Dear Wandering Spirit,
During my late-summer holiday in Holland, I spent two days in Utrecht, a lovely place I can only recommend.
In the central Netherlands, this fourth-biggest Dutch city is the perfect blend of modernity and tradition.
Two Days in Utrecht
On one side, the new skyscrapers shine on the old town buildings. Between these zones, sits the Utrecht Central railway station, transit hub for city and intercity transport.
On the other side, you can admire a relic of ancient European Christianity. The Dom Tower is a remarkable symbol of Utrecht. With its 112.5 metres, it is the tallest church tower in the country.
Utrecht is a popular university town. Utrecht University 👩🏫 is the largest in the Netherlands and ranks among the 50 best public universities worldwide.
A Hidden Gem in the Netherlands
Among the Dutch cities, Utrecht is quite undiscovered by tourists. For locals it is a buzzing cultural spot (second only to Amsterdam) and has a highly active nightlife. The picturesque canals are framed with fresh colourful flowers in the warm seasons. 🌺
Cafes and bars turn the “Oudegracht” (old canal) into stunning outdoor party scenes in the evening hours. What mostly surprised me about Utrecht is that it is a car-free city. There are only pedestrians in the city centre.
Even beyond, almost everybody rides a bike through the extensive grid of cycle paths. Another remarkable thing about Utrecht is that it’s home to the world’s largest bike parking station, hosting 12,500 places. 🚲
Quite a few high scores for such a lovely yet hidden place like Utrecht!
What to See in Utrecht
What is the best way to visit Utrecht? Of course, by bike!
Jump on and ride along to the many hotspots:
- the Oudegracht canal, crossing the old narrow streets,
- the Dom (including the DOMunder activity just below the Dom Square) and the church bell,
- the renewed Post Office,
- the still active sawmill and
Rietveld Schröder House, - architectural highlight of the De Stijl art movement. No words needed here, this contemporary building is 100 years old.
If you ride your bike outside the city, you will discover several castles 🏰, palaces and even a pyramid!
Utrecht by Night
At night, this place is even more fascinating. Walk around the city centre and get absorbed into the student nightlife. Bars and restaurants are everywhere, even in the tight alleys. Taste a delicious Dutch craft beer at one of the many pubs and breweries. 🍻
Looking for something weird? Check out the pub inside an old church: Belgian Beer café, Olivier Utrecht. And after dinner, explore the city by moonlight. Trajectum Lumen is a tale of light that leads tourists through the city centre by following a breath-taking art trail.
What do you think of Utrecht? Are you curious enough to visit? Let me know in the comments below.
Also, do not forget to check out my Holland travel journal.
