Delft: Christmas Walk with Oliebollen and Glühwein

Trying to capture the magic of Delft during the holiday season? This Delft Christmas Walk with tastings offers a cozy, festive glimpse into the city’s traditions. We haven’t done it ourselves, but looking over the details, it seems like a charming way to connect with Delft’s holiday atmosphere, especially if you’re a fan of authentic treats and historical sights.

What really draws us in are its delicious-sounding oliebollen—a Dutch holiday favorite—and the opportunity to learn about Delft’s candle-making tradition. Plus, ending with a warm drink at a local restaurant sounds like a perfect way to wind down after a leisurely walk. One thing to keep in mind is the weather—since it’s outdoors and weather-dependent, bad conditions could lead to cancellations, which is something to consider if you’re visiting in winter.

If you’re someone who enjoys exploring a city through stories, food, and culture, this tour could be a great pick. It’s particularly suited for those who want a relaxed, intimate experience rather than a packed sightseeing itinerary. Families might find it charming as well, provided kids are comfortable walking and enjoying holiday treats. Overall, it’s a delightful way to get into the Delft Christmas vibe without fuss.

Key Points

• Authentic holiday treats: Taste oliebollen from Bakkerij de Diamanten Ring, a must-try Dutch Christmas pastry.
• Cultural insights: Learn about Delft’s candle-making and religious sites through guided stories.
• Festive ambiance: Walk through Delft’s streets decorated for the Christmas season and the Verlicht Festival.
• Local ambiance: End with a warm drink at restaurant De Delf—perfect for a cozy finish.
• Accessible and flexible: The tour is wheelchair accessible, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.
• Affordable: At $20 per person, it offers a reasonably priced way to enjoy Delft’s holiday traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

How the Tour Unfolds: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Starting Point at Voldersgracht 5

The walk begins at The Christmas Shop, a fitting spot to get into the holiday mood. It’s a relaxed start—no rush, just a chance to browse the shop’s festive offerings before setting off. The guide will probably share some initial stories about Delft’s Christmas traditions, setting the tone for what’s to come.

Shopping and Exploration

The first stop involves a brief shopping session, giving you time to soak in Delft’s holiday displays and perhaps pick up a special gift or ornament. The reviews highlight that this part provides a nice, laid-back intro to the city’s Christmas vibe.

Tasting Oliebollen from Bakkerij de Diamanten Ring

Next, you’ll taste oliebollen, a Dutch deep-fried dough ball filled with raisins or other dried fruits, dusted with powdered sugar—comfort food at its best during winter. Visitors have described them as “delicious” and “fresh,” making this tasting a highlight. It’s a great way to experience a local tradition and fuel up for the rest of the walk.

More Great Tours Nearby

Learning About Candle Making at Delft City Candle Factory

A visit to Delft’s candle factory is not just about looking at pretty candles—it’s about understanding a craft that’s been part of the city’s identity. You’ll hear stories about how candle making has evolved in Delft and get a sense of its cultural significance. The factory shop also offers the chance to buy unique Christmas or holiday gifts, which many reviewers appreciate.

Reflecting at the Old and New Churches

The guide will share insights into why Delft is called “the city of devotion and commerce,” focusing on its religious sites. Visiting both the Old and New Churches provides a look into Delft’s spiritual history. The Old Church, with its towering tower, and the New Church, with its impressive architecture, are both accessible and offer a peaceful respite during the walk.

Final Stop at Restaurant De Delf

The walk concludes at De Delf, a cozy spot where you can enjoy a hot chocolate or a glass of glühwein. This downtime allows everyone to chat, soak in the holiday glow, and reflect on the sights and stories. Reviewers have noted that the warm drinks add a special touch, making the experience feel complete and relaxed.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, which is perfect for a leisurely afternoon. The group size isn’t specified but given the guided nature, it’s probably intimate enough to hear your guide’s stories clearly. The tour operates only if at least six people sign up, so it’s a good idea to check availability early, especially during busy holiday periods.

Price and Value

At $20 per person, this experience offers a lot of value—combining storytelling, food tastings, and visits to significant cultural sites. The inclusion of oliebollen, candle factory access, and a warm drink make it a well-rounded mini-adventure. For those looking to experience Delft’s festive traditions without spending a fortune, it’s a reasonable choice.

Accessibility and Cancellation

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for different mobility needs. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if weather or plans change. Since the walk is outdoors, weather conditions could lead to cancellations, so packing warm and waterproof clothing is wise.

Language & Guides

The tour is led by a Dutch-speaking guide, which means the storytelling will be in Dutch. If you don’t speak Dutch, you might find it helpful to have a translation app or look for a guide who offers supplementary materials. However, the storytelling style seems warm and engaging, which can transcend language barriers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re curious about local Christmas traditions, enjoy tasting seasonal treats, and want a relaxed way to explore Delft’s historic streets, this walk hits the right notes. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy cultural stories paired with food, and it’s a sweet, manageable length—perfect for a winter afternoon.

Travelers who appreciate authentic, locally crafted experiences will find this tour charming. Families with children who are comfortable walking and enjoy holiday treats might get a kick out of it, though it’s not explicitly designed as a family tour. It’s best for those who want a blend of culture, food, and festive cheer without a high price tag.

The Sum Up

All in all, the Delft Christmas Walk with oliebollen and glühwein offers an inviting way to celebrate the holiday season in a beautiful Dutch city. It’s a chance to stroll through festively decorated streets, learn about Delft’s candle-making and religious heritage, and enjoy some classic Dutch winter snacks. For just $20, it’s a cozy, cultural experience that balances sightseeing with local flavors.

This tour suits travelers looking for a relaxed, authentic Christmas outing—whether you’re visiting Delft for a day or want a memorable way to soak up its holiday spirit. Keep in mind the outdoor nature of the walk and weather conditions, but if the skies are clear, you’ll come away feeling a bit more connected to Delft’s traditions and charm.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically advertised as a family tour, children who enjoy walking and treats like oliebollen should find it enjoyable. Just keep in mind that the tour involves some walking and standing.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable activity for most schedules.

What is included in the price?
You get a guided walk through Delft, visits to the candle factory, tasting oliebollen, stories about Christmas and the Verlicht Festival, and a warm drink at the end.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

What language is the guide speaking?
The tour is led by a Dutch-speaking guide. Non-Dutch speakers may find it helpful to prepare in advance.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at The Christmas Shop on Voldersgracht 5 and ends back at Oude Delft 113.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially if visiting during winter. Waterproof clothing is recommended in case of rain.

Is there a minimum number of participants?
Yes, at least six people need to register for the tour to run.

What if the weather is bad?
The guide may cancel the walk in bad weather, so check the forecast and confirm your reservation.

If you’re after a laid-back, flavorful way to celebrate Delft’s Christmas season and connect with local traditions, this guided walk is worth considering. It combines history, culture, and festive indulgence in a way that’s both enjoyable and meaningful.

You can check availability for your dates here: