A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers York vs. Delft for Food, Old Town, Families, and Attractions

Should you visit York or Delft?

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

Should I visit York or Delft? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

York

York is a historic, medieval, and fanciful city. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See York travel costs.

Delft

Delft is a charming, historic, and quaint town. It's also known for food, shopping, and museums. See Delft travel costs.

York and Delft: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Very walkable
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less popular with backpackers


Is there more to do in York or Delft?

Travelers will usually find more to do in York than Delft, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. York is more touristy than Delft and is popular for its markets, old town, and its many ghost tours. It is also home to The Shambles. Delft is popular for its charming canals, cobblestone streets, and blue and white ceramic pottery.

How is York different from Delft?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

York
Delft

York is a very popular place for its museums and history. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into York. Popular museums include the York Castle Museum, the National Railway Museum, Castle Howard, and JORVIK Viking Centre.

Delft offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. 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 York or Delft? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

York
Delft

York is a must-visit destination for its restaurants. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its restaurant scene.

Many restaurants in York have been singled out for their culinary prowess. Meat pies, fudge, and fish and chips are just some of the culinary experiences you'll find here. The Shambles Market has vendors that sell a wide variety of cuisines. There are also food trucks throughout town that offer affordable and delicious meal options.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in 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 York or Delft Better for Nightlife?

York
Delft

York is a very popular place for nightlife. However, Delft is lacking in good options for nightlife and partying.

York has a large number of nightlife venues. The young population and thriving tourist scene means there's no shortage of nightlife around town. Check out a pub or music venue to experience everything that city has to offer.

Delft is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. 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 York or Delft Better for its Old Town?

York
Delft

York is a must-visit destination for its historic old town. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

The rich history of York can be explored in its historical center. The charming old town is filled with shops and restaurants. There are street performers, fudge shops, and all of the Harry Potter merchandise that a person could need.

There are many historical things to see 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.


Is the Shopping Better in York or Delft?

York
Delft

Both York and Delft are good shopping destinations.

York is a great destination for shopping. The old town has many great candy stores that sell fudge and other local specialties. There are also Harry Potter stores that sell potions, t-shirts, games, and more.

Shopping is a popular activity when visiting Delft. 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.

Is York or Delft Better for Families?

York
Delft

York is a must-visit destination for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Delft is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

York is an extremely popular city to visit for families. The city does an amazing job bringing history to life in a way that kids will enjoy. The JORVIK Viking Centre transports visitors back in time and introduces them to a fully immersive viking experience. The York Dungeon is great for older kids as long as they don't scare easily. Actors and special effects offer a terrifying and entertaining visit through a York dungeon. Harry Potter fans will enjoy exploring the potion shops and broomstick stores along the iconic Shambles, which is said to be an inspiration for J.K. Rowling's Diagon Alley.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Delft. 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 York or Delft Better for Couples?

York
Delft

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

York makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Couples can explore the history and entertainment venues that make York an enjoyable destination. There are museums, restaurants, and outdoor markets that make this a great weekend getaway.

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 York or Delft Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

York
Delft

York is a very popular place for backpackers and budget travelers. However, Delft is lacking in good options for backpackers.

York is very popular with the backpacker crowd. There are a few hostels around town as well as nightlife venues and entertainment spots that appeal to backpackers and younger travelers. For great and affordable food, grab a meal at one of the many food trucks around 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 York or Delft Better for Students?

York
Delft

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

Delft is a very popular town for students and younger travelers. 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.

York is not popular with students.

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

York
Delft

Delft is a well-known place for its public transit. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Public transit in Delft is fairly effecient and thorough. 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.

York has some public transit options. There is a reliable and efficient bus system around town.


Is York or Delft a more walkable city?

York
Delft

Delft is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, York is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of 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.

York is a somewhat walkable place. The old town has many pedestrian streets that are easily explored on food.

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

Should I spend more time in Delft or York?

How long in York or Delft?

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

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in York than Delft if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in York.


  • How many days in York or Delft? Ideal Length of Stay
    York 2-4 
    Delft 1

One day in York or Delft?

In York, many people enjoy the shopping and museums that this historic destination offers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Lots of people come for the food. This city 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the destination of Delft. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything.

A weekend in York or Delft?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in York. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town 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.

Delft is a fun place to experience. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


Five days in York or Delft?

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

You'll find shopping and museums around the quaint destination of Delft. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in York or Delft?

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

The historic town of Delft offers museums and food. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Budget Tours to United Kingdom, The Best Tours for Seniors to United Kingdom, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Netherlands, and The Best Sightseeing Tours in Netherlands.


