Discover Utrecht: A Local’s Guide to the Best of the City

Utrecht is a city with its own character, its own stories and its own pace and a perfect day trip from Amsterdam. Medieval canals, hidden courtyards and a food and drink scene that surprises every visitor who takes the time to explore. This guide covers the best of it, put together by people who live and give tours here.

Want to see it through local eyes? Book a City Tour and we‘ll take care of the rest.

Things To Do in Utrecht:

Must-See Spots & Landmarks

Utrecht is one of those cities that reveals itself slowly. The big landmarks are easy to find, but the stories behind them are what make this place unforgettable. Here are the spots we think every visitor should see, and why they’re worth your time.

The Old Post Office

One of Utrecht’s most jaw-dropping buildings, hiding in plain sight on the Neude. Step inside the old post office to discover a library. Look up, the interior is breathtaking.

The Fish Doorbell at Weerdsluis

A live underwater camera lets you spot fish waiting to pass through the lock. Pull up a spot in the sun and watch locals do the same, one of Utrecht’s quirkiest and most charming spots.

The Miffy Traffic Light

Home to the world’s only Miffy traffic light, a nod to Utrecht’s most famous resident. Watch cyclists queue up in their hundreds and you’ll understand why this city has won best cycling city in the world twice.

De Winkel van Sinkel

A 19th-century neoclassical building with a café that feels like stepping into another era. One of the most beautiful interiors in the city, and most people walk straight past it.

The Oudegracht

Utrecht’s iconic canal is unique in the world, with its two-level layout and ancient wharf cellars that now house cafés, restaurants and bars right at the water’s edge. We visit the Oudegracht during our tour, but there is more to dicover.

Voorstraat & Zadelstraat

Utrecht’s most laid-back shopping street, lined with independent boutiques, vintage stores and local concepts you won’t find anywhere else.

Things To Do in Utrecht: Experiences

There’s no shortage of things to keep you busy in Utrecht. Whether you’re after history, cycling, culture or just wandering without a plan, this city delivers. Here are our favourite ways to spend your time here.

Climb the Dom Tower

463 steps to the top and a view that stretches for miles. We end our city tour here, so a climb to the top is the next thing on your list.

Visit the Rietveld Schröder House

A UNESCO World Heritage Site designed in 1924 by Utrecht’s most famous architect. A revolutionary building that still feels ahead of its time. Book tickets in advance.

Visit Sonnenborgh Observatory

A former medieval fortress that became an observatory and the birthplace of the Dutch weather service. One of Utrecht’s most underrated spots.

Take a Kayak or SUP on the Canals

Rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and explore the Oudegracht from the water. A completely different perspective on the city and surprisingly easy to do, even for beginners.

Explore the nijntje Museum

A museum built entirely around Miffy, Utrecht’s most famous resident. Perfect for families and surprisingly moving for adults too.

Browse the Weekend Markets

The Saturday market on Vredenburg is one of the largest outdoor markets in the Netherlands, flowers, cheese, street food and everything in between. Don’t miss the flower market (Janskerkhof) and fabric market (Breedstraat) both also on saturday.

Things To Do in Utrecht:

The Best Places to Eat

Utrecht punches well above its weight when it comes to food. From casual lunch spots along the canal to proper dinners worth planning your trip around, the city has something for every appetite and every budget. These are the places we keep coming back to.

Surf & Turf

One of Utrecht’s finest restaurants, combining the best of land and sea in a setting that’s both elegant and relaxed. Perfect for a dinner and perfectly located in an old cellar next to the Old Canal

Meat & More

A favourite for groups who want quality meat, great atmosphere and a dinner that turns into an evening. Looking for a place to lunch? Don’t mis the delicious sandwiches of Meat & More

Gys Utrecht

A bright, plant-filled all-day spot on the Voorstraat with a menu that’s almost entirely vegetarian and endlessly creative. One of the city’s best breakfasts.

Za’atar

Middle Eastern flavours in the heart of the city. Fresh, punchy and unlike most things on the Utrecht restaurant scene. Hugely popular, for good reason.

Broei

A community kitchen and social enterprise that happens to serve some of the most interesting food in Utrecht. The menu changes constantly, always vegetarian.

De Watertoren

Fine dining inside a 1907 water tower, nine floors above the city. Local and organic ingredients, panoramic views over Utrecht and the Dom from the rooftop terrace. Book ahead.

Things To Do in Utrecht:

The Best Places to Drink

Utrecht has a drinking culture that matches its character, unpretentious, varied and full of personality. Whether you’re after specialty coffee in the morning, a glass of natural wine in the afternoon or a craft beer by the canal at night, you’ll find your spot here.