3 days in Utrecht: Ultimate City Break Guide for 2024

Travelling to the Netherlands? Why not explore outside Amsterdam and head to the historic city of Utrecht? Three days in Utrecht is perfect for a fun city break and seeing most of the city’s attractions and sights.

Utrecht is the fourth-largest city in the Netherlands and offers a blend of medieval charm and a modern university city. I’ve visited this gorgeous Dutch city many times, and I love it a bit more each time I visit.

It’s renowned for its well-preserved historical centre, characterised by an intricate network of split-level canals and wharf cellars.

How to spend 3 days in Utrecht

Utrecht is a fun alternative to Amsterdam if you’re looking to explore other cities in the Netherlands.

It’s one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and is built along two picturesque tree-lined canals (the main one being Oudegracht).

Utrecht has a beautiful medieval centre, split-level canals, hordes of hip college students and historic architecture.

I love biking around the medical centre, stopping by trendy cafes for coffee and cake, and stopping by the many canal bars for a cheeky wine.

Utrecht things to do

It’s an underrated city with a youthful feel in the Netherlands, and it has plenty to offer visitors who want to escape the typical tourist trail.

Despite its compact feel, it’s the fourth-largest city in the Netherlands, following Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. It is highly walkable and has plenty of biking infrastructure.

I’ve visited the city dozens of times, so check out my bumper Utrecht guide and start planning your Netherlands city break now!

Utrecht vs Amsterdam

Just 45 minutes south of Amsterdam, It shares many similarities with the Dutch capital. It is often called ‘Mini Amsterdam’ due to its pretty canals and well-preserved traditional Dutch architecture.

Like Amsterdam, Utrecht’s attractive, car-free city centre offers plenty of modern shops, restaurants, museums, and galleries.

This centuries-old university city is an excellent alternative to the Dutch capital. It’s just a short train ride away, offering all the beauty of Amsterdam, just a fraction of the crowds, and, to some extent, the cost.

Utrecht travel guide

There are many things to do in Utrecht, so a 3-day trip will require some travel planning so that you can fit everything into your Netherlands city break.

If you need help planning a trip to the Netherlands, check out my awesome travel planning service. Let a travel expert plan the perfect travel itinerary for you, and have stress-free travel.

We discuss travel planning on my weekly travel podcast, Travel Goals. Subscribe now to catch up on all episodes.

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Day One Utrecht

Take a Tour of Utrecht

Utrecht has a varied and interesting history, including Viking attacks, Napoleon Bonaparte’s residency, and the city’s liberation after Hitler’s death.

The best way to understand the history of this university town is to book a guided walking tour of Utrecht.

Taking a walking tour of Utrecht on your first day in the city is best. This should help you familiarise yourself with the layout and discover the best spots.

Walking tour Utrecht

On a guided walking tour, discover Utrecht’s highlights, such as the picturesque canals, the Domtower, churches, breweries and street art.

There is no better way to get to know the city than walking along the 12th-century Old Canal Area (Oudegracht), Europe’s only inner canal system with wharves and wharf cellars.

Ask your guide to take you along the waterside to see the cellars and learn more about the canals’ history.

Have Lunch at the Streetfood Club Utrecht

The Streetfood Club is an Instagrammer’s dream, with crazy carpet prints, murals, pretty cocktails, flamingos and a decent selection of street food, brunch and dinner options.

Typical dishes include Bangkok-style papaya salad, Fried veggie spring rolls, chicken gyoza and tacos.

If you fancy a lunchtime tipple or three, the ‘made to order’ cocktails are also pretty special.

Signature cocktails include ‘Bombay Basil Bomb’ with Tanqueray Gin, cucumber and basil. Also try ‘The Silk Road’ with Vodka, kumquat and pomegranate juice.

Discover Utrecht canals

In the afternoon, explore Utrecht’s canals by boat. You can book a boat trip, hire electric boats, or explore the waterways on your own vessel.

The most famous canal in Utrecht is the Oudegracht, which meanders through the city’s heart.

What sets the Oudegracht apart from other Dutch canals is the wharf cellars (werfkelders), that line its banks.

These characteristic cellars were built beneath the canal houses in the Middle Ages and served as storage spaces for goods.

Many of these werfkelders have since been transformed into cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries.

You can book a City Canal Cruise and see the highlights of Utrecht’s medieval inner city.

Sip wine at Utrecht Canal bars

Finish your day at one of the many wine bars that dot the canals in the historic centre.

The canals in Utrecht are unique to the Netherlands. They have a split level, meaning there’s a lower level where warehouses were once located in the 13th century.

