How to Spend a Day in Utrecht

jana meerman utrecht

Utrecht is Amsterdam's quieter, more peaceful sibling, giving visitors a chance to wander at their own pace. Similar to Amsterdam in design, Utrecht still offers visitors the famed Dutch canals, waterfront restaurants, museums and shopping, reminiscent of its bigger neighbour to the north. I stayed with family in Utrecht and crammed as much as I could see and eat into my short time there.


Breakfast at Cafe Olivier

Start your day with breakfast at Cafe Olivier, a beautiful church-turned-restaurant in the heart of Utrecht.

jana meerman utrecht
jana meerman utrecht

Visit the Dom Tower

Then, spend your morning exploring the peaceful little canals that Dutch cities are so well known for. Make your way towards the skyline's iconic Dom Tower. Treat yourself to Utrecht's best gelato from Venezia Gelato right on the edge of the central canal.

jana meerman utrecht
jana meerman utrecht

Swing at Oudegracht Canal

Find the secret swing at Oudegracht Canal.

jana meerman utrecht
jana meerman utrecht
jana meerman utrecht

Lunch at De Griffel Restaurant

Treat yourself to a light lunch at the lovely little De Griffel Restaurant.

jana meerman utrecht
jana meerman utrecht

Walk in Zonnenburg Park

Walk off your lunch at the Zonnenburg Park, making sure to explore the Centraal Museum just next door.

jana meerman utrecht

Dinner at Loft 88

Pop in for dinner at the Loft 88 Restaurant, attached to a local horse barn and just as rustic and magical as you would hope.

jana meerman utrecht

Stroll through Sandwijck Gardens

Go for an after-dinner stroll through Sandwijck Gardens; a gorgeous estate on the outskirts of town and easily accessible by bike.

jana meerman utrecht
Jana Meerman

Hi! I’m Jana, a British-Dutch-Canadian with a dream of seeing every country in the world. I am a storyteller, photographer and adventurer passionate about documenting and sharing my travels.

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