Delft is a city that seems to wear its history and culture with pride. Known for its famous blue Delftware, picturesque canals, and ties to historical figures like Vermeer and Hugo de Groot, it’s a place that invites curiosity. While you could simply wander its charming streets, booking a guided tour or experience adds a layer of insight and fun. Our favorites include a comprehensive full-day trip from Amsterdam that combines Delft with Rotterdam and The Hague, as well as more intimate experiences like private city walks and canal cruises. These options allow you to explore Delft’s highlights from different angles—by land, water, or on foot—bringing its stories and crafts to life.
If you’re after a deep dive into Delft’s artistic heritage, the private tour paired with beer tasting offers both culture and local flavor. For a unique perspective, the open boat canal cruise provides a relaxed way to see the city from its waterways. For lovers of craft beer, the medieval brewery visit is a cozy, flavorful adventure. Whether you’re on a tight schedule or want a more leisurely experience, Delft offers a variety of tours suited for different interests and travel styles.
Quick Overview of the Best Tours & Experiences in Delft
In this guide, you’ll find a variety of ways to explore Delft. From full-day guided tours that combine multiple cities (see From Amsterdam: Rotterdam, Delft & The Hague Guided Day Tour) to intimate private walks and specialized experiences like canal cruises and beer tastings, there’s something for all. Each offers a unique window into Delft’s culture, history, and local crafts—so read on to find your perfect match.
1. From Amsterdam: Rotterdam, Delft & The Hague Guided Day Tour
At number one, this full-day guided adventure hits the mark for travelers wanting to hit multiple highlights without the hassle of planning. For around $93, you get a 10-hour trip that takes in Madurodam, the Dutch Parliament buildings, the Peace Palace, and a cruise through Rotterdam’s busy ports. The tour stops in Delft for a guided walk that emphasizes Delftware, and the highlight is a visit to Royal Delft, where you see traditional pottery-making in action.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive itinerary, which combines city sightseeing, culture, and scenic river cruising. The guide’s local knowledge adds context to each stop, and the smooth transfers make it ideal for travelers who prefer a structured day. Reviewers appreciate the value for money and the diversity of activities, giving it a solid 4.2/5 from nearly 2,000 reviews.
Bottom Line: If you want an all-in-one day trip that covers Delft, Rotterdam, and The Hague, this guided tour is a reliable, well-organized choice.
2. Delft: Open Boat Canal Cruise with Skipper
For a relaxed and intimate way to experience Delft, this Open Boat Canal Cruise offers a one-hour ride in an electric boat with a personal skipper. With a 4.7/5 rating based on 82 reviews, it’s a hit for travelers who want to see the city from its waterways without the crowds.
What makes this experience special is its private setting—up to eight people can enjoy the beautiful Dutch canals while your skipper shares stories about Delft’s historic architecture and notable sights. It’s a perfect choice for small groups, couples, or families seeking a quiet, customized tour. The boat is electric, so it’s eco-friendly, and the relaxed pace means you can take photos, ask questions, or simply enjoy the scenery.
This cruise is especially well-suited for those wanting a more personal touch than a large group tour, and it’s a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Priced at $112 for the group, it offers excellent value for a private experience.
Bottom Line: For a peaceful, personalized water tour of Delft, this electric boat cruise is a charming and memorable option.
3. Delft: Craft Beer Tasting in Medieval Brewery with Snacks
Beer lovers will find a warm welcome at this Craft Beer Tasting in a Medieval Brewery. With a 4.4/5 rating from 73 reviews, it’s a delightful way to combine history, local brewing traditions, and casual tasting. The tour takes place in Delft’s youngest brewery, set in a historic medieval building.
You’ll sample four different craft beers, paired with Bavarian pretzels, while your host explains the brewing process and the unique qualities of each brew. The venue offers a cozy atmosphere—whether you settle in the medieval cellar, the beer garden, or near the brewery—that makes it feel like discovering a hidden treasure. Many reviewers praise the friendly service and the quality of the beers, with some mentioning the pretzels could be a bit softer but still enjoyable.
This experience is perfect for a relaxed afternoon, especially if you’re interested in Dutch brewing or want a low-key social outing. Pricing varies, so check availability for specific times.
Bottom Line: If you’re curious about how Dutch craft beers are made and want a cozy setting with tasty snacks, this beer tasting delivers a memorable taste of Delft’s brewing culture.
