Utrecht is one the oldest and fourth largest cities of the Netherlands. This quaint and quirky medieval city has an extensive network of canals. The lower level of these canals had numerous warehouses which have now been converted into stores and even homes. The city has numerous brilliant museums. It also has many high end retail stores and wonderful restaurants. To discover more about the interesting things you can do in this city, read on.
Here Are 5 Interesting Things To Do In Utrecht:
1. Visit De Haar Castle:
De Haar Castle, one of the finest European historic houses, is situated near Haarzuilens, in Utrecht. The castle is a short half hour drive from Amsterdam, the capital city of Netherlands. De Haar Castle, with its towers, ramparts, gates, moats and drawbridge, is a stunning architectural marvel. A tour of the interiors of this castle allows visitors to glean more about its storied history. A visit to De Haar Castle is incomplete without taking a stroll through its beautifully landscaped grounds. Visitors should also pay a visit to the beautiful church which is located close to the castle.
2. Tour Museum Speelklok:
Museum Speelklok, undoubtedly, is one of the largest museums dedicated to musical instruments in the world. This museum is located in the heart of Utrecht. This museum has one of the largest collections of self-playing (automatically playing) musical instruments. Museum Speelklok showcases barrel organs, music boxes and pianolas. Upon entering this museum, one enters a tunnel of melodious music ,which emanates from centuries old musical instruments, still in perfect working condition.
Some of the noteworthy exhibits of this museum include the 8th century ‘Violina’ and the well-known street organ ‘Arabier’. The museum expedition allows visitors to learn about the stories behind the inception of a particular musical instrument, understand the technical craftsmanship which has shaped the particular instrument, and enjoy the mellifluous music it produces. Tourists can also visit the Restoration Center, which is open to public viewing on the first Wednesday of every month.
3. Be Captivated By The Ethereal Beauty Of Utretcht University Botanic Gardens:
Utretch University Botanic Gardens which is situated in Fort Hoofddijk ,is considered a unique national treasure. The inception of this beautiful garden dates back to the 19th century. The garden is spread over 38 hectares. The Utrecht University Botanic Gardens has six different gardens, each with its own unique characteristics. The Rock Garden, Evolution Garden, Discovery Garden, Tropical Greenhouses, Birders Den and Bee Hotel, has a special theme which is showcased brilliantly. The gardens are open to the public from 1st of March to the 1st of December annually. Another unique aspect of this garden is that it transforms magically with the seasons.
4. Spend Some Quiet Time At St. Martin’s Cathedral:
St. Martins Cathedral or Dom Church is well known for its dramatic Gothic architecture. This church is dedicated to Saint Martin of Tours. The construction of this church commenced in 1254. However, the actual construction work was carried out between 1284 and 1520. The St. Martens Cathedral is located adjacent to the Cathedral Tower. The 367 feet high tower of this church can be seem from miles around. The interior of this church is as dramatic as its exterior. Some of the noteworthy architectural elements of this church include the 32 meter high vault, the brilliant stained glass windows and the numerous sculptures which adorn the walls.
5. Tour Centraal Museum:
Enter the portal to the world of art, history and culture which is unique to this region by touring the Centraal Museum. This museum is the oldest municipal museum in the Netherlands. The museum was founded in 1838. Some of the noteworthy exhibits at the museum include illustrations by Dick Bruna, painting by old masters and designs created by Gerrit Rietveld. The museum is open to the general public between Tuesday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
