Rental Homes in Delft
Delft is a city and municipality in the province of South Holland. At the start of 2019, the city had about 103,217 residents. The name Delft dates back to when the city was founded, as it originated alongside a dug waterway known as a 'delf'. In 1246, Delft was granted city rights by Count William II. Since then, trade flourished, and Delft remained one of the largest cities in the county of Holland until the seventeenth century. Many people also know Delft as the place where William of Orange stayed and was assassinated in 1584. In the seventeenth century, the city experienced another period of prosperity. Various pottery factories produced a special type of decorated porcelain. There was also a VOC chamber located here, and the renowned Delft Blue was manufactured. However, from 1672, Delft's economy started to decline as it was overshadowed by neighbouring cities The Hague and Rotterdam. Gradually, most pottery factories closed, until only one remained in the nineteenth century, which survived by also producing bricks. From the nineteenth century, trade in the city began to improve again with the arrival of a train station and the demolition of city walls, making it an attractive location for new industries. In 1842, the Royal Academy was established, which we now know as Delft University of Technology. Together with the arrival of the TNO research institute, Delft became a centre for technology and science.
Rental Properties in Delft
After World War II, many residential areas were developed in Delft. Neighbourhoods such as Voorhof, Poptahof, and Tanthof emerged outside the centre. Today, Delft is also recognized as one of the locations hosting a Technical University. Several colleges are now located around the TU campus. Additionally, the TU Delft Science Park was initiated in 2005, offering space for companies, research institutes, and startups.
The city has two train stations, Delft and Delft Zuid. Two tram lines also operate, transporting passengers within the city and to other places such as Leidschendam and Scheveningen. Delft is also accessible by water via the Delftse Schie canal. In terms of road connections, Delft is nestled between the A4, A13, and N470, making it easily accessible by car.
Attractions in Delft
Those visiting or living in Delft will find plenty to do. The beautiful, historic city centre is filled with attractions. Right in the middle, you'll find the Nieuwe Kerk, with parts dating back to the fourteenth century. William of Orange is buried here too. Visitors can view the church or climb the tower, which is over a hundred metres high. Besides the Nieuwe Kerk, the Oude Kerk is also located in the centre. As its name suggests, it is the oldest church in the city, built in the thirteenth century. Other notable historical buildings include the Town Hall, the Eastern Gate, and the Stone Gate. For those particularly interested in the city’s history, a guided city walk can be highly rewarding.
Art and culture enthusiasts will find plenty to enjoy in Delft as well. The famous painter Johannes Vermeer was born here. The Vermeer Centre Voldersgracht features replicas of all his works. In the former St. Agatha's convent, now known as the Museum Prinsenhof, a variety of art pieces are showcased, including paintings, textiles, ceramics, and historical artifacts. Notably, this is where William of Orange was assassinated in 1584, with bullet holes still visible in the walls.
When thinking of Delft, one naturally thinks of the famed Delft Blue pottery. This blue-painted earthenware became popular worldwide and originated in Delft in the sixteenth century. Despite the Delft Blue market collapsing around the nineteenth century, the Porceleyne Fles pottery house remained. Today, it is known as Royal Delft and serves as a museum where you can learn all about this special pottery.
Even those not particularly fond of art and culture can find Delft to be an enjoyable city. Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy the many quaint boutiques and small shops along the canals, alongside well-known retail chains. The area is dotted with charming cafes and restaurants, perfect for unwinding with a drink and snack after a day of shopping. Unique to Delft is Blue Sunday, where every Sunday features special activities in the fields of art, culture, food, fashion, and music, enhancing the shopping experience.
Why Rent in Delft?
When considering why to rent in Delft, various reasons come to mind. Firstly, the city’s location relative to cities like Rotterdam and The Hague is ideal. For those working in these larger cities but preferring to live in a smaller town, Delft is a great choice. The surrounding cities are easily accessible via public transport or by car.
Education is another significant reason to choose Delft. The Technical University of Delft, one of only four in the Netherlands, is located here, attracting 5000 new TU students annually. Moreover, several innovative companies and research institutions provide ample employment opportunities in the knowledge-intensive sector.
Regarding living environments, Delft offers diverse options. Each of the city's eight major districts is distinct and unique. The city centre is historical, cosy, and densely populated with a large student population. For families with children or those preferring a quieter setting, the Vrijenban district might be ideal. Known for its safety and greenery, it offers ample play areas for children. Each district in Delft has its unique features, offering a pleasant place to live for people from all walks of life.
How to Rent a Property in Delft?
As described above, Delft offers numerous housing options in various neighbourhoods. For those who enjoy activity and having conveniences close by, a small central apartment is perfect. Families with young children might prefer the tranquility of neighbourhoods outside the centre. There is also plenty of choice for students in Delft.
On huurzone.nl, all aforementioned types of properties are available. Huurzone compiles the current rental listings in Delft daily, providing you with a comprehensive overview of the possibilities. When searching for a rental property, consider what is important to you to make your search as effective as possible. Questions to think about include:
- What is your budget?
- Do you want to live in the centre, on the edge, or just outside the city?
- What type of property are you looking for?
- Do you want your own bathroom and/or kitchen, or are you open to sharing these (e.g., in a student residence)?
Moreover, by creating a free account on Huurzone, you can specify your rental preferences. You'll then receive an email when a matching rental property becomes available for you!
