MUSEUMS IN Delft
Things to do in Delft
Museum Prinsenhof Delft is housed in the former St Agatha’s Convent. William of Orange spent his final years here and was assassinated by Balthasar Gerards in 1584. The Murder Hall recalls that event. The museum’s collection also tells the stories of Delft Blue, Delft’s painters and the city’s history.
Museum Prinsenhof Delft is closed for renovation.
- See the Delft Masters.
- Follow the story of the House of Orange.
- Learn about Delft Blue.
Royal Delft has been making Delft Blue pottery since 1653. Explore the museum’s collection and see the craftsmanship and production techniques in the factory. You can also enjoy coffee or high tea in the courtyard garden. It can be busier during the tulip season; for a quieter visit, consider coming outside that period.
- Watch painters at work.
- Admire Delft Blue pottery.
- Join a painting workshop.
TU Delft’s Botanical Garden has been a centre for plant research for more than a century. Its garden and greenhouses contain a varied collection of plants, including tropical species. Late spring and summer are lovely times to explore. Bring a book or pause on a bench to enjoy the birdsong. The garden is compact and accepts the Museumkaart.
- Admire tropical plants.
- Follow a walking route.
- Enjoy activities for children.
At the Vermeer Centre Delft, discover the life and work of Johannes Vermeer. Reproductions of his known paintings introduce his subjects, techniques and distinctive use of light. There are no original Vermeer paintings on display. The included audio guide provides more background on his work and his life in Delft.
- Learn about Vermeer's techniques.
- Listen to the free audio guide.
- Browse the Vermeer souvenirs.
On the Koornmarkt stands the former home of painter and collector Paul Tétar van Elven, who lived here from 1864 to 1894. Now a museum, its furnished rooms give a sense of nineteenth-century life, alongside a collection of art and porcelain. It is a small, characterful house museum in the centre of Delft.
- Let the volunteers show you around.
- Admire art and porcelain.
- Visit this historic house.
