Audiotour DISCOVER UTRECHT

DISCOVER UTRECHT A CITY OF ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES.

Utrecht is centrally located in the Netherlands and in the province of Utrecht. It is one of the oldest cities in the country and originated at a bend in the Rhine River, which at the time followed the course of today’s Kromme Rijn and Oude Rijn. On the site of what is now Dom Square (Domplein), there once stood a Roman castellum. Utrecht began as a Roman fortification along the Limes (the northern border of the Roman Empire). In the seventh century, a small church was built where the fort once stood, and in the centuries that followed, larger churches were erected there. In 1122, Utrecht was one of the first cities in what is now the Netherlands to be granted city rights.

Thanks to its location along the Rhine, Utrecht developed into an important trading city in Europe during the 13th and 14th centuries. Today, Utrecht is the fourth-largest city in the Netherlands and is often seen as a more intimate alternative to Amsterdam. It boasts beautiful canals and parks, a vibrant food and drink scene, interesting museums, and unique historical buildings. However, unlike the capital, Utrecht is smaller and free from large tourist crowds. The city center alone is well worth a visit—but Utrecht has much more to offer. That’s why the city is a popular tourist destination, attracting both Dutch and international visitors for shopping, museums, events, and exploring its historical landmarks.

Utrecht is also very popular with students.
In addition to Utrecht University, the city is home to the HU University of Applied Sciences, the University of Humanistic Studies, the University Medical Center Utrecht, and the HKU University of the Arts Utrecht. In total, the city hosts approximately 67,000 students, over 33,000 of whom live in Utrecht. As a result, the city is widely known as a student city.

Utrecht University alone has over 40,000 students, including more than 5,800 international students from 110 nationalities, offering 150 master’s programs, 109 of which are taught in English. Twelve Nobel Prize laureateshave been affiliated with Utrecht University in some capacity.

Students often prefer cycling—it’s affordable and convenient. Utrecht is a bicycle-friendly city, making it a great way to explore both the city and its surroundings. There are numerous bike routes that lead you through beautiful areas, including the Utrechtse Heuvelrug nature reserve. The city is full of red-colored roads and dedicated bike lanes. On the red roads, cars are sometimes allowed but are considered guests, and cyclists typically have priority.

Major tourist attractions in Utrecht include:

Dom Tower: Climb this iconic tower for panoramic views over the city.
Canals: Take a boat tour or walk along the canals and their historic cellar wharves.
Dom Square: The heart of Utrecht, featuring the Dom Church and Dom Tower.
Railway Museum: A great attraction for all ages, with historical trains and exhibitions.
Museum Speelklok: Discover the world of mechanical musical instruments.
Rietveld Schröder House: An iconic example of De Stijl architecture and modernism.
De Haar Castle: The largest castle in the Netherlands, located just outside the city.
Botanical Gardens: A peaceful oasis with a diverse collection of plants.
Miffy Museum (Nijntje Museum): An interactive museum dedicated to the beloved bunny character.
DOMunder: An underground archaeological site where you can explore Utrecht's history.
Saturday Market: Held near the Oudegracht and Bakkerbrug area.

The tour begins at the Catharijnesingel.
To your right is the entrance to the popular indoor shopping mall Hoog Catharijne. The main tourist attractions are also located on your right-hand side.