Delft is a charming place full of history, just a few kilometers from Amsterdam.

Today, I'm going to tell you all about this unique place in the world.

Delft near Amsterdam: article summary

What are Delft's specialities?

Delft is best known for its famous "Delft blue" ceramics. You probably know them by sight, even if you've never heard of it before.

The Delft pottery style is derived from traditional Chinese porcelain, imported to Europe by the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century.

The Royal Delft Museum is a great place to see how pottery is made with a tour of the factory, and even buy some ceramics for yourself if you've got room in your luggage!

Where can I see pottery in Delft?

There are two ways to see pottery in Delft. The first option is the most official and straightforward, but you'll have to go out of town for it.

You can take a tour of the Delft factory by visiting Royal Delft, a 17th-century factory that still produces the famous Delft blue pottery.

A visit to the museum includes a tour of the factory, and the gift store is a great place to buy unique, authentic souvenirs.

To get there from Delft's main railway station, you'll need to call a cab, or use the Delft City Shuttle.

If you don't have the time, or if you'd rather skip the visit to the Delft factory and museum, you can stick to the main part of town, where you'll find countless stores selling the famous Delft blue pottery.

Is Delft worth a day trip?

Yes, it's definitely worth taking a day trip from Amsterdam to Delft.

I think it's so important to visit more than just the main cities a country has to offer.

Delft is definitely at the top of my list. My advice would be that if you spend more than four days in Amsterdam, it's worth spending one in Delft.

How far is it by train from Delft to Amsterdam?

Delft is about an hour's train ride from Amsterdam, departing from the main station Amsterdam or Sloterdijk station. You can also take the train from Schiphol airport.

There are several trains every day, so you shouldn't have any problems, but I still recommend that you plan ahead. to make sure you know which train to take!

The best things to do in Delft from Amsterdam

Of course, if you're ever in Delft, there's plenty to see and do.

Visit the main tourist sites

Delft is quite small, so it's not that difficult to see most of it in a few hours.

Oude Kerk is the old church and well worth a visit, as it is visually quite amusing. The spire of the church is leaning in a very pronounced way. This is something that you won't find anywhere else.

Delft's smallest house is also a funny thing. It's on the main itinerary of the boat tour.

The Markt Center is where you'll find both Delft's town hall, a magnificent Renaissance building, and the Nieuwe Kerk, the new church you can climb up to. for the best view from the heights.

Take a stroll through the picturesque streets

One of the main things to do in Delft is undoubtedly to wander the streets and canals. I think there's no better way to familiarize yourself with a new place than simply wandering around without a destination and seeing what you discover!

Delft is pretty small, so it's a pretty manageable task and fortunately, you'll find it hard to get lost here.

You can see the main city center, where the canals are small and picturesque, although a walk along the main Oostsingel canal on a late summer's evening is a must. can also be very peaceful.

Visit the Royal Delft Factory

The Royal Delft Museum is the place to see Delft's famous blue pottery up close. A visit to the Delft factory is probably one of the best-known things to do in Delft.

The museum is housed in an almost 400-year-old factory and is dedicated to the production and craftsmanship of the work. Visit the museum to discover the complete history of Delft earthenware and find out how it's still made today.

After visiting the museum, you can enjoy lunch at the restaurant La Brasserie 1653, located in the building. The dining room offers a magnificent view of the garden, and is open all year round, with a superb terrace during the summer months.

You can also visit and eat at the restaurant without visiting the museum.

Visit the Vermeer Museum

At the Vermeer Centrum Delft, you can discover the life and work of Delft's most famous painter, Johannes Vermeer. The museum is easy to find. It's right in the center of town, just off the main square.

The museum offers a visual journey through the life, work and city of Johannes Vermeer, but it should be noted that there are no original Vermeers in the museum. This is a museum dedicated to the artist's life, rather than the art itself.

Take a walking tour of Delft

If you're more of a walking enthusiast and don't fancy the idea of a boat trip, I'd recommend take a walking tour of Delft.

A walking tour is always a good way to familiarize yourself with a new place, as it makes it easier to find your way around. See the city and relax in Delft's beautiful streets.

Visit the Delft flea market

Every Saturday, you can find the Antiekmarkt Curiosa, Delft's largest flea market, in full swing on the town square. Not only is it an exceptional flea market, with great bargains, but there are also activities all day long!

