| Laura Nieuwenhuis | |

24 hours in Delft with children - A day full of discovery, play and wonder

A city where it is easy to walk from technology to history, where your children make their own memories, run through the greenery and look at robots with big eyes? Delft is one of those cities where it's all possible. Perfect for the May holidays, but just as fun on any free day.

Morning: technology coming to life

Start your day at the TU Delft Science Centre. Here, children can not only look, but above all do. During workshops such as Techniekstudio , they playfully discover how the world of technology works.

Or would you prefer a look behind the scenes at TU Delft? You can with the Backstage Tours! Accompanied by students, you get access to places that are normally closed, hear personal stories and see how research, innovation and student life come together. During the May holidays, there are extra tours for individual visitors, with highlights such as architecture, sustainable innovations and campus secrets - fun and educational for all ages.

Afternoon: do it yourself and be amazed

After lunch in the city centre, it's time to get creative. At Royal Delft , children step into the world of iconic Delft Blue and create their own work of art.

Or head towards the Cable District Delft, where children build their own beach beast. Inspired by Theo Jansen, they see how technology and art come together. And how their own beast comes to life through the wind.

Recharge your batteries in nature

After all the impressions, it's nice to get outside for a while. At Knus you'll find just what you need: pedalos, playing in the greenery and space to let off steam. This is one of those places where you, as a parent, can really unwind.

Afternoon: strolling and discovering

Back in the city, wander along canals and small streets. And if you want to go back in time, we can recommend stepping into Winkeltje Kouwenhoven . The city's nicest and oldest shop is part of Museum Prinsenhof Delft. You will find old Dutch sweets, but also nostalgic toys, classic postcards and old-fashioned oil lamps. Feel free to step inside to soak up the atmosphere of yesteryear.

For an exciting edge to your day, visit Stadsgevangenis Het Steen. The stories about prisoners and the link to William of Orange make history here surprisingly vivid for children.

And run out of energy for strolling? Then join a canal cruise and sail past the stately canal houses and under the old arched bridges. During a canal cruise, the boatmen and guides tell various stories about Delft history, Delft Blue, Johannes Vermeer, the VOC and much more!

Evening: reminiscing together

Finish with a bite to eat by the canal. For lunch or dinner, for example, 't Postkantoor is ideal: feast on the terrace enjoying the view. In the evening, San Marco and Lakila are perfect for pizza or tapas to keep the whole family happy. Or go for Delft's most delicious pancakes. Kids tired, parents happy; just as you hope after a successful day.

Pancakes from Bombina in Delft
Why Delft works so well with children

What makes Delft special is the mix. You switch effortlessly between learning and playing, between bustle and rest. Especially during the theme year The Robots Are Coming, there is extra much to experience in terms of innovation and technology.

Whether you come in the May holidays or outside: Delft continues to surprise. Chances are that after these 24 hours you are already making plans to come back again.