If you are visiting Utrecht for the first time, you might be wondering what are the must-try things to do in Utrecht. But before we dive into the fun stuff, I would like to introduce this city to you.
Utrecht is home to the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. When I visited the city last time, I climbed 465 steps in the Dom Tower. It felt like I was reaching for the sky. And what can I say about the view? It was breathtaking.
But that’s just the beginning, Utrecht has so many activities to offer. From outdoor activities to rich history, everything is here. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or thrill-seeker, Utrecht will never disappoint you.
Here are my top 20 things to do in Utrecht, with insider tips and personal recommendations. Let’s dive in!
Things To Do In Utrecht: Top 20 Places To Visit
Here are some of my favorite places in Utrecht that gave me memorable experiences. Hopefully, you will also like them.
1. Dom Tower Adventure
Dom Tower is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. When you climb 465 steps of it, you can clearly see the panoramic views of Utrecht. Trust me, it’s definitely one of the best things to do in Utrecht.
Best Tip: Book tickets in advance and make sure it’s a guided tour. This will help you to avoid queues.
Best Time to Visit: Visit Dom Tower in the early morning for fewer crowds.
Location: Domplein 9, 3512 JC Utrecht
Website: Dom Tower
2. Canal Kayaking Tour in the Oudegracht
How can we forget the iconic canals in the Oudegracht? These winding canals are a peaceful way to discover the city from a unique perspective. Padding through them is a beautiful experience.
Best Tip: Get a sunset tour to get a magical view of the canals. You can literally see the colours of the sky on them.
Best Time to Visit: Go during summer afternoons for perfect weather.
Location: Oudegracht, 3511 Utrecht
Website: You can book canal tours in Utrecht through Civitatis
3. Museum Catharijneconvent
Museum Catharijneconvent is located in a former monastery in Utrecht. You can go there for some history buffs. It mainly showcases the history of Christianity in the Netherlands.
Best Tip: Spend some time in the beautiful cloisters before heading inside.
Best Time to Visit: Go there during weekdays to avoid crowds.
Entry Fee: €15
Location: Lange Nieuwstraat 38, 3512 PH Utrecht
Website: Museum Catharijneconvent
4. De Haar Castle Exploration
De Haar Castle has always given me a fairy-tale charm. It’s surrounded by lush gardens that look so beautiful. Also, the grandeur of the architecture in this castle seems like a Disney movie!
Best Tip: Take a guided tour to explore De Haar Castle. By this, you will get the best insight into the history and secrets of this magnificent castle.
Best Time to Visit: Go during spring or autumn. At these times, the gardens are most vibrant.
Entry Fee: €18
Location: Kasteel de Haar, 3455 RR Haarzuilens
Website: De Haar Castle
5. Botanic Gardens at Utrecht University
One of my favourite places in Utrecht is Utrecht University for its Botanic Gardens. Here, you will get to see many exotic plants that fill the environment with serenity.
Best Tip: Don’t miss the butterfly house. Here you can get up close to fluttering butterflies!
Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early summer is the best time to visit Utrecht University. At that time the flowers are in full bloom.
Entry Fee: €6.50
Location: Budapestlaan 17, 3584 CD Utrecht
Website: Botanic Gardens at Utrecht University
6. Railway Museum (Spoorwegmuseum)
Spoorwegmuseum, also known as the Railway Museum, is a fun and educational destination in Utrecht. For train lovers, the Railway Museum is a must-visit! Besides, you will learn about the history of trains in the Netherlands.
Best Tip: Be sure to check out the interactive exhibits. Kids will love them!
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays, especially during school hours, are the best time to visit the railway museum for a quieter experience.
Entry Fee: €18
Location: Maliebaanstation 16, 3581 XW Utrecht
Website: Railway Museum
7. Centraal Museum
Centraal Museum is one of Utrecht’s leading cultural institutions. It has many modern arts and historical artifacts to offer.
Best Tip: Don’t miss the Miffy exhibition. It mimics the beloved Dutch character that anyone would love to see.
Best Time to Visit: Late morning on weekdays is the perfect time to visit the Centraal Museum, as the crowd is less at that time.
Entry Fee: €15
Location: Nicolaaskerkhof 10, 3512 XC Utrecht
Website: Centraal Museum
8. Miffy Museum Fun
Miffy Museum is the best place to visit with kids. It celebrates the iconic Dutch character, which young children will love to see. You can also have a fun and interactive experience in this museum.
Best Tip: Take a moment to relax at the nearby café while the kids enjoy the exhibits.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to visit to avoid crowds.
Entry Fee: €7
Location: Agnietenstraat 2, 3512 XB Utrecht
Website: Miffy Museum
9. Wilhelminapark
Wilhelminapark is a hidden gem in Utrecht, surrounded by nature. You can go there for a peaceful walk or picnic.