4. Private Tour of Delft + Beer Tasting
For those who prefer a tailored experience, this Private Tour of Delft + Beer Tasting is hard to beat. With a 5/5 rating, it offers a fully customized 3-hour journey through Delft led by a passionate local guide.
You’ll explore the city’s Vermeer connections, Grotian history, and William of Orange’s influence, all while tailoring the route to your interests. After the walking tour, the group heads to a local brewery, Delfts Brouwhuis, for a beer tasting session that lasts about an hour. It’s a great way to combine cultural learning with flavorful tasting, all in a relaxed, private setting.
The guide provides useful tips about local spots, and the private nature means you can ask plenty of questions. Although the price isn’t listed, the personalized approach offers excellent value for travelers who want an in-depth, flexible experience. Perfect for small groups or couples wanting a special day.
Bottom Line: A private, in-depth exploration of Delft paired with local brews—ideal for those seeking a personalized and immersive experience.
5. Delft and Volendam: Cheese, Clogs & Windmills (Small Group)
This full-day adventure combines Delft’s medieval charm with the colorful fishing village of Volendam. For $163 per person, you’ll explore hidden Dutch treasures, including a cheese farm, traditional clog-making, and a visit to windmills—not the Zaanse Schans, but historic ones nearby.
The tour starts at Central Amsterdam and drives about 45 minutes to the cheese farm, where you’ll see a private demonstration of how Dutch cheese and clogs are made. Afterwards, you’ll have time to explore Volendam, famous for its picturesque harbor and traditional costumes. The afternoon includes a scenic drive through the Dutch countryside, stopping in Delft for guided sightseeing and free time.
This tour suits travelers who want to see more than just Delft—those interested in authentic Dutch crafts, rural scenery, and small towns. The combination of cheese tasting, clog-making, and windmill visits offers a well-rounded cultural experience. Reviews are positive, emphasizing the intimate group size and local charm.
Bottom Line: For a day that mixes Delft with other authentic Dutch experiences, this small-group tour offers a well-rounded culture.
6. Delft: Hugo de Groot Walking Tour
The Hugo de Groot Walking Tour is perfect for history buffs interested in Delft through the eyes of one of its most famous legal scholars. The 1.5-hour guided walk starts at Hugo Grotius’ statue and takes you through Delft’s streets, telling stories from the 16th and 17th centuries.
The tour offers a coherent storyline, blending history, anecdotes, and insights about Delft’s past. The guide’s storytelling makes the city come alive with tales of Hugo de Groot’s legal battles, Dutch independence, and Delft’s role in European history. It’s a more focused and educational experience, ideal for travelers who enjoy narrative-driven tours. While reviews don’t list a rating, the price point ($14) makes it an affordable way to get a quick, enriching overview.
This tour is best suited for those who want to deepen their understanding of Delft’s historical figures and enjoy storytelling that binds the city’s past to its present.
Bottom Line: A short but engaging tour that brings Delft’s history to life through the legendary Hugo de Groot’s perspective.
How to Choose Your Perfect Delft Experience
When picking your ideal tour in Delft, consider your interests and schedule. Want a comprehensive day? The From Amsterdam: Rotterdam, Delft & The Hague Guided Day Tour offers a full itinerary. Prefer something relaxing? The Canal Cruise provides a peaceful water perspective. If local craft and food are your focus, the beer tasting or private beer tour might suit you better.
Budget-wise, the walking Hugo de Groot tour stands out as an affordable way to learn about Delft’s history. Meanwhile, the small-group trip to Delft and Volendam is perfect if you want to combine Delft with other Dutch highlights. Think about how much time you want to spend, your physical activity level, and whether you prefer guided storytelling or a more self-led experience.
Booking early is advisable, especially in high season, to secure your preferred times and availability. Check each tour’s details and reviews to ensure it matches your expectations.
Final Thoughts
In Delft, there’s a diverse range of tours that cater to history lovers, craft enthusiasts, foodies, and waterway admirers alike. For a rundown, the full-day Amsterdam trip offers a seamless introduction to the region. If you prefer a more relaxed, intimate experience, try the private beer tasting or the canal cruise.
No matter which experience you choose, Delft’s enchanting streets, storied canals, and local flavors promise a memorable addition to your Dutch itinerary. Book early, plan your interests, and get ready to enjoy this charming city to the fullest.