7 days in Utrecht, Netherlands: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Utrecht, the Netherlands, is a vibrant and picturesque city filled with history, culture, and a warm atmosphere. Situated in the heart of the country, it’s famous for the Dom Tower, beautiful canals, and a thriving student scene. With its old-world charm and modern amenities, Utrecht offers something for everyone, making it a perfect destination for travelers seeking a unique Dutch experience.
Things to consider before arriving in Utrecht
Rich history: Utrecht boasts a plethora of historical sites, including centuries-old churches and well-preserved buildings.
Bicycle-friendly: The city is designed for cycling, making it easy to get around on two wheels.
Prices: Utrecht can be a bit expensive compared to smaller Dutch cities, especially when it comes to accommodation and dining out.
Ideal for: history buffs, art lovers, and those who enjoy exploring cities by bicycle.
What to bring with you
– Comfortable walking shoes: Utrecht’s cobblestone streets add to its charm, but they can be hard on your feet.
– Rain gear: The Netherlands is known for its unpredictable weather, so pack a lightweight raincoat or umbrella.
– European power adapter: Standard Dutch outlets use 230V and require a Type F plug.
Best time of the year to visit
The most pleasant months to visit Utrecht are April through June and September through October. During these months, temperatures are mild, and there are plenty of outdoor events to enjoy. July and August can also be great, but expect larger crowds and higher prices.
How to get into Utrecht
– By train: Utrecht Centraal Station is one of the Netherlands’ largest train stations, with connections to both national and international destinations. Trains from Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Schiphol Airport arrive frequently – and the journey is usually under an hour.
– By car: If you’re driving from other parts of the Netherlands, Utrecht is accessible via the A2, A12, A27, and A28 highways. Keep in mind that parking can be expensive and limited in the city center. It’s often better to park at a P+R location (Park and Ride) outside the city and use public transportation.
– By bus: FlixBus and Eurolines provide affordable intercity bus connections from various European cities, with Utrecht as one of the possible destinations.
7-day city guide trip to Utrecht, Netherlands
Day 1: Arrival in Utrecht
After checking into your hotel, grab a coffee and a stroopwafel at Broodje Mario, a famous local spot. Take a stroll through the city center and visit the Dom Tower, the symbol of Utrecht. For dinner, head to Kantien, a trendy restaurant with delicious Dutch-French cuisine.
Day 2: Exploring the Canals
Start your day with breakfast at The Village Coffee & Music, a hip café with a cozy atmosphere. Rent a bicycle and explore the city’s picturesque canals. Visit the Rietveld Schröder House, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and then stop for lunch at Olivier, a Belgian beer bar with an extensive selection of beers. Wrap up the day with a visit to the iconic Miffy Museum.
Day 3: Day Trip to Rotterdam
Take a train to Rotterdam and visit the futuristic architecture of the Markthal and the Cube Houses. Have lunch at Bistrot Centraal, a French bistro with a beautiful view of the Rotterdam Central Station. Visit the Boijmans Van Beuningen museum and then take a relaxing boat tour of Rotterdam’s harbor. Return to Utrecht for dinner at WT Urban Kitchen, with a panoramic view of the city.
Day 4: Culture and History
Start your day with a visit to the Museum Catharijneconvent, which showcases the history of Christianity in the Netherlands. Then, visit the Centraal Museum, which houses an impressive collection of art, design, and fashion. Have lunch at De Bakkerswinkel, a charming bakery and café. Take a walk through the charming streets of the Museum Quarter and end your day at the Louis Hartlooper Complex, an art-house cinema with a great selection of films.
Day 5: Day Trip to Amersfoort
Take a train to Amersfoort, a charming medieval town with beautiful architecture. Visit the Onze-Lieve-Vrouwetoren, the second tallest church tower in the Netherlands, and walk along the Kromme Rijn river. Have lunch at Het Lokaal, a restaurant that sources its ingredients from local farmers and artisans. Return to Utrecht and have dinner at De Klub, a funky bar and restaurant with a terrace overlooking the canal.
Day 6: Parks and Gardens
Start your day with breakfast at Broei, a trendy café with a beautiful garden. Visit the Botanic Gardens, a peaceful oasis in the city center. Have lunch at GYS, a vegetarian restaurant with organic and locally sourced ingredients. Take a walk through the Wilhelminapark and then have a drink at the trendy Soia beach club.
Day 7: Local Markets
Spend your last day in Utrecht exploring the local markets. Start with breakfast at De Ontdekking, a cozy café with a lovely terrace. Visit the Lapjesmarkt, a traditional fabric market, and the Bloemenmarkt, a flower market where you can find the famous Dutch tulips. Have lunch at Blauw, a restaurant that serves authentic Indonesian cuisine. End your day with a visit to the lively Vredenburg market, where you can find a variety of foods and handicrafts.
How to Continue Your Travel after You Have Spent 7 Days in Utrecht
If you want to continue exploring the Netherlands, consider visiting the charming city of Haarlem, a quick train ride from Utrecht. Haarlem is famous for its beautiful architecture and charming streets. You can visit the Frans Hals Museum and the Teylers Museum, both with impressive collections of art and artifacts. Alternatively, take a train to Leiden, known for its vibrant student life and rich history. Visit the Hortus Botanicus, one of the oldest botanical gardens in the world, and the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum, which tells the story of the Pilgrims who fled to the New World.
