The Hidden Treasures of Utrecht

Situated in the heart of Holland, only half an hour from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, this friendly city boasts many cultural and historical highlights. Whilst being the birthplace of the only Dutch Pope, it is one of the oldest cities in Holland and you can find art, artefacts and monuments which are centuries old.

The canals and quaysides enjoy worldwide fame because of its gondola and also because no other city has pedestrian quaysides let alone, romantic 14th century sunken ones. Utrecht is also renowned for its museums ranging from Christian art to street organs. Furthermore Utrecht is host to many vibrant cultural festivals and innovative events.

Museums
Utrecht has some great and unique museums. Their collections range from old and new coins to old-fashioned candy, from Aboriginal art to beautiful trains, from religious objects to live-sized musical boxes. For example visit the dick bruna house to learn all about the life of miffy and many more of dick bruna’s characters.

Or the Catherijne Convent museum which is housed in a medieval monastery and holds famous artwork, ancient manuscripts, alter pieces, relics and statues. If you prefer contemporary art, the Central Museum is the place to be. Of course this is only the tip of the iceberg of fabulous museums Utrecht has on offer. You can find most of these museums in the Museum Quarter of the city centre.

Monuments
Utrecht is one of the oldest cities in Holland dating back to the Romans. Luckily many treasures have withstood the test of time. The ultimate symbol of the city of Utrecht is its 112-meter-high Dom Tower. Climb the 465 steps and enjoy the magnificent views over the city! For outstanding architectural beauty visit the ‘Paushuis’ which was the Papal residence of Adrian VI, the only Dutch Pope ever, who originated from Utrecht. For a great example of modern 20th century architecture, visit the Rietveld-Schroder House. Dutch architect Gerrit Rietveld designed the world famous monument of 20th-century architecture in 1924. In 2000 UNESCO added it to its World Heritage List.

Canals
Utrecht owes its lively character partly to the city’s beautiful canals. The canals in Utrecht are unique. No other city in Holland has quaysides directly located on the water. Enjoy a delicious meal in one of the restaurants in the quayside cellars or view the city from a canal boat, canoe, rowing boat or water bike. You can also try something a bit different and find some Italian romance on the canals of Utrecht. Enjoy the view with a glass of Prosecco in hand as the gondolier takes you through one of the most beautiful canal cities in Holland.

Festivals
Every year Utrecht is bustling with cultural festivals and surprising, innovative and pioneering events. The international Springdance Festival brings innovative dance and theatre producers from all over the world to Utrecht. Enjoy theatre, visual arts and new music at Festival on the Wharf.

See a lively panorama of theatre, dance, music, art, entertainment and curiosity at The Parade. The Holland Festival of Old Music presents music from the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, Baroque and Classical eras at historical locations such as castles, sanctuaries, chapels and a single concert hall. You can definitely not miss Utrecht Uitfeest, which is the opening of the cultural season with brilliant performances, exciting events and a great atmosphere!

For more information visit www.holland.com.