Travel to Utrecht

Travel to Utrecht

The cosmopolitan city of Utrecht is the fourth largest city in the Netherlands, and itis a popular holiday destinationfor many European and international travellers. Its unique canals and quaysides, great nightlife, shops, sidewalk cafs, museums and other places of interest are guaranteed to make a visit to Utrecht unforgettable.

Transportation to Utrecht

Schiphol Airport at Amsterdam, about a 40-minute drive from Utrecht, is the closest airport to the city. The airport is well-equiped and handles hundreds of international flights each day and many thousands of travellers each year. It is easy for passengers to get from the airport to the city centre of Utrecht via bus, taxi, train or car, with car hire available at the airport.

Many highways and motorways lead to Utrecht from many parts of Europe, making it very convenient to drive here. The roads are in good condition, with easy to read signs. International trains and buses commute from many major European cities and either dock at Utrecht or Amsterdam. Transport connections with Amsterdam are excellent.

Transportation within Utrecht is excellent, as the city is well connected to other Dutch cities and towns. The bus and train services are very convenient and usually run on schedule. Taxis are all metered, safe and easy to hail.

What to see

Utrecht has something for everyone and visitors here will not be at a loss for places to visit. There are many old buildings including the Dom and its tower, and the Almhouses. Churches, ancient castles, a modern house and several interesting museums are all open to tourists. The quayside canals are one of the most popular tourist attractions. These canals are bordered by beautiful old homes, trendy shops and restaurants.

Daytrips

The surrounding areas of Utrecht are very beautiful, with quaint villages, medieval castles and a village hidden by forests. The landscape is very pleasant, with lots of green hills, shady trees and, in summer, beautiful wild flowers.

Activities and leisure

During the summer, walking, hiking, mountain and road biking, horseback riding and playing golf are popular tourist activities. Going for a boat ride on the canals is very pleasant and a nice way of seeing the city.

There are numerous water sports available just a short drive away at Loosdrechtse Plassen including sailing and swimming. During winter, ice skating, skiing and horse carriage rides are extremely popular.

Safety issues

Utrecht is a relatively safe place to visit. Tourists need not be overly worried about getting mugged or attacked while walking around the city at night; however, like any other tourist destination, travellers do occasionally have their wallets pick-pocketed and their belongings snatched. These incidents are quite rare and can be avoided with a little sensible precautionary action.