U4 ⌂ 57 km (35 miles) SE of Amsterdam £ Hoog Catharijne n Domplein 9; www.visit-utrecht.com
In Utrecht’s city centre medieval churches and monasteries stand alongside modern blocks and a vast undercover shopping complex. The Oudegracht (old canal), lined with broad quays, cellar bars and cafés, threads its way through the city.
Beyond The Centre Must See
Construction of the cathedral began in 1254. Today, only the north and south transepts, two chapels and the choir remain, along with the 15th-century cloisters and a chapterhouse (1495), which is now part of the university.
Outside the church is a giant boulder, dated 980 and covered with runic symbols. It was presented to Utrecht by the Danish people in 1936, to commemorate Denmark’s early conversion to Christianity by missionaries from Utrecht.
The soaring 112-m- (367-ft-) high Domtoren has always stood apart from the cathedral.
The beautiful former convent of St Catherine (1562) is now home to a fascinating museum dealing with the often-troubled history of religion in the Netherlands.
On the upper floors, a series of model church interiors highlights the changes in religious philosophies through the ages. They range from the lavish statues and paintings in a Catholic church to the more austere, unadorned interiors typical of Protestant churches.
This magical place displays a collection of mechanical musical instruments, from the 18th century to the present day. Fairground organs compete with music boxes, clocks, carillons, pianolas and automated birds. These instruments are demonstrated on guided tours, during which visitors are encouraged to sing and dance along. The restoration of instruments can be observed in the workshop.
Beyond The Centre Must See
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Eat Meneer Smakers Bright and friendly canal-side restaurant serving artisan burgers. ⌂ Nobelstraat 143 ∑ smakers.nl ¡¡¡ |
t A child hugging a Miffy mascot at the Nijntje Museum
The headquarters of the Dutch railways is based in Utrecht, so it is fitting that the town has a superb railway museum.
Inside, there are modern rail accessories. Outside, visitors can explore steam engines, carriages, trams and signal boxes in five railway “worlds”, each with its own theme.
Using costumed actors, the museum’s “Dream Journeys” experience recreates a journey on the legendary Orient Express from Paris to Constantinople. It summons up the glamour and romance of the golden age of steam.
Reserve your ticket online for the always popular Nijntje Museum. It is dedicated to the most famous nijntje (little rabbit) in the Netherlands – Miffy – and her creator, Dick Bruna (1927–2017).
Inside, younger kids can explore ten themed rooms inspired by characters from Bruna’s many picture books, listen to story readings, or join a creative workshop. It’s a playful learning experience that avoids being either too twee or commercialized.