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Experience Utrecht like a local, a true ‘Utregter’

Traditional houses on the Oudegracht in downtown Utrecht

The Spoorwegmuseum (Railway Museum) is another place that definitely deserves a visit. Board the special train at Utrecht’s station for a direct trip to the wonderful world of old railway stations, steam locomotives, and all things railway-related.

And, of course, no visit to Utrecht is complete without a climb up the 465 steps of the Dom Tower to drink in the spectacular view from the top.

Traditional old buildings and tower of the Dom cathedral in Utrecht

Make your trip to Utrecht unforgettable by paddling through the canals in a canoe. It’s an amazing and healthy way to marvel at the historical canal houses, vaulted cellars, and charming restaurants that simply ooze ambiance. You may have to watch your head as you pass under the occasional low bridge, but as long as you remember to duck, that shouldn’t stop you from joining in on the fun. If for no other reason than the coffeehouse and dinner bar Tijm , which has set up a drive-through (or should we say sail-through) in the back where canoeists, rowers and other boaters can order beer, coffee and other tasty treats.

Supping for diner Tijm

Delicious dining in Utrecht

utrecht tourist

Restaurant 273

This rising star is a fresh new restaurant, located in perhaps the most beautiful spot in Utrecht: the Oudegracht canal.

utrecht tourist

De Watertoren

Take your dining experience to a whole new level – literally! – at Rotsoord, the new restaurant hotspot located in a water tower! Then wash down your dinner with a beer or two at Klein Berlijn or Camping Ganspoort.

utrecht tourist

Louis Hartloopercomplex

No visit to Utrecht is complete without a stop at Ledig Erf. Pick a table on the terrace of Louis Hartloopercomplex, order a burger, and enjoy that age-old pastime of people-watching. And before we forget, this is also a great place to watch a movie.

utrecht tourist

Le Clochard

Le Clochard in a nutshell: fireplace, delicious spareribs and cheese fondue in a comfortable setting near Park Lepelenburg. Order a craft beer to go with your meal and just relax.

utrecht tourist

For a quick sandwich while shopping, stop by Kimmade on Mariastraat for a Vietnamese Banh Mi. Kimmade may be small in size, but it’s big on taste.

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A green visit to Utrecht

No matter which of Utrecht’s neighborhoods you find yourself in, you can bet that it has a park . Transwijk park, Julianapark, Lepelenburg, Wilhelminapark… they all have their own unique aspects, but one thing they have in common is that they are either big or really big.

Transwijk park, for example, is especially known for the large-scale Liberation Day festival which is held there every year, while Griftpark boasts a large playground and a petting zoo. No matter what park you find yourself in, there are plenty of ways to pass the time. Spread out a blanket and order a pizza or, better yet, treat yourself to a barbecue! As long as you stick to a few rules, local law gives the thumbs up to BBQing in Utrecht’s parks.

Cyclists Wilhelminapark Utrecht

And that’s not all. Because Utrecht is in the midst of a huge greening campaign , the city is building more and more bike-only roads and even housefront gardens. The municipality has come up with special subsidies and solutions for the latter. For example, they will pick up your tiles for free if you replace them with green features.

Thanks to all that, Utrecht manages to be one of the greenest cities in the country without losing any of its urban character. Truly a splendid combination.

utrecht tourist

The starting point here is fantastic dishes with seasonal vegetables. That doesn't mean you can't eat meat there, but it is only a small part of your experience. It makes for a great restaurant for both vegetarians and carnivores.

utrecht tourist

The best spots for vegans and vegetarians

Utrecht nowadays has quite a few options for vegetarians and vegans. In this fine overview you will find restaurants and eateries in different price ranges. Pictured here is Broei, located on the cozy Oosterkade.

utrecht tourist

Landhuis in de stad

Meet the deer and peacocks in the animal meadow at Oog in Al Park, then sit back and enjoy a cup of coffee. A historical building in green.

utrecht tourist

Fort aan de Klop

Located in the up-and-coming neighborhood of Zuilen, Fort aan de Klop is a surprising green enclave in the city. Go for a walk or a bicycle ride along the river Vecht and stop in at this amazing, centuries-old fortification, which is now an excellent place for lunch, dinner, and even overnight stays.

utrecht tourist

De Moestuin

Behind football stadium De Galgenwaard, hidden between crops and greenhouses, you'll find De Moestuin. It is an organic market garden, café with shop and party location in one, but above all it's the ideal green place to have lunch with children.

The road less traveled in Utrecht

Parking space bicycle Utrecht

Utrecht is rightfully called the most cycle-friendly city in the world.

Terrace in Utrecht

Hidden Gems in Utrecht

utrecht tourist

Stadsjochies

A stone’s throw from Amelisweerd, the beautiful country estate on the edge of Utrecht, stands a greenhouse that offers elaborate lunches, drinks, snacks and dinners. Look out the window and see exactly how and where the veggies on your plate are grown. It’s a truly beautiful location.

utrecht tourist

Right in the middle of the creative hotspot that is De Nijverheid lies Boot 122, a small brewpub that serves dozens of different kinds of beers. Fun fact: Boot 122 used to be a houseboat (that’s where the name comes from).

utrecht tourist

Padel, squash or fitness: the stylish Hal22 is a new sports center in Leidsche Rijn. It’s the perfect place to work up a sweat before cooling down with a drink and a tasty bite to eat. Fun fact: Hal22’s founders include former soccer star Marco van Basten and actor Barry Atsma.

utrecht tourist

Ping Pong Club

Where can you play table tennis, drink beer, eat tasty food and dance, all at one location? Why at the Ping Pong Club, of course. Located in an authentic old train depot, it may sound like some kind of weird theme park, but the Ping Pong Club is actually an extremely trendy spot that is very popular among young people in their 20s and 30s.

utrecht tourist

SOIA Strand Oog in Al

Want to dance until the morning light? When summer is in full swing, SOIA (short for Strand Oog in Al, or Oog in Al Beach) is a great place to be, with good food and good DJs.

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Boating in Almere surrounded by architectural gems

Almere: The youngest city in the Netherlands

The newest city in the Netherlands might just surprise you with all it has to offer. ‘Ally’ is an open-air museum of modern architecture.

Dordrecht Lombardbrug couple looks at mural

Discover history in Dordrecht

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Strollers on the Plein with The Hague skyline in the background

The Hague: Green city by the sea

Many associate The Hague with the International Court of Justice. But did you know that it’s home to historical monuments, beaches, fabulous museums and a vibrant shopping centre?

PlanetWare.com

14 Best Attractions & Things to Do in Utrecht

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 22, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Utrecht, the fourth largest city in the Netherlands and the capital of the province of the same name, lies on the geographical divide between the country's fenlands and sandy heathlands. This position favored the development of the town over the centuries as the heathlands, lying higher, were out of reach of the North Sea's often devastating storm tides.

From very early times, Utrecht was one of the principal political, economic, and cultural centers of the Netherlands. It's also the seat of the provincial administration, and home to a famous university founded in 1636.

Tourism also makes a significant contribution to the economy, and the picturesque Old Town with its numerous historical buildings surrounded and intersected by canals offers many fun things to do for tourists and attracts large numbers of visitors year-round. It's an especially nice city to explore after nightfall, particularly in winter during the city's popular KNUS Winter Market and Festival (held during the lead-up to Christmas) and the city's traditional Christmas Market, held in the Mariaplaats.

Learn more about these and other city attractions with our list of the top things to do in Utrecht.

See also: Where to Stay in Utrecht

1. See St. Martin's Cathedral

2. climb the domtoren: the cathedral tower, 3. wander around cathedral square and domunder, 4. st. catherine's convent museum, 5. take a drive to de haar castle, 6. explore utrecht's "old canal," oudegracht, 7. take a utrecht kayak tour, 8. visit museum speelklok, 9. see utrecht's art & artifacts collections at centraal museum, 10. enjoy a train ride at the railway museum, 11. huis doorn: the kaiser's house, 12. rietveld schröder house, 13. utrecht university botanic gardens, 14. st. peter's church, where to stay in utrecht for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in utrecht, utrecht, netherlands - climate chart.

St. Martin's Cathedral

In the heart of Utrecht lies Cathedral Square, the Domplein, where you'll find St. Martin's Cathedral. Most often referred to by locals as the Dom Church (Domkerk), this fine building is considered to be one of the most important churches in The Netherlands.

While the original structure was built in 1254 on the site of an earlier Romanesque church, today this impressive cathedral consists of the 14th-century choir, the 15th-century transepts, and two chapels. The original much larger structure incorporated the massive nearby Domtoren , the tower that became separated after the destruction of the nave during a tornado in 1674. The ruins were only cleared away in 1826, when the Domplein was laid out, with restoration finally completed in 1988.

Highlights include numerous old tombs and a crypt known to contain the internal organs of Emperors Conrad II and Henry IV, who died in Utrecht. Of particular note is the picturesque 14th-century cloister linking the cathedral with the university. Above its windows are scenes from the life of St. Martin, the patron saint, while in the center of the beautiful Cloister Garden is a fountain with a bronze figure of a monk.

While a visit to the cathedral remains one of the top free things to do in Utrecht, you can splash out a little for a pleasant repast in the on-site tearoom. Visitors are also welcome to attend Sunday services.

Address: Achter de Dom 1, 3512 JN Utrecht

Official site: www.domkerk.nl/

Utrecht Cathedral - Floor plan map

Looming high over the old city of Utrecht is the old cathedral tower, the Dom Tower (or Domtoren). This massive structure was separated from the Cathedral of St. Martin after the devastating storm of 1674. Built between 1320 and 1382, it stands a tad over 112 meters high and houses an impressive carillon of 50 bells, many of them centuries old, including some that date back to the 1600s. And be sure to pay a visit to the structure after nightfall when it's lit up in dramatic fashion.

Still the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, its viewing galleries offer magnificent panoramic vistas of the old city and the Domplein - on a clear day, you can see as far as the cities of Rotterdam and Amsterdam (remember, it's a flat country!). The 465-step climb is worth it, as you'll also get to see the bells up close. The climb is only available as part of a guided tour, but it's well worth the price.

Two chapels can also be visited within the tower: St. Michael's , the Bishop's domestic chapel, and the Egmond Chapel , home to an exhibition on the history of this spectacular structure and a visitor center (the RonDom). An interesting tidbit: local planners use an old ruling that no new structures can be built that would challenge the supremacy of the Domtoren as the city's tallest structure.

Address: Domplein 21, 3512 JE Utrecht

Official site: www.domtoren.nl/en

Utrecht University on Dom Square

Like many historic cities in the Netherlands, Utrecht has numerous old public squares. By far the most important, though, is Cathedral Square (Domplein, or "Dom Square"). Named after the magnificent St. Martin's Cathedral, it's a lovely space to visit, especially for the many attractive old buildings that frame it.

In addition to the cathedral and the mighty Dom Tower (Domtoren), here you'll find the attractive (and colorful) Utrecht University building, as well as the Utrecht Tourist Information Office, a great place to begin your exploration for its helpful staff and useful tourist resources.

It's also here you'll find one of the city's newest attractions, a unique new exhibit called DOMUnder . As the name suggests, this fascinating self-guided tour takes you underneath Cathedral Square on an exciting journey that reveals the remains of the city's rich 2,000-plus-year history.

Armed with a flashlight that doubles as a visual-guide (English language available), you find yourselves literally dozens of feet underground and wandering a route that takes in the remains of the original Roman fortress, Trajectum, which started things off.

Your 75-minute adventure also includes a number of old cellars, as well as displays relating to the devastating 17th-century tornado that destroyed parts of the cathedral. English language audio tours are also available. ( Editor's Note : Tickets to this popular attraction sell out quickly, so avoid disappointment and book in advance of your visit to Utrecht.)

Address: Domplein 4, 3512 JC Utrecht

Official site: www.domunder.nl/en

Museum Catharijneconvent exhibit

In the former hospice of the Order of St. John, St. Catherine's Convent Museum (Museum Catharijneconvent) deals with the history of Christianity in the Netherlands. Opened in 1978, it's the country's largest collection of medieval art treasures, with sections devoted to church interiors, religious beliefs, and medieval monasteries.

In addition to a large collection of 17th- and 18th-century material, other exhibits include valuable books and manuscripts, and a model of the original St. Martin's Cathedral with explanations of its history. Also on-site is a display of embroidered Flemish church vestments of the late Middle Ages. English language guided tours are available, along with audio guides. There's also an on-site shop and cafe, as well as a reference library.

Address: Lange Nieuwstraat 38, 3512 PH Utrecht

Official site: www.catharijneconvent.nl/visitor-information/

Castle de Haar

Built by Dutch architect PJH Cuypers, De Haar Castle (Kasteel De Haar) is not only the largest castle in the Netherlands, it's widely considered to be the most attractive thanks to its fairy-tale good looks. It is so large that when it was built in 1822, the whole village of Haarzuilens had to be moved. The castle is just 16 kilometers west of Utrecht, and highlights of a visit are its large collection of antiquities, furniture, paintings, and tapestries, along with its rich décor, including ornate wood carvings and tableware, and a rare Japanese coach designed especially for women.

The grounds, too, are wonderful to explore and comprise some 135 treed acres, along with fountains and a lovely formal garden. Events and festivals are also often held here, including the annual Country & Christmas Fair. An on-site store is available for those seeking souvenirs.

Just a short drive northwest of Utrecht in the quaint village of Oud-Zuilen is the impressive Zuylen Castle (Slot Zuylen). Although its roots date back to the 1200s, the structure you see today dates from 1510, with modifications added in the mid-18th century. Entrance is by guided tour only, but it's well worth it for the chance to explore this well-preserved mansion.

Address: Kasteellaan 1, 3455 RR Haarzuilens

Official site: www.kasteeldehaar.nl/english/

The Oudegracht

A highlight of a visit to Utrecht is exploring the beautiful Oudegracht (Old canal). This marvel of engineering runs directly through the city center and is the perfect place to visit for a pleasant stroll or, if you've got the time, a sightseeing cruise or kayak adventure.

The canal starts in the southeast section of the city and traces, in part, what was once the original route of a section of the Rhine. The northern section of the Oudegracht includes segments of a canal built around AD 1000 that connected the Rhine to the River Vecht.

Once Utrecht's network of locks was completed in 1275, the shores of the canal began to be settled, with numerous quays, wharves, and warehouses added. Today, many of these old buildings and their cellars have been turned into restaurants, cafés, galleries, and boutique shops.

Kayaking along a canal in Utrecht

One of the best ways to see the Oudegracht, along with the city's other charming canals, is from the water. Undoubtedly one of the best such adventures is the popular Utrecht Kayak Tour . This fun experience departs in the afternoon from Domplein, the Old City's central square, and kicks off with an informative overview of the city's rich history from your English speaking guide.

Once aboard your two-person kayak, you'll get unique perspectives of some of the city's most iconic landmarks as you paddle past at a leisurely pace. A highlight of the excursion is paddling along the historic "ring-canal" that circles the city, taking a break at the midway point for refreshments at the Weerdsluis locks.

Next up is touring the length of the Old Canal itself, taking time to hear some of the interesting stories relating to the old wharves and homes you pass along the way. In addition to refreshments and use of the kayak, your tour fee includes a handy waterproof barrel in which to store personal belongings, and a life-vest.

Museum Speelklok exhibit

One of the more unusual of Utrecht's most popular tourist attractions is Museum Speelklok - or Musical Clock Museum in English - dedicated to music boxes, barrel organs, and other devices and instruments capable of playing music without human involvement (other than switching them on or cranking their handles). The museum was established in 1956, and its displays - many of them hands-on and interactive - include mechanical musical instruments from the 18th century to the present day, as well as domestic instruments, from tiny music boxes to massive fair organs, most of which can still be played.

Other highlights include examples of musical clocks, pianolas, and a turret clock with a carillon, along with the opportunity to peek behind the scenes at the restoration work performed in the workshops. Free English-language guided tours, including demonstrations, are available.

Another attraction centered on machinery, though of a more scientific nature, is the interesting Sonnenborgh Observatory (Museum Sterrenwacht Sonnenborgh). Highlights of a visit of this part museum and part still-functioning observatory include seeing this historic structure in action (guided tours are available).

Address: Steenweg 6, 3511 JP Utrecht

Official site: https://www.museumspeelklok.nl/lang/en/

Centraal Museum

Spread between the remnants of a former convent and the city's old Artillery Stables, Utrecht's excellent municipal collections - most of them created by locals over the centuries - are well worth a visit.

Established in 1838 and housed in the city's Centraal Museum, the exhibits include the provincial archaeological collections and works by Utrecht-based painters from the 15th century onwards, including the Romanists, a group influenced by the Italian Renaissance and led by Jan van Scorel. Other schools represented are the Mannerists, represented by Abraham Bloemaert, who had an enduring influence on the Utrecht Caravaggisti (stylistic followers of Caravaggio).

The museum also has a collection of costumes from the 18th century to the present day, along with rooms furnished in period style, sculptures, silverware, and a collection of material on the history of the city. A rare 17th-century dollhouse with rooms decorated in chintz from the Dutch East Indies is also worth seeing, as is the famous Utrecht Ship, a 1,000-year-old vessel discovered in 1930. Also of interest is a display of art and artifacts related contemporary artist Dick Bruna, creator of the world-famous Miffy the cartoon bunny.

More of the world's cutest bunny can be enjoyed at the Miffy Museum . This first-rate educational facility is one of the top things to do in Utrecht for families traveling with younger children. Naturally, there's plenty of fun here, from storytelling and dancing to games and plenty of interactive playtime.

Address: Agnietenstraat 1, 3512 XA Utrecht

Official site: http://centraalmuseum.nl/en/

The Railway Museum

Located in the old Maliebaan train station, Utrecht's Railway Museum (Spoorwegmuseum) is the country's national railway museum and is a must-see for train buffs. Founded in 1927, highlights of this large, well-stocked tourist attraction include a cross section of the country's transit history, particularly its railroads and tram systems, with plenty of models and old vehicles to enjoy along the way.

Exhibits deal with the early years of railways, including its heyday of the 1900s, and an operational workshop. In addition to the museum's impressive collection of locomotives (including nine well-preserved steam engines) and rolling stock, kids will love the model railway and playground.

There's a shop and restaurant on-site. For a special treat, take the authentic shuttle train service running between the city's main train station (Utrecht Centraal) and the museum. Frequent themed events, such as Thomas the Tank Engine days, are also held, and regular guided tours are available.

Another related attraction - it deals with machinery, although this time with a focus on war - is the National Military Museum (Nationaal Militair Museum). Highlights include impressive collections of aircraft and vehicles, along with fascinating exhibits dealing with the various branches of the Dutch armed forces.

Address: Maliebaanstation, 3581 XW Utrecht

Official site: www.spoorwegmuseum.nl/

Huis Doorn display

In the picturesque little town of Doorn is the last home of Germany's Kaiser Wilhelm II, Huis Doorn (known in English as Doorn Manor). Forced into exile after defeat in WWI, the Kaiser purchased Huis Doorn in 1920 and lived there until his death in 1941 at age 82 (he's buried in a mausoleum on the grounds). Originally a medieval castle, the house was rebuilt in Classical style in the 18th century, with only minor alterations since.

Set in a large and beautiful park, the house opened to the public as a museum in 1956 and has been preserved exactly as it was in the Kaiser's day, right down to the original furniture and furnishings, the Kaiser's personal possessions (including a collection of snuff-boxes belonging to Frederick the Great), uniforms, photos, and paintings.

The property's attractive Orangery is now a restaurant and serves a memorable, traditional high tea. English-language guided tours are available but need to be booked in advance.

Address: Langbroekerweg 10, 3941 MT Doorn

Official site: www.huisdoorn.nl/en/visitors/opening-times-prices/

Rietveld Schröder House

Considered so important a piece of architecture that UNESCO has deemed it a World Heritage Site, the stunning Rietveld Schröder House (Rietveld Schröderhuis) is a must-see for design buffs. Designed and constructed in the early 1920s by leading Dutch architect (and Utrecht resident) Gerrit Rietveld for a widower friend and her family, this attractive small home was decades ahead of its time in so many ways.

For example, the lower living area was created with retracting walls, a clever trick created by Rietveld - a leading member of the influential De Stijl design movement - that enabled family members to shut themselves off at night for privacy, yet served as a large communal space by day.

The unique windows were also revolutionary; large and able to be fully opened, they helped blur the distinction between the interior and exterior worlds. The house is now a museum, and admission is only available as part of a guided tour. A small shop selling related books and material is located nearby.

For those wanting to learn more about Rietveld and his impact on design, the Centraal Museum (which operates Rietveld Schröder House) have devised a fun self-guided walking tour that takes in city landmarks related to the designer. This pleasant five-kilometer route begins (and finishes) at the Centraal Museum and takes in Rietveld Schröder House and the architect's original furniture workshop.

Address: Prins Hendriklaan 50, 3583 EP Utrecht

Official site: www.rietveldschroderhuis.nl/en

Utrecht University Botanic Gardens

A fun diversion for those with green thumbs - or those who simply enjoy lovely green spaces and gardens - involves paying a visit to the Utrecht University Botanic Gardens. Centered around the old abandoned Fort Hoofddijk, this delightful 22-acre site, while a relatively new creation (it was laid out in the late 20th century), can trace its roots back to the early days of the university in the 17th century.

All told there are six unique gardens to explore. Favorites include the Birders Den (no surprise, it's popular with bird-watchers), and the Bee Hotel with its diverse array of pollinating insects. The tropical greenhouses are also worth exploring.

The gardens are open spring through December. Try to join one of the regular and informative guided tours to ensure you get the most from your experience (and explore on your own afterwards). The pleasant Garden Café is a welcome treat, and an on-site shop is also available.

If time permits, other fun things to do nearby include paying a visit to the Old Botanical Gardens (Oude Hortus), of interest for its medicinal plants and old ginkgo trees, and the University Museum Utrecht.

Address: Budapestlaan 17, 3584 CD Utrecht

Official site: www.uu.nl/en/utrecht-botanic-gardens

St. Pieterskerk

Just a short walk north of St. Martin's Cathedral , in Pieterskerkhof, stands St. Peter's Church (St. Pieterskerk), the first of the town's churches to be built. Consecrated in 1048 and notable for its two Romanesque towers, the church features a crypt with a sarcophagus of the founder, Bishop Bernold.

Other notable features are the capitals of the columns in the nave, the wall paintings in the north aisle, and the 12th-century reliefs created in the Maasland style.

Address: Pieterskerkhof 5, 3512 JR Utrecht

Luxury Hotels :

  • For a taste of sophisticated luxury, book a stay at the elegant Grand Hotel Karel V Utrecht . In addition to its excellent restaurant, this historic, grand hotel boasts a chic spa with a sauna and hot tub, a lovely indoor pool, and a fitness center.
  • Although a good-deal smaller, the eco-friendly Mary K Hotel offers boutique-style accommodations with canal views, courteous staff, and excellent homemade muesli.
  • Another good choice is Hotel Dom , an intimate luxury hotel with large suites, some with terraces featuring city views, set in a lovely old building dating from the 1700s (and close to the cathedral).

Mid-Range Hotels :

  • The modern NH Utrecht offers reasonable rates and a great location near the city's central train station, along with serene décor in its spacious rooms.
  • For something a little quirkier, consider the Eye Hotel , so-named for its location in a former eye hospital. It's popular for its rooms with private patios (and it's a short stroll from the city's top tourist attractions.
  • Although a little farther outside the center but close to public transport, Hotel Mitland Utrecht offers a number of rooms with balconies featuring canal views (check out the honeymoon suite), and a great breakfast with homemade pancakes.

Budget Hotels :

  • For a good quality budget-friendly hotel experience, check out the Holiday Inn Express Utrecht - Papendorp , popular for its light-filled, contemporary design; friendly staff; and the free continental breakfast.
  • For those comfortable with hostel-style accommodations (a few private rooms are available), the no-frills Stayokay Utrecht Centrum is worth considering and has an on-site café and buffet breakfasts.

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Tourist attractions in Amsterdam, Netherlands

The Netherlands by Rail : Utrecht is an easy 25-minute journey by train from the popular tourist attractions of Amsterdam , a must-visit destination that's home to the magnificent Rijksmuseum and its many collections of important antiquities and art. The port city of Rotterdam is equally easy to access and is a popular day trip for its fine marine museum, old harbor, and the nearby windmills. Finally, a trip to The Hague , the country's capital, is also worth adding to your Netherlands itinerary (it's 35 minutes by train), thanks to its fine old architecture and palaces.

Utrecht Map - Tourist Attractions

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19 unmissable things to do in Utrecht in 2024

Take your pick! 👇

Vedika Luthra

The Dom Tower, the Miffy museum, and the inner city’s sunken canals — there are tons of things to do in Utrecht.

With beautiful old houses, bridges, and canals that fill the city, Utrecht is often regarded as a little Amsterdam (just without as many tourists ).

