What is the best thing to do in Utrecht?

Utrecht is one of the most historic cities in the Netherlands. It is known for its lush green parks, beautiful canals, cobbled streets, and medieval architecture. It is also has a burgeoning modern commercial and cultural scene, with plenty of places to explore and things to do. Tourists often list it as one of their favorite cities in the Netherlands.

The best thing to do in Utrecht is to explore its galleries and museums. Utrecht has some of the best museums and galleries in the Netherlands, with art, design, and science exhibitions. Starting with the Centraal Museum, which is a large modern museum with exhibitions about Dutch history, there is also the Speelklok Museum which features music machines from over the last 100 years, and the Aviation Museum where you can learn about the history of aviation. Additionally, the Dick Bruna Huis hosts exhibitions on the iconic Dutch illustrator Dick Bruna, while the Railway Museum showcases locomotives from around the world. All of these museums provide visitors with a great introduction to Dutch culture and history.

Another great thing to do in Utrecht is to visit its parks and outdoor spaces. For those looking for relaxation and calm, there are plenty of challenging hikes to be finished in the nearby national parks. One of the most popular national parks is Utrechtse Heuvelrug, which covers 700 hectares and includes an adventure play park and a petting zoo. There is also Dommerholt Nature Reserve which is full of animal life such as badgers, foxes and birds, as well as hiking paths that are perfect for walkers and families. Those looking for something more urban can enjoy Vredeplein, which hosts its own concerts and other events in its green park grounds throughout the summer months.

For foodies, there is no better place to sample local cuisine than Utrecht. The city is known for its wide range of restaurants that offer traditional Dutch fare alongside international cuisines. One of the most popular places for Dutch food is restaurant ‘t Nudelplein, which serves up dishes like Uitsmijter – a hearty selection of fried eggs on toast – as well as traditional Dutch pancakes and poffertjes. Other restaurants worth a visit include Kwartier, which offers casual French cuisine, Vegabond, a vegan-only restaurant, and De Belhamel, which serves up fresh fish dishes and a range of beers.

Finally, Utrecht has something to offer shoppers. Shopping streets like Voor Clarenburg have a range of boutiques selling clothes, books and souvenirs. Meanwhile Voorstraat is full of quirky stores to explore, including the city’s oldest movie theater within the walls of an old red light district building – another reminder of the city’s rich history. Additionally, for larger shopping trips, visitors can head over to Hoog Catharijne – one of the largest shopping malls in Europe – which offers an array of stores that are sure to satisfy nearly everyone’s desires.

With so many wonderful sights to explore, delicious food to try and shopping to be done, it’s understandable why Utrecht is so popular among tourists looking for something to do. Whether it’s checking out museums or national parks or sampling some Dutch food, Utrecht has something for everyone to enjoy during their stay. For more information about what to do in this Dutch city, check out this travel guide from Planetware.

An Insider’s Guide to Utrecht: Discover The Hidden Gems

Utrecht is an underrated gem in the Netherlands, often overshadowed by popular cities like Amsterdam and Rotterdam. But in reality, this city has so much to offer, with its cobbled streets, lively squares, vibrant culture, and fascinating history. As an insider, I have compiled a guide to Utrecht’s best-kept secrets, that will make your visit even more memorable.

Local Attractions: Go off the Beaten Path

While the Dom Tower and the canals are the city’s famous landmarks, Utrecht has numerous hidden gems worth exploring. One of those is the Pandhof Garden, a serene oasis located behind the historic Dom Cathedral. Here, you can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty of medieval gardens. Another must-visit spot is the Miffy Museum, named after the famous children’s book character, that offers an immersive and playful experience for kids and adults alike.

Dining Spots: Delight Your Taste Buds

Utrecht boasts a rich culinary scene, with mouth-watering dishes that are unique to this region. The best way to experience the authentic flavors of Utrecht is by trying the traditional dishes such as ‘Stamppot’, a hearty and delicious mash of potatoes and vegetables, or ‘Oudegracht’s apple pie’, a sweet and indulgent pastry that is made with local apples. To enjoy these delights, you can visit iconic eateries in the city like De Veldkeuken, a rustic farm that serves organic food, or explore hidden gems like Broei, an artistic café that offers creative vegetarian dishes.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture

Utrecht is a vibrant city, filled with rich cultural experiences. It has a thriving music scene and is home to the famous TivoliVredenburg, a concert hall that attracts world-class musicians. Apart from that, Utrecht has a strong artistic tradition, with numerous art galleries and exhibitions that showcase contemporary and classical art. Another must-see cultural experience is the Nederlands Volksbuurtmuseum, a living museum that illustrates the life of people in Utrecht and the Netherland’s history.

Local History: Discover Fascinating Tales

Utrecht has a fascinating past, and there are numerous stories that the textbooks do not tell. One such story is about the Miffy character, known as ‘Nijntje’ in Dutch, who was created by a Utrecht-based illustrator, Dick Bruna. Another fascinating tale is about the Oudegracht canal, which was once a bustling trade route where merchants traded products like grains, spices, and fabrics. You can learn about these stories and much more by visiting the Utrecht Archives, a treasure trove of the city’s history.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Be Adventurous

Apart from the regular tourist spots and experiences, Utrecht has a lot of hidden and unconventional adventures that you can explore. One of these is visiting the Rietveld Schröder House, a UNESCO world heritage site, that is known for its bold and functionalist architecture. Another must-try experience is climbing the Dom Tower, to get a panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.

In conclusion, Utrecht may be small, but it is packed with hidden treasures waiting to be explored. With this guide, you can experience the city like a local and make unforgettable memories. Share this with your friends, and let them know about the hidden gems of Utrecht.