These former warehouses have been converted into bars and restaurants offering waterside dining and drinks right by the water.

During the summer, the canals come alive with outdoor cafes, floating terraces, and events packed with locals and visitors.

Best Utrecht canal bars

Some of my favourite Utrecht canal bars include:

• Café Ledig Erf: Located near the historic Ledig Erf square and the Vaartsche Rijn canal, Café Ledig Erf is a local favourite with a laid-back atmosphere.
• Cafe de Zaak: Situated along the vibrant Oudegracht, De Zaak is a cosy canal bar known for its extensive selection of beers.
• The Malt Vault: A canal bar for whiskey lovers! Sip on a range of whiskeys inside a historic wharf cellar on the Oudegracht Canal.
• Kafé België: Canal-side bar specialising in Belgian beers – With over 150 varieties available.

Dinner in Utrecht

Why not try Indonesian cuisine at Restaurant Blauw for dinner and enjoy Indonesian cuisine in a contemporary setting?

Restaurant Blauw is one of the best restaurants in Utrecht if you want to experience a traditional Indonesian ‘rice table’.

An Indonesian rice table, known as “Rijsttafel” in Dutch, comprises shared plates showcasing Indonesian dishes.

It is a dining experience that originated during the Dutch colonial era in Indonesia and has become synonymous with Indonesian cuisine.

Dutch colonizers would host lavish banquets with a variety of Indonesian dishes to impress their guests

Restaurant Blauw Utrecht

Order a ‘meat rice table’ and feast upon a huge selection of dishes. Enjoy spicy beef, sweet soy pork, lamb curry, goat satay, beans with tofu, rice, and vegetables.

Blauw delivers authentic Indonesian cuisine with bold flavours, gorgeous colours and stylish presentation; it’s well worth a visit

Day 2 Utrecht

Utrecht Dom Tower

For your second day, explore The Dom Tower, [Domtoren in Dutch], one of the most iconic sights in Utrecht.

The Dom Tower, rising to a height of 112 meters (368 feet), offers panoramic views of Utrecht. To reach the top, you must climb 465 steps, but you’ll be rewarded with an impressive vista of the city’s rooftops, canals, and historic buildings.

The construction of the Dom Tower began in 1321 as part of the Gothic-style St. Martin’s Cathedral. However, the cathedral’s nave and the tower remained separated due to a lack of funds and various setbacks.

In 1674 a severe storm destroyed the nave, leaving the Dom Tower as a stand-alone structure. Despite this, the tower has endured and is a testament to Utrecht’s rich history.

Tour of the Dom Tower Utrecht

Book a tour of the Dom Tower and learn how it has survived fires, occupations, storms and political change on its historical timeline.

Be aware that there are many steps to get to the top, though your journey is broken up by stopping at various levels to learn more about the tower.

Once you reach the top, you can get some amazing photos of the city and the surrounding area, so don’t forget to bring your camera!

Learn about Utrecht’s history at Dom Under

History fans should head to the Utrecht Dom Under experience. An underground space where you can learn about 2,000 years of Dutch history right below Dom Square.

This unique Dutch attraction allows you to explore the archaeological remains of the city’s past and uncover the secrets hidden beneath the surface.

As you descend into Dom Under, you are transported back in time to the origins of Utrecht.

The museum showcases the city’s history, from its Roman foundations to the medieval era.

Through interactive exhibits, multimedia presentations, and archaeological artefacts, Dom Under brings the past to life and provides a fascinating glimpse into Utrecht’s rich heritage.

Dom under experience

The atmosphere within Dom Under is carefully curated to evoke a sense of mystery and discovery.

Dim lighting, atmospheric soundscapes, and preserved archaeological remains contribute to the immersive experience.

Dom Under bridges the surface and the underground, seamlessly blending modern technology with historical artefacts.

The combination of interactive displays and informative narratives makes this museum an educational and memorable experience.

Lunch at PK bar & kitchen Utrecht

Have lunch overlooking the water at PK Bar & Kitchen, an upmarket Utrecht bar with great food and tasty dishes.

Their lunch menu consists of several reasonably priced dishes, including Vegetarian quiche, Smoked salmon prawns, grilled cheese sandwiches and burgers.

This centrally located venue has a relaxed vibe, making it ideal for a lazy lunch in Utrecht.

Explore Utrecht by bike

Spend the afternoon exploring Utrecht by bike and navigate the city cycle lanes and expansive countryside trails.

Bike culture in the Netherlands is deeply ingrained in society and has become a defining characteristic of the country.

Here, you’ll find well-maintained bike paths, bicycle-friendly infrastructure, and a population that embraces cycling as a way of life.