Located in the very centre of the Netherlands, the city is dynamic, historic, and full of life. If you haven’t visited before, Utrecht should definitely be at the top of your to-do list.

There’s no shortage of interesting things to do and see in this historic city — but, of course, as someone who has lived here for years, I’ve made a list anyway.

1. Enjoy the views of Utrecht at the Dom Tower

2. find some peace and quiet at st. martin’s cathedral, utrecht, 3. travel back in time at domunder in utrecht, 4. let your inner musician loose at the speelklok museum in utrecht, 5. navigate the waters at the oudegracht canal in utrecht, 6. explore what else the oudegracht in utrecht has to offer, 7. shop till you drop at utrecht’s vredenburg market, 8. stop and smell the flowers at the janskerkhof bloemenmarkt in utrecht, 9. keep rollin’ at utrecht’s railway museum, 10. get your greenery boost in wilhelminapark in utrecht, 11. dive into dutch design at rietveld schröderhuis, 12. bike out to de veldkeuken in utrecht, 13. become a utrecht patriot at the miffy museum, 14. blend in with royalty at kasteel de haar, utrecht, 15. embrace the inland beach at strand oog in al, 16. dance the night away in utrecht at tivoli vredenburg, 17. go stargazing at the sonnenborgh observatory in utrecht, 18. watch the grass grow in utrecht’s botanical garden, 19. take an evening stroll to admire trajectum lumen in utrecht.

This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement .

Once the religious capital of the Netherlands, this quaint, medieval city radiates around the 13th-century Dom Tower — the tallest church tower in the Netherlands.

photo-aerial-view-of-utrecht-and-the-dom

The impressive 112-metre tower is “the pride of Utrecht”, and it’s a must-see (to be honest, it’s hard not to see it) on your visit to the city.

READ MORE | 11 of the best towers in the Netherlands that you need to visit

It’s also a great thing to do in Utrecht if you’re looking to get an overview of the Netherlands as a whole. I’d recommend going on a clear day. You can actually spot Rotterdam , Amsterdam , and The Hague from the observation platform!

You can also grab a bite to eat at some of the bars on Dom Square if the trip up the tower makes you hungry.

Let op! The Dom is currently enduring a €37 million, four-year renovation. As such, it’s hidden until summer 2024.

💰 Price: €12.50 for adults, €7.50 for children ⏰ Opening hours: Every day from 10 AM until 5 PM 📍 Location: Domplein 9, 3512 JC Utrecht

Get ready for the historical, architectural, and religious hotspot of Utrecht. The St. Martins Cathedral , once the largest church in the Netherlands, used to be connected to the Dom Tower.

utrecht-st-martin-cathedral-areal-view-things-to-do-in-utrecht

But ever since a tornado hit in 1674, the tower has been separate from the church, and this unique feature is part of what makes it a popular tourist attraction.

READ MORE | A guide to 6 streets to explore in Utrecht (that you maybe didn’t know about)

In the courtyard of the Gothic cathedral, you’ll find the stunning Pandhof garden — a perfect spot for a cup of coffee or a moment of quiet time.

The Domkerk is literally a stone’s throw from the Dom, so if you pay a visit to the area, I’d suggest you take a peek at both.

💰 Price: A grand total of €0 ⏰ Opening hours: 10 AM until 5 PM on Mondays to Fridays, 10 AM until 3:15 PM on Saturdays, 12:30 PM until 5 PM on Sundays 📍 Location: Achter de Dom 1, 3512 JN Utrecht

Ready for a deep dive (quite literally) into history? Or maybe the Dutch weather got to you, and you need an escape from the rain?

While you’re in Dom Square, you should definitely take a trip DOMunder . And yes, if you haven’t noticed yet, a lot of Utrecht’s history revolves around the Dom.

Here, you can explore some of the Netherlands’ best archaeological treasures via multimedia. You’ll get a torch and a scanner that you can use to bring sound messages to life.

READ MORE | The 10 best hikes in and near Utrecht to bask in Dutch nature

This is the perfect activity if you’re interested in Roman and medieval history or if you just need a rain-proof thing to do in Utrecht.

💰 Price: €14 for adults, €10 for children ⏰ Opening hours: 10:30 AM until 5 PM, Monday to Sunday 📍 Location: Domplein 9, 3512 JC Utrecht

Here’s one for music enthusiasts! The Speelklok Museum is located in an old church, the Buurkerk, and is a fun thing to do in Utrecht for travellers of all ages .

READ MORE | Moving to Utrecht: everything you need to know about living in Utrecht in 2024

On display, you’ll see an assortment of self-playing musical instruments, music boxes, pianolas, organs, and musical clocks. The latter is key to explaining the museum’s name: “musical clock”.

Apart from just the museum, restoration workshops are also offered — which are highly regarded worldwide.

💰 Price: €14 for adults, €7.50 for children ⏰ Opening hours: 10 AM until 5 PM from Tuesday to Sunday 📍 Location: Steenweg 6, 3511 JP Utrecht

What is a trip to the Netherlands without some good ol’ canal action?

The two-level canal system on the Oudegracht is one of the most unique parts of Utrecht, and it’s best explored from the water in a boat or a canoe .

Historically, Utrecht has always been an important trading city, and merchants used the lower level (below street level) of the Oudegracht to unload goods from barges into conveniently located cellars along the canal.

oudegracht-things-to-do-in-utrecht

As the commercial aspect of the city faded, the cellars were left empty. In the last hundred years or so, these canal cellars have been up-cycled and converted into cafés, restaurants, and shops galore — giving Utrecht a unique and cool feature you won’t find in every other Dutch city.

During the summertime, it’s super gezellig (cosy) to sit by the canal and sip a cold beer after your obligatory boating adventure.

💰 Price: Completely free! ⏰ Opening hours: Whenever you wish 📍 Location: Oudegracht aan de Werf 186, 3511 AL Utrecht

The Oudegracht is more than just a canal; the streets along it also happen to be some of the best places to hang out if you’re looking for things to do in Utrecht.

oudegracht-area-utrecht-city-centre

Not only does it connect to Domplein (the square where the Dom and the St. Martin’s Cathedral are located), but it also houses Utrecht’s main shopping area, which is far more charming than any shopping mall.

READ MORE | The neighbourhoods in Utrecht: bringing you the best places to live in Utrecht

(If a mall is your cup of tea, though, walk a little further off the Oudegracht and towards the train station, where you will find Hoog Catherijne , Utrecht’s answer to glossy indoor shopping.)

Now, if all that retail therapy’s made you hungry, you can also grab a cup of coffee or a drink back on the Oudegracht — and maybe take your pick of deep-fried snacks at the food trucks that stand beside the canal too.

Broodje Mario is my favourite for cheap, delicious sandwiches.

💰 Price: Free as a bee ⏰ Opening hours: You are free to wander at any time 📍 Location: Oudegracht aan de Werf 186, 3511 AL Utrecht

As any experienced tourist knows, good snacks are key to a good vacation. While you’re in the area of the Oudegracht, you should definitely check out Vredenburg Market , which takes place on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays.

If you’re into food, this is THE thing to do in Utrecht.

bread-for-sale-at-Vredenburg-market-things-to-do-in-utrecht

You can find just about anything here — an array of farm-fresh eggs, produce, and fish, as well as freshly baked treats.

READ MORE | Ice-skating rinks in the Netherlands: Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, and beyond

And if you’re looking for Dutch classics (think hella good cheese , gooey warm stroopwafels , and other typically Dutch delicacies ), this is where it’s at.

💰 Price: However much you’re willing to spend ⏰ Opening hours: 10 AM until 5 PM on Wednesdays and Fridays, 8 AM until 5 PM on Saturdays 📍 Location: Vredenburg, 3511 CW Utrecht

If you come to the Netherlands for flowers, you can find Utrecht’s bustling flower market right outside the beautiful Janskerk (St. John’s Church).

janskerkhof-flower-market-in-utrecht

Even if you’re not looking to buy potted gems, the flower market should not be missed — the colours and plants on display are beautiful, and the vibe is great!

READ MORE | The Dutch and tulips: how did tulips in the Netherlands become a thing?

And while on the topic of cool markets, the largest and oldest fabric market in the Netherlands, Lapjesmarkt , is only a stone’s throw away from Janskerkhof.

So if you’re looking to buy some cool textiles, or if you’re just interested in a truly unique thing to do in Utrecht, this is the place to go.

💰 Price: Free unless you’re tempted to buy a bouquet ⏰ Opening hours: 8 AM until 5 PM on Saturdays 📍 Location: Neude Janskerkhof en Domplein, 3512 JE Utrecht

As much as I love to complain about the NS , the Dutch railway system is actually pretty darn good. If you want to learn more about the history of trains in the Netherlands, the Railway Museum should be on your list of things to do in Utrecht.

Railway-Museum-Utrecht-housed-in-the-historic-Maliebaan-Station

The main hall of the station is adorned in 19th-century style, and the museum features old posters, leaflets, carriages, and locomotives, as well as a mechanical ride.

Plus, if you’re looking for things to do with children in Utrecht, this is one for the books.

At the Spoorweg Museum, you’ll also find a moving memorial to the Jews of Utrecht who were murdered during the Second World War .

💰 Price: €19.50 ⏰ Opening hours: 10 AM until 5 PM Tuesday to Sunday 📍 Location: Maliebaanstation 16, 3581 XW Utrecht

Got a bit of a sightseeing overdose? Breathe in, and breathe out in Wilhelminapark — one of Utrecht’s many beautiful green spaces. The park was officially opened in 1898 and named after Queen Wilhelmina, who became queen that year.

wilhelmina-park-things-to-do-in-utrecht

At the centre of the park is a large pond (or little lake), and the area around the park also features a few cafés, bars, and ice cream shops. It’s the perfect spot for an outing (when the weather is nice).

The park is actually so nice that the surrounding area is considered the bougie district of the city , where houses sell for millions of euros apiece. 🤑

💰 Price: Free ⏰ Opening hours: 6 AM until 10 PM from Monday to Sunday 📍 Location: Wilhelminapark, 3581 NE Utrecht

Have you ever dreamt of walking inside a piece of art? Here’s your chance!

The Rietveld Schröderhuis was built as a private home by Gerrit Rietveld (a renowned furniture designer from Utrecht) in 1924 and now stands as an architectural super-attraction in Utrecht.

photo-rietveld-schroder-house-things-to-doutrecht

The house was designed using the concepts of De Stijl, a Dutch artistic movement from the early 1900s, focused on bold primary colours and geometry. It was used as a private living space until 1985 and functions as a museum today.

READ MORE | 12 ‘gezellige’ places to work or study in Utrecht

Originally, the house was situated on the outskirts of Utrecht — which was one of its main selling points. Today, however, a four-lane motorway and viaduct make up the view from the house.

Nevertheless, you can always see tourists flock to the museum, which is an architectural and art historical gem of a thing to do in Utrecht.

💰 Price: €19 for adults, €3 for children ⏰ Opening hours: 11 AM until 4 PM Tuesday to Sunday 📍 Location: Prins Hendriklaan 50, 3583 EP Utrecht

There are a lot of things to do in Utrecht, but the province around the city also has some treasures to explore. Why not bring out your inner Dutchie , and go for a bike ride?

The beautiful forest Amelisweerd is not only a great biking area in Utrecht, but it also hides the poorly kept secret of a restaurant, De Veldkeuken .

couple-cycling-in-the-dutch-woods-the-netherlands-things-to-do-in-utrecht

Here you can enjoy a pleasant drink or meal made with ingredients grown in the surrounding area. The restaurant is the perfect bike trip destination, and the bread and cakes are to die for.

READ MORE | Utrecht becomes first Dutch city to ban new tobacco stores (and that’s only the first step!)

In the mood for something sweet? Check out the nearby pancake restaurant, nestled by a canal in the forest.

💰 Price: Yet another free activity! ⏰ Opening hours: 9:30 AM until 5 PM from Tuesdays to Fridays, 9:30 until 5:30 on Saturday and Sunday 📍 Location: Koningslaan 11 A, 3981 HD Bunnik

The Nijntje Museum (or Miffy in English) is another great thing to do with kids in Utrecht.

The quirky cartoon bunny created by Dick Bruna has become quite the symbol of the city, and no visit to Utrecht is complete without a trip here.

Miffy-Museum-Nijntje-things-to-do-in-Utrecht

The museum is a touch-everything experience that appeals to young children, who can crawl, climb, and play around the grounds — making for a fun and interactive experience.

But of course, you can still enjoy it as an adult.

My one tip is to make sure to pre-book, as the museum can be particularly busy during weekends and holidays.

💰 Price: €8 for adults, €12 for children (2-6 years old) ⏰ Opening hours: 10 AM until 5 PM from Tuesday to Sunday 📍 Location: Oudegracht 167, 3511 AL Utrecht

Want to travel back in time and add a romantic activity to your list of things to do in Utrecht?

Kasteel de Haar is the grandest and largest castle in the Netherlands, and it’s located just a short hour by train away from the city.

kasteel-de-haar-things-to-do-in-utrecht

Once the holiday home of the Van Zuylen family, who continue to visit for a month every September, the castle is now open to visitors.

In the 1900s, elaborate parties were once thrown at the iconic location, attracting famous guests such as Coco Chanel, Maria Callas, Gregory Peck, Roger Moore, Yves Saint Laurent, Joan Collins, and Brigitte Bardot.

READ MORE | A guide to 11 breathtaking castles and palaces in the Netherlands

Today the castle serves as a museum, ranking among the top 20 most-visited in the Netherlands.

You can arrange for a guided tour of the castle or drop by for exhibitions, theatre performances, and other events.

💰 Price: €19 for adults, €12.50 for children ⏰ Opening hours: 10 AM until 5 PM, Monday to Sunday 📍 Location: Kasteellaan 1, 3455 RR Utrecht

From yoga sessions to afro-beats, you can enjoy more than just a beverage at this city beach. Alright, Strand Oog in Al (or SOIA for the locals) isn’t quite Scheveningen — but it’s a perfect place to go in Utrecht during the summer and a pretty decent beach for a city.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by SOIA – Strand Oog In Al (@soia_strandooginal)

SOIA is perfect for grabbing a cold beer, soaking up the sun once the weather is a little warmer (and storm-free), and enjoying the grilling season.

READ MORE | Summer is here! 8 places to escape the heat in Utrecht

The beach is also kid-friendly, offering a bouncy castle and face-painting — so it’s another fun thing to do with children in Utrecht.

💰 Price: Free! ⏰ Opening hours: 12 PM until 11 PM Monday to Thursday, 12 PM until 12:30 AM Friday, 10 AM until 12:30 Saturday, 10 AM until 10 PM Sunday. 📍 Location: Kanaalweg 199, 3533 HL Utrecht

Whether you’re in the mood for something orchestral, jazzy, or a place to go dancing, Tivoli Vrendeburg has it all.

It’s a contemporary music venue in the centre of Utrecht, catering to a wide audience looking for music-related things to do in Utrecht.

billie-eilish-at-tivoli-vredenburg-utrecht

The venue frequently welcomes international performers at its five halls — each acoustically designed for specific music genres.

There’s also a restaurant/bar located on the ground floor if you want to grab a quick bite before you hit the dance floor.

What’s more, Tivoli is conveniently located right by the train station, so you can easily hop on a train when you’re ready to move on to your next destination.

💰 Price: Varies, depending on event ⏰ Opening hours: Varies, depending on event 📍 Location: Vredenburgkade 11, 3511 WC Utrecht

In a country as obsessed with the weather as the Netherlands, it’s only suitable to visit an attraction that lets you make your own weather forecast!

In the 19th century, the observatory in Utrecht was used to gain a better understanding of the composition of the sun and to predict the weather.

Sonnenborgh-observatory-Utrecht-things-to-do

Today, the old building has been transformed into a lovely and unique thing to do on your trip to Utrecht.

Climb the stairs to the star cupolas and use the telescopes to explore the starry skies up close.

Then, go into the domes and observe the planets, before you explore the cannon fixtures on the 400-year-old walls of the observatory. Who’s ready for a starry night?

💰 Price: €10 for adults, €6.50 for children ⏰ Opening hours: 11 AM until 5 PM from Tuesday to Friday, 1 PM until 5 PM on Sundays. 📍 Location: Zonnenburg 2, 3512 NL Utrecht

Whether it’s a rock garden, a bird den, or tropical greenhouses you’re interested in, the botanical garden in Utrecht is one of the oldest of its kind in the Netherlands, and it has something for everyone.

botanical-garden-things-to-do-in-utrecht

Dating back to 1639, the gardens were established for medical students at Utrecht University, only three years after the university was founded.

Today, it has been relocated to the Science Park, and it’s both a peaceful and intriguing thing to do in Utrecht.

From March 1 to November 30, the beautiful gardens are open to the public every day.

💰 Price: €8.50 for adults, €3.50 for children ⏰ Opening hours: 10 AM until 4:30 PM Monday to Sunday 📍 Location: Budapestlaan 17, 3584 CD Utrecht

After a day enjoying the many things to do in Utrecht, you may think the fall of dark brings the end to your adventures. Lucky for you, that’s not the case with Utrecht Lumen !

Instead of calling it for the night, you can embark on a scavenger hunt of light artwork throughout the city and unravel the symbolism of particular buildings and locations.

There are also private tours if you really want to get into the nitty-gritty history of what you see.

💰 Price: Gratis (free)! ⏰ Opening hours: When daylight fades and darkness descends 📍 Location: Throughout the city

And in case you still can’t decide whether to visit Utrecht or not, maybe this video will help:

What’s your favourite thing to do in Utrecht? Tell us in the comments below!

Liked it? Try these on for size:

Review: we slept our way from amsterdam to berlin on the new european sleeper train, 19 best day trips from amsterdam: the ultimate travel guide, 17 adventurous things to do in texel in 2024, what do you think.

Thanks for the Utrecht info. I have been in Holland 24 times in 12 years…north and south and Amsterdam for truth. I will came make in September for me last time. I will be a day in Utrecht.

We plan to travel in April 2022 and for sure will stop in Utrecht

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Exploring the Netherlands

19 Best Utrecht Tourist Attractions

The city of Utrecht, both the smallest and oldest province in the Netherlands, is located in the central region of the country and is steeped in medieval history. Centred around the Dom Tower, the car-free city centre means that your experience of the popular Utrecht tourist attractions will in no way be compromised.

An interesting fact about the Dom Tower is that it can be seen from any point in and around the city – the real hero of this lively Dutch city.

a canal in a city with a tree hanging over the water and a boat, and cafes on both banks of the canal; Utrecht in the Netherlands

The network of canals ( de grachten ) winds through the city and there are many things to do in Utrecht that involve these beautiful waterways. There are also many monuments and other things to see in Utrecht that are of historical Dutch significance.

In this article, you will learn about some of the favorite Utrecht tourist attractions that make this university town special. From the many museums in Utrecht to the canals, De Haar Castle, Cathedral Church, and everything in between. The little Amsterdam, as it is affectionately known, has a big heart and is bound to capture yours.

Read more: Where to stay in Utrecht – a comprehensive guide of the best places to stay in Utrecht and the most popular neighborhoods

typical stepped-gable houses ona square with a tall clock tower at the background and people sitting outside at cafes at the foreground; a typical day in Utrecht, the Netherlands

1. Botanic Gardens Utrecht

2. canal cruise utrecht, 3. cafes along the canals, 4. central museum utrecht, 5. cathedral church, 6. domunder, 7. museum catharijneconvent, 8. museum speelklok, 9. national military museum, 10. the railway museum, 11. the rietveld-schröder house, 12. de haar castle, 13. flora’s courtyard, 14. papal house, 15. soia – strand oog in al, 16. miffy museum, 17. máximapark, 18. twijnstraat, 19. dom tower, how to get to utrecht, final words.

DISCLOSURE: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase via one of those links, I will earn a commission at no extra cost for you.

Top Utrecht tourist attractions not to miss!

On the map below you can find the best things to do and see in Utrecht. You can download it and use offline, or the locations to your own map, so that you can easily find the attractions you want to visit.

Of the many Utrecht attractions, the Botanic Gardens are a fantastic way to begin your adventure of discovery in the city. Located on the Utrecht University campus, the gardens have a beautiful zen-like aura to them and are bound to relax even the most highly-strung individuals.

The Botanic Gardens in Utrecht are one of the oldest University gardens in the Netherlands. They date back to 1639. They were originally designed as a medicine garden for teaching purposes. Today, you can enjoy there a Discovery Garden, an Evolution Garden, a Rock Garden, and a Tropical Greenhouse with butterflies , among others.

Practical info: Utrecht University Botanic Gardens / Botanische Tuinen Universiteit Utrecht Address: Budapestlaan 17, 3584 CD Utrecht (Utrecht Science Park) Opening times: daily, from 10 am till 4:30 pm Admission fee: adults – 8,50 EUR; children (13-18 yoa) – 3,50 EUR. Click here to buy your tickets. Website: www.uu.nl/en/utrecht-botanic-gardens

A canal cruise in Utrecht is what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris – unmissable! Shipping Company Schuttevaer has been in the canal cruise business since 1960 and is more than capable of making your trip through de grachten both informative and memorable. You will be able to see many of the top Utrecht tourist attractions from the water which provides a unique perspective of the city .

a covered boat cruising a canal in Utrect passing along people sitting at cafe terraces along the canal in Utrecht, the Netherlands

As an added bonus, the company has put together a package that includes some of the things to do in Utrecht – I’m talking about a crepe lunch at one of the dedicated pancake restaurants, a tour of the Stadkasteel Oudaen brewery (and tasting, of course), and a traditional stage play at the Werftheater .

Practical info: Rederij Schuttevaer Address: Oudegracht 85, 3511 AD Utrecht Check the available boat tours in Utrecht here

If you’re looking for a pit stop during your Utrecht sightseeing adventure, the numerous cafes and waterside terraces along the canals are a must! De Winkel van Sinkel is one of the most well-known of these waterside cafes and is the perfect ending to a day of exploring.

a view from the city of Utrech with a canal and cafes alongside the canal

De Rechtbank , formerly the best terrace in the whole country, offers it all – breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks, and even a high tea. Wijncafe Levebvre , on the other hand, is the perfect place for a quick glass of vino and a snack.

The Central Museum Utrecht ( Centraal Museum Utrecht ) is one of the oldest museums in Utrecht and the Netherlands – it has been in existence since 1838. Many of the works housed in the museum are by local Dutch artists and there is a mixture of permanent and changing exhibitions on display. The museum is housed since 1921 in the former St. Agnes of Rome Cloister ( Agnietenklooster ), built 1420.

an old building of a cloister with arched windows and some flags on poles in front, housing the Central Museum in Utrecht - one of the best things to see in the city

Some of the noteworthy artworks on display include the Utrecht Ship , the Matchmaker , and The Brides of Dracula . The museum also houses the largest collection of paintings by Joachim Wtewael , a Dutch Mannerist painter from Utrecht and once town councillor.

Practical info: Central Museum Utrecht / Centraal Museum Utrecht Address: Agnietenstraat 1, 3512 XA Utrecht Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 11 am till 5 pm Admission fee: adults – 13,50 EUR; children (13-17 yoa) – 7,50 EUR. Click here to buy your tickets. Website: www.centraalmuseum.nl

St. Martin’s Cathedral , also referred to as Dom church , is a Protestant church in Utrecht that was built in 1254. It was originally connected to the Cathedral tower but the two have been divided since a destructive tornado in 1674.

a side view of a Gothic church with a courtyard with green boxtree borders and some people sitting or walking around; the Dom Church in Utrecht, the Netherlands

Inside this beautiful Gothic building are an array of pews, tomb, and of course, the stunning stained-glass windows. An interesting fact about the sculptures in the church is that they are either damaged or beheaded. This was because of the Iconoclastic Fury ( Beeldenstorm ) of 1566 and subsequently have been left in their damaged state as a reminder of this turbulent times.

Every Saturday at 3:30 pm there’s a Saturday Afternoon Concert in the church, which can be visited free of charge.

Practical info: Cathedral Church / Domkerk Utrecht Address: Achter de Dom 1, 3512 JN Utrecht

Underneath the Dom Square , more than 2,000 years of history awaits you. DOMunder is one of those things to do in Utrecht that really gives you the feeling of going back in time. Not only will you get a lesson in archaeology as you traverse the foundations of the Dom Cathedral, but you will also have a fantastic history lesson. This exhibition will take you through the ages dating back to 45 AD to the time of the destructive tornado.

underground ruins of foundations with mapping projected on the walls; the DOMunder Museum in Utrecht

You’re able to discover DOMunder alone but if you really want an in-depth experience, it is recommended that you book a tour with an accompanying guide to take the experience to the next level.

The ruins that you’ll see under the Dom are from the Roman fort Traiectum , which was part of the Lower German Limes – the newest UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Netherlands.

