Utrecht
A Medieval Gem on the Rhine — 28 Minutes by Train
Travel time
28 min by train
Duration
Half day to full day
Train cost
€8.60 one-way
Best for
History, architecture, food
Why Visit Utrecht?
Utrecht is one of the Netherlands' most underrated cities — a beautiful medieval university town with a distinctive, unique character. Unlike Haarlem or Delft, Utrecht has a vibrant local culture largely unaffected by mass tourism. It's authentic, lived-in and unexpectedly rewarding.
What to See
- Dom Tower (Domtoren): The Netherlands' tallest church tower (112m) — climb it for spectacular views over Utrecht and the surrounding countryside. Book in advance.
- Oudegracht canal: Utrecht's most distinctive feature — a medieval canal with two-level wharves. The lower level is lined with restaurant terraces and boutiques, creating a unique canal experience unlike anything in Amsterdam.
- Museum Speelklok: A wonderful museum of self-playing musical instruments — clocks, barrel organs and music boxes. Quirky, charming and perfect for children.
- Railway Museum: One of Europe's finest railway museums, inside a stunning 19th-century station building.
Getting There
Intercity trains run every 15 minutes from Amsterdam Centraal to Utrecht Centraal (28 minutes, €8.60 one-way). Walk from the station to the historic centre in 15 minutes or take a tram.