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How to Get to Delft

How to Get to Delft

Delft The Randstad, The Netherlands Travel Guide

Air Travel Hubs

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol AMS

Approximately 45 kilometers northeast of Delft, Schiphol is the main international airport for The Netherlands. It serves as a major hub for global air travel.

Schiphol Overview

  • Home base for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.
  • Connects to destinations worldwide.
  • Comprehensive facilities, including shops, restaurants, car rentals, free Wi-Fi.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport RTM

Situated closer to Delft, approximately 15 kilometers southeast, this smaller international airport mainly handles European routes.

RTM at a Glance

  • Mainly serves European destinations.
  • Has a more relaxed and quicker experience.
  • Essential facilities available, including shops, car rentals, free Wi-Fi.

High Season Prices

Highest flight prices typically June-August due to popular travel demand and school holidays.

Shoulder Season Value

April-May and September-October often present better flight value, with pleasant weather.

Low Season Savings

November-March (excluding holidays) is generally the most economical period to fly.

Airport Transfers to Delft

From Amsterdam Schiphol AMS

  • Train: Most convenient. Direct trains from Schiphol Plaza to Delft Central Station (40-50 min).
  • Tickets at yellow NS machines or tap in/out with contactless card (OVpay).
  • Taxi/Ride-sharing: More expensive (€80-€120+), about 40 min, depending on traffic.
  • Pre-booked transfers are an option for groups.

From Rotterdam The Hague Airport RTM

  • Bus + Tram/Train: Take RET bus line 33 to Rotterdam Central (20-25 min).
  • From Rotterdam Central, frequent direct trains to Delft Central (15-20 min).
  • Total public transport journey: 45-60 min.
  • Taxi/Ride-sharing: Quicker (approx. 20 min), €30-€50.

Smart Flight Booking

Deal Alerts

Sign up for alerts from Dollar Flight Club for low fares.

Comparison Tools

Utilize Skyscanner to compare prices across various airlines and dates.

Flexibility

Being flexible with travel dates often leads to greater savings.

Land Journeys to Delft

Efficient Train Travel

NS (Dutch Railways) maintains an extensive and efficient network of trains. Delft Central Station is a major railway hub with frequent connections to cities throughout the country.

Train Routes

  • The Hague: 10-15 min journey; Rotterdam: 15-20 min journey.
  • Leiden: Approximately 15-20 min; Amsterdam: 50-60 min direct.
  • Purchase tickets at NS machines or use contactless card (OVpay).

Long-Distance Bus Options

FlixBus offers long-distance bus services connecting major Dutch cities, including Delft, to various other European destinations.

Bus Considerations

  • Generally a more economical choice than trains for international or very long domestic routes.
  • Often slower than train travel.
  • The FlixBus stop in Delft is usually located conveniently near Delft Central Station.

Self-Driving Essentials

To rent a car in The Netherlands, you need a valid driver's license from your home country and a major credit card for the security deposit. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly suggested for non-EU license holders.

Driving Preparations

  • Obtain an IDP before your trip.
  • The Netherlands boasts an excellent, well-maintained, and extensive road network.
  • Petrol (benzine) and diesel are widely available.

Driving Considerations

Drive on the right side of the road. Speed limits are strictly observed. Be extremely aware of cyclists; they have dedicated lanes and right-of-way in many situations.

Driving Pointers

  • Parking in Delft city center is challenging and expensive due to limited spaces.
  • Traffic can be heavy around major cities during peak commuting hours.
  • Always check for cyclists before turning or opening car doors.

Border Crossings Schengen

  • As The Netherlands is a Schengen Area signatory, no routine border checks occur when traveling from another Schengen Area country.
  • You can cross borders seamlessly, often without even noticing between member states.
  • Your passport or national ID card remains your identity document.
  • Roads often cross borders without visible checkpoints.
  • Train travel between Schengen countries is direct and smooth.
  • Air travel still includes immigration control at entry/exit points to the Schengen Area.

Sea & River Arrivals

Ferry & Cruise Access

While less common for direct tourist arrival to Delft, sea travel options cater to those coming from specific regions.

Sea Gateways

  • Rotterdam Port: Europe's largest, used by some cruise lines.
  • Hoek van Holland: Ferry terminal to Harwich, UK (Stena Line).
  • Popular for travelers bringing their vehicle from the UK.

River Transportation

River transportation for long-distance travel is limited in The Netherlands. Most river travel is for leisure and tourist cruises on the extensive network of canals and smaller rivers.

Waterway Experiences

  • No major international river cruise lines typically dock directly in Delft.
  • River travel is mainly for scenic tours.
  • Enjoy local canal cruises for city views.

Seaport Immigration

Passport control and customs procedures apply upon arrival at seaports. Ensure all required documents are ready.

Hoek van Holland Connections

Direct metro services link the ferry terminal to Rotterdam, with frequent trains to Delft.

Rotterdam Port Links

Taxis or local public transport (tram/bus) connect directly to Rotterdam Central Station, where you can take a train to Delft.

Departure Information

Departure Timing

No specific exit fees are levied directly on departing travelers. Any applicable taxes are typically included in your airfare or ferry ticket price. Plan arrival times carefully.

Airport Timing

  • AMS: Arrive at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure (Schengen) or 3 hours (non-Schengen).
  • RTM: 1.5-2 hours generally sufficient due to its smaller size.
  • Always check your airline's specific recommendations.

Station Departures

For domestic trains from Delft Central Station, arrive 15-20 minutes before departure to find your platform. For international trains (e.g., Thalys, Eurostar from Amsterdam or Rotterdam), arrive 30 minutes to 1 hour early for security and passport checks.

Departure Tips

  • Domestic trains: Arrive 15-20 minutes prior.
  • International trains: Arrive 30-60 minutes for checks.
  • Reconfirm your flight or train times 24-48 hours before departure.

Departure Facilities

Airports

AMS and RTM offer extensive facilities for departing travelers, including a wide selection of restaurants, cafes, shops (including duty-free at AMS), and lounges.

Delft Station

Delft Central Station provides basic amenities like small shops, food outlets, restrooms, and luggage lockers.

Major Stations

Larger stations like Amsterdam Centraal or Rotterdam Centraal offer more comprehensive services.

Smooth Departure

Factor in extra travel time to the airport or station during peak hours or if there are any reported disruptions to public transport.