Delft’s bar scene is built around one of the most atmospheric drinking environments in the Netherlands. The compact historic centre, with its canals, cobblestone streets, and the Markt square as its social heart, creates a scene that feels genuinely rooted in its setting. The Beestenmarkt has the finest outdoor terrace drinking in the city. The Markt has the cocktail bars and busier student venues. The streets behind the Nieuwe Kerk hide the best craft beer destination in the city. And the brown cafés scattered through the historic centre offer some of the most authentic Dutch pub experiences in South Holland. For daytime coffee see the cafes guide.
Delft’s bar prices are more affordable than Den Haag or Amsterdam, largely due to the TU Delft student population. The Beestenmarkt is the natural starting point for any bar evening. The Markt has higher prices and a more tourist-oriented crowd. The streets around the Nieuwe Kerk and along the Brabantse Turfmarkt have the best local and craft beer bars. All bars are walkable from Delft Centraal station.
The most popular outdoor drinking destination in Delft, located on the corner of the Beestenmarkt, the most beautiful square in the city. Over fifteen Belgian beers on tap alongside a wide selection of bottles and a food menu where the mussels in season are outstanding. The European outdoor café experience at its finest, particularly enjoyable on warm sunny days when locals fill the terraces. Consistently described as one of the best pubs in Delft for its location, beer selection, and atmosphere. Large enough to accommodate groups without losing its welcoming neighbourhood feel.
A trendy cocktail bar on the Grote Markt that has been a staple of Delft’s bar scene for over twenty years. Known for delicious cocktails at reasonable prices, friendly staff, and a picturesque location overlooking the market square with views of the Nieuwe Kerk tower. The wide variety of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic cocktails and the cocktail workshop programme make it one of the most distinctive bar experiences on the Markt. Consistently praised for atmosphere and for staff who manage to be both friendly and professional despite the busy square location.
A trendy bar on the Beestenmarkt known for serving some of the best beers in Delft alongside delicious snacks. A wide selection of beers on tap mixes local brews with regional and international craft offerings, including interesting beer cocktails. Serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner making it a full-day destination. The wild boar stew and shrimp kroketten are popular food choices alongside the beers. Good for both a casual evening drink and a business meeting in a relaxed setting.
Delft’s premier craft beer bar and the first stop for any serious beer lover in the city. Tucked away behind the Nieuwe Kerk, this bar offers over 200 craft ales from a dozen brewing nations with around 20 on tap at any time. The staff knowledge is exceptional and recommendations are genuine rather than commercial. The slightly hidden location keeps the crowd predominantly local and knowledgeable. One of the finest craft beer bars in South Holland.
A brewery and bar serving locally brewed beers in a great atmosphere. The beer selection mixes local brews with offerings from other Dutch breweries and some international craft beers. The beer cocktails are an unusual and popular addition. The atmosphere is consistently praised as lovely, particularly the outdoor area in summer. A good option for those who want to drink local Delft-brewed beers at the source.
A cosy pub near a charming canal in the Delft centre that stands out as one of the best places in Delft for craft beers, mixing locals and tourists in a welcoming indoor and outdoor setting. Good bitterballen and a cheese board alongside a beer selection that includes good seasonal beers and interesting varieties. Staff allow tasting of different beers before ordering, which is a rare and appreciated touch. Quite loud inside but the canal-side outdoor seating allows normal conversation. A brown café staple for getting drinks in Delft.
A specialist craft beer shop and bar in central Delft with a carefully curated selection of Dutch and international craft beers. The combination of bottle shop and bar allows you to drink on-site or take bottles home. Good for discovering new Dutch craft beers beyond what the supermarkets stock. A reliable destination for anyone serious about craft beer in Delft.
A cosy and traditional brown café in the heart of Delft that has been a popular spot for locals for many years. A comfortable atmosphere where you can enjoy a variety of drinks including great tea, beer, and hot chocolate alongside meals such as pancakes and omelettes. Lovely old building with traditional Dutch brown café character. Consistently praised for delicious hot chocolate with mini cookies on cold days. The kind of neighbourhood café that makes Delft feel like a place where people genuinely live rather than just visit.
A small canal-side café just two minutes from the busy Markt square that has the welcoming vibe of a genuine locals’ bar. A small canal-side terrace, an extensive selection of drinks served by knowledgeable bar staff, and a one-room intimate format that makes conversation easy. The contrast between its proximity to the tourist-heavy Markt and its authentic local atmosphere is one of the best things about it. One of the most consistently recommended bars in Delft by people who actually live here.
One of Delft’s oldest and most traditional cafés, located near the Oude Kerk. A beautiful setting, traditional furniture, and a central location that makes it a natural stopping point during any exploration of Delft’s historic centre. Great selection of Dutch and Belgian beers. The kind of place that feels genuinely unchanged from decades past and is all the better for it.
A cosy café with unique craft beers consistently recommended as an essential stop in Delft. The intimate atmosphere and distinctive interior make it a memorable experience. Particularly popular among visitors and expats discovering Delft’s bar scene for the first time. Good selection of craft beers and a welcoming approach that has earned it a loyal following.
Delft’s dedicated jazz venue and one of the most atmospheric bars in the city. Live jazz performances most evenings create a warm and sophisticated atmosphere that is entirely distinct from the student bars around the Markt. The intimate setting means the music always sounds good and the interaction between performers and audience is genuine. An essential destination for jazz lovers and expats who want something more cultural than a standard bar evening.
A vibrant live music bar and club in central Delft where live music meets crafted cocktails. Popular with TU Delft students and younger residents for its lively atmosphere and diverse music programme. Events are held regularly covering a range of genres. The cocktail selection is good and the energetic atmosphere makes it one of the best venues in Delft for a full evening out.
A top spot for pizza and wine in the heart of Delft with a vibrant atmosphere that draws a loyal local crowd. Good natural wines alongside a concise food menu make it one of the better wine bar options in Delft. Popular with the professional and international community for a relaxed mid-week evening.
A popular student bar in central Delft hosting regular parties and events at affordable prices. Halloween parties and themed evenings attract large student crowds. A central destination for TU Delft students and the younger expat community who want a lively and affordable night out. Cheap drinks and a fun atmosphere are the main draws.