Tranquility defines Utrecht's atmosphere, a sentiment echoed by locals, travelers, and city dwellers alike. With its vibrant, appealing, and sustainable urban environment, Utrecht offers a picturesque setting defined by its canals, green spaces, bicycle paths, and authentic architecture.
As a compact and accessible city, I had the opportunity to immerse myself fully in its local life during a week-long stay in August. While my husband attended classes at Utrecht University, I explored the city at my own pace, spending leisurely days discovering its charms. We spent evenings strolling along the canals, shopping and enjoying cafe culture. My best experiences were going to the swimming pool with a friend I recently met, touring the historic streets of Utrecht by "horse carriage" cinema experience at Het Utrecht Archief museum, and walking in the rain without a chaos.
Before Amsterdam took the spotlight as the Netherlands' famous city, Utrecht held the status of the country's most important city for years. However, it now stands as the fourth largest in the Netherlands. Its central location provides a significant transportation advantage, easily accessible from other cities and neighboring countries. Despite being half an hour away from Amsterdam, Utrecht is home to a sizable population, many of whom commute to work in Amsterdam. Therefore, during the day, the city becomes tranquil, providing ample opportunities for exploration.
Describing Utrecht as a smaller version of Amsterdam is a major misconception. It differs from Amsterdam's international cityscape. Positioned at the heart of the Netherlands, Utrecht offers a genuine Dutch urban experience. The only similarity may lie in the presence of canals, which is a distinctive features of all Dutch cities.
One outstanding feature that sets Utrecht apart globally is its renowned wharves and wharf cellars. Initially designated for goods storage during the medieval era, these wharf cellars now house restaurants, cafes, shops, and studios. Accessible from canal-level, they offer an exceptional outdoor setting to enjoy. Extending along the canals, they form a unique urban space unparalleled elsewhere in the world. Stairways facilitate movement from canal level to street level, providing restaurants with water-facing patios both above and below ground.
Secret
garden in Domkerk - cloister garden
Experience the serenity and tranquility amidst the silence. The beautiful inner courtyard stands as a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city center. The Dom Kerk church, situated in the most popular square, is a must-visit destination. Climbing to the top and enjoying the panoramic view of the city is a typical tourist activity in Utrecht. However, one of the most enchanting and hidden gems is the courtyard of the church. Originally a medieval monastery garden dating back to the 15th century, it boasts arcades, parterres, a neo-gothic gate, fountain, and sculptures. This serene garden serves as a sincerely tranquil retreat for those seeking solitude; it's a place where many visitors genuinely choose to enjoy their lunch amidst the peaceful ambiance.
A tearoom run by middle-aged ladies attracts customers of a similar age group. While its decor is modest, the captivating view from the large windows overlooking the serene garden is all one needs. It offers a priceless experience for those seeking tranquility, accompanied by a cup of coffee or tea and a slice of cake.
Reading, writing, or just being alone, and enjoying the silence creates a wonderfully peaceful experience.
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