The flea market has around 120 stalls spread along the canal that borders Hippolytusbuurt, where you can find thousands of items.

The price is quite reasonable and negotiation is welcome. A must-see for all flea market enthusiasts.

This venue also opens on Thursdays, but Saturday's is much larger and includes a book market.

Visit the Rose windmill

Windmill De Rose is the only working windmill in Delft, dating back to 1679! It has since been restored so that it can continue to operate. The windmills are emblematic pieces of the Dutch landscape.

If you visit the windmill, you can also visit the store, which sells essential products such as flour and cereals to the locals. The windmill is open from Thursday to Sunday, daytime only.

A visit to Delft is an excellent way to see the surrounding area of Amsterdam. During your stay, you can escape from the big city to discover much more unusual places.

A private apartment in Amsterdam offers many advantages.

In this article, I present my favorite vacation rentals.

Apartment in Amsterdam: article summary

Canal Suite: a beautiful apartment for two

This little gem is located on the Amstel riverright in the center of Amsterdam. So you can stroll around and explore the historic old town with its narrow streets and crooked houses.

The Canal Suite is tastefully decorated and located in a charming Amsterdam canal house, a true retreat in the middle of the canal belt. Simply perfect for a relaxing city break.

Just a few meters from your front door, the historic Blauwbrug crosses the Amstel River. Nearby, you'll find supermarkets, small specialty stores and charming cafés overlooking the canal.

Cityden: a home away from home in the museum district

Spacious Cityden apartments are located in one of Amsterdam's most popular districts: the Museum Quarter, with its many magnificent museums and historic charm.

The apartments in the Rijksmuseum are best suited to families or small groups.

This refuge leaves nothing to be desired. Each apartment has a large living room and bathroom with rain shower. Some apartments have a private terrace or even a small garden.

From your apartment, you can reach the famous Museum Square with the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum in less than 10 minutes. The Leidseplein street of pubs and restaurants is just 15 minutes away.

Visit Vondelpark offers relaxation and well-deserved rest after the hustle and bustle of the city.

Apartment on a houseboat: a taste of authenticity in Amsterdam

You can enjoy a apartment on a barge at a fair price. This boat has room for two two-person apartments.

The comfortable rooms are equipped with all amenities: toiletries, microwave, coffee maker and electric kettle. The location is super quiet and relaxing.

Nevertheless, everything is within walking distance. Markets, cafés and restaurants are just around the corner.

The trendy De Pijp district with Albert Cuypmarkt, Sarphatipark and numerous bars, restaurants and stores right next to your pier.

How do I book apartments in Amsterdam?

The apartments are particularly attractive for families with children, couples with or without pets, and small groups.

Because you can cook your own meals, vacation apartments are an inexpensive alternative to hotels.

Generally speaking, the more people, the cheaper. In fact, you can divide the price per night by the number of people. Don't forget to include maintenance services too.

This is almost always billed separately. Depending on the size of the apartment, cleaning costs between 50 and 150 euros.

Pay attention to location

The closer you are to the center, the more expensive it is. Amsterdam has a great metro system and superb bicycle paths. So stay a little outside the city and put your money into a nicer apartment.

In private apartments, don't expect too much. Apartments with dishwashers are usually a little more expensive. Some even offer bicycles free of charge.

Taking your family's safety into account

Safety comes first. If you have a baby with you, you need to make sure there are no freely accessible stairs. Baby chair and cot almost always available on request.

Make sure there is a metro or bus near your apartment. Usually, the distance to the nearest stop is indicated in the apartment description.

Respect the maximum number of people

It's tempting to let a friend sleep on the sofa for free. But we strongly advise against accommodating more people than the owner allows.

You may think that owners don't notice, but they do. most of them pay particular attention to it.

Pay attention to the shopping possibilities in the vicinity. With most apartments, this shouldn't be a problem. Amsterdam has supermarkets and specialty stores on every corner.

To make the most of your stay in Amsterdam, I recommend you book an apartment that will take you in for the duration of your vacation. This will act as your second home and you can make the most of your trip to the Netherlands.

Visit Modern Contemporary Museum (Moco) is a private museum located in the heart of Amsterdam that offers an exhibition dedicated to Banksy.