Practical info: DOMunder Address: Domplein 4, 3512 JC Utrecht Entrance fee: adults – 12,50 EUR; children – 10 EUR Opening times: daily, from 10:30 am till 4:30 pm Website: www.domunder.nl

Museum Catharijneconvent is one of the museums in Utrecht that focuses solely on religious medieval art and houses many of these artefacts as well as other historical Dutch pieces. It is essentially Christianity through the years in the Netherlands from both a Protestant and Catholic perspective. Some of the other notable works include paintings by Rembrandt, a treasury housing precious metal artefacts, and many, many more.

a piece of medieval religious art echibited at the Catharijneconvent in Utrecht, the Netherlands

The museum is housed in the former 12-century cloister of the Order of Saint John ( Johannieters ) dedicated to Catherine of Alexandria (287?,282? – 305).

Practical info: Museum Catharijneconvent Address: Lange Nieuwstraat 38, 3512 PH Utrecht Entrance fee: adults – 15 EUR; students – 7 EUR Opening times: Tuesday-Friday, from 10 am till 5 pm; Saturday-Sunday and holidays, from 11 am till 5 pm Website: www.catharijneconvent.nl

Museum Speelklok is one of the most unique museums in Utrecht – it consists of self-playing musical instruments that play continuously. These instruments date back hundreds of years and it’s a rather impressive feat that they are still fully functional today. There are a number of other attractions within the museum such as a giant clay clock, the Royal Room, and the Museum Expedition. It’s a great outing for the whole family as you discover the pianolas, music boxes, and barrel organs.

Practical info: Museum Speelklok Address: Steenweg 6, 3511 JP Utrecht Entrance fee: adults – 14 EUR; children (4-12 yoa) – 7,50 EUR. Buy tickets here Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 10 am till 5 pm Website : www.museumspeelklok.nl

When visiting Utrecht, things to do just outside the city include a visit to the National Military Museum in Soest. Founded in 2014, the museum focuses on the Dutch Armed Forces and you’re able to listen to firsthand stories of what life is like for these individuals.

a yellow poster with a tank that says: Hey adventurer, are you coming on a mission, too?, advertising the National Military Museum in Soest, Utrecht

The collection of pieces housed in the museum date back thousands of years and include some of the earliest known stone tools. There is also a range of tanks and aircraft on display – you’ll even be able to fly in a F-16 simulator and attempt to tame this beast.

You can also hear there the gripping stories of bravery told by Marco Kroon and Gerben Sonderman . If you’re feeling energetic, there is also an obstacle course for you to try out and see if you have what it takes to make the cut.

Practical info: National Military Museum / Nationaal Militair Museum Address: Verlengde Paltzerweg 1, 3768 MX Soest Entrance fee: adults – 16,50 EUR; children (4-12 yoa) – 8,50 EUR. Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 10 am till 5 pm Website : www.nmm.nl

The next of the recommended museums in Utrecht to visit is the Railway Museum ( Spoorwegenmuseum ) located just a few hundred meters from the Centraal Museum. Housed in the former Maliebaan Train Station , the museum will guide you through the history of the Dutch Railways ( Nederlandse Spoorwegen ) and the interactive elements make it a great family outing.

the facade of a railway station with a clock in the middle and two flag on both sides, serving today as one of Utrecht tourist attractions -the Railway Museum

There is even a replica ticket window inside the grand lobby hall before being able to take over the reins in the simulator and drive these amazing machines. If ever you have wondered what it was like to be onboard the Orient Express, look no further. 

Practical info: Railway Museum / Spoorwegenuseum Address: Maliebaanstation 16, 3581 XW Utrecht Entrance fee: 17,50 EUR; buy your tickets here Opening times: daily, from 10 am till 5 pm Website : www.spoorwegmuseum.nl

The Rietveld-Schröder House is one of the Utrecht tourist attractions that is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered to be an architectural masterpiece and is one of the top things to see in Utrecht. It was designed by the Dutch architect Gerrit Rietveld and built in 1924 as part of an art movement known as De Stijl . De Stijl or “the style” aimed to value abstraction and simplicity.

a modern house with large white squares and yellow, red and blue details, UNESCO Rietveld-Schröder House in Utrecht, Netherlands

The upper floor of the Rietveld-Schröder House is designed as a completely open space . Aside from a separate bathroom and toilet, there are no indoor walls at all upstairs. In keeping with De Stijl principles, everything has a specific primary colour such as black window frames, blue doors, and so on.

Practical info: Rietveld-Schröder House / Rietveld-Schröderhuis Address: Prins Hendriklaan 50, 3583 EP Utrecht Entrance fee: adults – 19 EUR; children (13-17 yoa) – 10,50 EUR. These are the prices with a guided tour. You can only visit the house with a guided tour. Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 11 am till 4 pm Website : www.rietveldschroderhuis.nl

De Haar Castle ( Kasteel de Haar ) is the most impressive of all Utrecht attractions, although located a few kilometers outside of the city. Without a doubt the most famous and most visited castle in the Netherlands, it’s also the largest castle in the Netherlands.

a huge castle with rounded turrets surrounded by water, De Haar Castle in the Netherlands

De Haar Castle was built around 1390 and after by De Haar family it was owned by the famous Van Zuylen . The castle was restored in 1892 by the famous Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers in a Neo-Gothic style . The castle is surrounded by a beautiful park and gardens in the style of Versailles . You can visit the park separately from the garden.

Practical info: De Haar Castle / Kasteel de Haar Address: Kasteellaan 1, 3455 RR Haarzuilens Entrance fee: adults – 18 EUR (7 EUR gardens only); children (4-12 yoa) – 12,50 EUR (5 EUR gardens only); Buy your tickets here Opening times: Monday-Sunday, from 11 am till 5 pm Website: www.kasteeldehaar.nl

When exploring the centre of Utrecht, places to visit are easy to come by. But not all of them are as easy to find. Tucked away behind the Steven Sterk bookshop lies Flora’s Courtyard ( Flora’s Hof ) – a somewhat forgotten piece of Dutch history underneath the Dom Tower.

a hidden courtyard wih a palm tree and other plants and flowers, behind the wall - houses with typical Dutch architecture; the Flora's Hof in Utrecht, the Netherlands

The Episcopal Palace once stood on the grounds until it was demolished in 1803. Today, it is a beautiful little garden – a peaceful escape from the bustling city centre and one of the more relaxing Utrecht tourist attractions. It’s the perfect urban escape to read your book and enjoy some downtime after a busy day exploring.

Practical info: Flora’s Courtyard / Flora’s Hof Address: Domplein, 3512 JC Utrecht Entrance fee: free of charge

The Papal House ( Paushuize ) was originally commissioned and built for the only historical Dutch Pope, Adrian VI ( Adrianus VI ) (1459–1523). He had the house built with the hope of returning to Utrecht to enjoy it after his duties to Charles of Spain had been completed.

Unfortunately, this was not the case as a year after being elected Pope, Adrianus Vl died and never returned to Utrecht. The Royal Commissioner occupied the building in the 19th century and today it can be hired as a function venue – far off from what the Pope had envisioned for the space.

Address: Kromme Nieuwegracht 49, 3512 HN Utrecht The Papal House is not open for visits but you can take a virtual tour here.

A beach in the middle of a land-locked city centre – surely not! Think again! SOIA or Strand Oog In Al is one of the Utrecht attractions that boggles the mind somewhat. On a warm summer’s day, this is one of the favourites of all the Utrecht tourist attractions and much-loved amongst the locals.

a beach along a river in the middle of a city with people hanging around, ans a yellow bridge at the background; SOIA in Utrecht

It’s the perfect urban venue to relax by the water, have drinks, a bite to eat, or simply read your book. It’s something for the whole family and besides, who doesn’t love a barbeque in the summertime.

Address: Kanaalweg 199, 3533 HL Utrecht

For those families with younger children, Miffy Museum ( Nijntje museum ) is one of the most ideal places to visit in Utrecht. It’s the perfect way to discover the artworks of Dick Bruna in a fun, interactive environment – it really promotes the Montessori approach of learning through play.

a gigantic sculpture of Miffy rabbit - a cartoon figure, in Utrecht, the Netherlands

Miffy, the main character in a large number of Bruna’s books, allows children into her world of adventure and imagination as they learn what a day in her life is like. 

Practical info: Miffy Museum / Nijntje Museum Address: Oudegracht 167, 3511 AL Utrecht (temporary location) Entrance fee: adults – 7,50 EUR; children (2-11 yoa) – 11 EUR; Buy your tickets here Opening times: Tuesday-Sunday, from 10 am till 5 pm Website: nijntjemuseum.nl

M á ximapark is a 300-hectare park located on the west side of the city and is the perfect escape from the busy city. Inside this multifaceted park in Utrecht, attractions include a skate park, cycle paths, grassed areas, and a butterfly garden.

The former agricultural land was converted into this large, inner-city oasis and the design is based upon four core pillars – the Ribbon, the Binnehof, the Parkpergola, and the Vikingrijn. There is also a multitude of ponds, bridges, and places to go swimming – making it one of the favourite Utrecht tourist attractions as well as for the locals.

rectangular buildings like containers representing a fort from the time of the Roman Empire, Castellum Hoge Woerd near Utrecht in the Netherlands

At one end of the park you can find another famous attraction in Utrecht – Castellum Hoge Woerd – a modern take on an Ancient Roman fort, that tells the story of the ancient Romans who reached as far to the north as Utrecht. There’s also a museum where you can learn about the Roman Empire and its northern frontier which has beed added in 2021 to the UNESCO List with World Heritage Sites in the Netherlands .

The park was officially opened in 2013 by Queen Máxima.

Address: Castellum Hoge Woerd, Hoge Woerdplein 1, 3454 PB Utrecht

Twijnstaat (Twijn Street) is definitely one of the favourite places to visit in Utrecht for those who love shopping. Located in the centre of the museum quarter, Twijnstaat is the oldest shopping street in the city. There is a large choice of shops ranging from everyday establishments to more specialist and boutique offerings. There are also many restaurants to choose from when you need to grab a bit to eat or something to quench your thirst on your journey of discovering the many Utrecht attractions. Most of the buildings alongside this street are historical monuments .

Last, but not least, on the list of the top Utrecht tourist attractions is the Dom Tower . The Dom Tower is the tallest church tower in the whole of the Netherlands standing at a height of 112 meters. This impressive cultural landmark was built between 1321 and 1382 and can be seen from almost every corner of the city.

a high clocktower projecting to sky against cloudy sky, and some green green trees framing the picture; the Dom Tower in Utrecht

Once a part of the cathedral, the Dom Tower now stands alone due to a destructive tornado that whipped through the city in 1647. For those up to climbing the 465 stairs to get to the top, you will be rewarded with unparalleled views of the city , gazing upon many of the other famous Utrecht attractions. Or you can choose to take the lift to the top.

Practical info: Dom Tower / Domtoren Address: Domplein 9, 3512 JJ Utrecht Entrance fee: adults – 12,50 EUR; children (4-12 yoa) – 7,50 EUR; Buy your tickets here Opening times: daily, from 10 am till 5 pm Website: www.domtoren.nl

Utrecht is perhaps the easiest day trip from Amsterdam by train. It takes a bit less than 30 minutes to reach Utrecht from Amsterdam ( Amsterdam Centraal ). The train station in Utrecht ( Utrecht Centraal ) flows into a gigantic shopping mall with numerous shops, restaurants and cafes. You can spend the whole day there, not even getting out of the train station, but that won’t be fair for Utrecht.

modern architecture in Utrecht with a honeycomb-like structure on columns - the Hoog Catharijne Mall in front of the Railway Station in Utrecht, the Netherlands

Centrally located in the Netherlands, Utrecht can be easily reached from anywhere in the country by train. This is also the best way to travel to Utrecht.

Here are some distances to Utrecht from other major cities and the time it takes by train to Utrecht:

  • Amsterdam – Utrecht: 40 km; 30 min
  • Schiphol – Utrecht: 50 km; 30 min
  • Eindhoven – Utrecht: 90 km; 50 min
  • Rotterdam – Utrecht: 60 km; 40 min
  • The Hague – Utrecht: 65 km; 40 min
  • Den Bosch – Utrecht: 50 km; 30 min
  • Groningen – Utrecht: 190 km; 2 hr
  • Maastricht -Utrecht: 180 km; 2 hr

The best way to find out how to travel from A to B in the Netherlands is to use the Glimble app. You can buy your tickets in the app and travel hassle-free. The app is absolutely free to download .

  • Click here to download Glimble for Android
  • Click here to download Glimble for iPhone

Tip: Read this post about using the public transport in the Netherlands . It’s packed with tips that only a local knows!

From the list above, it is evident that when visiting Utrecht, things to do are easy to come by. There are many places to visit in Utrecht and this buzzing little city, the little brother of Amsterdam if you will, ceases to disappoint.

It is an effortless commute from other major cities in the Netherlands and intercity trains are by far the most efficient way to reach the city. The network of buses and trams make navigating the city easy for young families or the elderly, if walking is not an option.

There are many Utrecht tourist attractions that cannot be missed, just like a trip to Utrecht itself. This comprehensive list of things to see in Utrecht should more-than-suffice when planning your trip to navigate your way around the wonderful country of the Netherlands.

Do you need some extra help to plan your trip to the Netherlands? Join the dedicated Exploring the Netherlands Facebook Group , where you can get tips from other travellers and locals. Or perhaps you have questions or comments? Join the group and I’ll be happy to answer them.

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Utrecht Is Great For

Historical tours.

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  • Bunk Utrecht
  • Carlton President
  • Grand Hotel Karel V
  • Hampton by Hilton Utrecht Central Station
  • The Seafood Bar
  • Kimmade Vietnamese Street Food
  • Champañeria Los Amigos Utrecht
  • Restaurant De Goedheyd
  • Carmel Market
  • Canals area
  • Museum Speelklok
  • Railway Museum (Het Spoorwegmuseum)
  • Utrecht Guided Kayak Tour
  • Utrecht Outdoor Escape Game: The Monster Mystery
  • Castles, Canals and Good Folk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht
  • Private Walking Tour in Utrecht
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Home » Travel Guides » The Netherlands » 15 Best Things to Do in Utrecht (the Netherlands)

15 Best Things to Do in Utrecht (the Netherlands)

Utrecht is the fourth largest city in the Netherlands and serves as the capital of the Utrecht province in the centre of the country around 25 minutes south of Amsterdam.

The city is an important religious centre in the Netherlands and has many historical churches and architecture dating as far back as the middle ages.

Due to its central location and proximity to Amsterdam it also serves as a transport hub for the rest of the country with well-developed railway stations.

Traces of the city date back as far as 50 CE with Roman occupation and through the years it has developed into a large and important centre of economy for the Netherlands.

The myriad of historical buildings, network of beautiful canals and collection of high quality museums make Utrecht a fascinating tourist destination.

1. The Dom Tower of Utrecht

The Dom Tower of Utrecht

This huge structure towers above the city and is one of Utrecht’s most iconic landmarks.

The tower stands separately from the Cathedral of Saint Martin and was constructed in 1321. At a height of 112.5m, the Dom Tower towers over the centre of Utrecht and can be seen for miles around.

The tower contains a set of 14 bells that weigh a total of 32,000, at certain times the bells are still rung by a group of dedicated ringers.

There is a visitor’s centre where you can find a detailed history of the tower and a gift shop, and it is also possible to have tours that allow you to climb the 465 steps to the top of the tower.

From the top you are granted with fantastic views of the Netherlands and can even see as far as Rotterdam and Amsterdam.

2. Railway Museum

Railway Museum

This fascinating railway museum is actually housed in one of Utrecht’s old railway stations and is located in the eastern part of the town.

The museum has been renovated recently and a new building opened adjacent to the railway station.

Inside the museum you can find a huge collection of railway memorabilia, displays and restored station rooms.

The museum is split into four distinct sections – Dream Travels, Steel Monsters, The Workshop and The great discovery.

Aside from the main rooms, there is also a model railway, a children’s playground and also a range of actual locomotives on display like the De Arend and the NS Class 200. This is a great place to visit and the whole family will appreciate the history and visual displays.

3. Utrecht Canals

Utrecht Canals

Amsterdam is not the only city in the Netherlands to have a canal network – Utrecht has an extensive system of canals, most of which are lined with traditional houses and provide a beautiful area to walk through.

The canals can be found throughout the town centre and are simply magical.

There are some small boat tours that run on certain canals but it is also just a great idea to simply walk through the streets and take it all in on foot.

Tall narrow houses in varying colours line the water, some of which have doors opening right onto the canal.

Most of the canals are below the level of the streets which add another dimension to the city.

4. Centraal Museum

Centraal Museum

This is the main museum in Utrecht and was originally established in 1838. The museum features an impressive collection of artworks mainly from well-known local artists such as Joachim Wtewael and Gerard Van Honthorst.

While historical art is the main feature, the collection also features modern art, fashion and applied art.

Another interesting feature is an old ship called the “Utrecht Ship” that can be seen in the cellar of the museum.

This museum is a great place to visit and displays like the Roman coins from the Limes region, a look at law and order, and a range of medieval sculptures ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

5. St Martin’s Cathedral

St Martin's Cathedral

St. Martin’s is the main Cathedral in Utrecht and was once connected to the Dom Tower, however the nave collapsed and the two building have been separate ever since.

This impressive cathedral has stood since the middle ages and was once the largest church in the Netherlands.

The architecture of the Cathedral is predominantly Gothic and has a resemblance to the style seen in France.

The remains of the church today is the choir and transept and the area that once served as the main nave is now a square filled with trees.

What remains of the interior is still high quality and extremely ornate with many vaulted arches and colourful stained glass windows.

6. Museum Speelklok

Museum Speelklok

The clock museum is a magical place full of entertainment and wondrous pieces that will delight people of all ages.

The museum is dedicated to clockwork and wind-up objects such as clocks, musical instruments and barrel organs.

The whole place is full of sounds and moving parts and the quality of the exhibitions is second to none.

Aside from the brilliant instruments and objects, the museum also gives an in-depth look at how these things are created and the high amount of dedicated, patience and craftsmanship that goes into each piece.

7. Utrecht Botanical Gardens

Utrecht Botanical Gardens

The famous Botanical Gardens are located in the University of Utrecht in the eastern part of the town just off of the A28 road.

While the gardens are on the outskirts of the town, they are definitely worth a visit.

The gardens contain a variety of fountains, plants, trees, and a beautiful collection of butterflies.

The butterfly greenhouse is simply amazing with various species like Morpho, and Atlas Moths.

The actual gardens are split into 6 different sections including a rock garden, a fort area with different flowers and a wildlife garden that aims to entice different animals and insects into its environment.

8. DOMunder

DOMunder

The DOMunder represents a very different and immersive kind of attraction and basically allows you to explore underneath Utrecht with a torch! DOMunder is located in the Domplein (surprisingly!) and next to the Dom Tower and St. Martin’s Cathedral.

There are two different tours that are available and both are fascinating in their own right.

The Discover tour introduces you to the 2000 year old history of the Domplein, and gives you a wonderful look at the underground world of Utrecht, while the Archaeology tour shows you a Roman fort and gives you a wealth of archaeological information of the area.

9. Janskerkhof flower market

Janskerkhof flower market

Every Saturday there is a large flower market in Utrecht and it provides a larger variety of flowers and seeds to buy than the mainly tulip orientated market of Amsterdam.

The market is held near the Janskerkhof church which is a short walk from the Dom Tower and main square.

The quality and cut of the flowers available here are simply amazing and you can buy a wide variety of different species together with different pot plants.

The smells and colours are really attractive and it is a great place to take photos, soak up the atmosphere and maybe take home a little souvenir.

10. Sint Willibrordkerk

Sint Willibrordkerk

St. Willibrord Church is a simple stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture and is a Roman Catholic church located near both the Janskerk and Dom Tower buildings in central Utrecht.

The church was constructed in the 1800’s making it a relatively new religious building for the region.

The exterior of this building features a tall narrow design which makes it stand out while the interior is as lavish and opulent as one could imagine.

The magnificent interior really is a treat and the vivid colours and endless stretches of artwork will leave you astounded.

Stained glass windows frame the archways, colours of green, orange and gold are present throughout the pillars and the ceiling – For anyone who appreciates fine architecture the Willibrord Church is a must see.

11. Wilhelminapark

Wilhelminapark

This monumental city park lies to the east of Utrecht and is an ideal place to stop on the way to the Botanical Gardens.

The park was first opened in 1898 and was designed by Henry Copjin in an English Landscape style.

Inside the park there is a bicycle path, various statues and monuments (Including a statue of Queen Wilhelmina which the park is named after) and the “teahouse” building.

There is also a rose garden, a large central pond and a host of beautiful trees and plant life.

This public park really is a lovely spot to walk through and enjoy the outdoors.

12. Museum Catharijneconvent

Museum Catharijneconvent

St. Catherin’s Convent Museum is dedicated to religious artwork and can be found in St. Catherine’s Cathedral in the southern part of Utrecht.

The museum has a huge collection of art and historical objects dating as far back as the middle ages right up to the present day.

The objects include historical manuscripts, book bindings, paintings, altar pieces and lots of gold and silver.

The art work includes works from Rembrandt and Jan Van Scorel.

13. Castle de Haar

Castle de Haar

This truly is a fairy-tale castle – Located in superb gardens and half surrounded by a moat and lake, it is a hidden gem.

The buildings feature a Neo Gothic style with a handful of pointed turrets and crenulations.

The spectacular interior of the castle features many wooden carvings and collections of artwork and tapestries.

The extensive gardens are just as impressive as the castles and the style is similar to that of Versailles.

This wonderful place is extremely photogenic and it is easy to see why it is such a popular tourist destination.

14. St. Pieterskerk

St. Pieterskerk

The Church of Saint Peter is a Roman Catholic church and is one of the oldest in the city dating back a far as the early 1000’s.

The Romanesque style building is extremely beautiful and the exterior features some high arched stained glass windows and a tired back nave section.

The interior has some wonderful red sandstone pillars and the tall stained glass windows let in a huge amount of light, especially at the main altar.

There is also an old crypt underneath the church that has some strange circular stained glass windows.

This is a great religious building to visit and is in close proximity to the other main sights in central Utrecht.

15. Domplein

Domplein

The Domplein is one of the main squares in Utrecht and it has several important buildings and is one of the central tourist areas of the city.

The might Dom Tower and St.

Martin’s Cathedral both stand here, as does a host of restaurants, bars and cafes both on the square and in the immediate side streets.

The Domplein is a great place to start your Utrecht adventure and from here you will easily be able to navigate the city and find the main sights.

15 Best Things to Do in Utrecht (the Netherlands):

  • The Dom Tower of Utrecht
  • Railway Museum
  • Utrecht Canals
  • Centraal Museum
  • St Martin's Cathedral
  • Museum Speelklok
  • Utrecht Botanical Gardens
  • Janskerkhof flower market
  • Sint Willibrordkerk
  • Wilhelminapark
  • Museum Catharijneconvent
  • Castle de Haar
  • St. Pieterskerk

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It's hard not to fall in love with Utrecht, one of the Netherlands' oldest urban centres and for centuries its religious heart. Now a vibrant university city, the compact medieval core radiates out from the iconic 15th-century Domtoren, ringed by a loop of very pretty tree-lined canals. Their central sections have distinctive double-level sides inset with what were once medieval warehouses – many now forming fascinating venues to eat, drink, dance or sleep, with terrace-walkways that extend right to the waterside. The brilliant cafe culture goes well beyond the canals – Utrecht's vibrant concert schedules are a big draw and, if the budget stretches, it's worth luxuriating in one of numerous historic mansions that have been turned into indulgent boutique hotels.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Rietveld-Schröderhuis

Rietveld-Schröderhuis

Years ahead of its time, this small but uniquely conceived house was built in 1924 by celebrated Utrecht designer Gerrit Rietveld. He'd be amazed to find…

Dom Under

Talented volunteer guides and fascinating educational films with CGI effects set the historical scene. Then it's your turn to become an amateur…

Museum Catharijneconvent

Museum Catharijneconvent

Museum Catharijneconvent has the finest collection of medieval religious art in the Netherlands – virtually the history of Christianity, in fact – housed…

Domtoren (Cathedral Tower).

Utrecht's most striking medieval landmark, this 112m tower is worth the 465-step climb for unbeatable city views: on a clear day you can see Amsterdam…

Spoorweg Museum

Spoorweg Museum

Entered through a gloriously restored 1874 station with magnificent art-nouveau chandeliers, the national railway museum offers countless historic locos,…

Centraal Museum

Centraal Museum

More than half the museum's 10 gallery-rooms feature temporary exhibitions (so check the schedules). Meanwhile the core collection takes a thought…

Miffy Museum

Miffy Museum

Designed to delight young children (age two to six), this bold, touch-everything play-museum celebrates beloved cartoon rabbit Miffy (or Nijntje as she's…

Sonnenborgh Museum & Observatory

Sonnenborgh Museum & Observatory

The Sonnenborgh is actually two museums in one: upstairs has an exhibit on the history of astronomy in an 1850 building that was once among the foremost…

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20 Must-Visit Attractions in Utrecht

The Dom Tower and Utrechts city centre

Planning a trip to Utrecht in the near future? Then, make sure to check out Culture Trip’s guide to the city’s most fascinating, fun and historical attractions, which includes places like the ancient Dom Tower and one of the Netherlands’s largest concert venues, Tivoli Vredenburg.

