4 Days of Fun: Exploring Utrecht, Netherlands

Discover the city's charm and canals in Utrecht, Netherlands!

22 April 2023

Utrecht, a charming city in the Netherlands, is full of cultural experiences, stunning architecture, and lively vibes. Visitors can explore the historic city center lined with charming cafes and shops, stroll along the picturesque canals or take a boat tour. Must-sees include the iconic Dom Tower and the Rietveld Schröder House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Getting to Know Utrecht

  • Settle into your cozy room at Mother Goose Hotel.
  • See the iconic Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands.
  • Wander through the lush flora of Oude Hortus botanical gardens.
  • Get lost in the labyrinthine streets and alleyways of the charming city center.
  • Indulge in traditional Dutch treats at Broodje Mario, a beloved sandwich shop.
Day 2

Art and Culture in Utrecht

  • Visit the Centraal Museum to view works by artists like Rietveld and Mondrian.
  • Explore the former monastery turned art museum, Museum Catharijneconvent.
  • Take a stroll through the vibrant street art at the Water Tower Square.
  • See a live performance at TivoliVredenburg, a modern music venue.
  • End the day with dinner at Het Gegeven Paard, a locally sourced farm-to-table restaurant.
Day 3

Day Trip to Nearby Towns

  • Take a short train ride to Amersfoort and admire the historic buildings and canals.
  • Rent a bike and cycle through the picturesque countryside to picturesque Houten.
  • Wander through the historic windmills of Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Catch a glimpse of the famous cheese market in Gouda and sample some delicious cheese.
  • Don't forget to stop for lunch at one of the quaint local cafes.
Day 4

Outdoor Adventure in Utrecht

  • Rent a kayak and explore the canals and waterways of the city.
  • Hike through the nature reserve at Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park.
  • Picnic in the tranquil surroundings of the Botanic Gardens at Castle Hardenbroek.
  • Cycle over the stunning 17th-century Rhine Bicycle Bridge.
  • Enjoy a refreshing drink and snack at the waterfront terrace of the Zocher-Restaurant.
  • With so much to explore and experience in Utrecht, four days may never be enough!

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.

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