It also offers a unique interactive experience of contemporary art.

I tell you all about it in this article.

Banksy Museum in Amsterdam: article summary

The Moco Museum: at a glance

The Moco Museum is nestled between two of Amsterdam's other major museums, Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. Located on Museumplein, Villa Alsbery is home to the Moco Museum. The villa's authenticity has been preserved and the story of its conception in 1904 celebrated by owners Lionel Logchies and Kim Logchies-Prins.

The building was designed by Eduard Cuypers, the nephew of Pierre Cuypers who designed the Rijksmuseum and the Amsterdam Central Station. So the building is an experience in itself. Think traditional Dutch architecture punctuated by modern street art from around the world.

Banksy in Amsterdam: the permanent collection at the Moco Museum

Exhibitions are presented throughout the villa's different levels. Permanent works by Hirst & Dali, Koons, Haring, Basquiat, Kusama and Warhol are often unexpected and politically themed.

Just like the unauthorized collection of Banksy's pieces. His iconic works include "Girl with Balloon", "Flower Thrower", "Laugh now" and many others, are exposed indefinitely.

Many of the works in the Moco museum were first seen in the subways and streets, and some are displayed in their original forms, for example on wooden doors, giving the museum a unique atmosphere.

Major brands such as Disney, Dior and H & M feature in the permanent exhibits, highlighting the relevance of art to today's society and modern consumerism.

How to visit the Moco Museum and its Banksy collection in Amsterdam?

Be aware that during peak hours (weekends and between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m.), the museum can seem quite crowded. Reduced-price tickets are available outside these peak hours on weekdays, because the museum remains open until 7 pm.

I advise you to book your tickets online to benefit from a discount and, above all, to avoid queuing on arrival. You won't have to queue for hours outside the museum.

Discounts for students and groups are also available. children under 10 enter free of charge.

Works of art not to be missed

While at the Moco Museum, don't forget to take a photo on the pink staircase and immerse yourself in Roy Lichtenstein's 3D installation room.

Take the time to read the descriptions of the works of art throughout the museum, or get the soundtrack. They really add to the overall experience and understanding of the art.

The Moco Garden is your latest museum experience. Like Alice in Wonderland, the site invites you to stroll through the garden and "lose yourself along the way". The garden's rooms are also international and constantly evolving.

Unlike many museums in the Netherlands, the Moco Museum allows you to take photographs, but you must not do not use flash to maintain the integrity of the works.

How do I get to the museum?

The Moco Museum is located just off Museumplein, between the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. You can easily take streetcar 2 or 12 to the Rijksmuseum stop from Amsterdam Centraal. Bicycle parking is available, as is a car parking.

The Moco Museum's historic villa comprises several levels accessible only by stairs. Unfortunately, this means that the museum is not wheelchair accessible.

If you want to see Banksy's work in one of Amsterdam's museums, you've got to visit the Moco. This is where you'll find numerous works of art and you can discover local and international artists during your visit.

Amsterdam may be a city of cyclists, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy the city's many attractions. on-site car rental.

In fact, renting a car in the Netherlands could be the ideal way to explore the country beyond the capital!

Fortunately, it's easy to rent a car in Amsterdam.

Today, I'm going to tell you how.

Car rental in Amsterdam: article summary

What are the requirements for renting a car in Amsterdam?

When it comes to renting a car in Amsterdam, you need to comply with the rental companies' requirements.

First of all, please make sure you have read these terms and conditions. before signing your rental contract.

You'll also need a valid driving license. Before you leave for the Netherlands, remember to have your international driving license drawn up. This will make it much easier for you to rent a car in Amsterdam.

Compare car rental companies in Amsterdam

If you'd like to rent a car in Amsterdam, you can take advantage of the services of a number of local agencies.

Of course, you have to compare all the agencies to find the best price. Also, I advise you to look at the offers proposed by these agencies. Some of them may have more qualitative insurance products to offer you.

How much does it cost to rent a car in Amsterdam?

Unfortunately, renting a car in Amsterdam isn't always cheap. Of course, you have to pay the rental fee. On top of that come gas, parking fees and insurance.

To help you, here are some average costs to consider when renting a car in Amsterdam.

