A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Dover vs. Delft for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Families

Should you visit Dover or Delft?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Dover and Delft can help you decide which place is right for you.

Dover

Dover is a rustic, stunning, and natural town. Dover is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. Other reasons to visit include food, hiking, and museums. See Dover travel costs.

Delft

Delft is a quaint, charming, and historic town. Other popular activities here include museums, food, and shopping. See Delft travel costs.

Dover and Delft: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Dover or Delft?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Delft than Dover, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Delft is better known for its historical sights and shopping, while Dover is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Dover is well known for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe. Delft is well known for its charming canals, cobblestone streets, and blue and white ceramic pottery. Also, Delft is famous for the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk).

How is Dover different from Delft?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Delft and Dover. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Dover or Delft?

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Dover or Delft.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Dover. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.

Delft is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. There are several museums that highlight the culture and history of the area. The Vermeer Center offers an immersive experience into the life and work of the famous Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer, who was born in the city. The Royal Delft Factory teaches visitors about the city's iconic blue-and-white pottery. The Delft Museum of Technology and the Old Church also provide insight into the city's engineering, cultural, and religious history.

Is the Food Better in Dover or Delft? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Foodies will find both Dover and Delft both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Dover area. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Delft. There are several local dishes like stamppot (mashed potatoes with vegetables) or a frikandel (a Dutch snack). The town has countless casual eateries and cozy cafes where you can enjoy pastries, coffee, and Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken). There's also a selection of international restaurants around town that serve Italian, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisines. Local markets and street food stalls provide affordable options, such as fresh herring or delicious Dutch cheese.

Is Dover or Delft Better for Nightlife?

Both Dover and Delft are respectable when it comes to partying.

Most people don't head to Dover specifically for the nightlife scene, but you can find a few options. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Delft. It has a low-key and relaxed nightlife scene with a variety of cozy pubs, bars, and cafes, many of which are located along the scenic canals.

Is Dover or Delft Better for its Old Town?

Delft is a well-known place for its historic old town charm. However, Dover does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Delft. The city's old town is known for its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and cobblestone streets. The heart of the old town is centered around the Market Square, where you'll find iconic landmarks such as the New Church (Nieuwe Kerk) and the City Hall.

Dover does not have a historic old town.

Is Dover or Delft Better for Hiking?

Dover is a very popular place for its hiking trails. However, Delft is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Delft is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Dover or Delft?

Delft is very good for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors go to Delft to go shopping. The city center is home to many unique shops selling local crafts, Dutch design, and traditional Delftware pottery, making it a great place for souvenirs. You'll also find popular international brands and stores along the main shopping streets. For a more local shopping experience, visit the weekly market in the Market Square, where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and regional goods.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Dover or Delft More Beautiful?

Dover is a must-visit destination for its scenery and beauty. However, Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Dover is considered by many to be an absolutely beautiful destination, too. The stunning White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight that is not to be missed.

Delft is not a destination known for its beauty.

Is Dover or Delft Better for Families?

You'll find notable kid-friendly activities in either Dover or Delft.

Dover is a family-friendly place to visit. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.

Delft is a family-friendly town. There are boat tours on the canals. There's also the Vermeer Center which has an interactive experience where you can learn about the famous artist, Johannes Vermeer, in a way that's engaging and educational. The Royal Delft Factory is another great stop, where children can see traditional blue-and-white pottery being made and even try painting their own ceramics. If your kids need to stretch their legs, there's the Delftse Hout park which has a large playground, nature trails, and even a petting zoo.

Is Dover or Delft Better for Couples?

Dover is a very popular place for romance. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

Dover makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

Delft makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. There are many romantic activities for couples like walking through the picturesque canals and cobblestone streets. There are also quaint cafes and romantic restaurants. You can also take a boat ride along the canals or enjoy a peaceful walk through Delftse Hout park.

Is Dover or Delft Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Dover is a town with good options for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Delft is lacking in good options for backpackers.

Dover is a good town to visit for backpackers. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

Delft is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There are some affordable accommodation options, but many backpackers head to Delft as a day trip from the nearby city of The Hague.

Is Dover or Delft Better for Students?

Delft is a well-known place for students. However, Dover is not popular with students.

Delft is very popular with students. It is home to Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), which is a well respected technical university. The city has a vibrant student atmosphere, with plenty of student-friendly cafes, bars, and activities.

Dover is not popular with students.

Is Dover or Delft Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Delft is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Delft can get you to most places easily. There's a bus network that is reliable and convenient. The city's train station is centrally located and offers direct connections to major cities in the Netherlands, making it a great hub for exploring the region.

Public transit is mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.

Is Dover or Delft a more walkable city?

Delft is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

It is easy to get around Delft on foot. The town's compact size and charming layout mean that most of the main attractions, such as the Old Church, New Church, and Market Square, are within walking distance of each other.

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

For even more information, also check out Is Dover Worth Visiting? and Is Delft Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Delft or Dover?

How long in Dover or Delft?

Dover and Delft both offer plenty of fun activities. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Dover than Delft because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Dover, and 1 day is enough time in Delft.

Families should spend more time in Delft than Dover. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Delft, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Dover than Delft. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Dover that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

One day in Dover or Delft?

In Dover, many people enjoy the food and museums that this natural destination offers. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

In Delft, many people enjoy the food and shopping that this charming destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Since there is so much to do in the area, one day is probably not enough for all of it.

A weekend in Dover or Delft?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Dover. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Delft. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that a weekend is more than enough time to see everything. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Five days in Dover or Delft?

Dover is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the destination of Dover. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Delft is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Delft. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Dover or Delft?

You'll find museums and food around the rustic destination of Dover. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

You'll find food and shopping around the historic destination of Delft. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours from Edinburgh, The Best Family-Friendly Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands.

When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Dover and Delft, we can see that Dover is more expensive. And not only is Delft much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Delft would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Delft and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Dover would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Dover than you might in Delft.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Dover Expensive? and Is Delft Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Dover or Delft?

Delft has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Dover. When comparing the sizes of Dover and Delft, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Dover or Delft?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Dover or Delft in the Summer?

Both Delft and Dover during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Dover for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Delft in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Dover is around the same temperature as Delft. Typically, the summer temperatures in Dover in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Delft averages at about 17°C (62°F).

In Delft, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Dover. In the summer, Dover often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Delft. Dover gets 212 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Delft receives 202 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in July than Delft. Dover gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Delft receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dover or Delft in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Dover and Delft. Many visitors come to Dover in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Delft for the shopping scene during these months.

In October, Dover is generally a little warmer than Delft. Daily temperatures in Dover average around 12°C (54°F), and Delft fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).

Dover usually receives more sunshine than Delft during autumn. Dover gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Delft receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Dover usually receives less rain than Delft. Dover gets 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Delft receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Dover or Delft in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Dover as well as Delft. Most visitors come to Dover for the museums and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Delft because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Delft can be very cold. Dover can be very cold during winter. Dover is much warmer than Delft in the winter. The daily temperature in Dover averages around 4°C (40°F) in January, and Delft fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, Dover often gets more sunshine than Delft. Dover gets 57 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Delft receives 47 hours of full sun.

Dover usually gets less rain in January than Delft. Dover gets 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Delft receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Dover or Delft in the Spring?

Both Delft and Dover are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Dover because of the natural beauty.

In the spring, Dover is a little warmer than Delft. Typically, the spring temperatures in Dover in April average around 9°C (47°F), and Delft averages at about 8°C (46°F).

Dover usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Delft during spring. Dover gets 162 hours of sunny skies, while Delft receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Dover usually receives less rain than Delft. Dover gets 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain, while Delft receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Delft and Dover