2-Day Local Family Experience: Utrecht Shopping, Food & Wine
Utrecht, Netherlands
2 days
About Utrecht, Netherlands
Experience the charm of Utrecht, Netherlands, a vibrant city that beautifully blends medieval architecture with modern Dutch culture. Explore the iconic Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, offering panoramic views of the city. Wander through the picturesque old town with its unique split-level canal system, lined with lively cafes and shops. Visit the Centraal Museum, home to a vast collection of art and historical artifacts. Enjoy a serene boat ride along the Oudegracht, or old canal, and discover the city's rich history. Utrecht is also a hub for science and learning, with the Utrecht University Botanic Gardens and the interactive exhibits at the Museum Speelklok. With its lively festivals, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife, Utrecht offers a unique Dutch experience for all.
2-Day Itinerary
Day 2
Museum Visit and Relaxing in the Park
Morning
Visit one of Utrecht's many museums. Whether you're interested in art, history, or science, there's a museum that will captivate your family's interest. Most museums also have interactive exhibits for kids.
Lunch
Have lunch at a cozy café in the City Center. Try the broodje haring, a traditional Dutch sandwich with herring, pickles, and onions. Or opt for a cheese sandwich, another Dutch favorite.
Afternoon
Spend the afternoon at one of Utrecht's beautiful parks. Rent a bike and explore the park's trails, or relax by the lake and feed the ducks. The kids will enjoy the playgrounds and open spaces.
Dinner
Dine at a restaurant offering a variety of international cuisines. From Italian to Thai, there's something to satisfy every palate. Enjoy a glass of Dutch beer or wine with your meal.
Evening
End your trip with a visit to a local theater. Whether it's a play, a concert, or a movie, it's a great way to relax and enjoy some entertainment before heading home.
Attractions in Itinerary (1)
1City Center
The historic and bustling heart of Utrecht, filled with shops, restaurants, and beautiful architecture.
Local Food and Drinks (12)
Stroopwafel
A sweet treat made from two thin layers of baked dough with a caramel syrup filling in the middle. It's a popular snack in Utrecht and throughout the Netherlands.
Bitterballen
These are deep-fried, crispy balls filled with a mixture of chopped beef or veal, beef broth, flour, butter, herbs and spices. They are a popular snack in Utrecht and are often served with mustard for dipping.
Erwtensoep
Also known as 'Snert', this is a thick pea soup enriched with pork and vegetables. It's a traditional Dutch dish, especially popular in Utrecht during the winter months.
Poffertjes
These are small, fluffy pancakes that are typically served with powdered sugar and butter. They are a popular treat in Utrecht and can be found at many street markets.
Kroket
A kroket is a deep-fried roll with a meat ragout inside, covered in breadcrumbs. It is a common fast-food snack in Utrecht and the rest of the Netherlands.
Haring
Haring or 'Hollandse Nieuwe' is raw herring from the catches around the end of spring and beginning of summer. It's a traditional Dutch food, often served with chopped onions and pickles.
Patat
Patat or 'Friet' are thick fries, often served with a variety of toppings such as mayonnaise, ketchup, onions, or 'satay' peanut sauce. They are a popular fast-food item in Utrecht.
Kaas
The Netherlands is famous for its cheese and Utrecht is no exception. 'Gouda' and 'Edam' are two of the most popular types.
Oliebollen
Oliebollen are a type of Dutch doughnut, often filled with raisins and dusted with powdered sugar. They are traditionally eaten on New Year's Eve in Utrecht and throughout the Netherlands.
Jenever
Jenever is a Dutch gin made from juniper berries. It's the national and traditional liquor of the Netherlands, including Utrecht.
Heineken
Heineken is a pale lager beer with 5% alcohol by volume produced by the Dutch brewing company Heineken International. It's widely consumed in Utrecht and throughout the Netherlands.
Chocomel
Chocomel is a brand of Dutch chocolate-flavoured milk. It's a popular drink in Utrecht and is often enjoyed hot during the winter months.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Utrecht, Netherlands is from June to August when the weather is warm and pleasant. This is the peak tourist season, so the city is lively with various events and festivals. However, if you prefer a less crowded time, the shoulder seasons of April to May and September to October also offer mild weather and fewer tourists.
National holidays
Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.
| Date | Day | Holiday Name |
|---|---|---|
January 1 | Mon | New Year's Day |
March 29 | Fri | Good Friday |
March 31 | Sun | Easter Sunday |
April 1 | Mon | Easter Monday |
April 27 | Sat | King's Birthday |
May 5 | Sun | Liberation Day |
May 9 | Thu | Ascension Day |
May 19 | Sun | Whit Sunday |
May 20 | Mon | Whit Monday |
December 25 | Wed | Christmas Day |
December 26 | Thu | Second Day of Christmas |
How to get around
Bicycle
Utrecht is a bike-friendly city with many dedicated bike lanes and bike parking facilities. You can rent a bike from various locations throughout the city.
