If you are every lucky enough to visit the historic city of Utrecht, you will be stepping into a city which has been a focal point for religion for over 1,200 years. For this reason, and due to the fact that it is so centrally located, Utrecht is renowned throughout the country for a variety of cultural events and scenic attractions. Below are some interesting Utrecht things to do.

The Dom Tower of Utrecht

No visit to the city of Utrecht would be complete without a visit to the Dom Tower, which is the tallest of its kind in the Netherlands. The Cathedral which lies next to it was also once the largest of its kind in the country, making this an ideal location for those interested in ancient Christianity or those who admire Gothic architecture. This can also be an excellent way to see more of the Netherlands, as the view from the top of the tower allows you to see for miles around. On a clear day, it is said that visitors can even see Amsterdam.

The Waterways of Utrecht

Utrecht, like Venice, has its own network of canals. This is perfect for any romantic couple, as for only eight Euros (about six USD), you can hire your own gondola and enjoy a one-hour cruise while the Gondolieri explains landmarks to you. Not only is this an ideal way of learning more about the city, but there are also many bars and restaurants serving traditional and modern cuisine along the canal banks. One particular place which is popular with tourists is the Skiersgaard Restaurant, which serves traditional Dutch meals as well as hamburgers (in case you or your children want a taste of home).

Museums

Once you have visited the Dom Tower, if you want to learn more about the history of the Netherlands, you can do so in one of Utrecht’s museums. The Centraal Museum, as it is called, is the oldest in the city, and is easily reachable by bus. The museum also provides audio guides in several European languages, including English, explaining its exhibits.

The Utrecht Archives

If you have Dutch ancestors, then a visit to the Utrecht archives might be rewarding. The archives contain a complete catalogue of census data dating back to the early nineteenth century. You can also buy beautiful postcards here to send to your family. The Archives are located in a former prison, where it is possible to see reproductions of the cells where people were jailed.