The dom tower.

The Dom Tower has stood in Utrecht’s city centre since 1143 and was once attached to St. Martin’s Cathedral but has since become a free standing bell tower. It is possible to climb all of the Dom Tower’s steps and several other cities are visible from its highest peak including Amsterdam . 📍 The Dom Tower, Domplein 21, Utrecht , +31 30 236 0010

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St. Martin’s Cathedral

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Rietveld Schröder House

Famed de Stijl member Gerrit Rietveld designed this incredible modernist building whilst working with a local wealthy socialite called Truus Schröder-Schräder in 1924. The house’s living areas were given folding walls and other features which enable occupants to easily change its layout. It is currently protected as an UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its historical and cultural value. 📍 Rietveld Schröder House, Prins Hendriklaan 50, Utrecht , +31 30 236 2310

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De Haar Castle

Although de Haar Castle was completed in 1892, it is actually built upon another older fortification that stood on Utrecht’s northern borders throughout the late medieval period. The current castle was designed by the famed Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers who also worked on several other iconic buildings in the Netherlands such as Amsterdam’s Centraal Station and the Rijksmuseum . 📍 De Haar Castle, Kasteellaan 1, Utrecht , +31 30 677 8515

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Oudegracht is among the oldest surviving canals in Europe and was evacuated in the Middle Ages. The canal is renowned for its subterranean wharfs which have become an iconic part of Utrecht historic city centre. Today many of these cavernous constructions have been repurposed into cafés, stores and homes. 📍 Oudegracht, Utrecht

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Museum Speelklok

This museum preserves an enormous collection of self-playing instruments many of which are over 200 years old. These clock-work wanders are presented within a medieval church called Buurkerk on Domplein. 📍 Museum Speelklok, Steenweg 6, Utrecht , +31 30 231 2789

A self-playing piano at Museum Speelklok

Miffy Traffic Light

This adorable piece of urban design resembles Dick Bruna’s most celebrated creation Miffy the Bunny. The traffic light controls the flow of pedestrians on St Jacobstraat and looks onto a rainbow coloured zebra crossing. 📍 Miffy Traffic Light, St Jacobsstraat 1A, Utrecht

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Centraal Museum

While Utrecht’s Centraal Museum owns a wide range of artwork from the past 600 years and beyond, its medieval and Renaissance collection are particularly noteworthy due to the high number of famous, local artists that were working during this period. There are many important paintings by the Utrechtse Caravaggios inside and the museum also has the largest Joachim Wtewael collection in the world. 📍 Centraal Museum, Agnietenstraat 1, Utrecht , +31 30 236 2362

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Miffy Museum

Miffy’s creator Dick Bruna was born in Utrecht and lived in the city for his entire life. To honour his work Utrecht’s Central Museum created this permanent exhibition inside an old townhouse Agnietenstraat. There’s plenty of kid-orientated exhibitions inside as well as play areas and themed rooms based around Bruna’s work. 📍 Miffy Museum, Agnietenstraat 2, Utrecht , +31 30 236 2399

Miffy covers on display at the museum

Museum Catharijnconvent

Museum Catherijncomvent is housed within a former Catholic convent that was founded during the 12th century. The museum’s collection revolves around Christian artwork from the Netherlands and features numerous religious artworks created by famous Dutch figures such as Rembrandt , Jan van Schorel and Frans Hals. 📍 Museum Catharijnconvent, Lange Nieuwstraat 38, Utrecht , +31 30 231 3835

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Utrecht University Botanic Gardens

These wonderful gardens were landscaped around a series of bunkers in eastern Utrecht that were originally part of an 18th-century defensive line that trailed through several Dutch provinces. The gardens are divided into six separate areas that were designed to accommodate specific plants. 📍 Utrecht University Botanic Gardens, Budapestlaan 17, Utrecht , +31 30 253 1826

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Tivoli Vredenburg

Utrecht’s largest music venue contains five separate stages that were custom-built to accommodate specific genres. Besides having the possibly the best acoustics in the entire country, Tivoli also features bars and cafés alongside several sky-high observation areas that look onto central Utrecht. 📍 TivoliVredenburg, Vredenburgkade 11, Utrecht , +31 30 760 6777

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This interactive, archeological exhibition is located beneath the Dom Tower in a series of catacombs that were dug out during the Medieval period. DOMunder allows guests to experience 2000 years of local history by recreating pivotal events from Utrecht past. 📍 DOMunder, Domplein 4, Utrecht , +31 30 233 9999

DOMunder

Sonnenboug Observatory

Sonnenbourg Observatory was founded by the Utrecht University in 1853 and has since opened to the public. Besides its stargazing apparatus, the observatory also features an astronomical museum that regularly organises specialised exhibitions. 📍 Sterrenwacht Sonnenborgh, Zonnenburg 2, Utrecht , +31 30 820 1420

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Museum Oud Amelisweerd

Museum Oud Amelisweerd is housed within a monumental 18th-century country mansion that is surrounded by an equally charming estate. The museum owns and presents several collections including work by modern Dutch artist Armando and a large selection of historical Chinese wallhangings. 📍 Museum Oud Amelisweerd, Koningslaan 9, Utrecht , +31 30 890 5460

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Janskerk is among the oldest churches in the country and was founded during the 11th century. Although the church has been altered over the years it still features many elements that date back to the medieval period. 📍 Janskerk, Janskerkhof 26, Utrecht , +31 30 232 1616

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Fort bij Rijnauwen

This epic fort was once part of an enormous line of defences that ran through the province of Utrecht. Its thick walls are completely surrounded by a star-shaped moat which can be crosses at two points. The fort is now open to the public and is located inside a nature reserve in the south of Utrecht. 📍 Fort bij Rijnauwen, Vossegatsedijk 5, Utrecht , +31 6 53402296

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Zuylen Castle

This 18th-century mansion is steeped in history and was constructed upon a medieval castle that was destroyed around 1422. Tours are available throughout the estate and the castle houses many historical artefacts. 📍 Zuylen Castle, Tournooiveld 1, Oud Zullen , +31 30 244 0255

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Railway Museum

Utrecht’s Railway Museum is located inside a former train station just beyond the city historic centre. The museum has an amazing collection of artefacts that are related to the history of rail travel and several interactive exhibitions that recreate the glory days of steam power. 📍 Railway Museum, Maliebaanstation 16, Utrecht , +31 30 230 6206

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This large urban park is approximately the same size as Utrecht historic city centre and features many attractions including flower gardens, restaurants and public artwork. The entire park is laced with cycle paths and there’s plenty of space for other activities like skating or running. 📍 Maximapark, Leidsche Rijn, Utrecht

Parkrestaurant in Máximapark

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Guides & Tips

Slow travel from london to amsterdam and rotterdam.

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The Most Cycle-Friendly Cities in the World

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48 Hours in Eindhoven: How to Explore the Dutch City of Design

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From Factory Town to Design District: the Evolution of Eindhoven

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Places to Stay

The best hotels in arnhem, the netherlands.

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The Best Hotels in Zaandam, the Netherlands, for Every Traveller

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The Best Hotels in Nijmegen, the Netherlands, for Every Traveller

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Behind the Scenes at the Rijksmuseum’s ‘All the Rembrandts’

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Manure Couture: The Dutch Startup Making Clothes Out of Cow Poo

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Centuries old, young at heart

Utrecht, one of the oldest cities, lies in the heart of the Netherlands. The city was built around the Dom Tower, which you can see from any point in the city. No other city in the world has comparable wharf cellars housing cafés, restaurants and terraces by the water. Like to go shopping? Attached to the Central Station you find Hoog Catharijne; a great shopping mall with a lot of shops and and restaurants. At the other end you reach the city centre with boutiques, giftshops and markets. You can also relax by the canals, discover museums in the Museumkwartier or visit the master of design: Gerrit Rietveld. The possibilities in Utrecht are unlimited.

Must sees - in Utrecht

Rietveld schröderhuis.

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TivoliVredenburg

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Brouwerij Maximus

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Centraal Museum

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Miffy Museum

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The best routes - in Utrecht

Utrecht lumen walk.

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De Stijl in Utrecht: Rietveld’s architecture

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Canals and wharf cellars walk

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Kromme Rijn Path 29 KM OR stages of 7 KM each

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Castles of the Green Heart

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De Stijl bicycle route; Mondriaan meets Rietveld

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Typically Dutch bike tour

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North Utrecht Waterline cycle route

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Cheese Valley cycle route

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Rietveld walking route in Utrecht

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Walking through Medieval Utrecht

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Kromme Rijn path

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The best events - in Utrecht

Step into the world of miffy and her friends.

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Vegan Food Tour Utrecht

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Overnight stays - in Utrecht

Grand hotel karel v.

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Badhuis Hotel

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Mother Goose Hotel

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Court Hotel City Centre Utrecht

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BUNK Hotel Utrecht

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The Hunfeld

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B&B Central Park

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Hotel Mitland

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Stayokay Utrecht Centrum

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MOXY Utrecht

MOXY Utrecht

Hampton by Hilton Utrecht Central Station

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The Anthony Hotel

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Hotel Simple.

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B&B De Witte Leeu

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Vechtstreek

Utrechtse heuvelrug, kromme rijnstreek, het groene hart, utrecht region.

Vibrant cities and peaceful nature can be found right next to each other in the Utrecht Region. Combine the best of both worlds and discover what the region has to offer.

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Everything in the Vecht region revolves around the most beautiful river of the Netherlands. Experience the region in a completely different way from the water!

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Amersfoort has a remarkable historical city centre with a medieval atmosphere, but you can also enjoy the modern city life.

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The Utrechtse Heuvelrug is an oasis of peace just outside the Randstad conurbation. It is well-known for its stunning natural landscape, wealth of country estates and vibrant towns and villages.

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Here, you will find the Utrecht region's outdoors, at cycling distance from the city. It features country estates, sprawling natural landscapes, fruit orchards, the Kromme Rijn river and cultural history.

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The Green Heart. Sprawling fields, moors, beautiful lakes and rivers, historical villages and cities, forts and farms. That is the Green Heart of Holland!

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Utrecht's wharf cellars are brimming with cosy cafés, trendy shops and restaurants. Once you start exploring, you can find all sorts of wonderful places.

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Spakenburg is a lively village, and the Old Harbour is Spakenburg's soul. It makes you feel like you are walking through the living history of an old fishing village.

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Discover the young, dynamic city Nieuwegein with a surprisingly rich history, where old and new merge.

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Utrecht Historic City Centre-Utrecht - things to do in Utrecht

13 Best Things to Do in Utrecht this Weekend

I’ve just returned from another trip to Utrecht and it never fails to amaze me. I’m excited to share with you my top picks of the best things to do in Utrecht this weekend or any day of the week, including some lovely trips which you can make from the city. Take a look at this guide to get a glimpse of this fabulous Dutch city and get inspired to create your own perfect Utrecht weekend or day trip itinerary.

Utrecht Historic City Centre-Utrecht - things to do in Utrecht

Utrecht is quite possibly my favourite city in all of the Netherlands . It’s only a half-hour train ride south of its better-known neighbour, Amsterdam. 

Obviously, Utrecht doesn’t match the capital, Amsterdam in terms of tourist attractions, but it’s an attractive city with a modern, lively vibe which has without a doubt been helped by having one of the largest universities in the Netherlands. It’s also the fourth largest city in the Netherlands with a population of about 360,000.

Prior to the Dutch Golden Age in the 17th century, Utrecht was the most important trading city and cultural centre in the Netherlands until it was overtaken by Amsterdam. Countless magnificent medieval buildings, Gothic churches and myriad museums dotted around Utrecht’s historic city centre are indeed a testament to this flourishing past.

Utrecht Canal - Old Canal - things to do in utrecht

In addition, Utrecht’s old town is built around a unique picturesque network of canals which in my view are the most gorgeous in the Netherlands.

There are so many awesome reasons which make Utrecht worth visiting.

Keep reading for my top picks of the best things to do in Utrecht .

What to do Do in Utrecht

1. wander utrecht’s historic city centre.

Utrecht City Centre, Netherlands - things to do in utrecht

Start your tour of Utrecht by taking a walking tour of the Old Town. It’s one of my favourite things to do in Utrecht for free! 

Utrecht is a compact city perfect to just wander enjoying its charming pedestrianised streets which are filled with architecturally marvellous buildings, friendly locals, and a lively vibe.

Utrecht Medieval House - things to do in utrecht

Check out the independent boutiques and pop-ups, attractive courtyards and gardens, museums and galleries as well as cosy cafes which Utrecht is widely known for. My favourite, De Ontdekking on Voorstraat, is worth a stop for a quick bite and a really good coffee.

2. Take a Stroll Along the Oudegracht

A stroll along the Oudegracht (old canal) is perhaps the highlight of a tour of Utrecht. Similar to other Dutch cities, Utrecht’s historic city centre is built around a network of beautiful canals with the Oudegracht being the most gorgeous of them all.

Utrecht - Old Canal - things to do in utrecht

The Oudegracht is quite a unique and picturesque canal which rivals those found in other popular Dutch cities.

Oudegracht - Old-Canal-at-Night - things to do in utrecht

The cellars of the buildings along the Oudegracht are lined with walkways adorned with terraced restaurants and bars, independent shops and galleries, all at water level, creating a two-level street connected by staircases with the pedestrian streets above.

It’s an atmospheric and amusing spot in the city centre which is also easy on the eyes. 

Utrecht Bars - things to do in Utrecht

I recommend exploring Utrecht’s food and drink scene by visiting some of Oudegracht’s terraced restaurants and bars while also absorbing the city’s magical atmosphere. 

Spending some time along the Oudegracht is one of the best things to do in Utrecht at night and one you should certainly try not to miss. The area becomes alive at night and is always beautifully lit with mesmerising lights.

3. Kayak Utrecht Canals

Price: adult – €35 child – €25 utours.

Kayaking through Utrecht’s canals is a fantastic way to add a bit of adventure to your tour of Utrecht while soaking up gorgeous views of its city centre from the water. 

Kayaking Utrecht Canals - things to do in utrecht

There are few places to rent a kayak if you’d prefer to go alone or to join group tours, however, advanced booking is highly recommended as kayaking is a popular activity in Utrecht both with the locals and tourists.

Canal cruises and boat tours are also popular and another awesome way to experience Utrecht’s canals and surrounding stunning landscapes. 

Popular Utrecht Tours

4. stop by the dom church, free admission.

The Dom Church (St Martin’s Cathedral) is renowned for its incredible bell tower, Dom Tower, which is the oldest and tallest church tower in the Netherlands. Construction of the Dom Church began during the 13th century in the classic Gothic style and lasted until the 16th century.

Dom Church/Domkerk Church - things to do in utrecht

Sadly, the Dom Church’s central nave collapsed during a severe storm in 1674 separating it from the tower. The nave was never rebuilt, so up to this day, the Dom Church and the Dom Tower are detached. 

Inside Dom Church Utrecht - things to do in utrecht

Visit the Dom Church, especially for its remarkably high vaulted ceiling, lovely stained glass windows, well-preserved choir and quaint mediaeval, Pandhof garden.

Utrecht University Academy - Domplein - things to do in utrecht

The area that was once the central nave created what is now the Dom Square (Domplein). Dom Square is a must-see place in Utrecht where you can explore architecturally significant buildings in Utrecht such as the Neo-Renaissance Utrecht University Academy building and the Dom Tower.

Pandhoff-Garden-St-Martin-Church-things to do in Utrecht

Pandhof is a real hidden gem in the Utrecht city center. I stumbled upon this marvellous, true Gothic-styled monastic garden by chance and fell in love with it so much.

Pandhoff Entrance - things to do in Utrecht

The garden is located between the Dom Church and Utrecht University Academy building. Both are in my view some of the best free things to do in Utrecht which you shouldn’t miss. 

5. Climb the Dom Tower

Price: 1 hour tour by stairs (adult €12.50 , child €7.50 ).

The Dom Tower is a famous landmark in Utrecht. It’s probably one of the most popular Utrecht attractions which should certainly make it to your must-see list. At 112 metres, the 14th century Dom Tower is the oldest and tallest church tower in Utrecht as well as the whole of the Netherlands, so it’s quite a domineering structure.

Dom Tower / Dom Church Utrecht - Things to do in Utrecht

If you’re up for the challenge and have powerful legs, climb the tower’s 465 narrow winding steps. You’ll be rewarded with an up-close look at the tower’s stunning architecture, the tower’s 13 massive bells, and of course, incredible views of Utrecht and on a clear day, views of Rotterdam and Amsterdam. 

Dom Tower Entrance - Utrecht

Don’t be put off if climbing the tower feels like a lot of work. A lift which makes the Dom Tower accessible, getting you to the top in 3 minutes, was recently fitted into the tower. 

The Dom Tower is currently undergoing exterior restorative works until 2024, but it’s still open to visitors. Plan your visit here .

6. Visit Rietveld Schröder House

Price: online tickets (adults – €19 , child – €10.50 ).

A visit to the Rietveld Schröder House is a great stop for anyone with a fondness for modern architecture. The Rietveld Schroder House was designed in 1924 by renowned Dutch architect Gerrit Rietveld. 

Rietveld Schröder House - things to do in Utrecht

Rietveld was a proponent of the Dutch De Stijl “Style” modern artistic movement from the early 20th century. Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam and the Red and Blue Chair are Rietveld’s other design masterpieces well-known by most people. 

Rietveld Schröder House - Centraal Museum - things to do in utrecht

De Stijl’s art style was expressed through paintings and architecture. It favoured abstraction and simplicity and was marked by clean lines, right angles, and primary colours. The Rietveld Schröder House features on the UNESCO World Heritage Site as it’s considered one of the finest examples of De Stijl architecture.

Book yourself a guided tour of this architectural gem to learn about all the key aspects of De Stijl. Plan your visit here.

7. Visit the Central Museum

Price: adults – €13.50 child – €6.50.

The Centraal Museum Utrecht is set within a stunning, former medieval cloister on Nicolaaskerkhof in the city centre. This is one of the most highly regarded city museums in the Netherlands and across the world. The museum’s collection spans multiple periods and offers something for everyone.

Things to do in Utrecht - Centraal Museum Paintings

It contains a wealth of artefacts pertaining to the history of the city, pre-1850 art, modern and contemporary art, fashion and design, all mostly by great Utrecht artists such as Dick Bruna , Gerrit Rietveld and Utrecht Caravaggists . 

The museum is widely celebrated for its extensive collection of Gerrit Rietveld’s works, so this is one place not to miss if you’re a fan of De Stijl and modern design.

Red and Blue Chair at Centraal Museum- things to do in utrecht

While it’s impossible to view the entire Rietveld collection, you sure can’t miss his masterpiece, the Red and Blue Chair, which is displayed in the museum. The Red and Blue chair is regarded as a fine example of De Stijl.

Dick Bruna Studio - Central Museum - things to do in Utrecht

Dick Bruna’s original studio is displayed at the Centraal Museum, so be sure to check it out if you’re a fan of Miffy the Rabbit.

Miffy Museum - NijntjeMuseum - things to do in utrecht

A whole museum dedicated to Miffy and her family and friends, Miffy Museum (NijntjeMuseum), is located along the Oudegracht. It’s a fun place to add to your list of things to see in Utrecht especially if you’ve got the kids with you. 

Good to Know

Looking for where to go in Utrecht with kids? You’ll be pleased to know that Utrecht is home to the Sonnenborgh Observatory , one of the astronomical centres in the Netherlands. The observatory is conveniently located within a short walking distance from Utrecht’s centre.

Visiting the Sonnenborgh Observatory   for a star gazing session through its giant telescopes is a guaranteed exciting experience for kids and grown-ups. It’s one of the unusual things to do in Utrecht worth a quick look.

Sonnenborgh Observatory - things to do in Utrecht

  Plan your visit here . 

8. Visit the Museum Speelklok  

Price: adults – €14 child – €7.50.

Museum Speelklok - things to do in Utrecht

Museum Speelklok is interestingly housed in a former medieval church in Utrecht’s old town. The museum is one of the most fun things to do in Utrecht especially if you’re in the city with children.

Musical Instruments - Museum Speelklok - things to do in utrecht

Museum Speelklok showcases a wide collection of self playing musical instruments dating back to the 16th century. Its highly reviewed guided tour entails admiring as well as listening to amusing tunes from century-old church carillons, musical clocks and boxes (some with royal roots), self-playing orchestras as well as traditional Dutch street organs.

Museum Speelklok - things to do in Utrecht - Musical Instruments

Museum Speelklok markets itself as offering the most cheerful activity in the whole of the Netherlands, so this is one of Utrecht’s tourist attractions not to miss if you’re down to have fun. 

9. Stop by Market Vredenburg

Market opens all day: wed, friday & sat.

Market Vredenburg is Utrecht’s largest general market which sits on Vredenburg Square in the city centre, just outside the Hoog Catharijne Shopping Mall. 

It’s a worthwhile stop while exploring Utrecht attractions though it’s incomparable to the markets found in the capital Amsterdam. However, if you appreciate local markets and are keen to fill up on Dutch delicacies, then, don’t miss it. See also, Gouda Cheese Market.

Dutch Stroopwafel - Market Vredenburg - Things to do in Utrecht

I’m such a foodie, I find it hard to resist crispy kibbeling and fresh stroopwafels from Dutch food markets.

Dutch Street Food - Kibbeling - Things to do in Utrecht

Market Vredenburg is a market of all things where you can also shop for fresh produce such as fruits and vegetables, cheese, and flowers as well as electronics, accessories and clothing.  

Plan your Utrecht sightseeing itinerary around the market days if you plan to visit.

10. Stop by the Oude Hortus Botanical Gardens

Price: adults – €8 , child – €4.50.

Utrecht is packed with fine parks and botanical gardens which are real pleasure grounds ideal for a brief attractive retreat from the city’s bustling streets. I recommend the pretty Oude Hortus (old university garden), Utrecht University’s former botanical garden, which lies behind the University Museum in the historic city centre.

Orangery - Oude Hortus Botanical Gardens - things to do in utrecht

The garden was created in 1723 as a learning resource for University students. It’s surrounded by places filled with a rich history, an extensive collection of various unique plants and tree species as well as medicinal herbs from across the globe. 

Oude Hortus Botanic Gardens - things to do in utrecht

A 250-year-old Ginkgo biloba, ancient greenhouses, an orangery housing giant water lilies as well as lush dwarf coffers, are some of the garden’s treasures to marvel at whilst taking a peaceful stroll, relaxing by the pond or just enjoying a good coffee. 

Ginko Cafe - Oude Hortus - things to do in utrecht

If you’re in Utrecht for some time, we recommend dropping by the University’s larger botanic garden located in its Science Park Campus in Uithof . The garden is a real horticultural gem offering a wide range of pleasant experiences which include a variety of themed gardens, fascinating and interactive exhibits fun for children as well as large green spaces. 

Utrecht University Botanic Gardens are one of the most popular places to visit in Utrecht with children so if there are some among you, be sure to visit.

10. Drop by the Convent Museum

Price: adults – €15 , child – €7.

A short distance away from the Oude Hortus, the Convent Museum (St Catherine’s Convent Museum), which is set in an atmospheric, former medieval monastery, is devoted to old and modern religious art and artefacts from Catholic and Protestant faiths.

Convent Museum- Utrecht - things to do in Utrecht

The museum’s three floors boast numerous paintings by renowned Dutch Golden Age painters such as Rembrandt, Cranach and Jan Steen, statues of saints, a rich treasury with dazzling gold and silver artefacts as well as fascinating stories that will help you understand the history of the different religious movements in the Netherlands. 

Last Supper Painting - Convent Museum - things to do in utrecht

One of the most precious exhibits at the museum is the magnificent Ecce Homo Altarpiece by Dutch Renaissance painter, Maerten van Heemskerck. Also noteworthy is the colossal stained glass window by Renowned Dutch Painter and stained glass artist Marc Mulders. 

Convent Museum Utrecht - things to do in Utrecht

The Convent Museum is certainly a pleasant experience, especially if you’re a fan of Christian art and architecture. However, many of the temporary exhibitions that are also held there make it a worthwhile stop regardless of your faith or beliefs.

I love museums! They’re certainly some of the best things to do in Utrecht on a rainy day.

11. Visit the National Railway Museum

Price: adults – €17.50 , under 3 years – free.

