiday delights.
Read our full review: Enchanting Delft Christmas Walk With Historic Market Square Review
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Recap
Delft offers a variety of historical tours that provide insights into the city’s rich heritage. Explore the Vermeer legacy, discover Dutch culture, and learn about Delft’s enchanting atmosphere. Whether you prefer a self-guided audio tour or a private guided walk, there’s an option to suit your interests and schedule. Explore Delft’s captivating history and uncover the charms of this remarkable Dutch destination.