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Delft has been awarded Michelin stars for its historic city centre and several tourist attractions
This award underlines the exceptional charm and historical value of the city, which is known worldwide for its rich heritage and cultural attractions and thus worth a diversion to visit. These stars are awarded based on strict criteria that assess the quality and attractiveness of tourist destinations. Michelin stars are known worldwide as a recognition of excellence, both for restaurants and tourist attractions.
Nine fixed criteria
These days, the authors of the Michelin Travel Guides seek out unusual places and experiences that will make your travel experience even richer. They do so with a dose of common sense and with Michelin's fundamental principles in mind. Invariably, they strive for objectivity in assessment and homogeneity in selection. These qualities are the hallmark of the Michelin guides, a seal of approval that cannot shine better than through its stars. A star is therefore based on nine immutable criteria, guaranteeing the reader the highest reliability.
- Sense of location discovery
- Renown
- Heritage richness and value of visit
- Presence of quality labels
- Intrinsic or historical value
- Beauty and aesthetics
- Authenticity and charm
- Quality reception
- Quality of visit
The historic centre of Delft
The heart of the city has been awarded two Michelin stars. According to Michelin, a place of exceptional value, where you can feel the rich history of the Netherlands on every street corner. Stroll through centuries-old streets, admire the canals and monuments, and be surprised by the lively character of this historic city centre.
Award-winning sights - Besides the historic centre, four specific spots in Delft have been awarded one Michelin star, all of which will make your trip to Delft unforgettable.
The Nieuwe Kerk
The imposing Nieuwe Kerk on the Markt is much more than a church: it is a national monument, deeply rooted in Dutch history. Here you will find the royal tomb, where members of the House of Orange-Nassau have their final resting place. William of Orange's mausoleum is one of the highlights.
But what makes this church really worth a visit is the church tower of 108.75 metres high, the second highest church tower in the Netherlands. Those who climb the more than 376 steps will be rewarded with spectacular views over Delft, Rotterdam and, on a clear day, even The Hague and the North Sea.
The Oostpoort
around the world know the Rotterdam Gate, even though it has been gone for almost two centuries. In fact, it features prominently in the painting Gezicht op Delft (View of Delft). Back then, the structure could still be admired in all its glory. With its two turrets, the gate resembled the Oostpoort, the only Delft city gate from that time that still exists. Stroll past the beautiful Oostpoort, taking you back to the days of Vermeer.
The Oostpoort is a unique relic from the Middle Ages and Delft's only remaining city gate. Built around 1400 and later enriched with two elegant octagonal towers, this is a beautiful example of Gothic brick architecture. Oostpoort is the last remaining example of Delft's original city defences. original city gates were the only entrances to Delft and therefore well defended against intruders and enemies. This was therefore the reason why William of Orange chose Delft as his residence in 1572.
Today, the Oostpoort is a favourite photo opportunity for visitors. Surrounded by water and bridges, the structure provides a picturesque backdrop for walkers and cyclists.
Old Delft
Oude Delft is the city's oldest canal, created around the year 1100. This wide, stately canal forms Delft's historical backbone and is lined with an impressive array of monumental buildings, former monasteries and museums.
Along this canal, you will literally walk through time: from the Middle Ages to the 17th century, culminating in the view of the Oude Kerk. The Oude Delft is also ideal for a leisurely stroll, a boat trip or a photo opportunity in any season.
Museum Prinsenhof Delft
Museum Prinsenhof Delft is temporarily closed due to renovation.
Museum Prinsenhof Delft is a place where Dutch history comes to life. In this former monastery and residence of William of Orange, the Father of the Netherlands was murdered in 1584. The bullet holes are still visible in the wall.
The museum offers an impressive mix of history, art and culture. You will find exhibitions on Delftware, the 17th century and the Eighty Years' War, as well as temporary exhibitions connecting the present with the past. The monumental courtyard and the museum café complete your visit.