Utrecht

Netherlands, Europe

Utrecht, the beating heart of the Netherlands, is known for its medieval old town, vibrant cultural scene, and picturesque canals. With its unique wharf cellars transformed into cafes and shops, cyclists navigating the charming streets, and landmarks like the Dom Tower, Utrecht offers a delightful mix of history and modernity. The city is a hub for festivals, art, and music, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking culture and excitement.

Quick facts

Target stay

2-3 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Soesterberg

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Utrecht

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Climb the Dom Tower

The tallest church tower in the Netherlands; stunning views!

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Railway Museum

Explore the history of trains in a fun setting.

Booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Oudegracht Canals

Stroll along beautiful canals lined with cafes and shops.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Centraal Museum

Discover Utrecht’s art and history in a beautiful setting.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Check out the Utrecht University Botanic Gardens

Stunning gardens showcasing diverse plant species.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Indulge in Dutch cuisine at a local café

Taste traditional foods like stroopwafels and poffertjes.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Take a canal cruise

Relax and see Utrecht from the water's perspective.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

Visit the Rietveld Schröder House

Iconic modernist architecture; UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Booking required
9

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Museum Speelklok

A fun museum showcasing self-playing musical instruments.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through Griftpark

A lovely park perfect for picnics and relaxation.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at the Vredenburg Market

Local market with fresh produce and unique goods.

No booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Nijntje Museum

A delightful museum dedicated to the beloved Miffy character.

No booking required
13

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy the TivoliVredenburg music venue

Catch a live show at this unique concert hall.

Booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~5-10%)

Tapwater

Generally safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

8 (#21 globally)

Cost

Expensive

Currency

Euro

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Dutch

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Stamppot

V

Mashed potatoes with vegetables. (National dish)

Haring

Raw herring fish, often served with onions.

Bitterballen

Deep-fried meatballs, served with mustard.

Stroopwafel

V

Thin waffle cookies with syrup filling.

Poffertjes

V

Small fluffy pancakes, often served with sugar.

Phrases to learn

English

Dutch

Hello

Hallo

(Hah-loh)

Yes/No

Ja / Nee

(Yah / Nay)

Thank you

Dank je

(Dank yuh)

Excuse me

Pardon

(Par-don)

How much?

Hoeveel?

(Hoo-vel)