Is Utrecht good for cycling?

Utrecht is a fantastic place for cycling, and it was named the most bike-friendly city in the world for 2022.

The city’s cycling infrastructure is excellent, with extensive, well-maintained bike lanes that make navigating the city a breeze.

One of the standout features of Utrecht’s cycling infrastructure. Its innovative system is designed to guide cyclists to free spaces in bicycle parking facilities.

This system helps manage the flow of cyclists in and around the city centre, making it easier to get around.

How to rent a bike in Utrecht

Utrecht has numerous bike rental options, including bike-sharing programs, rental shops, and even self-service bike stations.

The city has many bike rental shops where you can call in and hire a bike. Look for bike shops near major train stations or prominent tourist areas like the Dom Tower.

Many rental shops offer online bike reservations. Browse bike rental websites, and select your preferred bike type, rental duration, and additional accessories.

You can also go on a bike tour if you want to be guided around the city.

Utrecht bike Tour

See Utrecht like a local and explore the city on a guided bike tour with an expert cycle guide.

I love going on guided bike tours in new destinations. Especially those led by experienced local guides with in-depth knowledge of a city’s history, culture, and hidden spots.

A good bike guide can provide insights and anecdotes about the city. They can take you off the beaten path to discover lesser-known attractions and share insider tips.

It’s also an efficient way of exploring a new place, as you don’t have to worry about planning the route.

We went on a brilliant guided bike tour of Utrecht. On this fun tour, we visited the oldest Dutch bicycle lane, learnt about the city’s history, and stopped for ice cream.

Dinner at Stan & Co Utrecht

Enjoy dinner at Stan and feast on meaty dishes cooked on the charcoal-fired Josper grill. Located in the centre of Ganzenmarkt, this hip restaurant offers a range of expertly shaken cocktails and delicious dishes.

For mains, choose from steaks, burgers, salads, and fish dishes. Make sure you bring your appetite with you; their portions are generous.

They also have a decent selection of plant-based foods, including veggie burgers, Buddha bowls and gyozas.

The vibe and deco make it a relaxing and fun dining place, especially as the staff are friendly and attentive.

Day 3  Utrecht

Discover Dutch art at the Centraal Museum Utrecht

Founded in 1838, the Centraal Museum houses an impressive array of paintings, sculptures from the Middle Ages to the present day.

Here, you can explore works by Dutch masters such as Gerard van Honthorst and Abraham Bloemaert.

You’ll also find artworks from internationally acclaimed artists like Joop Moesman and Marlene Dumas.

These artworks offer a glimpse into the rich artistic heritage of Utrecht and its contributions to the wider art world.

Design enthusiasts will love the Centraal Museum’s applied arts and design collection.

The museum showcases furniture, textiles, ceramics, and fashion items, reflecting the evolution of design from the 19th century to the present.

It also holds a vast collection of Gerrit Rietveld’s furniture, a pioneering Dutch architect and designer associated with the De Stijl movement.

Visit the Rietveld Schröder House

The Rietveld Schröder House is the architectural highlight of the De Stijl art movement, and it is decorated with bright, primary colours.

The iconic house was designed and decorated in 1924 by Utrecht architect Gerrit Rietveld for Mrs Truus Schröder and her children.

The UNESCO World Heritage Listed house was a private residence until 1985 but is now open to the public for guided and audio tours.

The house is characterized by its open-plan layout, flexible interior spaces, and innovative use of colour.

It features movable partitions and furniture, allowing the occupants to adapt the space according to their needs.

Rietveld Schröder House Tickets

You can buy Rietveld Schröder House Tickets online; every visitor needs a time slot ticket.

Be warned: The house tours are timed, so arrive a few minutes before your ‘timed slot’. The staff here will be rather stern if you are late!

Our guide demonstrated the transitions between interior and exterior and the clever use of space and light in the house by sliding various walls and pointing out cleverly designed furniture.

It’s an impressive house, but the novelty may wear off quickly unless you are an architecture enthusiast, despite the guide’s excitement over the ‘speaking tube’.

Lunch at Restaurant Vroeg Utrecht

Hop on a rented bike and cycle to Restaurant Vroeg for lunch in the Dutch countryside. This relaxed dining establishment contains a restaurant, bakery and shop in one location.

There’s a strong focus on quality, local produce, and seasonality, and the menus feature ever-changing ingredients and dishes.

You can watch delicious, homemade dishes crafted in the central open kitchen or sip wine in their outdoor seating area. It’s one of the best places for outdoor dining in Utrecht.