Rental costs in the Netherlands

Car rental prices in Amsterdam vary enormously, but sometimes you can get the chance to make a good deal! To give a rough estimate, the keys to an economy car could be yours for just €30 to €60 per day off-season.

As a rule of thumb, you'll probably want to set aside €60 to €100 per day for a car if you want to visit the Dutch countryside in summer.

If you book at the last minute or want something a little fancier than a Kia, a rental car can cost you €100 to €300 a day.

Tolls in Holland

Unlike other European countries, the Netherlands has no toll roads, which makes driving in the country a pleasure. much simpler and cheaper!

The only places where you'll find toll booths are near the Kiltunnel at Dordrecht and the Westerschelde tunnel.

You'll pay a maximum of €5 to go through the Western Scheldt Tunnel and only €2 for the Kiltunnel if you drive a normal car.

Car rental insurance in Amsterdam

In the Netherlands, fire and liability insurance are included in the price of all car rentals.

As a general rule, you can choose whether you wish to pay for collision damage waiver and/or theft protection.

For most car rentals, insurance is not compulsory, and terms and conditions vary from agency to agency. So be sure to read the fine print make an informed decision about your insurance package.

Picking up your rental car

When you pick up your rental car, be sure to bring :

• Your national driving license,
• International driver's license
• A valid ID (such as your passport),
• Any other document specified by the rental agency.

Parking your rental car in Amsterdam

Sometimes it seems that the most difficult thing about renting a car in Amsterdam is finding a place to park it.

But even if you don't notice the available parking spaces when you take a look at the cityscape, there are actually more than you'd think.

If you're brave enough to parallel park along the canals, you can opt for street parking. These are plentiful, but busy and expensive.

As a general rule, a better option than street parking is to look for one of the city parking lots.

Renting a car in Amsterdam is a great way to get around the city and gain a little freedom to explore the country. What you need spend an unforgettable vacation in the Netherlands.

The center of Amsterdam was once cluttered with windmills.

They fulfilled a variety of functions.

They were used to prevent cities from flooding and to grind the seeds of the Dutch favourite condiment: mustard.

Today, seven of them remain, and I'd like to present them to you in detail.

Windmills in Amsterdam: article summary

Windmills in Amsterdam: the Sloten windmill

The Sloten windmill is the only one of Amsterdam's 8 windmills open to visitors. It is still in operation and, being a draining mill, is used to pump excess water from the surrounding area that was once Lake Haarlemmer (Haarlemmermeer).

If you'd like to take a look around, this is the place to be:

• every day 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (except January 1, April 27 and December 25 and 26)

Le moulin De Gooyer

Kill two birds with one stone by visiting the Gooyer Mill. If you wish, you'll not only see Amsterdam's most iconic mill, but you'll also be able to sample one of Amsterdam's finest beers, brewed in the adjoining brewery.

The mill itself was built in 1725 and is the tallest wooden mill in the Netherlands. During its working life, it was used as a corn mill, but has not been in operation since it was taken down. damaged in a storm in 1972.

Amsterdam windmills: the Paltrok De Otter

Not far from the De Bloem mill is the small Paltrok De Otter mill. Built in 1631 as one of the many sawmills scattered around the region, it remained in operation until the early 1900s.

Due to Amsterdam's population growth and industrialization, all but the Otter sawmill were dismantled. The mill was restored in in perfect working order in the 1990s.

Unfortunately, the wind conditions in the area were not conducive to the operation of the mill. As a result, the owners proposed relocating the mill.

However, being a national monument, they had to ask the town council for permission. Several court cases later, the building remains, for the time being, at its current location.

Amsterdam windmills: Rieker windmill

No mill in Amsterdam seems to be in the right place. the same applies to the Riekermolen. Built in 1636 in the village of Sloten, just outside Amsterdam, the Riekermill was moved to its present location beside the Amstel River in 1961.

Like the Molen van Sloten, it's a drainage mill, but unlike its working cousin, this one no longer operates. Nevertheless, when the wind is right, the Riekermolen still turns and you can see it in action in the afternoon.

D'Admiraal

Board the ferry to Amsterdam Noord to visit the last chalk mill in the Netherlands. Built in 1792 to grind a volcanic stone from Germany's Eifel region, used to make mortar.

It was then used to grind chalk for putty. It was erected in the picturesque Buiksloota former village that is now part of Amsterdam.