The National Railway Museum (Het Spoorwegmuseum), located about a 20-minute walk from Utrecht’s historic city centre, is housed in the former, tastefully renovated 19th-century Maliebaan Station. It’s one of the best fun day trips to take with children in Utrecht, rail enthusiasts, and anyone who just loves to discover.

Locomotive - National Railway Museum - things to do in utrecht

On display at the museum are countless railway objects that demonstrate how the world of rail travel has evolved over the centuries.

You can admire some giant 19th-20th century steam engines including the oldest preserved steam locomotive in the Netherlands, the SS 13 or “de Brill” as well as countless carriages such as luxurious Orient Express carriages, all of which previously operated on the railways of Dutch Railways (NS). 

National Railway Museum - things to do in Utrecht

Along the exhibition route, you can marvel and grab a seat in some of the oldest trains in Dutch rail history as well as real-life models of futuristic trains. I’m sure if you’re a fan of all things rail, you’ll definitely find a visit to the National Railway Museum quite enthralling.

Tip – A shuttle train service runs every hour from Utrecht Central Station to Maliebaan Station.  View details here.

13. Spend a Day at Haar Castle

Price: adults – €18 , child – €12.50.

If you’re in search of an easy and awesome day trip from Utrecht, Haar Castle (Castle De Haar) is an excellent choice. The castle is located about 12 km west of Utrecht and is easily reached by public transport from Utrecht Centraal. Haar Castle is a monolith in terms of castles, undeniably the most impressive of all castles in the Netherlands.

Haar Castle Utrecht - Things to do in Utrecht

Celebrated Dutch architect Pierre Cuypers, whose other famous works include the Rijksmuseum and Amsterdam Central Station, was commissioned to rebuild the castle in 1892 on the site of a former 14th-century castle belonging to a wealthy family from the area.

Cuypers managed to successfully recreate an imposing medieval structure styled with a Neo-Gothic facade decorated with opulent interiors and surrounded by 55 hectares of magnificent gardens of various themes, a large lake, and a long canal as well as a church. 

Haar Castle - things to do in Utrecht

There is a lot to do at Haar Castle, but make sure not to miss booking yourself into one of the guided tours of the castle’s room. Plan your visit here.

Utrecht Travel Tips

Travelling by train is the easiest and most cost-efficient way to get around in the Netherlands. Utrecht Central Station is the NS (Dutch Railway) central hub in the Netherlands where a comprehensive local, national and international rail connection service is offered.

This makes Utrecht one of the best day trips to take from nearby cities in the Netherlands such as Rotterdam as well as several cities in nearby countries like Brussels , Cologne and Frankfurt.

  • Train Details – Inter-city rail runs every 10 minutes from Amsterdam Central Station to Utrecht Central Station The journey takes about 27 minutes and Utrecht’s historic city centre is just a 5-minute stroll from the train station. A one-way ticket costs €9.40 (2nd class) and €14.80 (1st class).
  • Getting around Utrecht – Utrecht historic centre is very walkable. Like most Dutch cities, Utrecht is an exceptional cycling city, so biking is another great option, but make sure you’re competent as it can be dangerous. Public transport, trams and buses are quite extensive and affordable (Day Ticket €6.20 ).
  • Where to Stay – Booking.com is a great resource to find accommodation in Utrecht. I recently based myself at the Crowne Plaza Utrecht , located in Hoog Catharijne Mall. It’s modern, clean, cosy and conveniently located from Utrecht Railway Station and the historic city centre.

I hope you enjoy Utrecht! Let me know if you have any questions, I will be glad to help.

Related : Netherlands Travel Guide – Things to Do in Rotterdam

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About The Netherlands

Best utrecht travel guide 2023 - is utrecht worth visiting.

utrecht tourist

The city of Utrecht is located right in the middle of the Netherlands. Utrecht is one of the biggest cities in the Netherlands and you will have a lot of fun visiting this beautiful city. I usually visit Utrecht for a day or weekend, but you can easily spend a whole week here as there are so many different things to do. If you are not entirely sure what you want to do during your visit, hopefully, this Utrecht travel guide will send you in the right direction.

Utrecht is definitely worth visiting, as it is one of the biggest cities in the Netherlands. The city center has some nice scenery due to the canals and architecture. Utrecht is also good for shopping and there are lots of good restaurants. For the enthusiast, the city also has a vibrant nightlife.

If you want to visit Utrecht, but don’t know where to start, this Utrecht travel guide will definitely help. Below some great places to visit are listed, along with some places to eat and sleep. Whether you have a big budget or are just traveling through, Utrecht has a lot to offer. Perhaps you can visit one of the great museums or find that one special hidden gem Utrecht has to offer.

Is Utrecht Worth Visiting?

Utrecht is a big city in the middle of the Netherlands. The city is an important contributor to the Dutch economy, but it is mostly known for its role in Dutch transportation. Utrecht has highways and railways connecting every direction of the country, making it possible for both people and products to travel from one side of the Netherlands to the other.

The central station is one of the most important train stations in the Netherlands. It’s also the biggest one, both in terms of surface and in the number of people traveling through. Besides this, it's a big student city and there are a lot of fun things to see and do. 

Personally, I think the museums are a big selling point of why Utrecht is worth visiting. Whereas most cities have museums regarding a more general theme, most museums in Utrecht are related to Utrecht itself in some way.

You can learn all about a famous author from Utrecht, Dick Bruna , who created Miffy , or you can learn about the Dutch railway system. 

Another thing Utrecht is known for is the Dom tower . This tower is part of the Dom church . You can admire this tower from the outside, but if you don’t have a fear of heights it might be fun to climb the tower. You can also visit the church itself, or stroll around the Domplein .

Besides this, Utrecht is home to a lot of students. This means there are a lot of bars and cafes as well. Utrecht has perfect scenery for walking or even cycling, and when you get tired you are guaranteed to find a place to sit down and enjoy a nice drink.

There are plenty of shopping opportunities too, or you can visit the botanical gardens. With such a variety of things to do that are all representing parts of the city itself, you will never have a dull moment while visiting Utrecht.

Where is Utrecht Located?

Utrecht is a city located in the middle of the Netherlands. The city shares its name with the province it’s located in, which is Utrecht.

(Click here if you would like to learn more about what the Dutch provinces are )

If you look at the four biggest cities of the Netherlands, Utrecht is the one with the most central location, and it’s part of the Randstad . The Randstad is a cooperation between the four biggest city agglomerations of the Netherlands, which are Amsterdam, Rotterdam , The Hague, and Utrecht .

How to get to Utrecht?

Utrecht is the capital of a province with the same name, which is located in the middle of the country. Therefore, it is pretty easily accessible from any place in the Netherlands and the travel time usually doesn’t end up being too high.

Several important highways are going through Utrecht, such as the A2 and the A12 . Besides this, Utrecht has the train station with the most departing trains of all of the cities in the Netherlands.

If you are not too far away, you can also consider coming by bike. Just like most Dutch cities, Utrecht has plenty of safe bike lanes.

How to get to Utrecht from Amsterdam:

If you want to get from Amsterdam to Utrecht by car, it will take you about 45 minutes. The route is quite easy, as most of it consists of driving down highway A2 . After this long highway, there is just a small part of the N230 left before you get to Utrecht.

If you want to come by public transport, this is no problem either. It will take you 38 minutes and you will not have to change trains as there is an intercity going straight from Amsterdam Zuid to Utrecht Central Station .

How to get to Utrecht from Schiphol:

If you want to get from Schiphol Airport to Utrecht by car, it will take you 46 minutes. The route is fairly easy, due to it mainly consisting of highways. You start at the A4 , after which you need to take the A9 . Proceed to drive onto the A2 until you reach the N230 . After this, you are almost at the center of the city.

If you prefer coming by public transport, you’re in luck. It won’t take you any longer than going by car, since Schiphol has its own train station that has a straight connection to Utrecht Central Station . This means you can simply take the intercity to get there and won’t have to switch trains.

9 Best Things to do in Utrecht

As I said before, Utrecht has a lot to offer for tourists. Below you will find different things to do in Utrecht. These are very diverse activities, for young and old.

1. Visit a museum

Utrecht is a great city to visit if you like museums. There are plenty of museums that are specialized in different things, but all relate to Utrecht in their own way. Whether you want to make a quick visit or spend the whole afternoon at a museum, Utrecht has just the museum for you.

People in a museum

Het Spoorwegmuseum:

Perhaps the museum that describes Utrecht best, is the Spoorwegmuseum . Utrecht is an important city for transport, which is why this is a must-visit museum.

Here you can learn how transport, the invention of the train, in particular, has changed the world. There are many exhibits to watch, a train station to explore, and several attractions to make visiting this museum an interactive experience. Besides this, the Spoorwegmuseum is fun for all ages, so you can visit this museum with the whole family.

  • Location: Maliebaanstation 16, 3581 XW Utrecht
  • Website: Click here
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday till Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm

Het Nijntje museum:

Author Dick Bruna came up with the character of a small bunny called Nijntje a long time ago. Better known to foreigners as Miffy , this character is quite important to lots of small children.

After restoration, the museum is now mainly focused on toddlers and preschoolers. They can play in the themed areas and playfully learn about the world. The original atelier and work of Dick Bruna are on display at the Centraal Museum .

Tip: take a walk across the "Lange Viestraat" to spot the great Miffy traffic light.

  • Location: Agnietenstraat 2, 3512 XB Utrecht

Centraal Museum:

This is more of a traditional museum. Besides the original work of Dick Bruna , this museum has some other famous pieces of art too. You can admire The Red and Blue Chair by Rietveld or perhaps the Hyères dress by Viktor & Rolf is more your cup of tea. Besides their collection, the museum also hosts various exhibits.

  • Location: Agnietenstraat 1, 3512 XA Utrecht
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday till Sunday: 11 am to 5 pm

This museum allows you to have an underground experience, learning all about the history of Utrecht and the Netherlands. Accompanied by a flashlight you can walk through the dark hallways and learn about the Roman Era, or that time, part of the Dom church collapsed.

If you like history, I would highly recommend DOMunder, as it’s very different from most museums.

  • Location: Domplein 4, 3512 JC Utrecht
  • Opening Hours: Tuesday till Sunday: 10:30 am to 4:30 pm

2. Visit a church

Whether you are religious or not, Utrecht has some beautiful churches you can admire. You can take a moment to light a candle, say a prayer or just admire the looks of one of the following churches in Utrecht.

Photo of the Dom Tower in Utrecht

The Dom of Utrecht is a big gothic church dating back all the way to 1254. The church is located in the middle of the city. It used to be a catholic church, but in 1580 it became a protestant church.

The tower is 112,32 meters (367 ft) high, making it the highest church tower in the Netherlands and the highest building in Utrecht. There are tours available, there is a cafe and a gift shop. The Domkerk is such a famous part of Utrecht, I would highly recommend going to see it in real life.

  • Location: Achter de Dom 1, 3512 JN Utrecht

Sint Willibrordkerk:

The Sint Willibrordkerk has a neo-gothic style and is a catholic church. Because of its cultural value, it is a protected monument. Visiting this church probably won’t take the whole afternoon, which means it’s perfect to combine with another activity or some more sightseeing.

The Sint Willibrordkerk has plenty of decorations, making it a true sight for sore eyes and definitely worthy of your time.

  • Location: Minrebroederstraat 21, 3512 GS Utrecht

3. Admire the canals

When thinking of canals in the Netherlands, often the Amsterdam canals comes to mind. However, Utrecht has some gorgeous canals to admire as well.

You can go for a long walk through the city to see these canals, or you can decide to rent a boat. Depending on the company you rent from, you can also hire a skipper so you can watch your surroundings without having to worry about anything else. There are various kinds of boats you can rent, such as sloops and wine boats. 

Photo of the canals in Utrecht city

4. Learn about Utrecht’s history

Even though Utrecht is full of history and has lots of statues and museums around the city, there is only one way to truly get into the nitty-gritty. You can do this by visiting the archive of Utrecht.

Het Utrechts Archief:

This archive is the place to be if you are into history. There are exhibits you can visit, there is a tour available and there even is a reading room in the building. You can learn a lot about the history of the city, but also about its people.

During the tour, you will learn all about the monks that used to live in one of the oldest monasteries of the Netherlands, and the old jails of the courthouse.

  • Location: Hamburgerstraat 28, 3512 NS Utrecht

5. Enjoy nature

Utrecht is a city with lots of houses, shops, restaurants, and other buildings. However, there are also some green parts to this city which are definitely worth visiting.

Botanische Tuinen:

In Utrecht, you can walk through some amazing botanical gardens. The botanical gardens are part of the University of Utrecht, so they often get used for studying and research. However, it is open to the public as well.

You can admire the most beautiful plants in the world whilst sitting on one of the picnic tables, or you can watch the butterflies in their glasshouse.

  • Location: Budapestlaan 17, 3584 CD Utrecht
  • Opening Hours: Every day from 10 am to 4 pm

Wilhelminapark:

This park is quite popular among locals. You can sit in the grass or on one of the benches and enjoy a bit of calmness in the middle of a busy city. It is also the perfect place to go for a quick run or to walk around. You might see some ducks in the pond or you can get a drink at the restaurant.

6. Go shopping

If you want to go shopping in Utrecht, you have two main options. One is a big indoor mall and the other option is walking through the streets outdoors. Utrecht is great for fashion shopping, as the city has a lot of bigger stores that carry popular brands. For smaller shops, you might have to get away from the crowd, but these are also available in Utrecht.

Couple shopping together

Hoog Catharijne:

This shopping mall is mostly indoors and offers a lot of different stores. You can find big names here, such as Nike, Levi’s , and Primark , but there are also some smaller stores. When shopping here, you don’t have to worry about food and drinks. There is a Starbucks , a Dunkin’ Donuts, and many other places to get snacks and beverages.

  • Location: Godebaldkwartier 54, 3511 DX Utrecht
  • Monday: 12 pm to 8 pm
  • Tuesday till Saturday: 10 am to 8 pm
  • Sunday: 12 pm to 6 pm

Shopping streets:

If you prefer strolling down the streets of Utrecht while shopping, there are a few streets you don’t want to miss. I recommend starting at the Lijnmarkt and then making your way to the Oudkerkhof and Minrebroederstraat through the Choorstraat . This way you will encounter both bigger shops carrying famous brands and smaller shops.

7. Visit TivoliVredenburg

TivoliVredenburg is a concert venue that has eight different stages and two restaurants. They host a lot of singers, some of them having international fame. Besides that, it is quite common to find a free concert in the halls of this building.

Additionally, the website has a lot of videos and podcasts for you to enjoy. So if it’s a rainy day or you’re so tired you want to stay in your hotel room, you can still enjoy some entertainment hosted by TivoliVredenburg. While you’re at it, perhaps listen to some Dutch artists!

  • Location: Vredenburgkade 11, 3511 WC Utrecht

8. Visit a castle

Granted, there is no castle directly in the city of Utrecht. However, there is a beautiful castle only a 30-minute drive away from the city. This castle is definitely worth a visit if you have some spare time and therefore had to be included in this list.

Kasteel de Haar:

If you want to get away from the crowd for a bit and enjoy some peace and quiet, it might be a good idea to visit Kasteel de Haar . You can feel like a true royal while walking through the hallways or visiting one of the bedrooms. Or perhaps you prefer staying outside in the garden, where you can take a nice walk.

The surroundings are so pretty that it feels like you are stepping into a fairytale. Kasteel de Haar is the biggest castle in the Netherlands. You can book a tour or discover the rooms yourself. There will be guides in every room to answer all of your questions.

  • Location: Kasteellaan 1, 3455 RR Utrecht

View of castle De Haar in the Netherlands

9. Trajectum Lumen

Imagine it’s dark outside, but you’re not ready for bed just yet. In this case, Trajectum Lumen is the perfect activity to do. During this walking route in the dark, you will find the most amazing light artworks designed by light artists from all over the world.

You can book a tour that includes a tour guide, and you can even add a three-course dinner in advance. It’s a unique activity that will show you Utrecht in a whole different way.

Hidden Gems Utrecht - 4 Must Visits

Utrecht has a lot of well-known places to visit and activities to do. However, there are also some things more known to the locals and less known to tourists. Below you will find four things in Utrecht that really are worth your visit but might not come to mind immediately. 

1. The Statues

Utrecht has quite some statues spread throughout the city. Some are very artistic, adding a cultural element to the city. There are also a few statues representing important parts of history. When you are walking through the city or perhaps have some time to kill, they are definitely worth checking out.

Some of my favorites are the Anne Frank statue at Janskerkhof and Vrouwe Justitia at the Vrouwe Justitiaplein . If you want to see a statue that is important to Utrecht specifically, you might want to check out Nijntje at Nijntje Pleintje . 

Photo of Nijntje Pleintje (Nijntje square):

View of the Nijntje Square in Utrecht city

2. The Twijnstraat

When it comes to shopping, the Twijnstraat is one of the most fun streets in Utrecht. It is also one of the oldest shopping streets of Utrecht.

What makes this street so special is the shops that are located here. Instead of big, globally known chains, the Twijnstraat is full of lovely boutiques and smaller businesses. Whereas most tourists would usually opt for shopping mall Hoog Catherijne , the Twijnstraat is way less known.

Besides this, there are also a lot of specialty stores. Whether you like beer, cheese, or postcards, Twijnstraat is the place to be.

Each year during the winter, Utrecht hosts KNUS . This is both a festival and a Christmas market, all in one. There are several markets you can visit that sell a wide range of things, such as self-made products and food. There are several performances you can watch as you try to get warm with some mulled wine.

4. The Winkel van Sinkel

The Winkel van Sinkel is a building with a lot of history. It used to be the first warehouse in the Netherlands and it sold pretty much anything you can imagine. After this, a bank bought the building. Nowadays it is a restaurant by day and a club at night.

So if you want to party at a building that has been in Utrecht for a little over 150 years, Winkel van Sinkel is the place to be. 

  • Location: Oudegracht 158, 3511 AZ Utrecht

Where to Eat in Utrecht?

Whether you want a quick bite or a luxurious dinner, Utrecht has several places where you can get some delicious food. There is a wide variety of price ranges and specialties, which guarantees Utrecht has a restaurant to your liking.

Below you will find some great examples, but feel free to try any restaurant you encounter when visiting the city.

A beautifully set table in a restaurant

This restaurant is perfect for anyone loving the French kitchen. Every two weeks, they create a new menu inspired by French cuisine. The interior looks very welcoming and you can decide for yourself if you would like 3, 4 or 5 courses.

This way you are in control of how much money you’ll end up spending. A nice touch is their little black book of wines that aren’t on the menu because they only have a few bottles.

  • Location: Lange Nieuwstraat 88, 3512 PM Utrecht
  • Price Class: $$ - $$$

This restaurant is quite chic, with a red carpet in front of the door. The international food is of high quality and you can get up to 12 courses. Of course, the restaurant offers wines that go well with the food. Simple is a great restaurant for food and wine lovers who do have a generous budget.

  • Location: Domstraat 4, 3512 JB Utrecht
  • Price Class: $$$$

Meneer Smakers:

Meneer Smakers is a burger restaurant that has good food for friendly prices. You can have some fries with your hamburger, or maybe you prefer a salad. They use fresh ingredients and also offer vegan options.

You never have to walk far to Meneer Smakers because there are no fewer than four different locations in Utrecht.

  • Twijnstraat 62, 3511 ZM Utrecht
  • Nobelstraat 143, 3512 EM Utrecht
  • Marnixlaan 118, 3552 HG Utrecht
  • Oudegracht 116, 3511 AW Utrecht
  • Price Class: $

This restaurant is located in a former school building and has a big terrace outside. This means there is a big chance you will be able to sit outside in the sun. You can order various international meals or you can enjoy a beverage. They have over 30 craft beers, several wines, and delicious cocktails.

  • Location: Janskerkhof 17A, 3512 BM Utrecht
  • Price Class: $$

This restaurant serves delicious meals from Turkey and the Middle East. There are various meat and fish meals, but they also offer some vegetarian options. They have vegetable meals and salads that will make your mouth water. The interior represents the food’s heritage perfectly, making this a great place to dine. 

  • Location: Proostwetering 80N, 3543 AJ Utrecht

Don Dining Kounosuke:

This restaurant serves traditional Japanese food. This does not refer to the usual ramen and sushi. At Don Dining Kounosuke you can eat dishes that get served in Japan too. You can order donburi, which means you will get a bowl of rice, vegetables and some meat or fish. You can customize this to your wishes. With the waitresses wearing a kimono, you really feel like you teleported to Japan for a night.

  • Location: Westerkade 27, 3511 HC Utrecht

Where to Stay in Utrecht? 

Utrecht has a lot to offer, so it’s pretty logical for you to want to spend the night. Luckily there are several hotels within a variety of price ranges. Most hotels are located somewhere around the city center, but the ones that are a bit further certainly make up for it in other ways.

View of a hotelroom

Mother Goose Hotel:

This hotel is located in the city center. It has a warm and loft-like interior to make you feel welcome, and you can get a view of the Dom. You can get a nice breakfast to start the day right and most of Utrecht’s activities and places to visit are pretty close. Besides this, the hotel is affordable.

  • Location: Ganzenmarkt 26, 3512 GE Utrecht

BUNK Hotel:

This affordable hotel is located in an old church, making it a unique and charming hotel. The rooms are a bit on the smaller side, but there is enough space to put all of your stuff away. There are a few common rooms that always have a great atmosphere, and the center isn’t far away.

  • Location: Catharijnekade 9, 3511 RT Utrecht

Hotel Mitland:

At the edge of the city, you can find Hotel Mitland. This is a 4-star hotel that has several facilitations to make your stay a pleasure. Those facilities include a swimming pool, fitness, and a terrace. The rooms are themed, which makes it fun to stay there. If you truly want to surround yourself with the Dutch culture, perhaps opt for the Holland Design Suite.

  • Location: Ariënslaan 1, 3573 PT Utrecht
  • Price Class: $$$

Carlton President :

This hotel has nice, spacious rooms where you can relax after a long day of discovering Utrecht. Besides that, guests have access to an hour of wellness. There are different kinds of rooms, even a loft that you can rent. There are a few games such as foosball and pool available as well.

  • Location: Floraweg 25, 3542 DX Utrecht

Star Lodge Hotels:

This hotel has a great price-to-quality ratio. The rooms are spacious, breakfast is included and the surroundings are green. Besides that, the hotel has an eco-friendly design, making this a great choice. It is close to a bus stop, so you can get to the center quite easily.

  • Location: Biltsestraatweg 92, 3573 PS Utrecht

Discover more cities

Would you like to discover more Dutch cities? Then definitely check out the following articles.

  • Best Tilburg Travel Guide 2022 - Is Tilburg Worth Visiting?
  • Is Alkmaar Worth Visiting? 2022 Travel Guide
  • Visiting Rotterdam – Good For Tourists Or Not?
  • Visiting Texel Island - Best Texel Travel Guide 2022
  • Visit Vlaardingen - Best Vlaardingen Travel Guide 2022

Hopefully, this Utrecht travel guide has answered the question "is Utrecht worth visiting?". You now know the best things to do in Utrecht and the best places to eat and stay.

I think you now agree that if you’re visiting the Netherlands, it would be a shame to miss out on Utrecht. With the various churches, museums, and stores, Utrecht is a city that’s fun for all ages. It’s easily accessible and you can get food and hotel rooms in all price classes.

Have fun during your visit to this beautiful city, it is certain to be a wonderful experience.

If you want to know more about Utrecht, check out our 38 most interesting facts about Utrecht!

Leo van den Berg

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Pip and the City

3 days in Utrecht: Ultimate city break guide for 2023

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details.

Travelling to the Netherlands? Why not explore outside Amsterdam and head to the historic city of Utrecht? Three days in Utrecht is perfect for a fun city break and seeing most of the city’s attractions and sights.

Utrecht is the fourth-largest city in the Netherlands and offers a blend of medieval charm and a modern university city.

It’s renowned for its well-preserved historical centre, characterised by its intricate network of split-level canals and wharf cellars.

How to spend 3 days in Utrecht

3 days in Utrecht

Utrecht is a fun alternative to Amsterdam if you’re looking to explore other cities in the Netherlands.

It’s one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and is built along two picturesque tree-lined canals (the main one being Oudegracht).

Utrecht has a beautiful medieval centre, split-level canals, hordes of hip college students and historic architecture.

Utrecht travel guide

utrecht tourist

It’s an underrated city with a youthful feel in the Netherlands with plenty to offer visitors who want to escape the typical tourist trail.

Despite its compact feel, it’s the fourth-largest city in the Netherlands, following Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague and is highly walkable and has plenty of biking infrastructure.

I’ve visited the city dozens of times, so check out my bumper Utrecht guide and start planning your Netherlands city break now!

Utrecht vs Amsterdam

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

Just 45 minutes south of Amsterdam, It shares many similarities with the Dutch capital. It is often called ‘Mini Amsterdam’ due to its pretty canals and well-preserved traditional Dutch architecture.

