Things to do in Utrecht for self travelers

Experience the uniqueness of fascinating Utrecht by exploring the city centre. Admire the amazing former headquarters of the Dutch Railways, commonly called De Inktpot ("The Inkwell") for its unusual shape reminding an old-fashioned inkwell with a cap. Gaze at the beautiful 5 star Grand Hotel Karel V. In 1350, the crusaders of the Teutonic Knights had their headquarters here. Later, in 1546, the Emperor Charles V stayed at this place during his visit to Utrecht. Wander at lovely Ledig Erf, the city square where various bars, a cinema, and a statue of the native Utrecht singer, Herman Berkien are situated. Marvel at Bruntenhof where Frederick Brunt lived, a wealthy man who wanted to help the poor Catholic citizens. So, he built 15 houses for the poor on his land — you will have a chance to see 11 of them situated on the street. Have a chance to look at the breathtaking Academy Building, a gift from the people to the University of Utrecht for its 250-year existence. Find out the famous university's motto written on the front wall. Explore the Pandhof the hidden green courtyard of which hosts a beautiful old monastery. Listen to its rich and fascinating history. Discover Utrecht with a help of this extensive self-guided audio-tour!

Explore the Museum Quarter of Utrecht with this compelling in-app audio your created by a local! You’ll start from Mariaplaats – a square where the past and modern elements intertwine. Passing by the Conservatorium, the country’s oldest musical educational institute, you will see the unusual artwork called Lof der Keramiek – poetry reflected in ceramics. During this tour, you will learn about Ingmar Heytze, the city poet who celebrates Utrecht in his verses. Farther on the way, you will marvel at the impressive building and the French garden of the Grand Hotel Karel V, which keeps secrets behind its walls. If you feel like it, hang out with the locals in café DeRat and check out its selection of signature beers and exclusive whiskey. Then, get prepared to meet the restless poet on Oudegracht, the street along the canal housing vintage shops and galleries. The poet left a riddle that will be solved if you follow the Letters of Utrecht engraved in stone on the sidewalk. The third – and last – poem awaits you on the hidden church that used to be a brewery a long time ago. Talking about religion: the route will also take you to the Catholic Cathedral that had belonged to the Protestant Church for three centuries. Once you pass by the former Court Hall, you will step on the buzzing Dom Square. Our tour ends here but don’t worry – you won’t get lost, as the Dom Tower located on this square is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands and the true symbol of Utrecht.

Embark on an audio odyssey exploring the iconic city of Utrecht, tailored for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts. This in-app audio tour invites travelers to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Utrecht's past, from the whispers of ancient beguines to the wisdom of storied scholars. Starting at the vibrant Hoog Catharijne shopping mall, participants will meander through the labyrinth of lanes and canals, concluding at the stately Janskerkhof 2, now a part of the prestigious University of Utrecht. Along the route, guests will traverse the storied northern quarters, witness the lofty ambitions of centuries-old buildings, and encounter the legendary good folk of Utrecht. The expedition affords a sensorial experience of the city's architectural splendor and layered history, including a wartime bunker, historical sculptures, and poetic marvels etched onto the city's very walls. Most memorable will be the encounters with the silent sentinels of history - the stately St. Jacob's Church, the charming Begijnehof neighborhood, and the illustrious City Bioscoop. Each site offers a unique narrative, seamlessly woven into the fabric of today's bustling cityscape, ensuring a journey that not only educates but resonates long after the audio stops.

One of Europe's most beautiful zoos, Diergaarde Blijdorp Rotterdam Zoo is a naturalistic oasis where you can see creatures from around the world. Red pandas, tigers, elephants, sea lions, silverback gorillas, and more call this place home. This conservation-minded zoo will have you feeling like you've undertaken an expedition – and you won't even need to leave Rotterdam!

Have a great day out at the Museum for Old Crafts and Toys! Older generations will get to reminisce about the good old days, while youngsters might recognize objects from visiting their grandparents. There’s no doubt you’ll run into things you used to play with! Kids will get to have some good old fashioned fun without a smartphone or Playstation, and find out how past generations had fun before electricity, TV and the internet. The museum also offers plenty of fun scavenger hunts through the past for kids young and old! There’s an indoor activity room for fun and games, and outside you’ll find an area packed with old Dutch games!

The World Museum in Rotterdam houses over 83,000 objects, collected since the 19th century, reflecting the city's cultural diversity. Each item tells a human story, touching on universal themes like celebration, grief, spirituality, affection, and conflict, emphasizing our shared humanity. Committed to reflecting Rotterdam's multicultural character, the museum offers contemporary programs, uniting global citizens. Since 2023, it has joined forces with other museums under the National Museum of World Cultures, enhancing its mission to promote global understanding.

Get your ticket, and get going: Rotterdam is waiting for you! Hop on and off at your leisure in Rotterdam with a one-day unlimited travel card. This card works on all metro, trams, and buses run by RET except for the Night Bus. Your one-day ticket starts working the moment you first use it and it keeps going till 4:00 AM the next morning. It's a good way to see the city and get from place to place.

In a country that's technically underwater, navigating the sea is a pretty big deal. Rotterdam's Maritime Museum brings the port city's seafaring past, present, and future to life. As well as engaging hands-on exhibitions, the museum features an open-air museumharbour, where you can see some of history's greatest ships, then climb aboard for yourself!