Utrecht Adventures: Canals, Castles, and Pancakes Galore!

Discover the charm of Utrecht: A family adventure awaits in the heart of the Netherlands.

19 July 2023

Utrecht, Netherlands is the perfect destination for a family-friendly trip with its charming canals, historic landmarks, and vibrant culture. Explore the iconic Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the country, or take a leisurely boat ride along the picturesque canals. Families can also enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Nijntje Museum (Miffy Museum) or spend a fun-filled day at the kid-friendly play areas in the beautiful Griftpark.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Charming Canals

  • Start the day with a stay at the quirky yet family-friendly Hotel Domstad, where each room is themed after a different Dutch artist.
  • Fuel up with a delicious Dutch breakfast buffet at Broodnodig, a cozy bakery bursting with fresh pastries and bread.
  • Take a leisurely boat tour along the picturesque canals of Utrecht, admiring the charming bridge-filled scenery and historic houses.
  • Visit the iconic Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. Climb the 465 steps to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
  • Grab a quick bite at Oproer, a funky vegan brewery serving mouthwatering burgers and craft beers.
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the quirky boutiques and vintage shops in the trendy Voorstraat, picking up unique souvenirs.
Day 2

Castles, Gardens, and Pancakes

  • Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Anne & Max, a cozy café known for its delicious coffee and hearty breakfast options.
  • Head over to the stunning De Haar Castle, where fairytale dreams come true. Marvel at the grandiose architecture and explore the lush gardens.
  • Have a picnic lunch in Griftpark, a delightful green space with playgrounds, petting zoos, and even a miniature railway.
  • Indulge in a traditional Dutch pancake feast at Oudaen, a historic brewery housed in a centuries-old castle. Try their sweet and savory pancakes!
  • Take a stroll along the charming Oudegracht, stopping at the quirky cafes and artists' studios nestled in the canal-side wharf cellars.
  • End your day with a visit to the fascinating Railway Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the history of trains and even ride a vintage steam locomotive.
  • There you have it, two days packed with adventures, delicious food, and plenty of Dutch charm. Enjoy your family-friendly getaway in Utrecht!

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The easiest way to get to Utrecht by plane is to fly into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and take a direct train from the airport to Utrecht Centraal Station, which takes around 30 minutes.

Car

Utrecht is easily accessible by car, with several major highways passing through the city and ample parking available. However, traffic can be heavy during peak hours and in the city center.

Train

Utrecht is well-connected by train, with Utrecht Centraal Station being one of the largest and busiest in the country. Direct trains run from major cities such as Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague.

Boat

While not a practical way to reach Utrecht, it is possible to reach the city via the Amsterdam-Rhine Canal which passes through the city. Private boat charters are available, but the journey can be lengthy and not recommended for those with time constraints.

Bus

There are several bus companies that offer direct connections to Utrecht from other Dutch cities and neighboring countries. Flixbus and Eurolines are two popular options with frequent departures.

Destination

Utrecht

Welcome to the city that's so small you can walk from one end to the other in one commercial break, but so charming you'll need a lifetime to explore it all. Utrecht: where bikes outnumber people and cheese is considered a food group.

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

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