Utrecht

Utrecht is one of the Netherlands’ most exciting cities, and its story stretches back almost 2,000 years to when Roman soldiers built a fort on the banks of the Rhine. That ancient history is still part of everyday life here, woven into the streets, the buildings, and the atmosphere of a city that feels both wonderfully old and buzzing with energy. Towering above everything is the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the whole country, daring you to climb its hundreds of steps for a view that will take your breath away.

What really makes Utrecht unforgettable is its canals. Most cities have canals you look down at from the street, but Utrecht is different. Its waterways have a lower level, where cafes and shops are built right into the wharf walls beside the water. It is like discovering a secret city hiding just beneath your feet, and that sense of surprise and discovery is exactly what makes Utrecht so magical.

Utrecht Puzzle Set

City illustration + map puzzle, shipped to your door.

Available in 110, 252, 520 and 1,014 pcs

From $44.99

Shop puzzle set

Quick fact

Utrecht is one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, founded by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago as a fort along the Rhine river.

Fun fact

Utrecht's canal wharves are built at two levels — so there are hidden restaurants and cafés tucked beneath the street right at water level, almost like an underground city!

Landmarks

Dom Tower

At 112 metres tall, the Dom Tower is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, and you can climb its 465 steps for a breathtaking view of the city.

Utrecht Canal Wharves

Utrecht's unique two-level canals have cosy shops and restaurants built right into the wharf walls, so you can eat your lunch right beside the water.

Rietveld Schröder House

This colourful little house, painted in red, blue, and yellow, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and looks exactly like one of Mondrian's famous grid paintings come to life.

Sonnenborgh Observatory and Museum

Sonnenborgh is a historic observatory built on old city walls where children can learn about the stars, planets, and the scientists who studied the sky from this very spot.