🇳🇱 Exploring Delft - Not Just Amsterdam Has Canals in the Netherland

Last year, I was so buried in studies that I barely explored the Netherlands. This summer, I’m making up for it with sunny weekend getaways using my free travel pass, unlocking a new city every week. This week: Delft ✨. With its summer charm, this city left a great impression—like a quieter, slower, and more relaxed version of Amsterdam, with all the classic Dutch canal scenery. No wonder it’s the serene hometown immortalized in Vermeer’s paintings. I’m usually half-dead during work/study mode, but instantly recharge for adventure. At first, I thought Delft was tiny—maybe a quick 2-hour visit before heading elsewhere. But I ended up staying almost a full day, wandering without a single dull moment. Walking Route 🚶‍♀️ 1️⃣ Oude Kerk (Old Church) A peaceful church by the canals, where Vermeer is buried. 2️⃣ Markt Square & Nieuwe Kerk (New Church) A lively square with cafes and summer vibes. The New Church is stunning—home to the Dutch royal family’s burial vaults. Opposite is the red-brick City Hall (Stadhuis) with gorgeous limestone carvings. 3️⃣ Oude Delft Canal Street & Strolling Walk along the canals, passing cute bridges and a weekend waterside market (flowers, ceramics, crafts). 4️⃣ Molen de Roos (Windmill) My first proper Dutch windmill visit! It’s free to climb up and see the flour-grinding mechanisms. The view from the top? A sea of rooftops and winding canals. ☕ Bonus: The café inside has delicious, not-too-sweet desserts—perfect with iced coffee on a hot day. 5️⃣ Vermeer’s "View of Delft" Spot & Harbor Further down Oude Delft, you’ll reach the exact spot Vermeer painted. The harbor in summer is pure bliss—people sunbathing, boating, even swimming! 6️⃣ Royal Delft (Porcelain Factory) A short detour from the center to see the iconic blue-and-white ceramics inspired by Chinese porcelain. 7️⃣ Oostpoort (Eastern Gate) A medieval city gate, the last remaining of its kind in Delft, perfect for a final canal-side stroll. Delft is best enjoyed slowly—no rush, just wandering, stopping for drinks, and soaking in the calm. A true hidden gem! 💙 #NetherlandsTravel #SummerWanderlust #WeekendGetaway #Plog #TravelDiaries #HiddenGems #Delft #TravelGuide