Delft: 2-Hour Christmas Walking Tour

Delft, a picturesque Dutch city, transforms into a winter wonderland during the Christmas season. Join a 2-hour walking tour and discover the enchanting charm that awaits. Explore the festive markets, brimming with local treats and handcrafted gifts. Uncover the city’s rich history and traditions as you stroll through the historic Main Square and marvel at the stunning New Church. Delight in the aromas of mulled wine and oliebollen, while navigating Delft’s winding streets and hidden gems. This immersive experience promises to leave you captivated, eager to delve deeper into the holiday spirit of this remarkable destination.

This experience made our list of the 10 Best Walking Tours In Delft.

Good To Know

• Explore the festive Delft Christmas market, immersing in the local culture and sampling traditional Dutch treats like mulled wine and stroopwafels.
• Visit the iconic 15th-century New Church, known for its towering Gothic-style steeple and serving as the final resting place for prominent historical figures.
• Discover the historical significance of Delft’s Main Square, which has been the heart of the city for centuries and witnessed key events.
• Venture through charming alleyways, quaint courtyards, and lesser-known attractions to uncover Delft’s hidden gems and enchanting ambiance.
• Experience the vibrant local traditions and legends, including the "Delft Christkind" and festive carol concerts at the New Church.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring Delft’s Christmas Market

The Christmas market in Delft is a captivating highlight of the tour, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s festive traditions.

Strolling through the market, guests will discover an array of local vendors selling traditional Dutch treats, handmade crafts, and unique gifts. The air is filled with the enchanting scents of mulled wine, freshly baked stroopwafels, and other seasonal delights.

Visitors can enjoy the lively atmosphere, interacting with friendly locals and sampling the vibrant culinary offerings.

Beyond the market, the tour also explores the city’s charming streets, where guests can admire the historic architecture and uncover hidden gems that embody Delft’s Christmas spirit.

Discovering the New Church

Visitors on the Delft Christmas Walking Tour begin their journey at the city’s iconic New Church, a towering landmark that dominates the Main Square.

Dating back to the 15th century, the Gothic-style church is renowned for its magnificent steeple, which rises 315 feet into the air.

As the guide leads the group inside, they’ll admire the intricate vaulted ceilings, ornate pulpit, and stunning stained-glass windows.

The church also serves as the final resting place for several prominent historical figures, including the Dutch royal family.

Throughout the tour, the guide shares fascinating stories and legends about the church’s history and significance to the community, providing insight into Delft’s rich cultural heritage.

History of the Main Square

After exploring the New Church, the tour group then turns its attention to the history of Delft’s Main Square.

The Main Square has been the heart of the city for centuries, serving as a hub for commerce, politics, and community gatherings. The guide explains that the square’s distinctive architecture, with its mix of Renaissance and Baroque styles, reflects Delft’s long and storied past.

As the group wanders through the square, they learn about its role in key events, such as the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule and the city’s golden age of trade and innovation.

The guide’s insights bring the square’s rich history to life, leaving the group with a deeper appreciation for this iconic Delft landmark.

Hidden Gems of Delft

Oftentimes, the tour group veers off the beaten path to explore Delft’s hidden gems – charming alleyways, quaint courtyards, and lesser-known attractions that beckon visitors to linger and savor the city’s quieter charms.

One such gem is the Beestenmarkt, a tranquil square surrounded by historic buildings and home to an array of specialty shops and cafes.

Another is the Oostpoort, a 15th-century city gate that offers stunning views of the city’s canals and rooftops.

The tour also takes guests through the Bagijnhof, a serene religious community with a well-preserved medieval atmosphere.

These hidden pockets provide a respite from the bustling market and allow travelers to enjoy Delft’s enchanting ambiance.

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Local Traditions and Legends

Enchanting Christmas legends and traditions captivate visitors as they stroll through Delft’s historic streets.