Much like Amsterdam, you’ll also find plenty of modern shops, restaurants, museums and galleries in Utrecht’s attractive, car-free city centre.

This centuries-old university city is an excellent alternative to the Dutch capital. It’s just a short train ride away with all the beauty of Amsterdam, just a fraction of the crowds, and, to some extent, the cost.

Utrecht city break planning

utrecht tourist

There are many things to do in Utrecht, so a 3-day trip will require some travel planning so that you can fit everything into your Netherlands city break.

If you need help planning a trip to the Netherlands, check out my awesome  travel planning service . Let a travel expert plan the perfect travel itinerary for you, and have stress-free travel.

We discuss travel planning on my weekly travel podcast – Travel Goals. Subscribe now and catch up on all episodes.

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Day One Utrecht

utrecht tourist

Take a Tour of Utrecht

Utrecht has a varied and interesting history, including Vikings attacks, the residency of Napoleon Bonaparte and the city’s liberation after Hitler’s death.

The best way to understand the history of this university town is to book a guided walking tour of Utrecht .

It’s best to have a walking tour in Utrecht on your first day in the city. This should help you familiarise yourself with the layout of Utrecht and discover the best spots.

utrecht tourist

Walking tour Utrecht

On a guided walking tour , discover Utrecht’s highlights, such as the picturesque canals, the Domtower, churches, breweries and street art.

There is no better way to get to know the city than walking along the 12th-century Old Canal Area (Oudegracht). The only inner-canal system with wharves and wharf cellars in Europe.

Ask your guide to take you along the waterside to see the cellars and learn more about the history of the canals.

utrecht tourist

Have Lunch at the Streetfood Club Utrecht

utrecht tourist

The Streetfood Club is an Instagrammer’s dream, with crazy carpet prints, murals, pretty cocktails, flamingos and a decent selection of street food, brunch and dinner options.

Typical dishes include Bangkok-style papaya salad, Fried veggie spring rolls, chicken gyoza and tacos.

If you fancy a lunchtime tipple or three, the ‘made to order’ cocktails are also pretty special.

Signature cocktails include ‘Bombay Basil Bomb’ with Tanqueray Gin, cucumber and basil. Also try ‘The Silk Road’ with Vodka, kumquat and pomegranate juice.

Discover Utrecht canals

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

In the afternoon, take the time to explore Utrecht’s canals by boat. You can book a boat trip, hire electric boats, and explore the waterways on your vessel.

The most famous canal in Utrecht is the Oudegracht, which meanders through the city’s heart.

What sets the Oudegracht apart from other Dutch canals is the wharf cellars (werfkelders), that line its banks.

utrecht tourist

These characteristic cellars were built beneath the canal houses in the Middle Ages and served as storage spaces for goods.

Many of these werfkelders have since been transformed into cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries.

You can book a City Canal Cruise and see the highlights of Utrecht’s medieval inner city.

Sip wine at Utrecht Canal bars

utrecht tourist

Finish your day at one of the many wine bars that dot the canals in the historic centre.

The canals in Utrecht are unique to the Netherlands. There’s a lower level where warehouses were once located in the 13th century meaning the canals have a split level.

These former warehouses have been converted into bars and restaurants offering waterside dining and drinks right by the water.

During the summer, the canals come alive with outdoor cafes, floating terraces, and events packed with locals and visitors.

Best Utrecht canal bars

utrecht tourist

Some of my favourite Utrecht canal bars include:

  • Café Ledig Erf : Located near the historic Ledig Erf square and the Vaartsche Rijn canal, Café Ledig Erf is a local favourite with a laid-back atmosphere.
  • Cafe de Zaak : Situated along the vibrant Oudegracht, De Zaak is a cosy canal bar known for its extensive selection of beers.
  • The Malt Vault: A canal bar for whiskey lovers! Sip on a range of whiskeys inside a historic wharf cellar on the Oudegracht Canal.
  • Kafé België : Canal-side bar specialising in Belgian beers – With over 150 varieties available.

utrecht tourist

Dinner in Utrecht

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

Why not try Indonesian cuisine at Restaurant Blauw for dinner and enjoy Indonesian cuisine in a contemporary setting?

Restaurant Blauw is one of the best restaurants in Utrecht if you want to experience a traditional Indonesian ‘rice table’.

An Indonesian rice table, known as “Rijsttafel” in Dutch, comprises shared plates showcasing Indonesian dishes.

It is a dining experience that originated during the Dutch colonial era in Indonesia and has become synonymous with Indonesian cuisine.

Dutch colonizers would host lavish banquets with a variety of Indonesian dishes to impress their guests

Restaurant Blauw Utrecht

utrecht tourist

Order a ‘meat rice table’ and feast upon a huge selection of dishes. Enjoy spicy beef, sweet soy pork, lamb curry, goat satay, beans with tofu and rice and vegetables.

Blauw delivers authentic Indonesian cuisine with bold flavours, gorgeous colours and stylish presentation; it’s well worth a visit

Day 2 Utrecht

Utrecht dom tower.

utrecht tourist

For your second day, explore The Dom Tower , [Domtoren in Dutch], one of the most iconic sights in Utrecht.

Rising to a height of 112 meters (368 feet), the Dom Tower offers panoramic views of Utrecht. To reach the top, you must climb 465 steps, but you’ll be rewarded with an impressive vista of the city’s rooftops, canals, and historic buildings.

The construction of the Dom Tower began in 1321 as part of the Gothic-style St. Martin’s Cathedral. However, the cathedral’s nave and the tower remained separated due to a lack of funds and various setbacks.

In 1674 a severe storm destroyed the nave, leaving the Dom Tower as a stand-alone structure. Despite this, the tower has endured and is a testament to Utrecht’s rich history.

Tour of the Dom Tower Utrecht

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

Book a tour of the Dom Tower and learn how it has survived fires, occupations, storms and political change on its historical timeline.

Be aware that there are many steps to get to the top, though your journey is broken up by stopping at various levels to learn more about the tower.

Once you reach the top, you can get some amazing photos of the city and the surrounding area, so don’t forget to bring your camera!

utrecht tourist

Learn about Utrecht’s history at Dom Under

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

History fans should head to the Utrecht Dom Under experience. An underground space where you can learn about 2,000 years of Dutch history right below Dom Square.

This unique Dutch attraction allows you to explore the archaeological remains of the city’s past and uncover the secrets hidden beneath the surface.

As you descend into Dom Under, you are transported back in time to the origins of Utrecht.

The museum showcases the city’s history, from its Roman foundations to the medieval era.

Through interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and archaeological artefacts, Dom Under brings the past to life, providing a fascinating glimpse into Utrecht’s rich heritage.

Dom under experience

utrecht tourist

The atmosphere within Dom Under is carefully curated to evoke a sense of mystery and discovery.

Dim lighting, atmospheric soundscapes, and preserved archaeological remains contribute to the immersive experience.

Dom Under bridges the surface and the underground, seamlessly blending modern technology with historical artefacts.

The combination of interactive displays and informative narratives make this museum an educational and memorable experience.

Lunch at PK bar & kitchen Utrecht

Have lunch overlooking the water at  PK Bar & Kitchen , an upmarket Utrecht bar with great food and tasty dishes.

Their lunch menu consists of several reasonably priced dishes, including Vegetarian quiche, Smoked salmon prawns, grilled cheese sandwiches and burgers.

This centrally located venue has a relaxed vibe, making it ideal for a lazy lunch in Utrecht.

Explore Utrecht by bike

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

Spend the afternoon exploring Utrecht by bike and navigate the city cycle lanes and expansive countryside trails.

Bike culture in the Netherlands is deeply ingrained in society and has become a defining characteristic of the country.

Here, you’ll find well-maintained bike paths, bicycle-friendly infrastructure, and a population that embraces cycling as a way of life.

Is Utrecht good for cycling?

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

Utrecht is a fantastic place for cycling, and it was named the most bike-friendly city in the world for 2022.

The city’s cycling infrastructure is excellent, with extensive, well-maintained bike lanes that make navigating the city a breeze.

One of the standout features of Utrecht’s cycling infrastructure. Its innovative system is designed to guide cyclists to free spaces in bicycle parking facilities.

This system helps manage the flow of cyclists in and around the city centre, making it easier to get around.

How to rent a bike in Utrecht

utrecht tourist

Utrecht has numerous bike rental options , including bike-sharing programs, rental shops, and even self-service bike stations.

The city has many bike rental shops where you can call in and hire a bike. Look for bike shops near major train stations or prominent tourist areas like the Dom Tower.

Many rental shops offer online bike reservations. Browse bike rental websites, and select your preferred bike type, rental duration, and additional accessories.

You can also go on a bike tour if you want to be guided around the city.

Utrecht bike Tour

utrecht tourist

See Utrecht like a local and explore the city on a guided bike tour with an expert cycle guide.

I love going on guided bike tours in new destinations. Especially those led by experienced local guides with in-depth knowledge of a city’s history, culture, and hidden spots.

A good bike guide can provide insights and anecdotes about the city. They can take you off the beaten path to discover lesser-known attractions and share insider tips.

It’s also an efficient way of exploring a new place, as you don’t have to worry about planning the route.

We went on a brilliant guided bike tour of Utrecht . On this fun tour, we visited the oldest Dutch bicycle lane, learnt about the city’s history, and stopped for ice cream.

Dinner at Stan & Co Utrecht

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

Enjoy dinner at Stan and feast on meaty dishes cooked on the charcoal-fired Josper grill. Located on Ganzenmarkt in the centre, this hip restaurant offers a range of expertly shaken cocktails and delicious dishes.

Choose from steaks, burgers, salads, and fish dishes for mains. Make sure you bring your appetite with you; their portions are generous.

They also have a decent selection of plant-based foods, including veggie burgers, Buddha bowls and gyozas.

The vibe and deco make it a relaxing and fun dining place, especially as the staff are friendly and attentive.

Day 3  Utrecht

utrecht tourist

Discover Dutch art at the Centraal Museum Utrecht

utrecht tourist

Founded in 1838, the Centraal Museum houses an impressive array of paintings, sculptures from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Here, you can explore works by Dutch masters such as Gerard van Honthorst and Abraham Bloemaert.

You’ll also find artworks from internationally acclaimed artists like Joop Moesman and Marlene Dumas.

These artworks offer a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of Utrecht and its contributions to the wider art world.

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

Design enthusiasts will love the Centraal Museum’s applied arts and design collection.

The museum showcases furniture, textiles, ceramics, and fashion items, reflecting the evolution of design from the 19th century to the present.

It also holds a vast collection of Gerrit Rietveld’s furniture, a pioneering Dutch architect and designer associated with the De Stijl movement.

Visit the Rietveld Schröder House

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

The Rietveld Schröder House is the architectural highlight of the art movement De Stijl and has bright, primary colours.

The iconic house was designed and decorated in 1924 by Utrecht architect Gerrit Rietveld for Mrs Truus Schröder and her children.

The UNESCO World Heritage Listed house was a private residence until 1985 but is now open to the public for guided and audio tours.

The house is characterized by its open-plan layout, flexible interior spaces, and innovative use of colour.

It features movable partitions and furniture, allowing the occupants to adapt the space according to their needs.

Rietveld Schröder House Tickets

utrecht tourist

You can buy Rietveld Schröder House Tickets online ; every visitor needs a time slot ticket.

Be warned; the house tours are timed, so arrive a few minutes before your ‘timed slot’. The staff here adopt a rather stern tone if you are late!

Our guide demonstrated the transitions between interior and exterior and the clever use of space and light in the house by sliding various walls and pointing out cleverly designed furniture.

It’s an impressive house, but the novelty may wear off quickly unless you are an architecture enthusiast, despite the guide’s excitement over the ‘speaking tube’.

Lunch at Restaurant Vroeg Utrecht

utrecht tourist

Hop on a rented bike and cycle to Restaurant Vroeg for lunch in the Dutch countryside. This relaxed dining establishment contains a restaurant, bakery and shop in one location.

There’s a real focus on quality, local produce and seasonality, with menus featuring ever-changing ingredients and dishes.

You can watch delicious, homemade dishes crafted in the central open kitchen or sip wine in their outdoor seating area. It’s one of the best places for outdoor dining in Utrecht.

Typical tempting lunchtime dishes include Charcoal-grilled hamburgers with mozzarella and tomato chutney, butter-fried sole fish with salad and fries and club sandwiches.

Visit Amelisweerd nature reserve Utrecht

utrecht tourist

After lunch, jump back on your bike and head to the beautiful Amelisweerd nature reserve – around 3 miles from the centre of Utrecht.

Covering an area of approximately 400 hectares, Amelisweerd has diverse habitats, including ancient forests, meadows, wetlands, and historic estates.

The reserve is home to many plant and animal species and has a network of well-maintained walking and cycling trails.

Hiking in the nature reserve is one of the best free things to do in Utrecht, especially if you pack your own picnic.

Rent a canoe at Amelisweerd

utrecht tourist

Rent a canoe from De Rijnstroom canoe rental and paddle down a gentle river under a lush forest canopy.

You can book a range of Canadian canoes, rowing boats, electric boats and sups online and explore the river at your own pace.

Along the way, you can stop and picnic at one of the picnic fields you will pass. Or you can have Restaurant De Veldkeuken or feast upon pancakes at the Rhijnauwen tea house .

Have pancakes at Rhijnauwen tea house

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

What is a more Dutch thing to do than eat a pancake for dinner? Try a Dutch pancake at the Rhijnauwen tea house , located in Amelisweerd.

Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken) are a must-try traditional dish in the Netherlands. They are thin, large, and typically served flat on a plate.

These tasty pancakes can be a sweet treat or a savoury meal, with various toppings and flavours from cheese and ham, to chocolate and strawberries.

At the Rhijnauwen tea house, you sit on their large terrace overlooking the water, feast on chocolate pancakes, and sip coffee as you watch canoeists drift by.

Choose from a huge selection of savoury and sweet pancakes that are made in front of you in the open-plan kitchen.

What to do in Utrecht at night

utrecht tourist

As Utrecht is a university city, it transforms into a vibrant playground for night owls. The medieval buildings are bathed in warm, inviting lights, and the canals reflect a kaleidoscope of colours.

Utrecht’s nightlife is an eclectic mix of cosy pubs, trendy bars, world-class restaurants, and exciting events and festivals.

From live music and theatrical performances to whisky tasting and karaoke, the nightlife in Utrecht is extremely varied.

Utrecht’s Nightlife Hotspots

utrecht tourist

  • Neude Square : As the heart of Utrecht’s nightlife, Neude Square is brimming with cafes, bars, and restaurants. One must-visit spot is Cafe ‘t Neutje, a traditional Dutch pub that buzzes with energy until the early hours.
  • TivoliVredenburg : If you’re a music lover, TivoliVredenburg is your go-to venue. This unique music complex hosts everything from rock concerts to classical performances. Check their schedule for the latest gigs.
  • Oudegracht Canals : Experience Utrecht’s canals in a new light with a nighttime boat tour. The illuminated wharf cellars and canal-side cafes create a magical atmosphere.
  • Restaurants Along the Canals : Book a table at one of the restaurants along the Oudegracht for a romantic dinner. Try De Zakkendrager for its delicious Dutch cuisine and canal views.
  • Local Breweries : Utrecht’s craft beer scene is booming. Visit Brouwerij De Leckere or Oproer Brouwerij to sample local brews and enjoy the laid-back ambience.

Where to stay in Utrecht

utrecht tourist

Utrecht has a range of hotels, guest houses and apartments to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some ideas to inspire you

  • City Center: Utrecht’s city centre is a popular choice for visitors due to its central location and easy access to the city’s main attractions, restaurants, cafes, and shopping streets. The area offers a mix of boutique hotels, guesthouses, and apartment rentals.
  • Museum Quarter: Located near the city centre, the Museum Quarter is an ideal neighbourhood for art and culture enthusiasts. This area offers a mix of stylish hotels and guesthouses, often with unique and artistic touches.
  • Grachtengordel: Utrecht’s picturesque canal district, known as Grachtengordel, offers a charming and romantic setting. The accommodation options here include boutique hotels and bed and breakfast establishments.
  • Neude Square: Neude Square is a lively and bustling area in the heart of Utrecht. It is surrounded by cafes, bars, and restaurants, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a vibrant atmosphere.
  • University Quarter (Uithof): If you’re visiting Utrecht for academic or business purposes, staying near the University Quarter, also known as Uithof, is a smart choice. This area offers a mix of budget-friendly hotels and accommodations specifically catering to students and researchers.

You can find accommodation in Utrecht to suit your budget and length of time by using travel resources such as Booking.com to find the best hotel deals.

Mother Goose Hotel

If you want a boutique hotel stay, I recommend Mother Goose Hotel , located in Utrecht’s city centre.

This unique hotel is full of character, with its historic elements fused with chic design. Moody throws, sexy lighting and a rainfall shower all add to the wow factor of this distinctive hotel.

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

The room has all the amenities you might expect from an upscale, city centre hotel. There is a flat-screen TV, free WiFi, a coffee maker, toiletries and a hairdryer.

A typical Dutch breakfast is included and is available across the Square at Daen’s Cafe.

Choose from bread and cheese, sliced cold meat, pancakes and pastries, soft-boiled eggs, and freshly brewed coffee. Sit outside and soak up some sunshine as you watch the square come to life in the morning.

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

Carlton President Hotel Utrecht

If you are looking for an out-of-town stay in Utrecht, the Carlton President offers spacious rooms and a range of facilities.

Enjoy the restaurant, swimming pool, sauna, wellness facilities and garden. Their fabulous premium rooms include amenities such as a Nespresso coffee machine, bathroom with rain shower, electronic safe and minibar.

Utrecht Guide | 3 days in Utrecht

Is Utrecht worth visiting?

utrecht tourist

After many visits, I truly believe Utrecht is worth visiting – it’s one of my favourite cities in the Netherlands.

This fun university city offers a brilliant combination of rich history and architecture, vibrant culture and plenty of bars and restaurants.

Its well-preserved medieval centre showcases stunning buildings, cobblestone lanes, and intricate canal networks.

utrecht tourist

Standing tall and proud, the iconic Dom Tower dominates the skyline, inviting you to explore its historical significance and ascend to its top for breathtaking panoramic views.

Beyond its architectural wonders, Utrecht has a thriving cultural scene. The city is home to the renowned Centraal Museum, housing an extensive collection of art and historical artefacts.

Utrecht also hosts cultural events and festivals yearly, where music, film, and performing arts take centre stage.

Getting to Utrecht

utrecht tourist

To get to Utrecht, the best way to arrive is by flying to Amsterdam with airlines like KLM or by getting the train. You can take the train from most major European cities to Amsterdam.

From Amsterdam Central, an extensive rail network services all the major cities in the Netherlands, including Utrecht. Train travel from Amsterdam to Utrecht takes around 30 minutes.

You can buy an Amsterdam Public Transport Ticket online or purchase tickets at the station.

You can always continue your Dutch adventure and explore cities like Amsterdam , Rotterdam and the Hague .

Utrecht FA Q.

utrecht tourist

q. how many days in utrecht?

3 days in Utrecht is a perfect time to have a fun city break and see most attractions and sights in the city, and to try out lots of restaurants and bars.

Q. What is the best time of year to visit Utrecht?

Utrecht can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to visit is spring (April to June) and summer (July to August) when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are in full swing. The city also hosts various festivals and events during these seasons.

Q. Is it better to stay in Utrecht or Amsterdam?

A. Stay in Utrecht for a charming, local feel and cheaper accommodation. Opt for Amsterdam if you crave vibrant energy, world-famous attractions, and bustling cosmopolitan flair. Both offer unique Dutch experiences.

Q: How do I get to Utrecht?

A: Utrecht is easily accessible by train from major cities in the Netherlands. The city has a central train station, Utrecht Centraal, which connects it to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and other Dutch cities. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is the closest international airport, with direct train connections to Utrecht.

Q: What are the must-visit attractions in Utrecht?

A: Utrecht has several must-visit attractions, including the Dom Tower, the city’s symbol, which offers incredible views from its top. Other notable attractions include the Museum Quarter, Centraal Museum, the canals, Oudegracht, and the charming historic city centre with its unique wharf cellars.

Q: What are the transportation options in Utrecht?

A: Utrecht is a compact city that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. The city has an extensive network of bike paths and bike rental shops. Utrecht also has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams, which provide easy access to different parts of the city and surrounding areas.

Pip and the City Travel Resources

Recommended travel resources

Flights : To search for flight deals, check out sites such as Skyscanner and Google Flights to compare the costs of flights and to book. Accommodation:  I use Booking.com for most of my hotel bookings as they have fantastic flexibility and cancellation.

Airport Parking and Lounges : Save money on airport & travel extras, including; airport parking, airport hotels, and airport lounges with Holiday Extras . Travel Insurance:  I highly recommend you always get travel insurance – I use the Post Office Travel Insurance for single trip coverage and Safety Wing for comprehensive travel medical insurance. Car Hire: I use Discover Cars to hire cars abroad as they have free cancellation, free mileage and no card fees. Travel Money: I recommend Post Office Travel Money as you can get competitive rates and 0% commission for your holiday cash.

E-sim Cards: Use Airalo’s eSIM app to buy an eSIM for 200+ countries and stay connected when you travel abroad. For more travel tools, head to my bumper travel resources page now!

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Read my city break guide for Utrecht, Netherlands. Includes things to do in Utrecht, places to eat and drink on your weekend break. Utrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and you'll fall in love with its charm. Enjoy 3 days in Utrecht and explore this beautiful city #utrecht #netherlands #citybreak #weekendbreak #travel #europe

Portia Jones

Portia has spent years traversing the globe and having many misadventures. She now works as a freelance travel journalist, editor of Pip and the City and hosts the Travel Goals Podcast. She specialises in adventure travel, destination guides and city breaks. Her work has appeared in The Times, National Geographic and Lonely Planet. She can normally be found hiking, swimming outdoors in icy waters, or drinking coffee in bougie cafes.

  • Portia Jones https://pipandthecity.com/author/thatpip/ One Week in Malta: Ultimate holiday itinerary for 2024
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11 Best Things To Do in Utrecht

11 Best Things To Do in Utrecht

Utrecht is an incredibly beautiful university city in the Netherlands. Some say it is a better version of its neighbor Amsterdam , with peaceful canals with quays to relax at and stunning architecture. Get to know why one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands is so popular, however not popular with tourists but with locals! You can easily do most things to do in Utrecht within a day because the city is very walkable. 

Things To Do in Utrecht

Plan to spend at least one full day in the city, but to really experience Utrecht at its best, two nights would be ideal!

utrecht city guide

1. Wander the Beautiful Streets of Utrecht

Utrecht has arguably one of the most beautiful city centers in the Netherlands . It’s got countless picturesque corners with cobblestone streets that make you want to grab your camera.

utrecht tourist

If you follow the canal and street ‘Oudegracht’ all the way from top to bottom, you’ll already find so many stunning places. Even better, you can walk around the entire old city center in under an hour, making it an incredible thing to do in Utrecht.

Here are all your hotel options in Utrecht.

utrecht tourist

2. The Street Food Club

The best-decorated restaurant in the entire city of Utrecht is without a doubt ‘The Street Food Club’. Set foot in the crazy colorful but perfectly decorated pink room or tropical green room with a stunning stained-glass ceiling!

utrecht things to do best restaurant

The street food style dishes are delicious, and they have vegetarian and vegan options available! 

Although it has quite a lot of seats, due to its popularity, it is recommended to book in advance.

street food club utrecht

3. Relax at Oude Gracht

The 2-kilometer-long ‘Oude Gracht’ (Old Canal) of Utrecht, with a lower-level quay and warehouses, is unique in the Netherlands. Many of these warehouses have been transformed into restaurants and bars with a terrace along the waterside. Either grab a terrace seat or simply sit down at the water where there are no restaurants. (Plenty of spots available!)

utrecht tourist

Hire a canoe or electric boat to discover the serene canal waters just as if you are in Venice, Italy. Bring some drinks and snacks for your trip, but never leave trash behind! All companies offer a map and route instructions for even better explorations! 

Expect to pay around €30 per hour for an electric boat in Utrecht.

11 Best Things To Do in Utrecht

4. Shopping and Vintage Shopping

Utrecht’s old city center is the place to go shopping. Throughout the entire center are small boutiques and great vintage stores. And don’t skip the Hoog Catharijne Mall, one of the biggest indoor shopping centers in the Netherlands.

Our favorite stores in Utrecht are: 

  • Rood en Bloem (beautiful plant shop)
  • Hip voor de Heb (cute fashion store)
  • Episode (vintage clothing & accessories)
  • Minre (trendy boutique shop)
  • Vintage Island (vintage clothing & accessories)

utrecht tourist

5. Visit Utrecht’s Dom Tower

The Dom is a 14th-century Gothic church with the tallest church tower (112 meters) in the Netherlands. Challenge yourself and walk the 465 steps towards the top of the Dom tower, where you’re rewarded with a panoramic view of Utrecht. 

Utrecht things to do Dom Tower

Tours of the tower are in Dutch and English, and admission is €9 for adults and €5 for kids aged 4-12.

Please note: The tower is currently undergoing restoration work. However, it is still open for tours.

Utrecht Dom Tower

Pandhof Garden

Additionally, visit the Pandhof at the Dom Church. The old monastery garden is a beautiful courtyard, and the architecture is like no other! Pandhof Garden is included when buying a ticket to the Dom Church. 

utrecht tourist

6. Best Places to Eat in Utrecht

When visiting Utrecht, you won’t be disappointed when it comes down to the food. The city is, just like Rotterdam , filled with fantastic food hot spots and trendy cafes with something for everyone. Three days will not be enough to try them all, really! These are some of our favorite spots:

  • O’Panuozzo Neapolitan Pizzeria
  • Karibu Cafe
  • The Street Food Club

utrecht best cafe

7. Miffy (Nijntje)

Dick Bruna is a famous children’s book author born in Utrecht. His books of the white rabbit named Miffy (Nijntje in Dutch) are known all over the world. For that reason, you can find Miffy throughout the entire city with a statue at Miffy Square , a Miffy Museum, and possibly the coolest feature: a Miffy traffic light .

utrecht miffy traffic light

8. Cruise the Canals

The incredibly scenic canals of Utrecht are the city’s absolute highlight. The Dutch architecture with houses along the canals gives you this iconic experience of the Netherlands.

things to do utrecht

Different from Amsterdam, the bridges over the canals in Utrecht are much higher, allowing larger boats to cruise through the city center. Additionally, the canals have quays and old quay warehouses. Cellars that nowadays host great restaurants.

Book online: Kayaking tour in the canals

utrecht guide canals

9. Castle de Haar, Utrecht

Fairytales come to life at Castle de Haar, located just outside of Utrecht. De Haar is the largest castle in the Netherlands, featuring beautiful gardens and a truly stunning castle that you can explore on the inside, too! An admission ticket is needed in order to visit the castle, which you can buy on location or online in advance.

castle de haar utrecht

Getting there: The castle is a 20 to 30-minute drive from Utrecht by car and a little less than an hour by public transport from Utrecht Central Station. It is, however, definitely worth the journey! 

castle-de-haar

10. Day Trip to Amsterdam

Utrecht is a fantastic alternative to Amsterdam. Plus, from Utrecht, you can easily visit Amsterdam on a day trip because the journey is only 30 minutes by train! Another advantage is that hotels in Utrecht are slightly more affordable. Rent a bike for the day in Amsterdam and explore the city at its best.

Read: Complete Amsterdam Guide – Best Things to do

amsterdam city trip best photo spot

11. Oude Hortus

Oude Hortus is the former botanical garden of Utrecht. Inside the garden, you will find a wide variety of medicinal herbs, centuries-old trees, and greenhouses full of exotic plants and flowers. Oude Hortus in Utrecht is part of the University Museum and has a wonderful garden cafe on site. 

Entrance tickets to the University Museum + Oude Hortus are 8 EUR.

things to do utrecht Oude Hortus

Where to Stay in Utrecht? 

Utrecht has a good selection of accommodations throughout the entire city. It is recommended to stay near to the old city center where most of the things to do in Utrecht are located.

Hotels in Utrecht 😴

Bunk Hotel Utrecht

How to Get to Utrecht

Visiting Utrecht from Amsterdam couldn’t be easier. The train from Amsterdam Central Station or Schiphol International Airport only takes about 30 minutes and it runs throughout the entire day.

We recommend to rent a car in Netherlands through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

utrecht canals

Getting Around

Utrecht has a small city center and is very easy to get around on foot. This is also the only way recommended since there is no tram or metro available in the old city center. 

Costs of traveling in Utrecht

Utrecht is slightly cheaper compared to Amsterdam when it comes down to accommodation and restaurants.

Costs of Traveling in Utrecht

Travel on a budget in Utrecht, from $440 − $880 USD weekly per person, mid-range $840 − $1950 USD, and high-end from $1870 − $2900 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

  • Hotels: $50 − $250 USD Check available hotels
  • Hostels: $30 − $90 USD Check available hostels
  • Transport: $10 − $30 USD Book public transport
  • Car Rental: $35 − $80 USD Book a rental car
  • Food: $10 − $45 USD
  • Activities: $10 − $30 USD See tickets & tours
  • Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
  • Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

Best Time to Visit

April to September is the best time to visit Utrecht weather-wise. Spring in the Netherlands is usually the ideal timing with rays of spring sunshine, fewer tourists, and temperatures between 10 – 20 degrees.

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9 Best Things To Do in Amsterdam

Zaanse schans windmills: a perfect day trip from amsterdam, volendam and marken: visit in a day trip from amsterdam.

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Download GPX file for this article

  • 1 Understand
  • 2.1 By train
  • 3.1 By bike
  • 3.3 By public transit
  • 4.1 Around the Domplein
  • 4.2 Oudegracht
  • 4.3 Notable buildings
  • 4.4 Museums
  • 4.5 Districts
  • 4.6 Windmills
  • 5.2 Theatres
  • 5.3 Cinemas
  • 5.4 Festivals
  • 8.1 Geek gear
  • 9.2 Mid-range
  • 9.3 Splurge
  • 10.1 Drinks
  • 10.2 Along the Oudegracht
  • 10.3 Off the beaten path
  • 10.4 Nightlife
  • 11.1 Budget
  • 11.2 Mid-range
  • 11.3 Splurge
  • 13 Stay safe

utrecht tourist

Utrecht is a central Dutch city with a long history. With 362,000 inhabitants (2022), it’s the fourth largest city in the Netherlands .

Understand [ edit ]

The history of the city goes back to 47 AD when the Roman emperor Claudius ordered his general Corbulo to build a defensive line along the river Rhine which was the northern most border of the empire. One of the strongholds (or Castella) along the river was built at a crossing in the river and was called Traiectum (which means crossingplace). In the local language this became Trecht, Uut-Trecht (lower-Trecht) and later Utrecht. On the place where once the castellum stood now stands the Domchurch built in the 13th century.

Utrecht is known as a student city with a large population of single young people. This results in a booming nightlife with many places to have a quick meal, some drinks or a dance.

  • 52.090967 5.121029 1 VVV Utrecht Informatie Centrum ( Tourist Information Centre ), Domplein 9 , ☏ +31 30-236 00 04 , [email protected] . Daily 10:00-17:00 . ( updated Aug 2019 )

Get in [ edit ]

By train [ edit ].

Coming from Germany with the Deutschland-Ticket , take the RE19 e.g. from Düsseldorf/Duisburg to Arnhem. And then an InterCity (every 15min) for €7-12 to Utrecht . ( updated Feb 2024 )

The train station is at the western edge of the old city. A 5-minute walk through the Hoog Catharijne shopping center (follow signs to “Centrum”) will take you from the station to the city or the bus station.

By bus [ edit ]

The bus station is next to the train station. International buses depart from the western side of the train station ('Jaarbeurszijde'), exit the railway station on the correct side and turn right to find the busstop next to the NH-Hotel. Flixbus both has several lines to Utrecht connecting directly with many European Countries. The international buses to Belgium and Germany are often a cost effective alternative to the trains with longer (Germany) or similar (Belgium) travel duration. The regional and city buses depart from separate stations on the east and west side of the train station. The regional buses are much slower than the trains. For information about the city buses, check the U-OV website , this is the company that provides public transport services in and around the city of Utrecht. Buses to the smaller towns around Utrecht are run by BBA [dead link] , Arriva and Connexxion . Time schedules for train and bus can be found here .

By car [ edit ]

If you are coming in by car, park your car in one of the many parking garages around the city (follow the signs) and walk from there. Electronic signs display the number of parking spaces available in any given lot as well as directions to the lot, and if the sign says Vol it means the lot is full. Expect to pay around €3 to €5 per hour (as of Aug 2019) at any of the garages in the center. Parking on the curb side is also possible, expect to pay €3 to €5 an hour in advance at the meter (as of Aug 2019). Parking fines are around €70 and frequently enforced, so make sure to get back to your car before the ticket expires. It’s best to avoid driving into central Utrecht. Instead, leave your car at the city perimeter and take a bus or tram into the center.

There are 4 Park + Ride (P+R) around the city where you can park your car for the day at a flat rate of €5 (as of Aug 2019), including transit to the city center by bus or tram for up to 5 passengers. Both bus and trams offer comparable frequency of service. Two P+R facilities are adjacent to tram lines:

Get around [ edit ]

Map

Walking or using a bike is the easiest way to travel in the city of Utrecht. To use the public transportation in the Netherlands, it is recommended to buy an OV-chipkaart . You can buy these on the central bus station (lower level of Utrecht Centraal Station), at kiosks inside the central train station or at some book stores and grocery stores. The OV-chipkaart is valid for bus, train and tram and works like a debit card that you must first charge with an amount. Buses do take cash though.

By bike [ edit ]

Using a bike is the easiest way to travel in the city centre if the weather is on your side. There are many bicycle shops near the train station where you can rent bikes. Alternatively, if you have a personal OV-chipkaart you can rent an OV-Fiets for €3.85 per 24 hours at one of the rail stations, you have to subscribe to the service for 1 eurocent a year on the NS website first though. Do make sure that you have good locks on your bike, as bike thefts are unfortunately quite common in the city centre. Also it's a good idea to make use of the free bike parking areas provided by the city council. They are usually guarded and are a safe place to park your bike.

Also recommended is to do a bike tour. There are several bike tour companies offering guided city tours. There are also cycle routes starting in the centre of Utrecht, which you can download for free: Utrecht Forts Cycle Route .

A good alternative is taking the bus, which goes often and will take you nearly everywhere. Utrecht Centraal Station serves as the main bus hub for Utrecht as well as the main train hub for the Netherlands. Most buses run from early morning (around 06:00) until just after midnight. City center rides cost ~€2.50. U-OV operates trams and local buses in and around Utrecht, and has a page in English for visitors.

In addition, there are several so-called nightlines. These cost €5-6 and can’t be paid for using strips or OV-chipkaart.

By public transit [ edit ]

Utrecht has 3 tram routes all running via the central station ( Utrecht Centraal Station a.k.a. Utrecht CS). The station has an underground tram/bus stop named Centrumzijde (meaning downtown side) on the east side of the station. On the station's west side, there is another tram stop named Jaarbeursplein , but visitors are most likely to use Centrumzijde which is nearest to the old city centre. Platforms labelled B at Centrumzijde is for trams. There are 3 tram routes effective July 2, 2022:

  • Tram   20   : Nieuwegein-Zuid – Utrecht CS – P+R Science Park
  • Tram   21   : IJsselstein-Zuid – Utrecht CS – P+R Science Park
  • Tram   22   : Utrecht CS – P+R Science Park

From Utrecht CS, trams run southwest passing P+R Westraven to Nieuwegein Stadscentrum where the tram line splits into two branches to IJsselstein-Zuid and Nieuwegein-Zuid. The southwest section of the line operates every day to a little past midnight.

Trams operate from Utrecht CS southeast to P+R Science Park Monday to Friday until 21:30. At these times riders can travel from either IJsselstein-Zuid or Nieuwegein-Zuid to P+R Science Park without switching vehicles. However, there is no weekend or late evening service to P+R Science Park, at which times all trams terminate at Utrecht CS. Use bus line 28 when trams to P+R Science Park are not running. P+R Science Park is in the Uithof district southeast of the centre of Utrecht.

U-OV operates trams and local buses, and their network can be travelled as cheap as €6.95 using the U-OV dagkaart . For the rest of the province , a separate €11.05 off-peak ticket exists . Both tickets offer unlimited access to U-OV buses and trams. The tickets can be bought online or at U-OV ticket machines or service desks. To use the tickets, you must be in the possession of an OV-chipkaart .

Seeing Utrecht by car is not recommended. The city planners have made it as difficult as possible to navigate the city center, to try and discourage cars there. Driving around can be frustrating as the center is fraught with bus-only lanes, one-way streets, traffic lights and terribly expensive parking spaces. If you want to come by car it is recommended to park at one of the P+R (Park and Ride) places, and take a cheap shuttle bus or tram service into town. There are also several parking garages closer to the center, but they are more expensive.

See [ edit ]

Around the domplein [ edit ].

utrecht tourist

  • DOMunder , Dom Square (Domplein) . guided tours Tu-Su 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 13:30, 14:30, 15:30, 16:30 . An interesting museum/guided tour under the Dom Square about the Romans in Utrecht. €11 . ( updated Sep 2015 )
  • Pandhof Domkerk ( cloister garden ) ( at the South side of the Dom church ). Just sit down, relax, and listen to a Saturday morning carillon concert. ( updated Jun 2016 )
  • 52.090679 5.121297 2 Domtoren ( Dom Tower ). only by guided tours (1 hr) Tu-Sa 10:00-17:00, Su M 12:00-17:00 . 112 m tall, it is the highest church tower in the Netherlands. It is also the highest building in the city by municipal mandate. Climbing up the stairs to see the magnificent view on the top is highly recommended, but beware of the narrow, steep stairs. On clear days you can look as far as Amsterdam and Rotterdam. Home to the second largest set of bells in Europe (after Cologne ), and a carillon which is often played by musicians at the weekend. €9; tickets could also be booked online . ( updated Jun 2016 )

Oudegracht [ edit ]

It is a major canal going through the heart of the city, with shops and restaurants on both sides. This canal is unique because of its many picturesque cellars on water level. Centuries ago they were used for storage and commerce. Nowadays, many of them host fine restaurants and pubs. In the summer you can find nice terraces at the water here.

Notable buildings [ edit ]

utrecht tourist

  • 52.09033 5.12424 11 Paushuize ( Pope's house ), Kromme Nieuwegracht 49 , ☏ +31 30 231 03 47 , [email protected] . Born in Utrecht, Adrianus VI, the sole Dutch pope and the last non-Italian pope until John Paul II, had this house constructed in 1517. It is used for congresses, weddings and group dinners.  

Museums [ edit ]

Museumkaart is accepted at the city's museums.

Districts [ edit ]

  • 52.091644 5.103633 18 Kanaalstraat ( Lombok district ). There is an attractive area of shops and eateries along Kanaalstraat in the Lombeck district between Damstraat and Lombokstraat. At the west end of Kanaalstraat is a quaint old-fashioned drawbridge. At the east end is a mosque with two minarets. ( updated Dec 2019 )
  • 52.096 5.0685 20 Perron 9 Berlijnplein ( Platform 9 Berlin Square ), Berlijnplein 520 ( a short walk south-east of Leidsche Rijn Centrum ). This heritage monument is a preserved portion of an old platform canopy salvaged from the renovations at Utrecht Centraal Station. It was built in 1893. ( updated May 2021 )

Windmills [ edit ]

  • 52.0897 5.1006 21 Houtzaagmolen De Ster ( Wind mill & saw mill ), Molenpark 8 , ☏ +31 30 294 2553 . Sa 13:00 to 16:00 . This windmill and sawmill installation was built in 1721 along the waterway called Leidsche Vaart, and was renovated in 1998. Free tours on Saturday afternoons .  

Do [ edit ]

  • Have a drink at one of the terraces at the lower docks of Oudegracht
  • Climb the Dom tower , a full 112 metres high. You can climb to near the top.
  • Take a tour with a boat through the canals
  • Take a bicycle tour through the old city centre
  • Find out the stories behind the buildings in a free tour .
  • Rent a canal bike and pedal your own way around the canals .
  • Try a locally brewed beer at Stadskasteel Oudaen , which is a 13th-century city castle turned restaurant.
  • Football: FC Utrecht play soccer in Eredivisie, the Dutch top tier. Their home ground is Stadion Galgenwaard (capacity 23,750), 2 km southeast of city centre.
  • 52.09361 5.12624 2 Skate parade , Lucasbolwerk ( start and finish is at Lucasbolwerk; the sheer number of people on skates is impossible to miss ). 20:00-22:00 . Participate in the skate parade: every Friday night in summer (roughly May - December), over 100 skaters ride about 20 km in and around Utrecht, making it a great way to see more of the city. Skates can be rented for €10; other than that, the event is free of charge. Departure is at 20:00 exactly, so make sure to arrive well in advance, especially if you need to rent skates. ( updated Jun 2022 )
  • 52.086443 5.121908 3 Rent a canoe , Oudegracht aan de Werf 275 ( descend the stairs towards the wharf next to the canal ), ☏ +31 6 156 028 23 , [email protected] . n-F 13:00-19:00, Sa Su 10:00-19:00 . On a sunny day, renting a canoe to paddle along the canals through the city centre is a great and affordable way to see the city from a different perspective. €7 per hour . ( updated Sep 2022 )
  • 52.08218 5.15583 4 Rent a canoe at Rijnstroom , Weg naar Rhijnauwen 2 . Rent a canoe or kayak. Either take a tour through the city, make sure to visit the Minstroom and Oudegracht. Or take a tour outside the city on the Kromme Rijn towards Bunnik, and dock at Theehuis Rhijnauwen to eat pancakes. ( updated Jul 2023 )

Parks [ edit ]

The 52.087128 5.140228 5 Wilhelminapark , 52.089386 5.128437 6 Park Lepelenburg and the 52.106294 5.08755 7 Julianapark are nice places to chill out in summer.

Theatres [ edit ]

Cinemas [ edit ].

utrecht tourist

Watch a movie at one of many cinemas. With the exception of some animated movies (and even those are usually available in the original language as well), all movies are subtitled and not dubbed, so you should be able to enjoy all the standard Hollywood fare in the original English. As any large city, Utrecht has its share of cinemas showing Hollywood movies:

More interesting are the three independent cinemas, these specialize in art house movies and also are ideal places to get a drink or have dinner:

  • 52.0931 5.1198 13 Filmtheater 't Hoogt , ☏ +31 30 231 2216 , fax : +31 30-2312940 , [email protected] . Location at Hoogt 4 is closed, check website for locations.  
  • 52.08178 5.124185 14 Louis Hartlooper Complex , Tolsteegbrug 1 ( all the way down the Oudegracht ), ☏ +31 30 232 0450 , fax : +31 30 232 04 51 , [email protected] . Film and culture centre, housed in a former police station.  
  • 52.088168 5.119158 15 Springhaver , Springweg 50 ( between the Central Station and the Oudegracht ), ☏ +31 30 231 3789 , fax : +31 30 231 0968 , [email protected] .  

Festivals [ edit ]

  • Visit the Gaudeamus Muziekweek .This is the internationally celebrated annual festival for young composers and new music. Apart from the annual festival they also organize a monthly series of new, contemporary music.
  • The yearly Utrecht Festival of Old Music, called Festival Oude Muziek , late August to early September, brings to Utrecht some of the best artists in the world of authentic performance, but reserves some space for future talent as well. Concerts of all sizes are scattered over some of the city's most beautiful churches, with major performances held at Vredenburg Leidsche Rijn and the old Dom Church and a nice central lounge. There are over 60 free 'fringe' concerts and a set student price of €7.
  • Visit the Parade , a yearly open air summer festival with theatre, comedy, dance, music and other attractions. De Parade is a traveling festival that visits Amsterdam, Utrecht, Rotterdam and the Hague every summer.

Learn [ edit ]

Work [ edit ].

A ton of service positions exist in the ancient city centre. However, they usually have low wages and require fluent Dutch.

Buy [ edit ]

Most shops are in the city centre, concentrated around the Oudegracht, Vredeburg and Neude. There is also a large shopping centre extending east from the city centre in the direction of the Wilhelminapark. For general shop info and their opening hours you can visit openingstijden.nl [1] as it shows an overview of the most popular shops.

  • Hoog Catharijne . A large indoor shopping area next to Utrecht Centraal Station, the main railway station of Utrecht. ( updated Jul 2018 )
  • Books . Broese is a large bookstore at Stadhuisbrug 5. They have a fair selection of English books. Bijleveld at the Janskerkhof is an old bookstore with beautiful wooden show windows.
  • Music . Plato at Voorstraat 35 has a fair selection at reasonable prices. Boudisque at the Drieharingenstraat (near Vredenburg) is the largest record store in Utrecht. Jazz, Classical music, Pop music and DVDs all have their own store. Near the Vredenburg the Revenge has a fair selection of vinyl, focusing on electronic music.
  • Markets . On Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays there is a large open air market on the Vredenburg square. On Saturdays you can find a plant market on the Janskerkhof and a flower market on the Oudegracht. The Breedstraat houses a large fabric market (lapjesmarkt) on Saturday mornings (09:00-13:00).
  • At Stationsplein 7 there is a give-away shop , open Tu 14:00-18:00 and Sa 14:00-17:00.
  • [formerly dead link] El Beso . At Nobelstraat there is an excellent wine, life and style shop, called El Beso (Spanish for Kiss). On Saturdays you can just walk in and try a wine, no buying obligations. International crowd.  
  • Cannabis . Sarasani, opened in 1968, was the oldest coffee shop in the Netherlands. Located at Oudegracht 327 a/d werf, which means it was on the canal level, and sat under the main street. Sarisani closed down in 2007. On Wednesdays and Saturdays Joepi [dead link] makes a round through the center of Utrecht to deliver food and beverages with a little ‘extra’, mainly psychedelics, cannabis and energetic herbs.

Geek gear [ edit ]

There are half a dozen stores at the part of the Oudegracht (Old Canal) south of De Dom that sell board games, card games, wargames, roleplaying games, fantasy and science-fiction books and/or comics (e.g. Piet Snot, Elf Fantasy, the Joker and Neverneverland). Keep your eyes peeled; some of these stores are easy to miss.

  • Blunder has a large collection of “mainstream comics” on street level and an even bigger collection of the newest American comics and Manga/Anime in the basement. The address is Oudegracht 203.
  • Piet Snot [dead link] is a normal comic shop. They also have a big collection of second hand comics. Vismarkt 3 (It’s a small part of the Oudegracht that for some dark reason has been given a different name...)
  • Strip & Lectuurshop . Lots of comics at Oudegracht 194
  • The Joker. Games, games and more games. From your normal family games to the German type games and the American wargames and everything in between. They also have lots of collectible card games and scenario-books for RPGs. In the basement it’s possible to play the games. It is at Oudegracht 230a.
  • Neverneverland, like The Joker, has a large selection of boardgames and RPGs at Oudegracht 202.
  • Subcultures is well... about subcultures, next to being a regular game shop. Specialized in miniature wargames, RPGs and designer toys. The address is Oude Gracht 183.

Eat [ edit ]

Many restaurants can be found in the city center. Especially near the canals there is a huge choice of places to eat, each with their own style of kitchen, like Italian, Thai, and American. Ask the locals for which places are recommended as not every restaurant offers the same quality.

Budget [ edit ]

  • 52.092732 5.119214 1 Bigoli , Schoutenstraat 12 . Serves delicious Italian sandwiches for about €7. Be prepared to wait in line at lunch time though. ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.090547 5.120707 2 Dimitri Petit ( Sirtaki II ), Servetstraat 4 . Take-away related to Greek restaurant "Sirtaki" opposite it. About €7.50 for a well-stuffed pita . ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.095465 5.136857 3 Food and the City , Biltstraat 467 , ☏ +31 30 2683924 , [email protected] . Hip Mediterranean take-away. Around €6 for a well-filled vegetarian pita, around €11 for a hearty strudel (Nov 2021) . ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.092442 5.119937 5 El Greco , Ganzenmarkt 28 . This Greek snack bar serves some of the best pita gyros sandwiches in Utrecht. ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.090936 5.119685 6 Op Saj , Steenweg 1 . Very good wraps for vegetarians and vegans. ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.09505 5.127174 7 Chidóz , Biltstraat 7 . Mexican. ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.094899 5.126961 8 Sonmat , Biltstraat 5 . Korean. ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.094989 5.121895 9 ACU , Voorstraat 71 . In this squatters cafe cheap but delicious vegan food is served on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Around €10 for a main course . ( updated Jul 2018 )
  • There are several Flemish snack bars outside of Hoog Catharijne that sell wonderful thick fries with mayonnaise. Try it; it’s not as bad as John Travolta’s character seems to think in Pulp Fiction .
  • To try something Dutch visit one of the snackbars and order a Kroket .
  • For a more multi-ethnic view of Utrecht, walk away from the old city from the bus station/central station, walk under the train tracks, and follow the bus route (straight ahead) about 200 m. Try some affordable rotisserie style chicken on the left side of the Kanaalstraat, get a Moroccan style bagel across the street at one of the many middle eastern bakeries, and stock up on way-affordable (the cheapest in Utrecht) fruit and veggies at one of the many produce markets.

