Utrecht Holidays

Canals, culture, and cosy vibes – Utrecht is the Netherlands’ cooler, less touristy cousin to Amsterdam, and it knows it.

Highlights

• 🛶 Picturesque canals with a twist – Utrecht's canals have unique wharf cellars that now house cafés and boutiques right at water level.

• 🕍 Towering beauty – The Dom Tower dominates the skyline and delivers top-notch views if you’re up for the climb.

• 🧠 Culture central – From quirky museums to classical concerts in hidden courtyards, Utrecht wears its history and creativity on its sleeve.

• 🌳 Green escapes – Parks, river trails and botanical gardens mean you can go from city buzz to tranquil chill in five minutes flat.

Getting around

Getting around Utrecht is as Dutch as it gets: bikes, boats, and brilliant public transport. The city centre is super walkable, with those oh-so-charming cobbled streets and bike lanes running like clockwork - perfect for city breaks. If you fancy a more scenic route, hire a bike and pedal alongside the canals. Trains and buses run frequently and are well-connected to the rest of the Netherlands – so popping into Amsterdam (just 30 minutes away) or heading off to explore nearby cities is no hassle at all. For those feeling fancy, canal tours and paddleboarding offer a very Utrechtian way to get your bearings.

Things to do for families in Utrecht

Utrecht is a playground for curious minds and tiny adventurers. Start off at the Railway Museum (Spoorwegmuseum), where old trains and interactive exhibits bring history to life – there’s even a mini fairground ride! Then, visit the Miffy Museum, a pastel-hued haven of soft play and storytelling, dedicated to the iconic bunny created by local artist Dick Bruna. Got a family of climbers? Head up the Dom Tower for sweeping views and stories from centuries gone by. And if the kids need a runaround, Griftpark and Botanic Gardens offer plenty of space, a petting zoo, and some cheeky ice cream stops along the way. Fun, fuss-free, and fab for all ages.

Things to do for couples in Utrecht

Utrecht does romance in a way that’s effortlessly cool. Think moonlit canal strolls, wine bars tucked away in medieval cellars, and sunset paddleboarding with your other half. Kick things off with a slow morning at Ledig Erf – a square full of cafés perfect for people-watching with a stroopwafel in hand. Climb the Dom Tower hand-in-hand (take breaks – it's 465 steps!) or explore the Centraal Museum, which mixes classic Dutch art with bold modern design. Later, treat yourselves to a candlelit dinner in a converted wharf cellar along the Oudegracht canal – it's mood lighting meets moody water reflections, and it’s chef’s kiss. Want to really impress? Book a couple's boat tour and toast to love with local beer or bubbly.

Things to do for groups in Utrecht

Whether you're here for a mate’s birthday, a uni reunion, or just a proper catch-up, Utrecht delivers big-time for groups. First stop? A canal-side bar crawl – start in Neude and zigzag through Utrecht’s coolest bars, pubs, and rooftop spots. Feeling active? Rent bikes or even go tandem and cycle the scenic Waterlinie Route (giggles guaranteed). If your crew loves a challenge, escape rooms in old bank vaults or medieval tunnels add a thrill. Hungry? Grab a big table at De Utrechter for beers, bites, and brilliant banter. And don’t miss TivoliVredenburg, a massive music venue with gigs spanning everything from indie and electro to jazz and techno – it's the perfect group night out.

Things to do for foodies in Utrecht

Utrecht’s food scene? An underrated gem. Start your day with Dutch pancakes from a waterside café, or grab an Instagram-worthy brunch at Gys, where eco-conscious eats meet full-on flavour. For a local taste, munch your way through kibbeling (Dutch fried fish bites), stroopwafels still warm from the stall, or Utrecht’s signature beer brewed in monasteries (yes, really). The city’s wharf cellars along Oudegracht aren’t just for looks – they house everything from fine-dining fusion joints to low-key tapas bars. Craving a buzzier vibe? The Foodhallen at Vredenburg offer global street food, live DJs, and communal tables where foodie fomo is real. Finish off with a Dutch cheese board and a cheeky jenever (local gin). You’ll be planning your next bite before you’ve even finished the first.