Which place is cheaper, Delft or York?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in York is £130, while the average daily cost in Delft is £128. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for York and Delft in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    York £59
    Delft £67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    York £118
    Delft £134
Compare Hotels in York and Delft

Looking for a hotel in York or Delft? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in York


Hotels in Delft


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: York Hotel Prices and Delft Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    York £12
    Delft £6.25

Hired Cars and Shuttles in York

Some specific examples of transportation prices in York:

  • Private Transfer from Hull to Manchester Airport (MAN): $296

Is it cheaper to fly into York or Delft?

Prices for flights to both Delft and York change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    York £56
    Delft £56
Typical Food Prices in York

Some typical examples of dining costs in York are as follows:


  • Dinner
    £22

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in York

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in York.

  • Breakfast Food Tour in York: $55
  • Party Cruise with Drink, Dinner, and DJ: $64
  • York on a Fork Food Tour: $102

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    York £11
    Delft £9.37

Tours and Activities in York

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for York are as follows:

  • Time Traveller's Walking Tour of York - Morning Tour : $22
  • All Creatures Great and Small Tour from York : $76
  • Battlements of History: A Self-Guided Tour of York's City Walls : $12
  • Boat Party Experience with DJ & Drinks in York: $65
  • Christmas Guided Walking Tour in York: $17
  • City Sightseeing York Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $23
  • Comedy Horror Show: York Ghost Bus Tour: $27
  • Dark Tales of York. Private ghost tours.: $65
  • Daytime Sightseeing Boat Cruise in York: $20
  • Evening 'Happy Hour' Boat Cruise For All Ages In York: $20
  • Exclusive York - Private Personally-Designed Walking Tour: $205
  • Fish & Chips Boat Cruise in York: $38

Tours and Activities in Delft

For Delft, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Entrance Ticket for the Old and New Churches: $11
  • Vermeer Centrum Delft Museum Entry Ticket: $14
  • Hugo de Groot Walking Tour: $14
  • Canal House Museum 'Paul Tetar van Elven' Ticket: $14
  • Canal Cruise with Guided Commentary: $16
  • City Center Walking Tour: $22
  • Delft - Step/scootertour in and around the city: $29
  • City Tour with Dutch Food and Drink: $93
  • Open Boat Canal Cruise with Skipper: $112
  • Private Historical and Cultural Guided Walking Tour: $135
  • Private Tour of Delft + Beer Tasting: $159
  • Guided Walking Tour: $199

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    York £13
    Delft £14
Typical Alcohol Prices in York

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in York are as follows:


  • A Couple Beers
    £9.00

Sample the Local Flavors in York

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in York:

  • Hooting Owl Distillery York - Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting: $41

Sample the Local Flavors in Delft

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Delft:

  • Craft Beer Tasting in Medieval Brewery with Snacks: $19


When comparing the travel costs between York and Delft, we can see that York is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, York or Delft?

York has a larger population, and is about 52% larger than the population of Delft. When comparing the sizes of York 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 York 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 York or Delft in the Summer?

Both Delft and York during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to York in the summer for the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Delft for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

York is around the same temperature as Delft in the summer. The daily temperature in York averages around 16°C (62°F) in July, and Delft fluctuates around 17°C (62°F).

In Delft, it's very sunny this time of the year. In the summer, York often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Delft. York gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Delft receives 202 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in July than Delft. York gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Delft receives 75 mm (3 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    York 16°C (62°F) 
    Delft 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit York or Delft in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both York and Delft. Most visitors come to York for the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Delft because of the shopping scene.

In the autumn, York is around the same temperature as Delft. Typically, the autumn temperatures in York in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Delft averages at about 11°C (51°F).

York usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Delft during autumn. York gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Delft receives 105 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, York usually receives less rain than Delft. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Delft receives 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    York 11°C (52°F) 
    Delft 11°C (51°F)

Should I visit York or Delft in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to York as well as Delft. The winter months attract visitors to York because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Delft this time of year.

It's quite cold in Delft in the winter. The weather in York can be very cold. In January, York is generally much warmer than Delft. Daily temperatures in York average around 4°C (39°F), and Delft fluctuates around 2°C (36°F).

In the winter, York often gets more sunshine than Delft. York gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Delft receives 47 hours of full sun.

York usually gets less rain in January than Delft. York gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Delft receives 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    York 4°C (39°F) 
    Delft 2°C (36°F)

Should I visit York or Delft in the Spring?

Both Delft and York are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities.

York is around the same temperature as Delft in the spring. The daily temperature in York averages around 8°C (46°F) in April, and Delft fluctuates around 8°C (46°F).

York usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Delft during spring. York gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Delft receives 158 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, York usually receives less rain than Delft. York gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Delft receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    York 8°C (46°F) 
    Delft 8°C (46°F)

Typical Weather for Delft and York

York Delft
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in)