Utrecht University has a strong connection to the city of Utrecht. The city’s rich history began about twenty centuries ago. In 47 A.D. the Romans built a fortress as part of reinforcements along the Rhine where the gothic Cathedral square (Domplein), built in the 14th century and with the highest church tower in the Netherlands, is situated today. In the 7th century, when the English missionary Willibrord set himself up in that old fort, a town began to develop. Utrecht then started to grow into an important city with considerable ecclesiastical power. Many traces of these buildings can be seen throughout the city. The city has an impressive history, many medieval and picturesque buildings as well as beautiful canals with unique wharves and wharf cellars. The main building at the center of the Domplein is the building, where since 1636 Utrecht University was located, and in which the Peace of Utrecht was signed in 1713.

A selection of Utrecht attractions

Dom Tower

The Dom tower, over 600 years old and the highest medieval tower in the Netherlands, is naturally the symbol of Utrecht. At 112 metres, it soars above the Cathedral square, and high above the city. When the 465 steps are climbed accompanied by a tour guide, the effort is rewarded by a fantastic view over the city.

DOMunder

Discover 2,000 years of Dutch history in an exciting underground expedition through impressive archaeological remains. From the castellum Trajectum, an ancient Roman fortification, to the religious complex that made Utrecht an influential seat of power in the Middle Ages. Journey back through time as you navigate the immense pillar foundations of the gothic Dom Church (also known as St. Martin’s Cathedral). Relive the devastating storm of 1674, and experience the archaeologist’s fascination with uncovering the past, layer by layer.

Centraal Museum

The Centraal Museum was created in 1838 and is thus the oldest municipal museum in the Netherlands, which becomes apparent upon entering: this is a true labyrinth! Mainly accommodated in a former medieval monastery, it consists of a number of buildings around a large courtyard. Wander through the numerous passages and stairwells and be surprised by the varied collection of old, modern and applied art as well as fashion and city history collections.

Rietveld

Visit the Rietveld Schröderhuis. Constructed in 1924 by furniture maker and architect Gerrit Rietveld, this is the only building that was ever realised according to the architectonic principles of the ‘De Stijl’ artistic trend. Utrecht is internationally known as the city where furniture maker and architect Gerrit Rietveld (1888-1964) lived and worked all his life.

Trajectum Lumen

An exploratory expedition in the dark which takes in artistically highlighted locations in the magnificent Utrecht city centre. From the centrally located Vredenburg, a light trail in the ground leads to works of art by renowned light artists who bring to life the present and past of the city.

Utrecht from the water

The outdoor cafés at the wharf, intriguing consoles and the beautiful canalside houses all invite you to explore the canals. An exploratory expedition by tour boat, pedal boat, canoe or motorboat.

Dick Bruna huis

There is just one Utrecht creation more famous than the Rietveld chair: Miffy, the little rabbit Dick Bruna created in 1955. The dick bruna huis is a museum for the young and old and has Dick Bruna’s work permanently on display.

Utrecht Science Park & Modern Architecture

The buildings in the Utrecht Science Park reflect the development in building styles over the last 50 years: from the huge concrete Kruyt building to the modern David de Wied building. The park includes several architecturally striking buildings like the Educatorium (Architects OMA, Rem Koolhaas with Christophe Cornubert) and the university library (Architects Wiel Arets & Associates).

Utrecht University Botanic Gardens

The Utrecht University Botanic Gardens are the green heart of the Utrecht Science Park. It is the largest academic botanic garden in the Netherlands with a size of 100,000 m2. A visit will give you a fresh perspective on the world. Among more than 10,000 plant species from all over the world, you will discover something new every day!

For more information, see https://www.discover-utrecht.com/.