Are you planning a trip around the Netherlands and wondering what to do in Utrecht in one day? This charming university city is one of the oldest in the country, quieter than Amsterdam, and still preserves a historic center full of character. Walking along its canals, climbing the Dom Tower, or discovering its hidden courtyards are some of the best things to do in the Netherlands.
In this guide I’ll show you the top things to do in Utrecht, how to organize your day, how to get there from other cities, and practical tips to make the most of your visit.
📍 Must-see places in Utrecht
When planning your itinerary in Utrecht, make sure not to miss these highlights:
1. Dom Tower (Domtoren)
The symbol of Utrecht, this 14th-century Gothic tower stands 112 meters tall, making it the highest in the Netherlands. Climb its 400+ steps (advance booking required) for panoramic views over the city.
👉 A guided tour is highly recommended to learn about its history and the earthquakes that nearly brought it down.
2. St. Martin’s Cathedral & Domplein Square
Next to the tower, you’ll find St. Martin’s Cathedral (Domkerk), partially destroyed by a storm in 1674. Today, Domplein Square separates the tower from the remaining part of the church—a curious detail that always surprises visitors.
🔎 Don’t miss DOMUnder, an underground interactive experience that takes you through 2,000 years of history.
3. Oudegracht & Nieuwegracht Canals
Utrecht’s canals are unique: their lower levels are filled with terraces, cafés, and shops set inside old wharf cellars. Walking along the Oudegracht is one of the best things to do in Utrecht, especially at sunset.
📌 Book a canal boat tour if you’d like a relaxing and photogenic experience.
4. Museum Speelklok
A quirky museum featuring self-playing musical instruments, from street organs to music clocks. Perfect for families or anyone looking for something different.
🎟️ Free guided tours are included every hour, demonstrating how the instruments work.
5. Hofjes & secret gardens
The city is dotted with hidden courtyards (hofjes), originally built as charitable housing. Some, like Hofje van Buys Ballot, are open to the public and offer peaceful green corners, perfect for photos.
🔎 Tip: Enter quietly and respectfully, as many are still residential.
6. Centraal Museum & Rietveld Schröder House
The Centraal Museum showcases art, history, and temporary exhibitions. Nearby you’ll find the Rietveld Schröder House, a UNESCO World Heritage site and iconic example of the De Stijl architecture movement.
7. De Haar Castle
Just 20 minutes from Utrecht, De Haar Castle is the largest in the Netherlands. With its fairytale gardens and lavish interiors, it’s a must for history lovers.
🏰 Book this excursion to De Haar Castle from Amsterdam.
8. Utrecht University & Academiegebouw
Founded in 1636, Utrecht University is one of Europe’s most prestigious. Its main building, the Academiegebouw, is located on Domplein Square and is a symbol of academic and cultural life in the city.
🎓 Tip: Step inside the entrance hall and stroll around the area, always buzzing with students and cafés.
🗓️ One-day itinerary in Utrecht
🕘 Morning
Walk along the Oudegracht and Nieuwegracht canals.
Visit the Dom Tower and St. Martin’s Cathedral.
Explore Domplein Square and DOMUnder.
🕛 Midday
Lunch on a terrace at canal level (near Viebrug Bridge).
🕒 Afternoon
Visit Museum Speelklok.
Discover hidden courtyards (hofjes).
End your day at Centraal Museum or the Rietveld Schröder House.
🚆 How to get to Utrecht
From Amsterdam: direct train (30 min).
From Rotterdam or The Hague: trains every 30 min (45–50 min).
From Schiphol Airport: direct train (35 min).
🎫 You can use the OV-chipkaart or buy single tickets online or at the stations.
🚌 Getting around Utrecht
The city center is compact and walkable. You can also rent a bike, take public transport, or rent a kayak or boat on the canals.
💡 Travel tips for Utrecht
Book Dom Tower and DOMUnder tickets in advance.
Wear comfortable shoes (cobblestone streets).
Avoid Mondays if you want to visit museums (many are closed).
Try local specialties: artisanal stroopwafels or cheeses from Vredenburg Market.
🎟️ Recommended tours in Utrecht
🔍 Free walking tour: explore the old town with a local guide.
🚤 Canal boat tour: discover Utrecht from the water.
👣 Private walking tour: perfect for families or small groups.
🍴 Food tour: taste local products and Dutch specialties.
🚴 Bike tour: see Utrecht like a local.
🗺️ Map of things to do in Utrecht
Here you can see the map with all the points of the itinerary marked.
❓ FAQ about Utrecht
How much time do you need in Utrecht?
One day is enough for the highlights, but stay overnight if you want to explore museums or visit De Haar Castle.Is Utrecht cheaper than Amsterdam?
Yes, overall it’s more affordable and less crowded, making it ideal for travelers looking for a local vibe.Where to stay in Utrecht?
The historic center has boutique hotels, while Wittevrouwen district offers quieter stays.Is Utrecht worth visiting?
Absolutely. With its canals, medieval history, and vibrant student life, Utrecht is one of the most authentic cities in the Netherlands.What is Utrecht famous for?
The Dom Tower, canals with unique wharf cellars, its historic university, and the Rietveld Schröder House.What to do in Utrecht for one day?
Climb the Dom Tower, explore the canals, visit DOMUnder, and enjoy a boat ride or a museum visit.
💬 Is Utrecht worth visiting?
Absolutely. Utrecht combines the Dutch essence with a more relaxed pace. Its unique canals, medieval history, and vibrant university life make it truly special. It’s perfect as a day trip from Amsterdam or as a stop on a longer Netherlands itinerary.
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