Best Tip: Bring a blanket and grab a takeout lunch from a nearby deli.
Best Time to Visit: Go during autumn to view the stunning fall colours.
Location: 3581 Utrecht
10. TivoliVredenburg Events
TivoliVredenburg hosts many concerts, including classical and contemporary. If you are fond of live music, this place is for you.
Best Tip: Check their calendar for events.
Best Time to Visit: Check out their website, where they constantly update their weekend events. That’s the best time to go.
Location: Vredenburgkade 11, 3511 WC Utrecht
Website: TivoliVredenburg
11. Hoog Catharijne Shopping Spree
Hoog Catharijne is Utrecht’s biggest shopping mall, right next to the train station. If you are a shopaholic like me, do visit here once.
Best Tip: Take a break at one of the many cafés after a shopping spree. Café Geert is my favorite one!
Location: 3581 Utrecht
12. Oudegracht Stroll
Oudegracht is another beautiful place in Utrecht. It has some charming buildings and picturesque cafes that have stolen my heart. For wandering casually, I prefer Oudergracht.
Best Tip: There are some canal-side cafes here. Visit one of them for a coffee and enjoy the view of the canal.
Best Time to Visit: Go during sunset when the golden hour glows on the canals.
Location: Oudegracht, 3511 Utrecht
13. Amelisweerd Nature Walk
Take a scenic walk through Amelisweerd. I do it in Utrecht whenever I need a natural view.
Best Tip: Bring your camera for some beautiful nature shots!
Best Time to Visit: It’s best to visit during early spring when the flowers bloom.
Location: Amelisweerd Estate, 3582 Utrecht
14. Griftpark for Families
Grift Park is a great spot to visit with families. It has open spaces, playgrounds, and even a petting zoo for the little ones.
Best Tip: Go there for a family picnic and make a day of it.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer are the best times to visit. At these times you can enjoy maximum fun outdoors.
Location: 3581 Utrecht
15. DOMunder Experience
In DOMunder, you can explore Utrecht’s underground history. Also, here you can learn about the archaeological finds beneath the city.
Best Tip: Wear comfortable shoes, as the tour takes you through some cool and uneven terrain.
Best Time to Visit: Mid-afternoon is the best time to visit to avoid crowds.
Location: Domplein, 3512 Utrecht
Website: DOMunder
16. Zuylen Castle Visit
When I visited Zuylen Castle, I was mesmerized by its rich history. I suggest you visit here on a guided tour so that you can learn about its fascinating stories from the past.
Best Tip: Have a walk along the nearby river of Zuylen Castle.
Best Time to Visit: Gardens in Zuylen Castle are in full bloom during early summer. So go there at that time.
Entry Fee: €10
Location: Zuylen Castle, 3611 Utrecht
17. Pandhof Garden
Pandhof Garden is another beautiful place in Utrecht. Its beautiful flowers and lush greenery have impressed me a lot.
Best Tip: Trust me, visiting the Pandhof Garden is one of the best free things to do in Utrecht.
Best Time to Visit: Go during spring as the flowers bloom the most at that time.
Location: Domplein, 3512 Utrecht
18. Lepelenburg Park
Lepelenburg is a lovely park in Utrecht. I go there whenever I need a relaxing afternoon. You can also visit here to have a short escape from your regular life.
Best Tip: Bring a blanket and some snacks when you come to Lepelenburg for a picnic.
Best Time to Visit: It’s best to visit Lepelenburg Park during summer. At that time the weather seemed perfect.
Location: 3581 Utrecht
FAQs
What are the best free activities in Utrecht?
Strolling along the canals or visiting the Pandhof Garden, Wilhelminapark, and Griftpark are some of the best free activities to do in Utrecht.
Are there unusual things to do in Utrecht?
Absolutely, canal kayaking tour or the DOMunder Experience show you the hidden underground sites in Utrecht.
What can I do in Utrecht with kids?
You can visit Railway Museum, Miffy Museum, and Griftpark’s playgrounds in Utrecht with your kids.
Is Utrecht expensive for tourists?
Utrecht is a budget-friendly destination for tourists. One can explore Utrecht trying out its free activities and the museums that offer discounts.
Conclusion
There are plenty of amazing things to do in Utrecht. Once you visit there, you can’t end up exploring the city. If you want to explore the history, culture, and fun of the Netherlands, visit Utrecht.
From climbing the church spires to kayaking through canals, every corner holds a new surprise here. And my favourite place was The DOMunder Experience. You must go there once if you are in Utrecht.
Just picture a perfect day in Utrecht. Assume that you are strolling along the canals, discovering hidden gardens, and having a delicious local meal at one of Utrecht’s charming cafés.
If you are already loving the imagination, what are you waiting for? Let your adventure in Utrecht begin now!
