Delfshaven is a charming place for travelers—and particularly history enthusiasts—to explore independently and discover Rotterdam’s past. Roam the cobbled, boat-lined quaysides flanked by 17th-century buildings, enjoy antique shops, galleries, and gin bars; and uncover highlights such as the 18th-century Delfshaven windmill, De Pelgrim brewery, Pilgrim Fathers’ Church, and Museum De Delft—a window into Delfshaven’s shipbuilding and maritime heritage.
The district is included on most Rotterdam tours. Typically, these combine a quayside walk with a guide for historical insight, plus stops at other Rotterdam landmarks such as the Cube Houses and Market Hall. Alternatively, explore Delfshaven during a city bike tour; or if time is short, on a combo tour that teams Rotterdam with visits to nearby attractions such as windmill-dotted Kinderdijk.