Typical tempting lunchtime dishes include Charcoal-grilled hamburgers with mozzarella and tomato chutney, butter-fried sole fish with salad and fries and club sandwiches.

Visit Amelisweerd nature reserve Utrecht

After lunch, jump back on your bike and head to the beautiful Amelisweerd nature reserve – around 3 miles from the centre of Utrecht.

Covering an area of approximately 400 hectares, Amelisweerd has diverse habitats, including ancient forests, meadows, wetlands, and historic estates.

The reserve is home to many plant and animal species and has a network of well-maintained walking and cycling trails.

Hiking in the nature reserve is one of the best free things to do in Utrecht, especially if you pack your own picnic.

Rent a canoe at Amelisweerd

Rent a canoe from De Rijnstroom canoe rental and paddle down a gentle river under a lush forest canopy.

You can book a range of Canadian canoes, rowing boats, electric boats and sups online and explore the river at your own pace.

Along the way, you can stop and picnic at one of the picnic fields you will pass. Or you can have Restaurant De Veldkeuken or feast upon pancakes at the Rhijnauwen tea house.

Have pancakes at Rhijnauwen tea house

What is a more Dutch thing to do than eat a pancake for dinner? Try a Dutch pancake at the Rhijnauwen tea house, located in Amelisweerd.

Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken) are a must-try traditional dish in the Netherlands. They are thin, large, and typically served flat on a plate.

These tasty pancakes can be a sweet treat or a savoury meal, with various toppings and flavours from cheese and ham to chocolate and strawberries.

At the Rhijnauwen tea house, you sit on their large terrace overlooking the water, feast on chocolate pancakes, and sip coffee as you watch canoeists drift by.

You can choose from a huge selection of savoury and sweet pancakes, made in front of you in the open-plan kitchen.

What to do in Utrecht at night

As Utrecht is a university city, it transforms into a vibrant playground for night owls. The medieval buildings are bathed in warm, inviting lights, and the canals reflect a kaleidoscope of colours.

Utrecht’s nightlife is an eclectic mix of cosy pubs, trendy bars, world-class restaurants, and exciting events and festivals.

From live music and theatrical performances to whisky tasting and karaoke, the nightlife in Utrecht is extremely varied.

Utrecht’s Nightlife Hotspots

1. Neude Square: As the heart of Utrecht’s nightlife, Neude Square is brimming with cafes, bars, and restaurants. One must-visit spot is Cafe ‘t Neutje, a traditional Dutch pub that buzzes with energy until the early hours.
2. TivoliVredenburg: If you’re a music lover, TivoliVredenburg is your go-to venue. This unique music complex hosts everything from rock concerts to classical performances. Check their schedule for the latest gigs.
3. Oudegracht Canals: Experience Utrecht’s canals in a new light with a nighttime boat tour. The illuminated wharf cellars and canal-side cafes create a magical atmosphere.
4. Restaurants Along the Canals: Book a table at one of the restaurants along the Oudegracht for a romantic dinner. Try De Zakkendrager for its delicious Dutch cuisine and canal views.
5. Local Breweries: Utrecht’s craft beer scene is booming. Visit Brouwerij De Leckere or Oproer Brouwerij to sample local brews and enjoy the laid-back ambience.

Where to stay in Utrecht

Utrecht has a range of hotels, guest houses and apartments to suit all budgets and tastes. Here are some ideas to inspire you

1. City Center: Utrecht’s city centre is a popular choice for visitors due to its central location and easy access to the city’s main attractions, restaurants, cafes, and shopping streets. The area offers a mix of boutique hotels, guesthouses, and apartment rentals.
2. Museum Quarter: Located near the city centre, the Museum Quarter is an ideal neighbourhood for art and culture enthusiasts. This area offers a mix of stylish hotels and guesthouses, often with unique and artistic touches.
3. Grachtengordel: Utrecht’s picturesque canal district, Grachtengordel, offers a charming and romantic setting. Accommodation options here include boutique hotels and bed and breakfast establishments.
4. Neude Square: Neude Square is a lively and bustling area in the heart of Utrecht. It is surrounded by cafes, bars, and restaurants, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a vibrant atmosphere.
5. University Quarter (Uithof): If you’re visiting Utrecht for academic or business purposes, staying near the University Quarter, also known as Uithof, is a smart choice. This area offers a mix of budget-friendly hotels and accommodations specifically catering to students and researchers.

You can find accommodation in Utrecht that suits your budget and length of time by using travel resources such as Booking.com to find the best hotel deals.

Mother Goose Hotel

If you want a boutique hotel stay, I recommend Mother Goose Hotel, located in Utrecht’s city centre.

