Last Updated on April 9, 2025 by Sarah Wilson

Utrecht is one of the Netherlands’ most picturesque cities. With its scenic canals, medieval landmarks, and relaxed vibe, it is just a 30-minute train ride from Amsterdam. This makes it an excellent choice for a short getaway, whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who loves to explore beautiful cities at a leisurely pace.

I recently spent a week house-sitting in Utrecht, which gave me plenty of time to explore. If you’re planning a visit, here’s how to spend two fantastic days in the city.

Day 1: History, Canals & Culture

Morning

Climb (or Admire) the Dom Tower

Start your day at the heart of Utrecht—Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the 465 steps to the top for incredible city views.

I thought about doing this and then remembered how terrified I was climbing the church tower in Delft. This one is even higher, so I stayed on solid ground and admired it from below. But if you’re braver than me, here’s what you need to know:

•   Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm

•   Cost: €14,50

•   Tickets: Available online or at the Tourist Information Centre on Dom Square. To me, the information centre wasn’t that obvious looking, so look out for this building. When you find it, the staff are very friendly and helpful and of course, speak excellent English.

Explore Dom Under

If you prefer to go underground rather than up, Dom Under is a fascinating way to learn about Utrecht’s 2,000-year history. Walk beneath Dom Square to discover Roman ruins, medieval artefacts, and the city’s turbulent past.

•   Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm

•   Cost: €14,50

•   Tickets: Available online or at the tourist information centre on Dom Square.

Wander through Pandhof Domkerk

Right next to the Dom Tower, this hidden cloister garden is a peaceful spot to explore. There’s also a lovely café where you can stop for coffee before continuing your walk.

Stroll along Oudegracht

Oudegracht (Old Canal) is Utrecht’s most famous street, lined with medieval wharf cellars that now house cafés, boutiques, and bookshops. I spent a lot of time here—it’s just a lovely street to explore.

Discover Twijnstraat

Utrecht’s oldest shopping street has independent boutiques, bakeries, and wine shops. It connects seamlessly with Oudegracht, so you will likely encounter the street at some point in your wanderings. 

Afternoon

Visit Museum Speelklok

I love quirky museums, and Museum Speelklok is a delight. It’s packed with self-playing musical instruments, from giant street organs to tiny music boxes. If you enjoy weird and wonderful collections, don’t miss it.

•   Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm. Closed on Mondays except during school holidays. 

•   Cost: €17,00

•   Tickets: Available online or at the tourist information centre on Dom Square.

Go Miffy Spotting

Utrecht is the birthplace of Miffy (Nijntje), the beloved children’s book character. Look out for Miffy statues around town, visit the Miffy Museum (a great interactive experience for young children), and check out the Miffy traffic lights near Mariaplaats.

Evening

Follow the Trajectum Lumen Light Trail

At night, Utrecht’s landmarks are illuminated with artistic light installations as part of the Trajectum Lumen project. It was recommended to me to do, but I found the few I saw a little underwhelming—maybe it wasn’t dark enough, or the evenings were too cold, or I just really wanted to hang out with the cat I was looking after! 

But if you’re in the mood for an evening walk, try it and let me know what you think.

Day 2: Castles, Hidden Streets & More Canals

Morning

Visit De Haar Castle

Just outside Utrecht, De Haar Castle is the Netherlands’ most luxurious castle, surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens. With its fairytale towers and lavish interiors, it’s definitely worth a visit.

It’s easiest to get there by car, but you can also get there by public transport: Take the train or bus 28 to Vleuten Station, then bus 111 to the castle. The journey will take around one hour.

•   Opening hours: 10 am to 5 pm

•   Cost: €20 for castle and grounds or just €8 to explore the grounds. 

•   Tickets: Available online or at the castle, but I would recommend buying in advance during school holidays and weekends.

Afternoon

Explore Utrecht’s Hidden Streets

When you return to the city, take some time to wander beyond the main sights. Janskerkhof and Drift are two of Utrecht’s prettiest areas, filled with historic buildings and secret courtyards.

But the best part of all of Utrecht is simply getting lost in its side streets and along the canals—just watch out for the cyclists!

Dinner Options

There are so many great places to eat in Utrecht, whether you’re after traditional Dutch cuisine, international flavours, or a cosy café by the canal. I don’t really have any to recommend, as most nights, I self-catered. Sorry!

Other Popular Things to Do in Utrecht

There’s plenty more to see in Utrecht if you have extra time!

Take a canal cruise: Seeing Utrecht from the water offers a different perspective, and plenty of boat tours are available. I didn’t do one this time, but they come highly recommended.

Visit the Rietveld Schröder House: This UNESCO-listed house is an icon of Dutch design, built in 1924 by architect Gerrit Rietveld. If you’re interested in architecture, it’s worth a visit.

Final Thoughts

Two days in Utrecht offer the perfect mix of history, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re climbing church towers (or admiring them from below), wandering along canals, or exploring castles, there’s something for everyone.

Getting there: Utrecht is an easy 30-minute train ride from Amsterdam, making it a great alternative to staying in the capital.

Getting around: Public transport is simple—just tap your card to pay. But it’s also a very walkable city, so you may not need it much.

If you have extra time, consider a side trip to Amersfoort, a lovely town just 15 minutes away by train.

Would you consider adding Utrecht to your travel list? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

Disclaimer: Some of the links on this website are “affiliate links”, meaning that if you click on the link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost. This helps me to keep my website running and continue to share my travelling knowledge with you. Thank you for using the links on my website.

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