Public Transport
Utrecht's public transport system includes buses and trams that connect various parts of the city. The main bus station is located next to Utrecht Centraal, the city's main train station.
Train
Utrecht Centraal is a major train hub with connections to other cities in the Netherlands and beyond. It's a convenient way to travel if you're planning to visit other parts of the country.
Car
While driving in Utrecht is possible, it's not the most recommended method of transport due to the city's narrow streets and limited parking. However, there are several car parks in the city if you choose to drive.
Ridesharing
Ridesharing services like Uber are available in Utrecht. This can be a convenient way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group or have a lot of luggage.
Boat
Utrecht has a network of canals and you can take a boat tour to see the city from a different perspective. Some boat tours also offer hop-on, hop-off services.
Foot
Utrecht's city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Many of the city's main attractions are within walking distance of each other.
Important information
Currency€ EUR
Time zoneUTC+1
Driving sideRight
Emergency phone112
Drinking waterYes
Power sockets
Voltage230 V
Things to know about Utrecht, Netherlands as a first time visitor
1
Utrecht is a city in the central Netherlands that has been a religious center for centuries.
2
The official language is Dutch, but English is widely spoken.
3
The currency used in Utrecht is the Euro (€).
4
Utrecht is known for its friendly and welcoming locals.
5
The city is very walkable, but cycling is the most popular mode of transportation.
6
Utrecht has a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average temperatures range from 34-39°F (1-4°C) in the winter and 63-70°F (17-21°C) in the summer.
7
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. A tip of 10% is standard for good service in restaurants.
8
Utrecht is in the Central European Time Zone (CET), which is UTC +1.
9
The city is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues.
10
Utrecht is a safe city, but like any other city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions.
11
Utrecht is home to the largest university in the Netherlands, Utrecht University, which contributes to the city's youthful and lively atmosphere.
12
The city is known for its unique architecture, including its iconic Dom Tower and the Rietveld Schröder House.
13
Utrecht has a rich history dating back to Roman times, and many of its historic buildings and sites are well-preserved.
14
The city is known for its canals, which are lined with cafes, shops, and historic buildings.
15
Utrecht has a diverse culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants offering everything from traditional Dutch cuisine to international dishes.
16
The city has a number of markets where you can buy fresh produce, flowers, and local products.
17
Public transportation is efficient and reliable, with a network of buses and trams that cover the city and surrounding areas.
18
Utrecht is a green city with many parks and gardens where you can relax and enjoy nature.
19
The city has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues.
20
Utrecht is a great base for exploring the rest of the Netherlands, with excellent train connections to other major cities.
Basic Dutch to know as a first time visitor
English phrase | Native phrase | Pronunciation | When to use it |
|---|---|---|---|
Hello | Hallo | Hah-lo | Greeting someone |
Goodbye | Tot ziens | Tot zeens | Leaving or saying goodbye |
Please | Alstublieft | Alst-oo-bleeft | Making a request |
Thank you | Dank je | Dank ye | Expressing gratitude |
Yes | Ja | Ya | Agreeing or affirming |
No | Nee | Nay | Disagreeing or denying |
Excuse me | Excuseer me | Ex-koo-zeer me | Getting attention or apologizing |
I'm sorry | Het spijt me | Het spayt me | Apologizing |
Do you speak English? | Spreekt u Engels? | Spreek tu Engels? | Asking if someone speaks English |
I don't understand | Ik begrijp het niet | Ik be-grayp het neet | When you don't understand what was said |
Where is...? | Waar is...? | Vaar is...? | Asking for directions |
Bathroom | Badkamer | Bad-kamer | Looking for a bathroom |
Help | Help | Help | In need of assistance |
Food | Eten | Et-en | Looking for a place to eat |
Water | Water | Vah-ter | Asking for water |
Beer | Bier | Beer | Ordering a beer |
Wine | Wijn | Vine | Ordering wine |
Check, please | Rekening, alstublieft | Re-ken-ing, alst-oo-bleeft | Asking for the bill |
How much does it cost? | Hoeveel kost het? | Hoo-veel kost het? | Asking the price of something |
Good night | Goedenacht | Goo-den-acht | Saying goodnight |
Packing List
Clothing
Underwear
Socks
T-shirts
Pants/Jeans
Comfortable walking shoes
Sweater or jacket
Pajamas
Rain jacket or umbrella
Scarf, gloves and hat (if in winter)
Toiletries
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditioner
Body wash or soap
Deodorant
Razor and shaving cream
Makeup and makeup remover
Hairbrush or comb
Prescription medications
First aid kit
Travel documents and essentials
Passport/ID
Flight tickets
Hotel booking confirmation
Travel insurance documents
Credit and debit cards
Cash in local currency
Maps and guidebooks
Emergency contacts and addresses
Electronics and gadgets