This unique hotel is full of character, with its historic elements fused with chic design. Moody throws, sexy lighting and a rainfall shower all add to the wow factor of this distinctive hotel.

The room has all the amenities you might expect from an upscale, city centre hotel. There is a flat-screen TV, free WiFi, a coffee maker, toiletries and a hairdryer.

A typical Dutch breakfast is included and is available across the Square at Daen’s Cafe.

Choose from bread and cheese, sliced cold meat, pancakes and pastries, soft-boiled eggs, and freshly brewed coffee. Sit outside and soak up some sunshine as you watch the square come to life in the morning.

Carlton President Hotel Utrecht

If you are looking for an out-of-town stay in Utrecht, the Carlton President offers spacious rooms and a range of facilities.

Enjoy the restaurant, swimming pool, sauna, wellness facilities and garden. Their fabulous premium rooms include amenities such as a Nespresso coffee machine, bathroom with rain shower, electronic safe and minibar.

Is Utrecht worth visiting?

After many visits, I truly believe Utrecht is worth visiting – it’s one of my favourite cities in the Netherlands.

This fun university city offers a brilliant combination of rich history and architecture, vibrant culture and plenty of bars and restaurants.

Its well-preserved medieval centre showcases stunning buildings, cobblestone lanes, and intricate canal networks.

Standing tall and proud, the iconic Dom Tower dominates the skyline, inviting you to explore its historical significance and ascend to its top for breathtaking panoramic views.

Beyond its architectural wonders, Utrecht has a thriving cultural scene. The city is home to the renowned Centraal Museum, housing an extensive collection of art and historical artefacts.

Utrecht also hosts cultural events and festivals yearly, where music, film, and performing arts take centre stage.

Getting to Utrecht

To get to Utrecht, the best way to arrive is by flying to Amsterdam with airlines like KLM or by getting the train. You can take the train from most major European cities to Amsterdam.

From Amsterdam Central, an extensive rail network services all the major cities in the Netherlands, including Utrecht. Train travel from Amsterdam to Utrecht takes around 30 minutes.

You can buy an Amsterdam Public Transport Ticket online or purchase tickets at the station.

You can always continue your Dutch adventure and explore cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam and the Hague.

Utrecht FAQ.

q. how many days in utrecht?

Three days in Utrecht is a perfect time to have a fun city break, see most of the city’s attractions and sights, and try out lots of restaurants and bars.

Q. What is the best time of year to visit Utrecht?

Utrecht can be enjoyed year-round, but the best times to visit are spring (April to June) and summer (July to August), when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are in full swing. The city also hosts various festivals and events during these seasons.

Q. Is it better to stay in Utrecht or Amsterdam?

A. Stay in Utrecht for a charming, local feel and cheaper accommodation. Opt for Amsterdam if you crave vibrant energy, world-famous attractions, and bustling cosmopolitan flair. Both offer unique Dutch experiences.

Q: How do I get to Utrecht?

A: Utrecht is easily accessible by train from major cities in the Netherlands. The city has a central train station, Utrecht Centraal, which connects it to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, and other Dutch cities. Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is the closest international airport, with direct train connections to Utrecht.

Q: What are the must-visit attractions in Utrecht?

A: Utrecht has several must-visit attractions, including the Dom Tower, the city’s symbol, which offers incredible views from its top. Other notable attractions include the Museum Quarter, Centraal Museum, the canals, Oudegracht, and the charming historic city centre with its unique wharf cellars.

Q: What are the transportation options in Utrecht?

A: Utrecht is a compact city that can be easily explored on foot or by bike. The city has an extensive network of bike paths and bike rental shops. Utrecht also has an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams, which provide easy access to different parts of the city and surrounding areas.

Recommended travel resources

Flights: To find flight deals, check out sites such as Skyscanner and Google Flights to compare flight costs and book.

Accommodation: I use Booking.com for hotel bookings as they have fantastic flexibility and cancellation.

Airport Parking and Lounges: With Holiday Extras, you can save money on airport and travel extras, including airport parking, airport hotels, and airport lounges.

Travel Insurance: I highly recommend you always get travel insurance – I use the Post Office Travel Insurance for single trip coverage and Safety Wing for comprehensive travel medical insurance.

Car Hire: I use Discover Cars to hire cars abroad as they have free cancellation, free mileage and no card fees.

Travel Money: I recommend Post Office Travel Money as you can get competitive rates and 0% commission for your holiday cash.

E-sim Cards: Use Airalo’s eSIM app to buy an eSIM for 200+ countries and stay connected when you travel abroad.

For more travel tools, head to my bumper travel resources page now!

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