Holland is not always about the windmills, or tulips, or the famous “I Am Sterdam” signage where every tourist would take photos in. It’s also about the Delfts Blauw (or the Blue Ceramic pottery) and cheese. If you happened to visit Holland one day, take a day trip to enjoy the serene atmosphere of this city in the southern part of the country, away from the hustle-bustle of Amsterdam. The following touristy places are only few steps away within the Delft Markt (market) square.
Our trip began by taking Tram 1 from Den Haag Centrum to Delft Prinsenhof for about 30 minutes. The tram passed by the Den Haag Hollands Spoor (HS), known as the oldest train station in Den Haag. When we finally arrived in Delft Prinsenhof, we should walk for another 7 minutes via the Schoolstraat and experience the peaceful canal-side area along the way to the Markt Square.
Arriving at the square area, the first building that we noticed was the Delft City Hall (Stadhuis). A mixed of red, gold and grey-ish architectural landmark was built in the 16th century. Though the Stadhuis is still occupied for offices and is not open for public, but the tourists are allowed to take pictures around the building—including the horsecar that parked in front of it. Many people were standing in front of the Stadhuis, taking their time admiring the beauty of the building’s facade that looks clearly detailed in every corner.
Stadhuis façade and the horsecar
Across the Stadhuis lies another Delft landmark, Nieuwe Kerk or the New Church. Built in the 14th century, it’s a Protestant church that widely known as a burial place for the royal family. The church tower soars high and can be seen from afar. At the top of the tower there’s a giant bell that would play music and chime loudly in every quarter an hour.
People can actually climb to the top of the tower, but we didn’t manage to do one. We suggest you to experience that—though you may have to step few steep stairs ahead!
Just a minute walk to the right side of the church is a place where we looked for the souvenirs. Rumor has it that the souvenirs’ prices in Delft are much more affordable than any other cities in Holland. Since Delft famous goods is the Delfts Blauw, there are several original Delfts Blauw shops around the Markt square that specifically sell many kinds of the ceramic pottery.
Stores and Café at the Markt Square
The Delfts Blauw isn’t just a ceramic—it has historical story that grew since the 16th century. It was first appeared to replace the expensive Chinese porcelain during that time. As the time goes by, many crafters produced the Delfts Blauw and it became the remarkable gift from Delft.
A small souvenir shop named Holland House took our attention. The various kinds of souvenirs such as postcards, fridge magnets and keychain were displayed at the front side of the shop.
As we entered the shop, we found the Delfts Blauw just in every shelf corner. From plates to teacups, to coasters, to wall hangings—various forms of Delfts Blauw you can shop ’til drop! The price starts only from 5 Euros and you can bring home a beautifully crafted Delfts Blauw plate.
Another minute walk across the souvenir shop, we stoped by to one of the famous cheeseshop in the country named Henri Willig cheese. For over than 40 years, the cheese was traditionally produced from their own dairy. Different size and flavour of solid cheese were displayed neatly in the shop. Named it Cumin, Garlic, Green Pesto, and other cheese tastes. We happened to try the Smoked Beef Jalapeno cheese—it was heavenly tasty!
After we got the ceramic pottery and the cheese in our shopping bags, we headed right away to the restaurant to have lunch. Still in the Markt square area, we had dine-in at the Het Gulden ABC. The restaurant’s famous menu is pannekoeken and poffertjes but unfortunately, we couldn’t get ones at that time. We finally ordered the ABC Burger that costs about 18 Euros.
Other reason why this restaurant is very well-known: Bill Clinton visited here many years ago and took a seat inside. Hence, his seat became a popular photo spot, too!
Our bags were packed and our stomach were fully loaded with tasteful meals. We went back to Den Haag in the afternoon. It was certainly a pleasant day trip to Delft, a peaceful city that worth to visit when in Holland. Have a safe travel!
Oke