Mid-range [ edit ]

  • 52.09054 5.117159 10 Cafe 't College , Mariastraat ( Close to the dom ), ☏ +31 30 2319136 . M 10:00-19:00, Tu-Th 10:00-01:00, F Sa 11:00-14:00, Su 12:00-19:00 . Cozy jazz-blues restaurant with good simple food: steaks, salads, sate. The kitchen closes at 21:00, but you can get bitterballen, spring rolls, etc. after that. main: €14 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.092868 5.11673 11 Stadskasteel Oudaen , Oudegracht 99 . A 13th-century city castle turned restaurant. ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.091481 5.117562 12 Broadway , Oudegracht aan de werf 139 , ☏ +31 30 2312643 . An excellent spare ribs restaurant. Mains €20-30 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.091957 5.119057 13 Humphreys , Stadhuisbrug 3 , [email protected] . Under the city hall, on the Oudegracht. The restaurant is marked by a sign and menu. The entrance is tiny and under the stairs, but the restaurant is huge with multiple halls each in their own retro style. Modern Dutch cuisine with a fixed price for a three-course meal. €37.50 for three-course meal (fixed) . ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.095267 5.129084 14 Indonesia Asli , Biltstraat 56-58 . M-Sa 12:00-20:00 . Authentic (i.e., spicy) Indonesian restaurant and take-away. €12-16 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.075136 5.121418 15 LE:EN , Heuveloord 140 . Best described as Asian tapas, LE:EN (pronounced "lain") is a bit of a walk from the center, and it's not the cheapest in town, but a lot of locals think it's worth it anyway! ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.093041 5.124651 16 Meneer Smakers , Nobelstraat 143 . This small burger joint is by far the best in town, serving ten different burgers and delicious home-made fries. ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.095236 5.123225 17 De Ontdekking , Voorstraat 110 ( opposite the "City" cinema ), ☏ +31 30 751 47 19 , [email protected] . M-F 08:00-18:00, Sa Su 09:00-18:00 . Many vegetarian and vegan options, dishes and decor inspired by the travel agency that used to be in this building (i.e. by countries all over the world). About €8 for breakfast, €9 for a warm lunch. Salad €8.50, soup €6.50, sandwich about €7 (Nov 2018) . ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.09294 5.11712 18 De Oude Muntkelder , Oude Gracht a/d Werf 112 , ☏ +31 30 231-6773 . Daily 12:00-21:00 . Traditional Dutch pancake restaurant. They have a lovely setting beside the small canal. They have a wide varieties of pancakes, even quirky ones like the Norwegian pancake. On Mondays and Tuesdays all-you-can-eat pancakes for students for a lower price. (valid student card required). €12-17 . ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.100294 5.11242 19 Restaurant Blij , Brugstraat 2 , ☏ +31 30 271 30 80 , [email protected] . Tu-Su from 17:00 onwards . Blij's signature concept is that you can order two half dishes per course, i.e. you can try six different dishes in a three-course meal. (Only for groups of seven persons or fewer.) €28.50 for a three-course menu . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Splurge [ edit ]

  • 52.075497 5.120786 20 WT Urban Kitchen ( Watertoren Utrecht ), Heuveloord 25A , ☏ +31 30 303 1216 , [email protected] . M-F 17:30-0:00, Sa Su 12:00-0:00 . At the top of a water tower, this restaurants serves delicious food with an amazing view. €39 for a 4-course menu, €44 for a 5-course menu, €49 for a 6-course menu (prices as of July 2018) . ( updated Aug 2023 )
  • 52.088001 5.118674 21 Karel 5 , Geertebolwerk 1 , ☏ +31 30 233 7555 , [email protected] . M-Sa 18:00-22:00 . Restaurant of hotel Karel V. €72 for a 5-course meal (July 2018) . ( updated Aug 2023 )

Drink [ edit ]

As the population of Utrecht contains a lot of students, naturally there are a lot of places where you can spend the day or night having some drinks and a dance. Most are in the city center. Main hubs for drinks are Neude, Janskerkhof, Mariaplaats and Ledig Erf.

Drinks [ edit ]

  • The terraces at Neude, Janskerkhof or Ledig Erf
  • The lower docks near the canal Oudegracht
  • The cafe's at the street Lucasbolwerk
  • Stairway to Heaven [dead link] is a large rockcafe at Mariaplaats 11-12.
  • Olivier at the Achter Clarenburg. A Belgian cafe with some thirty beers. Located in an old church.
  • Theatercafé De Bastaard , Jansveld 17. Students, artists, the occasional local celebrity. There is a pool table in the back.
  • Jan Primus, Jan van Scorelstraat 27 - 31. It’s a little out of the centre of the city near the Wilhelmina Park. No music, no slot machine, no nothing. Just 160 beers. 10 draught and 150 bottled.
  • 52.092105 5.120279 1 Café De Zaak , Korte Minrebroederstraat 9, Utrecht , ☏ +31 30 231 53 10 , [email protected] . Lovely terrace, and you're allowed to bring your own food. ( updated Jan 2019 )

Along the Oudegracht [ edit ]

The Oudegracht is home to a lot of bars, both in- and outdoors, and both at street and at water level. From north to south:

  • Stadskasteel Oudaen , Oudegracht 99 , ☏ +31 30 231 1864 . A 13th-century city castle turned restaurant. They have their own theatre and more importantly their own brewery, where they brew the local beers Ouwe Daen, Jonge Daen en Linteloo Gold. Highly recommended.  
  • De Witte Ballons , Lijnmarkt 12 ( On the west side of Oudegracht, halfway the city center. From the Domplein, walk under the Domtoren, straight ahead, over the Oudegracht, first left, on your left after 20 metres ), ☏ +31 30-2311056 . A small and cosy café.  
  • Café België , Oudegracht 196 , ☏ +31 30 231 2666 . It has good music and a selection of 198 different beers of which 20 are draught. Also serve nice food for a reasonable price. Try the Celis White if you like white beer and try the Trock Banaan if you want to try a beer that tastes just like the banana sweets you probably ate when you were a kid (most likely you are going to get a question from the bartender like “Are you sure you want to have this?”).  
  • Ledig Erf , Tolsteegbrug 3 ( located at the very south tip of the Oudegracht ), ☏ +31 30 231 7577 . At the south end of the Oudegracht has a large outdoor seating area which is packed whenever the sun is shining.  

Off the beaten path [ edit ]

52.094964 5.078841 2 Strand Oog in Al ( Soia ), Kanaalweg 199 . Bring your own and have a picnic lounging on the grass next to the canal at the Oog in Al beach, or order something at the Soia restaurant. Free public restrooms are available, so the perfect place to spend the afternoon with a couple of friends when the weather's good. ( updated May 2021 )

Nightlife [ edit ]

  • The clubs near the square Janskerkhof provide a great dancing opportunity for young people ('t Pakhuis, Jansbar, Hofman).
  • The clubs at the street Oudkerkhof provide a great dancing opportunity for everyone (Dikke Dries).
  • The Nobelstraat is full of pubs which turn into dancing venues at night (de Vrienden, Otje, Kneus, Jaloezie).
  • Other cafes, recommended for students, are Beurs (at Neude), Zussen and Hemmingway (near Janskerkhof).
  • The main venue for pop concerts and for dancing are TivoliVredenburg , De Helling , Ekko , Kargadoor, De Vloer and DBs (close to the train station Zuilen).
  • Techno fans can visit BASIS .
  • ACU , Voorstraat 71 , ☏ +31 30-2314590 , [email protected] . This is a smaller, more intimate venue and political-cultural centre. They host a large variety of things, such as a small cinema (smoking allowed), art exhibitions, cafe literature, concerts, disco, gay events, and they serve vegan food every Tuesday to Saturday.  
  • 't Oude Pothuys , Oudegracht 279 ( On the west side of Oudegracht, a bit south of the city center ), ☏ +31 30-2318970 . A cafe in a basement, with live music almost every night.  

Sleep [ edit ]

Utrecht, like any big town, has its fair share of business hotels of the big chains.

  • Hostel Strowis , Boothstraat 8 , ☏ +31 30 2380280 , [email protected] . Hostel run by a group of clever ex-squatters who bought their building to start this initiative. The best and most homely hostel in Utrecht. A choice of 4-, 6-, 8-,or 16-bed dorms, free internet and a relaxing shaded garden area. Free cold showers. From €20 for a 16-bed dorm .  
  • Hostel B&B Utrecht , Lucas Bolwerk 4 , ☏ +31 650434884 , [email protected] . Check-out: 12:00 . Bizarre hostel. Main room dominated by television and individuals sitting at computers. Free internet (when it works), free food (you cook on your own!), sometimes free beer. Showers take half an hour to warm up in the morning. 10-min walk from the Central Station. from €25 .  
  • Stayokay Bunnik . Admittedly in a very nice area, this hostel is overpriced, but not so much as other hostels in the Utrecht area. 10 km from Utrecht in Rhijnauwen. Somewhat accessible by bus. From €20 for a 10-bed dorm . ( updated Aug 2017 )
  • BUNK Utrecht , Catharijnekade 9 ( within an old church in the city centre ). From €24 for a sleeping pod . ( updated Sep 2019 )

The city's campsite (De Berekuil, on the east side of the city) has been a huge mess for a couple years now, and it is uncertain what will happen to it in the future. There are few other campsites, though some farmers also have small scale camping on their land. For instance Camping de Boomgaard , 8 km from Utrecht city.

  • Bed & Breakfast de Buitenhof , Enghlaan 4 , ☏ +31 30 6774526 , [email protected] . €80-95 .  
  • NH Utrecht , Jaarbeursplein, 24 , ☏ +31 30 2977977 . Nestled away in a quiet area, close to center and the Jaarbeurs Convention Center. Meeting rooms available. From €99 .  
  • Hotel Oorsprongpark , F.C. Dondersstraat 12 , ☏ +31 30 271 63 03 , fax : +31 30 271 46 19 . single room: €100, double €115 .  
  • Park Plaza Utrecht , Westplein 50 , ☏ +31 30 29 25 200 , fax : +31 30 29 25 199 , [email protected] . Great location (city centre), modern style with nice meeting rooms overlooking Utrecht.  
  • Grand Hotel Karel V , Geertebolwerk 1 , ☏ +31 30 233 75 55 , fax : +31 30 233 75 00 , [email protected] .  

Connect [ edit ]

As of July 2022, Utrecht has 5G from all Dutch carriers. Wifi is widely available in public places.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Utrecht as a student city is quite safe, although there are some neighbourhoods in the outskirts that you probably don't want to visit. As always, don’t flash your wallet at markets and have a natural caution for pickpockets in the city centre. Unfortunately, bike thefts are a common nuisance, so if you travel by bike, make sure you have good locks and park your bike at a bike parking spots. Parking your bike in the city centre is easy as Utrecht has it own bike parking route. Parking lots for bikes are located under the Vredenburg (entrance between Zara and The Sting), the Neude (Neudeflat), Zadelstraat, under the City Hall, under the stairs at the Stationsplein West or the Jaarbeursplein.

You are unlikely to have any business in the lower-income and immigrant neighbourhoods such as Kanaleneiland and Overvecht south-west and north of the city center. While serious crime rarely takes place, they are best avoided unless you want to tempt fate. If for some reason you do end up in these neighbourhoods it is strongly advised to keep your mobile phone and camera concealed. The youth in this area is known to act aggressively if they suspect they are being filmed or photographed.

Go next [ edit ]

  • 52.031426 5.338733 5 Huis Doorn ( town of Doorn; take train to Driebergen-Zeist , then bus 50 to Centre Doorn and bus 56 to Huis Doorn ). W-F 13:00-17:00, Sa Su 12:00-17:00 . The last residence of Wilhelm II, the last German Emperor who was deposed following World War I and waited in his exile for a restoration of monarchy that never came. Museum €12; Pavilion €6; Museum & Pavilion €15 . ( updated Jun 2016 )
  • 52.121395 4.986205 6 Kasteel de Haar ( Castle De Haar ) ( at Haarzuilens village, take the train to Vleuten , then bus 111 to Kasteel de Haar ). 10:00-17:00 (last admittance 16:00); Guided bedroom tours start . Castle €14.00; + bedroom tour €17.50; park only €4 . ( updated Jun 2016 )
  • IJsselstein has a small attractive old town centre located near Binnenstad station along tram line 21 from Utrecht Centraal Station.
  • Amersfoort has a medieval centre, and is a fifteen-minute train ride from Utrecht.
  • 's-Hertogenbosch (commonly known as Den Bosch) has a preserved medieval centre, and is a half-hour train ride from Utrecht.
  • Vechtstreek — a region along the river Vecht famous for its magnificent 17th and 18th-century estates
  • Soest (Netherlands) — home to the biggest dune area in Utrecht
  • Soesterberg — home to the Dutch national air force museum
  • Wijk bij Duurstede — a typically old Dutch town on the Rhine river; dikes galore!
  • Rhenen — played a key-role in the World War II Grebbelinie defense. Beautiful forests and a great zoo
  • Rhijnauwen — take a walk in the forests between the Uithof and Bunnik

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Utrecht

Things to do in utrecht, explore popular experiences, ways to tour utrecht.

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All Inclusive Amsterdam Evening Cruise by Captain Jack

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Amsterdam Castle & Utrecht City - Private Day Tour

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Utrecht Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide

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Discover Utrecht with a self-guided Outside Escape city game tour

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Private Undercover Experience in Utrecht

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3 Hours itinerary between Amsterdam & Utrecht: The Heart Of Holland In A Sidecar

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Castles, Canals and Good Folk: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht

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Utrecht Guided Kayak Tour

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Guided tours in Amsterdam and the Netherlands.

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Utrecht Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour

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  • Canals area
  • Railway Museum (Het Spoorwegmuseum)
  • Museum Speelklok
  • Utrecht University Botanic Gardens
  • Bloemenmarkt, Janskerkhof, Utrecht
  • Wilhelminapark

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Ut­recht Tou­rist In­for­ma­ti­on Cent­re

Located at the foot of the Dom Tower you will find the Tourist Information Centre .

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Utrecht Tourist Information Centre

Located at the foot of the Dom Tower you will find the Utrecht Tourist Information Centre ( VVV Utrecht ). Make the most of your time in Utrecht by planning your trip with help from experts! Whether you’re searching for the best accommodation, exciting excursions in Utrecht or the region, the dedicated staff of VVV Utrecht can help you with a wonderful stay. They can also help you to book tickets, toursand information about public transport in and around Utrecht.

The Tourist Information Office is also the ultimate souvenir shop in Utrecht, with Holland souvenirs, typical Utrecht products and the largest selection of Miffy gifts in a special Miffy house available!

Go to the VVV Utrecht Information Centre for:

  • Tourist information
  • Dom Tower climbs
  • Hotel bookings
  • Gift vouchers
  • Bicycle hire
  • Walks and bicycle tours
  • Guided tours

The information centre has free wireless Internet .  Public holidays: Regular opening hours apply during public holidays, with the exception of Kings Day (27 April) during which the information centre will be closed. 

16 Jan 2022 -  18 May 2024

Cycling tours with a prive guide, general information.

Monday , tuesday , wednesday , thursday , friday , saturday , sunday .

Winkel van Utrecht / VVV

Domplein 9 3512JC Utrecht

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Ajax beat Utrecht to win their first Eredivisie match in a month

Goals from Brian Brobbey and Kenneth Taylor gave Ajax their first league win in a month on Sunday. The Amsterdammers defeated Utrecht 2-0 in the Johan Cruijff Arena. It was the first time Utrecht had lost in the Eredivisie since October 6.

Ajax were missing Steven Berghuis for the match. But were boosted by the return of Jordan Henderson. The midfielder was partnered by Sivert Mannsverk, who was picked over Benjamin Tahirovic and Branco Van den Boomen.

Van ’t Schip went with a new formation for the game due to centre-back Josip Sutalo being injured. Ahmetcan Kaplan started at the center of a five-man defence.

Utrecht was sloppy in possession but did create a significant chance in the first half. The away side had their biggest opportunity of the first half a minute after Brian Brobbey had spun on the ball and shot straight at Mattijs Branderhorst. Othman Boussaid played an excellent ball to striker Sam Lammers in the air, who made space in the box before hitting the volley far over the goal.

It proved costly as Ajax took the lead a minute later. Borne Sosa lobbed the ball over the Utrecht defence to the striker, whose first-time effort went through the legs of Branderhorst.

The crowd in the Johan Cruijff Arena thought that Brobbey had doubled his goal tally for the day in the 62nd minute. Kristian Hlynsson headed on a corner to the far post, where Brobbey hit the side netting with his instep.

The home side doubled their lead with just under 15 minutes to go. Brobbey was at the heart of it again, playing a one-two with Kenneth Taylor, who then followed Brobbey’s example from the first half and placed it through the legs of Branderhorst.

Ajax’s job was much harder when Devyne Rensch was sent off a studs-up tackle on Lammers after a VAR review in the 83rd minute.

Utrecht was unable to create many moments of danger in the final minutes of the match, resulting in Ajax’s first clean sheet in 16 games.

FC Utrecht travel to Almere for their next league match. Ajax’s next match is considerably tougher as they face Aston Villa in the UEFA Conference League on Thursday.

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  2. 14 Best Attractions & Things to Do in Utrecht

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COMMENTS

  1. Discover Utrecht

    Gageldijk 71, Maarssen. Visit the Maarsseveense Plassen, a unique area for recreation, (water) sports and outdoor activities. Are you looking for great restaurants, museums and what to see and do in Utrecht? Discover Utrecht with these tips and enjoy your stay.

  2. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Utrecht

    The museum shows the history of railways in the Netherlands with locomotives, carriages ranging from cattle cars, third…. See ways to experience (3) 8. Dom Tower. 2,016. Historic Sites. When you visit Utrecht you will notice the Domtoren almost immediately. The 14th century tower is the heart of the old city centre.

  3. The city of Utrecht: sights, top tips and more

    Utrecht. Its the fourth largest city in the Netherlands, and many regard it as the cozier alternative to Amsterdam. The city boasts beautiful canals and parks, lively restaurants and cafés, fascinating museums and remarkable historical buildings. Its city center alone is absolutely worth a visit, but there is much more to Utrecht than that ...

  4. 14 Best Attractions & Things to Do in Utrecht

    Utrecht Cathedral Map (Historical) 2. Climb the Domtoren: The Cathedral Tower. The Domtoren. Looming high over the old city of Utrecht is the old cathedral tower, the Dom Tower (or Domtoren). This massive structure was separated from the Cathedral of St. Martin after the devastating storm of 1674.

  5. 19 unmissable things to do in Utrecht in 2024

    Enjoy the views of Utrecht at the Dom Tower. 2. Find some peace and quiet at St. Martin's Cathedral, Utrecht. 3. Travel back in time at DOMunder in Utrecht. 4. Let your inner musician loose at the Speelklok Museum in Utrecht. 5. Navigate the waters at the Oudegracht Canal in Utrecht.

  6. 19 Best Utrecht Tourist Attractions

    12. De Haar Castle. De Haar Castle ( Kasteel de Haar) is the most impressive of all Utrecht attractions, although located a few kilometers outside of the city. Without a doubt the most famous and most visited castle in the Netherlands, it's also the largest castle in the Netherlands. De Haar Castle near Utrecht.

  7. Utrecht, The Netherlands 2024: All You Need to Know ...

    It was and still is the See of the Archbishop of Utrecht, the most important Catholic leader in the Netherlands. The University of Utrecht is the largest in the Netherlands. One of the unique features of the city is the wharf system in its inner canals. Before the city was fully canalized, parts of the Rhine River flowed through the city center.

  8. Must-see sights not to miss in Utrecht

    Domplein 9, Utrecht. Being 112 m and 32 cm (369 ft) in height, the Dom Tower is the tallest church tower...

  9. Home

    Tourism Utrecht wants you to enjoy Utrecht the best you can and hope for you to love Utrecht even more through its rich history and interesting places. Getting started. ANWB. The stone on a chain Lees Meer » April 11, 2023 Bord. View on the Bemuurde Weerd Lees Meer » April 11, 2023

  10. 15 Best Things to Do in Utrecht (the Netherlands)

    1. The Dom Tower of Utrecht. This huge structure towers above the city and is one of Utrecht's most iconic landmarks. The tower stands separately from the Cathedral of Saint Martin and was constructed in 1321. At a height of 112.5m, the Dom Tower towers over the centre of Utrecht and can be seen for miles around.

  11. One Perfect Day in Utrecht, the Netherlands

    A trip up Dom Tower makes a good afternoon activity. For one of the best views over the city, climb the 465 steps to the top of the tower. Dom Tower is the tallest belfry in The Netherlands. Utrecht started out as a Roman fortress right where this tower stands today. In 1382 the Dom Tower construction was completed.

  12. Utrecht travel

    The Netherlands, Europe. It's hard not to fall in love with Utrecht, one of the Netherlands' oldest urban centres and for centuries its religious heart. Now a vibrant university city, the compact medieval core radiates out from the iconic 15th-century Domtoren, ringed by a loop of very pretty tree-lined canals.

  13. 20 Must-Visit Attractions In Utrecht

    Utrecht's Railway Museum is located inside a former train station just beyond the city historic centre. The museum has an amazing collection of artefacts that are related to the history of rail travel and several interactive exhibitions that recreate the glory days of steam power. 📍 Railway Museum, Maliebaanstation 16, Utrecht, +31 30 230 6206

  14. Discover the city of Utrecht

    Centuries old, young at heart. Utrecht, one of the oldest cities, lies in the heart of the Netherlands. The city was built around the Dom Tower, which you can see from any point in the city. No other city in the world has comparable wharf cellars housing cafés, restaurants and terraces by the water. Like to go shopping?

  15. 13 Best Things to Do in Utrecht this Weekend

    Utrecht Historic City Centre. Utrecht is quite possibly my favourite city in all of the Netherlands.It's only a half-hour train ride south of its better-known neighbour, Amsterdam. Obviously, Utrecht doesn't match the capital, Amsterdam in terms of tourist attractions, but it's an attractive city with a modern, lively vibe which has without a doubt been helped by having one of the ...

  16. Best Utrecht Travel Guide 2023

    1. Visit a museum. Utrecht is a great city to visit if you like museums. There are plenty of museums that are specialized in different things, but all relate to Utrecht in their own way. Whether you want to make a quick visit or spend the whole afternoon at a museum, Utrecht has just the museum for you.

  17. 3 days in Utrecht: Ultimate city break guide for 2023

    Utrecht travel guide. It's an underrated city with a youthful feel in the Netherlands with plenty to offer visitors who want to escape the typical tourist trail. Despite its compact feel, it's the fourth-largest city in the Netherlands, following Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague and is highly walkable and has plenty of biking ...

  18. 11 Best Things To Do in Utrecht

    Utrecht is a beautiful city close to Amsterdam, with peaceful canals and lovely architecture. Find out about the things to do in Utrecht. ... Travel on a budget in Utrecht, from $440 − $880 USD weekly per person, mid-range $840 − $1950 USD, and high-end from $1870 − $2900 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation ...

  19. Utrecht

    Utrecht is known as a student city with a large population of single young people. This results in a booming nightlife with many places to have a quick meal, some drinks or a dance. 1 VVV Utrecht Informatie Centrum (Tourist Information Centre), Domplein 9, ☏ +31 30-236 00 04, [email protected]. Daily 10:00-17:00.

  20. Best things to do in Utrecht, Netherlands

    Take the smaller streets back out and discover little gems of houses and adorable flowery front doors. The Pandhof garden of the Dom Church dates back to 1390 - 1440. This is a quaint monastery garden where you can find ornamental plants and herbs. 3511 KV Utrecht, Netherlands.

  21. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Utrecht (Updated 2024)

    The museum shows the history of railways in the Netherlands with locomotives, carriages ranging from cattle cars, third…. See ways to experience (3) 4. Dom Tower. 2,016. Historic Sites. When you visit Utrecht you will notice the Domtoren almost immediately. The 14th century tower is the heart of the old city centre.

  22. Utrecht Attractions Map

    Attractions. Download. Print. Get App. Interactive map of Utrecht with all popular attractions - Dom Tower of Utrecht, St Martin's Cathedral, Pieterskerk and more. Take a look at our detailed itineraries, guides and maps to help you plan your trip to Utrecht.

  23. Tourist Information Centre Utrecht

    The Tourist Information Office is also the ultimate souvenir shop in Utrecht, with Holland souvenirs, typical Utrecht products and the largest selection of Miffy gifts in a special Miffy house available! The information centre has free wireless Internet . Regular opening hours apply during public holidays, with the exception of Kings Day (27 ...

  24. Ajax beat Utrecht to win their first Eredivisie match in a month

    Goals from Brian Brobbey and Kenneth Taylor gave Ajax their first league win in a month on Sunday. The Amsterdammers defeated Utrecht 2-0 in the Johan Cruijff Arena. It was the first time Utrecht had lost in the Eredivisie since October 6. Ajax were missing Steven Berghuis for the match. But were boosted by the return of Jordan Henderson. The midfielder was partnered by Sivert Mannsverk, who ...