Canoeing through the canals or relaxing by the Singel? Rent a holiday home in Utrecht!

In and around the city of Utrecht, there are countless charming places and sights that easily fill your itinerary for a weekend getaway! There’s certainly no shortage of history. The Domplein still tells the story of the storm that separated the cathedral from its tower, and along the Singel you'll discover remains of Castle Vredenburg. Castle De Haar, however—the largest castle in the Netherlands—has been gloriously preserved. A true Utrecht icon is the Oudegracht, exuding authentic charm with its wharf cellars and quays. Are you looking for a holiday destination in the Netherlands that combines a historic city with exciting canoe trips? Then get ready to book a holiday home in Utrecht after reading this blog!

Holiday home Utrecht: Go canoeing through the city & surroundings

If there's one activity that truly belongs to Utrecht, it’s canoeing! Rent a canoe from Kanoverhuur Utrecht or De Rijnstroom and paddle along the city’s characteristic wharfs toward the Amelisweerd Estate. Along the way, you’ll pass several mooring spots, such as Theehuis Rhijnouwen—a pancake restaurant with a spacious terrace right on the water of the Kromme Rijn. Tip: several marked walking trails begin here, ranging from 1 to 5 kilometers. The shortest is the Theehuis Walk, which leads you past oak and beech trees along the Kromme Rijn. After your stroll, hop back in your canoe for a gentle downstream return to your starting point.

Dom Church and DOMunder Museum

The Dom Tower is, of course, Utrecht’s iconic landmark. But Domplein itself is also fascinating, offering a slice of history that’s unique in the Netherlands. The square, as we know it today, was shaped by a storm that destroyed much of the cathedral's nave. What remains is still impressive. Step into the silence of the church or explore the tranquil gardens surrounding it. If you're up for it, you can also climb the tower with a guide. Did you know there’s also a special attraction underneath the tower? At DOMunder, you’ll learn all about Utrecht in Roman and Medieval times—and the devastating storm that changed the city forever.

Visit the Botanical Gardens and Butterfly House

Prefer some quiet in a different kind of garden? Visit Utrecht University’s Botanical Gardens and admire the tropical butterflies in the butterfly house. Spread across 10 hectares, the gardens showcase an incredible variety of exotic plant species. A must-see if you're looking for an interesting outing from your holiday home in Utrecht! While you're there, consider visiting the University Museum as well. If you have a museum pass, admission is free.

Castle De Haar: the top tip for your holiday home in Utrecht!

Did you know the largest castle in the Netherlands is just outside Utrecht? That alone is a great reason for a weekend in the area! Stroll through the large park or dive into Castle De Haar’s history with a guided tour. Children will love this fairytale setting, complete with treasure hunts, a maze, and a deer park. Tip: rent a bike from one of the nearby stations, like Maarssen or Vleuten, and cycle to the castle grounds. Need a break to soak up the historic atmosphere? Stop by Restaurant Laverie, located on the leafy Stalplein!

Singel and the Museum Catharijneconvent

While the Oudegracht buzzes with lively cafés and people-watching, the Singel offers peace and green spaces—perfect for boating or a picnic. Along the Singel, you’ll also find remnants of Castle Vredenburg, and just a stone's throw from the Dom, near the Maliesingel, lies a beautiful former monastery that now houses the Museum Catharijneconvent. This museum features a rich collection of religious art, including Rembrandt masterpieces and ancient manuscripts.

Discover the best foodie spots in Utrecht

Utrecht is full of great spots where you can enjoy coffee, lunch, or dinner along the canals or in a city park. Unique are the wharf cellars—originally used for storage—where goods were once delivered directly by boat. Today, many of these cellars house cozy restaurants where you can enjoy a warm and historical ambiance by the water, especially on sunny days.

Landhuis in de Stad and Urban Beach SOIA

There are also some fantastic food and drink spots outside the city center. For instance, enjoy lunch at Landhuis in de Stad, located in Park Oog in Al—a lovely riverside location surrounded by greenery. Did you know the park also features a sunbathing lawn, terrace, and beach area? This urban beach, known as SOIA, is a favorite hangout for Utrecht locals! Another lovely green spot near the city is Wilhelminapark, large enough for a refreshing walk and home to a charming café with views of the pond and fountains.

Rent a holiday home in Utrecht

Authentic and charming! Those words truly describe the city of Utrecht. On sunny days, the Oudegracht buzzes with life, and the proud Dom Tower completes the picturesque skyline. But Utrecht offers so much more! From picnics by the Singel and religious art at the Catharijneconvent to canoeing on the Kromme Rijn and pancakes at Theehuis Rhijnouwen. Utrecht is a city full of delightful variety for young and old alike! Want to pair a scenic walk with the Netherlands’ largest castle? Book a holiday home in Utrecht and step into the fairytale world of Castle De Haar!