Your guide will share the age-old tale of the "Delft Christkind," a benevolent Christmas spirit that brings joy and gifts to well-behaved children.

You’ll also learn about the city’s beloved Christmas market, where locals gather to indulge in rich oliebollen (deep-fried doughnuts) and browse handcrafted ornaments and trinkets.

Explore hidden alleyways adorned with twinkling lights, and stop to admire the grand façade of the iconic New Church, which hosts festive carol concerts during the holiday season.

Enjoy Delft’s vibrant yuletide traditions and uncover the enchanting legends that have been passed down through generations.

Handcrafted Gifts and Treats

Visitors to Delft’s Christmas market can’t resist the temptation of the vibrant stalls showcasing an array of handcrafted gifts and treats. From intricate wooden carvings to delectable baked goods, the market offers a delightful shopping experience. Peruse the stalls and find unique ornaments, cozy knitted scarves, and artisanal cheeses. Indulge in traditional Dutch holiday treats like warm oliebollen (deep-fried dough balls) and freshly roasted chestnuts. The market’s festive atmosphere and the opportunity to interact with local artisans make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking authentic, one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Item	Description	Price
Wooden Carvings	Intricate figurines and ornaments	€10 – €25
Knitted Scarves	Cozy and colorful designs	€15 – €30
Artisanal Cheeses	Variety of local dairy products	€5 – €15 per wheel
Oliebollen	Traditional Dutch holiday treats	€2 – €3 each
Roasted Chestnuts	Warm, freshly roasted	€3 – €5 per bag

Navigating Delft’s Winding Streets

Delft’s historic city center boasts a charming labyrinth of winding streets and alleyways that beckon exploration.

As you navigate these quaint thoroughfares, you’ll encounter:

1. Picturesque brick buildings adorned with gabled roofs and ornate facades, each one unique and captivating.

2. Cozy cafés and local shops tucked away, offering a glimpse into Delft’s vibrant community and traditions.

3. Hidden courtyards and tranquil squares that provide a respite from the bustling streets, allowing you to soak in the city’s serene ambiance.

These meandering paths invite you to slow down, discover unexpected delights, and learn about the enchanting atmosphere that defines Delft’s historic charm during the Christmas season.

Tour Inclusions and Logistics

The Delft Christmas Walking Tour includes a professional guide who will accompany participants throughout the 2-hour experience. Pickup and drop-off at hotels are provided, ensuring a seamless journey. However, the tour does not include food or drinks, allowing guests to explore the local Christmas market and indulge in traditional treats at their own pace.

Key Details	Information
Duration	2 hours
Price	From $874.98 per group (up to 10 participants)
Language	English
Group Type	Private
Cancellation Policy	Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Guests can reserve their spot with no upfront payment and enjoy the flexibility to cancel their tour up to a day before the event for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The cancellation policy for this tour allows participants to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility and ensures that travelers can plan their trip without risk of losing their payment.

Can I Request a Tour in a Different Language?

Yes, guests can request a tour in a different language. The tour company offers the walking tour in English, but may be able to accommodate other language requests depending on availability of guides.

Is This Tour Suitable for Children?

The walking tour is suitable for children, as it features highlights like exploring a local Christmas market and learning about Christmas legends and myths. However, the tour duration may be long for some younger participants.

Are There Any Discounts Available for This Tour?

The tour offers discounts for larger groups and children under 12. Plus, there are free cancellation policies and no upfront payment required to reserve a spot, providing flexibility for customers.

Can I Customize the Itinerary for My Group?

This tour offers a private experience, so customers can typically customize the itinerary to their group’s interests. Guests should check with the tour provider about the flexibility to adjust the route and focus areas.

The Sum Up

Delft’s Christmas walking tour offers a delightful immersion in the city’s festive traditions. Stroll through the lively markets, admire the stunning New Church, and uncover hidden gems while savoring local treats. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore Delft’s rich history and vibrant holiday spirit, making for an enchanting and memorable experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: