Plan the BEST day in the city of Utrecht
Utrecht is one of the most beautiful cities in the Netherlands and it is no wonder that it is a popular destination for tourists. The city has a rich history and many interesting attractions to offer visitors. From the charming canals to the trendy cafes and restaurants, Utrecht is a city with something for everyone. Let's take a look at some of the most popular things to do in Utrecht: the beautiful canals, cute cafes and delicious restaurants.
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A Little History of Utrecht
Utrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. It was founded by the Romans in 47 AD. It was then called Traiectum (later known to the locals as Utrecht) and served as a bridgehead over the Rhine. The city quickly grew into an important commercial centre and became an important stronghold of the Catholic Church. In the 16th century, Utrecht played a leading role in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule. The city was finally captured by the Dutch troops in 1579.
Utrecht continued to prosper in the following centuries and became an important centre of trade and industry. The city went through a period of decline in the 19th century but experienced a revival in the early 20th century.
Staying in Utrecht is good for the wallet offering great accommodation options and less than 30 minutes from Amsterdam by train.
What to do in Utrecht
Dom tower
The Dom Tower is not just a 112 meter (and 32 centimetre) high church tower in the city that at some point got separated from the main church building because of a hurricane. It is the symbol of the city and the highest church tower of the country. If you are up for the challenge, climb the 465 steps to the top and enjoy the best vantage point of the city.
Rotsoord
This former industrial area is now like a second living heart of the city where a lot of different restaurants and bars are located. Enjoy a drink on the terrace and bask in the sun like the locals do while enjoying a spectacular view of the city.
Castle De Haar
The Haar Castle is located near the city and is also the biggest castle in the country. Dating back to the 13th century this castle is a beautiful piece of local history and a favourite place for a lot of local events that include the elf fantasy fair and is also a popular location for wedding events.
Canal cruise
The canals of Utrecht are unique and full of life. Back in the day supplies would be transported throughout the city by boat, some of the bars and restaurants still get their supply deliveries like that even today. But what used to be waterfront storage basements are now restaurants that are a pleasure to pass by boat. You can take a cruise or rent a boat and enjoy the water while passing under the countless bridges throughout the city.
Where to eat in Utrecht
We’ve made a small list of our favorrite restaurants that will give you a unique surprise and will be a great experience with good food and a great interior!
For something special
If you’re looking for a fine-dining experience, Maeve* is the place to be. It’s an intimate restaurant that is often considered the best in Utrecht for its creative dishes and attention to detail. Another favourite is Restaurant Karel 5*, located inside the historic Grand Hotel Karel V, which feels like stepping into another era while enjoying beautifully crafted food. For a more casual vibe for fine dining, Restaurant 273 and Koenraad both strike a balance between excellent food and atmosphere. If you want to try something new and trendy, Hemel en Aarde has a reputation for creative cuisine.
Hidden gems worth trying
Beyond the classics, Utrecht is full of local favourites that combine style with flavor. Try an upscale casual dining experience at Concours Wine & Food Bar or more of a casual fine dining experience with a chef’s menu at Heimat. For something more casual but still delicious, check out Rosie. Italian food lovers will want to stop at San Siro for one of the most-loved pasta experiences in the city.
Unique Utrecht experiences
Some places in Utrecht stand out not only for their food but also for their atmosphere. Goesting may not seem like much from the outside, but step through the door and you’ll find a lush green garden hidden at the back. Located in the old dog stable of the Veterinary School, Goesting has been an oasis in the city since 2001.
Of course, you also can’t miss dining in the wharf cellars along the Oudegracht (canal). With over 50 restaurants within just a kilometer, you’ll find everything from Italian to Thai in one of the most unforgettable and idyllic settings in the city. Sitting by the water and watching the boats go by while enjoying dinner is an absolute must in summer.
Student- and budget-friendly eats
Not every meal has to be fine dining! Utrecht is also full of affordable gems. For students or budget travelers, Kimmade is a top choice for tasty Vietnamese street food, while Broodje Ben is a local institution for quick and filling sandwiches that won’t break the bank. If you’re in the mood for pizza, Pizzeria O’Panuozzo serves authentic Neapolitan pizzas at a fair price. Falafel lovers should head to FLFL, which is fast, fresh, and budget-friendly. And for a lively atmosphere without spending too much, Beers & Barrels or The Streetfood Club are both popular with students and young locals.
Sweet endings
Don’t forget dessert! Stop by Bond en Smolders, one of Utrecht’s most famous bakeries, for pastries, cakes and chocolates. On a hot day, treat yourself to artisanal ice cream at LUCA IJssalon. Both are excellent ways to end your day of exploring the city.
Nature in Utrecht
The city of Utrecht is filled with parks. You’d be surprised at just how many there are and just how important they are in the lives of the locals because most residents don’t have a garden themselves. If you grow up in this city, you grow up hanging out in them all the time. During school breaks, after school, the weekends. Utrechters love their parks.
Visit Park Lepelenburg with its cute red and white music tent where there is always live music in the summer. Another great and unique park is the Rosarium Oudwijk. This rose garden is situated right in between the Hogelandsepark and the Wilhelminapark and has been a public park since 1913 that holds more than 150 different species of roses.
Apart from the various parks Utrecht offers, the locals are also very fond of the canals. Which are often hugged on at least one side of the bank by a strip of grass intended for leisure activities like picnics and sunbathing. On sunny days you will find groups of people simply lying in the grass, having fun, studying and listening to music.
An unknown gem amidst the city
The Pandhof Sinte Marie is located on the Mariaplaats in Utrecht right across the street from Bison Bowling. It may not look like much when you pass it across the street but take a peek inside and you will be astonished. This small inner city garden belongs to the Mediaeval Saint Mary’s church and still has a part of the cloister that is kept in good condition to preserve its history. This beautiful but small garden is open to visitors every day and it’s a great spot to take a breath or enjoy a take-away coffee. You’d forget you are in such a big city when you’re enjoying the scenery of this small mediaeval garden.