Explore Utrecht
Your perfect trip to Netherlands
Utrecht is the city that Amsterdam wants to be when it grows up: beautiful, historic, canalled, but functional and livable. It is the beating heart of the Netherlands, both geographically and logistically (it’s the main train hub). The defining feature here is the canals—specifically the Oudegracht. Unlike anywhere else in the world, the canals here have wharves (cays) at water level, with cellars (werfkelders) that tunnel under the streets. These medieval storage spaces have been converted into cozy restaurants, taprooms, and studios, creating a two-tiered city where you can drink a beer literally at the water’s edge.
Dominating everything is the Dom Tower. It stands alone, separated from its cathedral by a square that was created when a tornado ripped the nave apart in 1674. This scar in the urban fabric gives the center a unique openness. Utrecht is a university town, which means the energy is young, the bikes are rusty, and the coffee culture is fierce. It lacks the aggressive tourism of Amsterdam; here, the people cycling past you are actually going to work or class, not wobbling on a rental bike.
The atmosphere is ‘gezellig’ (cozy) in the extreme. Whether you are climbing the 465 steps of the Dom, exploring the hidden cloisters of the Pandhof, or shopping in the boutiques of the Zadelstraat, the city feels intimate. It is a place where history is lived in, not just displayed.
The perfect plan for Utrecht:
Day 1 Agenda
Theme: The Dom & The Depths
- Morning: Dom Tower Climb. Book in advance. The view from the top shows the whole country on a clear day. Then visit Dom Under, an archeological tour of the Roman ruins beneath the square.
- Afternoon: Pandhof garden. A hidden monastery garden next to the church. Quiet and beautiful. Lunch: Broodje Mario on the Oudegracht—a legendary Italian roll that locals love.
- Evening: Dinner in a Werfkelder (Wharf Cellar). Try Graaf Floris for apple dumplings or a Greek place for atmosphere. Being at water level is unique.
Day 2 Agenda
Theme: Museums & Miffy
- Morning: Miffy Museum (Nijntje). Even if you are an adult, it’s a design icon. Dick Bruna (creator) was from Utrecht. Or, the Centraal Museum for Gerrit Rietveld designs.
- Afternoon: Rietveld Schröder House. A UNESCO heritage site of De Stijl architecture. It looks like a Mondrian painting came to life. *Booking essential.*
- Evening: Belgian Beer Cafe Olivier. Located inside an old hidden church (schuilkerk). The organ and altar are still there, but now they serve Trappist ales.
Day 3 Agenda
Theme: Shopping & Trains
- Morning: Railway Museum (Spoorwegmuseum). It sounds boring, but it’s fantastic. It’s located in a Victorian station with real steam trains.
- Afternoon: Shop along the Twijnstraat and Zadelstraat. Independent boutiques, no chains.
- Evening: TivoliVredenburg. Catch a concert or just have a drink at the top. It’s a vertical music city.
Weather
Spring (April-May): The canalside trees turn green. King’s Day (April 27) is chaotic fun.
Summer (June-Aug): Terraces on the wharves are packed. Kayaking is popular.
Autumn (Sept-Nov): Golden leaves on the canals. Very photogenic.
Winter (Dec-Feb): The Underground Dom experience is great. Cozy cafes.
Local Customs
- Bike Priority: Bikes rule the road here. Pedestrians must yield. Look left, right, and left again.
- No Photos in Windows: If you wander into the red light district (Zandpad), absolutely no photos of the workers.
- Tipping: Rounding up is standard. 10% is generous.
History & Culture
Founded by the Romans as ‘Trajectum’ (a river crossing), Utrecht was the religious center of the Netherlands for centuries. It was a bishopric powerhouse. The Treaty of Utrecht (1713) was signed here, redrawing the map of Europe. The city’s layout has remained largely medieval, centered around the Dom.
Getting Around & Safety
Walking is best. The center is compact.
- Train: Utrecht Centraal is the hub. You can get anywhere in NL from here.
- Kayak: Renting a boat or canoe is the best way to see the wharves.
Info for Nomads
A student city, so lots of laptop-friendly spots. Less expensive than Amsterdam.
Workation Vibe
Speed: Fast. 80-100 Mbps.
Cafes: The Village Coffee & Music (rock n roll vibe) and Koffie Leute (living room vibe).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth climbing the Dom? +
Yes, but it is 465 steps and no elevator. The guides stop frequently to explain history, so you get to catch your breath.
Can I do a day trip from Amsterdam? +
Easily. It’s 20 minutes by train. But staying overnight lets you see the canals lit up without the commuters.
What is the local specialty? +
Vockingworst (a liver sausage) and the Domtorentjes (large chocolate bonbons). Buy the chocolates at Theo Blom.