Planning a trip to Utrecht? This beautiful Dutch city is the perfect blend of history, charm, and modern convenience. Whether you’re strolling along the canals, exploring medieval landmarks, or soaking up the local culture, Utrecht offers plenty to fill your itinerary. For those planning a broader adventure, don’t miss my Itinerary for the Netherlands, which includes tips for other must-visit destinations across the country.
Things to Do in Utrecht, Netherlands: Exploring Utrecht’s Old Town
Begin your visit with the Dom Tower, Utrecht’s most iconic landmark. Climbing its 465 steps rewards you with panoramic views of the city. Around the corner lies Dom Church and Dom Square, where centuries of history converge.
Take a leisurely walk along the canals, specifically Oudegracht, with its unique wharf cellars that now house shops, cafes, and galleries. For a dose of whimsy, visit Museum Speelklok, which showcases self-playing musical instruments that charm visitors of all ages. End your day at Neude Square, a vibrant hub where you can enjoy a variety of restaurants and cozy pubs.
Highlights of the Day:
- Dom Tower and Cathedral
- Canals and Wharfs
- Museum Speelklok
- Evening at Neude Square
Things to Do in Utrecht, Netherlands: Culture and Relaxation
Spend your morning at the Centraal Museum, a treasure trove of art and history, including works by Utrecht’s Golden Age painters. Architecture enthusiasts should not miss the Rietveld Schröder House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that exemplifies De Stijl design.
For a serene escape, visit the Utrecht University Botanical Gardens, which are especially magical in December as frost highlights the beauty of the plants. Dinner can be enjoyed canalside at Graaf Floris, where traditional Dutch dishes meet a cozy atmosphere.
Highlights of the Day:
- Centraal Museum’s art collection
- Rietveld Schröder House’s innovative design
- Peaceful walks through the Botanical Gardens
- Evening Canalside Dinner
Things to Do in Utrecht, Netherlands: Day Trip Options
Utrecht’s location makes it a perfect base for exploring other Dutch cities. In just 30 minutes by train, you can be in Amsterdam, where you can visit the Rijksmuseum, the Anne Frank House, and the bustling Nine Streets district. For a more modern experience, head to Rotterdam, known for its bold architecture, like the Cube Houses and Markthal. Alternatively, the historic city of Delft offers charming canals, the Vermeer Center, and Delftware pottery workshops.
Highlights:
- Amsterdam (30 min by train)
- Rotterdam (40 min by train)
- Delft (50 min by train)
- Eindhoven (50 min by train)
Read more: Perfect Netherlands Itiniary in October-November: Amsterdam, Utrecht, The Hague
Things to Do in Utrecht, Netherlands: Utrecht’s Hidden Gems
- DOMunder: Take an underground tour beneath Dom Square to learn about 2,000 years of Utrecht’s history.
- Twijnstraat: Browse unique boutiques and enjoy coffee in Utrecht’s oldest shopping street.
- Evening Drink: Check out “Café Olivier,” a Belgian beer cafe housed in a former church.
Shopping in Utrecht, Netherlands
Utrecht is a shopper’s paradise with a mix of trendy boutiques, vintage shops, and high-street brands.
- Vintage and Second-Hand Finds: Explore Episode and Sussies Vintage for curated retro styles.
- Art Supplies: Van Beek Art Supplies offers everything artists need for sketching and painting.
- Souvenirs: Visit Utrecht Made for locally crafted goods or the Miffy Shop (De Winkel van Nijntje) for adorable gifts celebrating Dick Bruna’s beloved character.
- High-Street and International Brands: Hoog Catharijne, the city’s main shopping mall, features Zara, Mango, and H&M, as well as specialty stores like Sephora.
Pro Tip: If luxury shopping interests you, consider visiting Bijenkorf in Amsterdam during your day trip.
Where to eat in Utrecht, Netherlands: Fast food, Cafes and Restaurants
Utrecht’s food scene ranges from affordable bites to fine dining experiences, catering to all tastes and budgets.
Fine Dining: Indulge in a Michelin-starred experience at Simple. or enjoy innovative multi-course menus at Podium onder de Dom.
Local Cuisine: Try traditional Dutch fare at De Rechtbank, or grab Utrecht’s signature sandwich at Broodje Mario.
International Flavors: Enjoy flavorful dishes at Kimmade (Vietnamese) or Syr (Syrian).
Cheap Eats: For a quick and delicious meal, check out Frietwinkel for organic fries or Teds All Day Brunch for hearty breakfasts.
Things to Do in Utrecht, Netherlands: Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- Getting Around:
- Use an OV-chipkaart for seamless travel on trains, buses, and trams.
- Walking and cycling are the best ways to explore Utrecht. Rent a bike at the station for a local experience.
- Dining and Food:
- Try traditional Dutch snacks like stroopwafels (syrup waffles) and bitterballen (crispy meat bites).
- For breakfast or lunch, visit De Zwarte Vosch, known for its tasty tapas-style dishes.
- Weather Preparation:
- December can be chilly (average 4–7°C), so pack warm clothing, waterproof shoes, and an umbrella.
- Language and Payments:
- English is widely spoken, so language won’t be an issue.
- Most places accept debit/credit cards, but carry some cash for smaller shops and markets. Sometimes at a souvenir shop you can only pay by card if you are spending more than a certain amount. Other shops might not accept credit cards, only debit.
- Local Events:
- Check for any winter festivals, Christmas markets, or ice-skating rinks in the city during your stay.
- Travel Tips for Day Trips:
- Trains from Utrecht Central are frequent. Use the NS Planner app for schedules. For buses use 9292 App.
- Start early to maximize your time in each city.
- Safety:
- Utrecht is generally safe, but like any city, keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Utrecht is an enchanting city with so much to explore, from its iconic canals to its rich history and cultural landmarks. Its central location makes it an ideal base for discovering other amazing Dutch cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Delft. If you’re planning a more extended trip, be sure to check out my Itinerary for the Netherlands for additional inspiration and tips to make the most of your visit.