Amsterdam windmills: the Bloem flour mill

Built in 1768, the Bloem flour mill was originally located in the Bloemgracht in the Jordaan. Like the Gooyer windmill, it is now in a windier location on the outskirts of town.

Today it is used as an office and can only be visited on special occasions. National Windmill Day.

The Zaanse Schans

Can't get enough of windmills and Dutch history? Then Zaanse Schans is perfect for you. A short train ride outside Amsterdam and you'll find the Zaanse Schans open-air museum.

Since 1961, historic mills, buildings and barns from the 18^e and 19^e centuries are found in this area outside Zaandam, creating both a thriving community and a living monument.

De Zaanse Schans is home to 8 windmills with famous names such as De Bonte Hen and Het Klaverblad. The mills served a variety of purposes, from sawmills to oil mills to mustard mills.

With many other attractions in De Zaanse Schans, you can easily spend a whole day exploring the area.

Windmills in Amsterdam are buildings that I find fascinating. During your visit, you can discover and enjoy the hundreds of years of history they carry with them.

You will appreciate a visit to the château of Muiderslot, just 20 kilometers southeast of Amsterdam.

It's a great idea for a day trip from Amsterdam.

In this article, I've summarized everything you need to know about Muiderslot Castle.

Castle near Amsterdam: article summary

A brief history of Muiderslot Castle

Muiderslot Castle, located in the village of Muidenis one of the most impressive castles in the Netherlands.

To understand the importance of the château, let me tell you a little about its history.

Count Floris V built the castle at the mouth of the River Vecht around 1280. At the time, it was a small stone fortress whose main purpose was to levy taxes on passing merchants traveling to and from Utrecht via the River Vecht.

Some 15 years later, Count Floris V was imprisoned in his own castle by Gerard van Velsen for the alleged rape of the latter's wife.

After this event, Muiderslot Castle passed into the hands of Willem van Mechelen, Archbishop of Utrecht. By 1300, the fortress was in a state of complete ruin. abandoned for approximately a century.

At the end of the 18th century, the château was once again abandoned. It had become so dilapidated that there were plans to demolish it completely. Fortunately, King William I intervened, and Muiderslot Castle was rebuilt and renovated to reflect its 17th-century glory.

Things to see at Muiderslot Castle

Muiderslot Castle is open to the public all year round. The permanent collections focus on life, history and art in the Middle Ages and the 17th century.

Of course, the château itself is worth the detour! Some of its halls and rooms are decorated as they were in those days, and the castle moat, orchard and organic garden are a sight not to be missed. And don't miss the dungeon!

There's also a café if you fancy a light snack, which you can enjoy in the café, on the courtyard terrace or in the castle gardens.

Castle near Amsterdam: a place to celebrate

Another reason why people flock to Muiderslot Castle is that it's a place of celebration. In summer, for example, the gates open and you can enter and take part in free yoga classes held on the castle grounds.

You can also order a picnic basket and enjoy an evening picnic. If you wish to stay, you can even camp in the château grounds from mid-July to mid-August!

Various tours and workshops are also on offer. All you have to do is visit their website to see what activities are on the program.

How to get to Muiderslot Castle

Since the Amsterdam Central StationAt Weesp station, you can take the 110 bus to Muiden Centrum. The bus stop is a 10-minute walk from Muiderslot Castle.

If you're traveling by car, you're just a 20-minute drive from Amsterdam via the S100.

Finally, if you're visiting from April to October, you can reach Muiderslot Castle by ferry via the Amsterdam tourist ferryfrom Amsterdam's IJburg port to Muiderslot Castle at weekends and during school vacations.

What are the opening hours?

Muiderslot Castle opens daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m..

You'll need about 1-2 hours for your visit, depending on what you'd like to see. If you're attending an event, you'll probably spend more time on site.

How do I get tickets?

Tickets can be purchased on site. Due to the popularity of some events, tickets can sell out quickly. I recommend reserving them in advance to make sure you don't go for nothing.

Note that admission is free if you have the I Amsterdam City Card. The ticket is accompanied by a free audio tour, available in several languages.

If you have to visit just one castle near Amsterdam, Muiderslot Castle is a must. It's a truly exceptional place, just a stone's throw from the famous Dutch city.