Smartphone and charger
Headphones
Camera and charger
Power bank
Travel adapter
Laptop and charger (if necessary)
Miscellaneous items
Snacks
Water bottle
Books or e-reader for the flight
Travel pillow and blanket
Earplugs and eye mask
Reusable shopping bag
Hand sanitizer and face masks
Weather Conditions
Utrecht, Netherlands is known for its temperate maritime climate, which means it experiences mild summers and cool winters. The weather can be quite unpredictable, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip. In the summer months (June to August), temperatures typically range from 50°F (10°C) to 70°F (21°C). It's the perfect time for outdoor activities like biking or exploring the city's beautiful canals. However, rain is quite common during this period, so don't forget to pack a raincoat or umbrella. During the fall (September to November), temperatures can drop to between 40°F (4°C) and 60°F (15°C). The city is particularly beautiful during this time as the leaves change color, but again, rain is a possibility, so be prepared. Winter (December to February) in Utrecht can be quite cold, with temperatures ranging from 30°F (-1°C) to 40°F (4°C). Snow is not uncommon, and can add a magical touch to the city's medieval architecture. If you're visiting during this time, be sure to pack warm clothing, including a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat. Spring (March to May) sees temperatures between 40°F (4°C) and 60°F (15°C). This is a great time to visit if you want to see the city's parks and gardens in bloom. As with other seasons, rain is a possibility, so pack accordingly. Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to bring layers, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. And remember, the weather can change quickly, so be sure to check the forecast regularly during your stay. Enjoy your visit to Utrecht!
| Month | Hi / Lo (°C) | Weather Overview |
|---|---|---|
January | 6° / 0° | January is the coldest month in Utrecht, with temperatures often dropping to freezing. It's a quiet time for tourism, but you can enjoy indoor attractions like museums and cafes. |
February | 7° / 0° | February is still quite cold, but the days start to get a bit longer. It's a good time to visit if you prefer less crowded attractions. |
March | 10° / 2° | March sees the start of spring, with temperatures slowly rising. The city begins to bloom, making it a beautiful time for sightseeing. |
April | 14° / 4° | April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures. The tulip fields around Utrecht are in full bloom, offering a spectacular sight. |
May | 18° / 8° | May is a great time to visit Utrecht, with warm temperatures and long days. The city's parks and gardens are particularly beautiful. |
June | 21° / 11° | June is the start of summer, with plenty of sunshine and warm temperatures. It's a great time for outdoor activities and festivals. |
July | 23° / 13° | July is the warmest month in Utrecht, perfect for enjoying the city's outdoor cafes and parks. The city is lively with summer events and festivals. |
August | 23° / 13° | August is another warm month, with plenty of sunshine. It's a great time to explore the city's canals and historic sites. |
September | 20° / 10° | September marks the start of autumn, with temperatures starting to cool. The city's parks and gardens are beautiful with autumn colors. |
October | 15° / 7° | October is a cool month with shorter days. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions. |
November | 10° / 4° | November is quite cold and often rainy. It's a quiet time for tourism, but you can enjoy the city's indoor attractions. |
December | 7° / 2° | December is a festive month in Utrecht, despite the cold temperatures. The city is beautifully decorated for Christmas, making it a magical time to visit. |
Did you know?
Places near by Utrecht, Netherlands
Keukenhof
One of the world's largest flower gardens, also known as the Garden of Europe.
Zaanse Schans
A neighborhood in the Dutch town of Zaandam, near Amsterdam, noted for its collection of well-preserved historic windmills and houses.
Rijksmuseum
A Dutch national museum dedicated to arts and history in Amsterdam.
Van Gogh Museum
An art museum dedicated to the works of Vincent van Gogh and his contemporaries in Amsterdam.
Anne Frank House
A writer's house and biographical museum dedicated to Jewish wartime diarist Anne Frank.
Efteling
A fantasy-themed amusement park in Kaatsheuvel in the Netherlands.
Delta Works
A series of construction projects in the southwest of the Netherlands to protect a large area of land around the Rhine-Meuse-Scheldt delta from the sea.
Kinderdijk
A village in the Netherlands, belonging to the municipality of Molenlanden, in the province South Holland, about 15 km east of Rotterdam. Kinderdijk is situated in a polder in the Alblasserwaard at the confluence of the Lek and Noord rivers.
Royal Delft
The last remaining earthenware factory from the 17th century. Here the renowned Delft Blue is still entirely hand painted according to centuries-old tradition.
Madurodam
A miniature park and tourist attraction in the Scheveningen district of The Hague in the Netherlands. It is home to a range of 1:25 scale model replicas of famous Dutch landmarks, historical cities and large developments.
