Utrecht Experience

Utrecht

Advantages: transport, language ease
Disadvantages: the rain

Utrecht was the first city I visited as a lone traveller from England. I was worried about many things; getting the transfers from the airport, finding the hotel and above all I spoke not a scrap of Dutch. Stepping off the plane at Schipol - the airport in Amsterdam- I was greeted by easy to follow signs pointing me where I needed to be, to collect my luggage, then booths to buy train tickets, which I'd managed in under 2 minutes, and was quickly ...
...which on arriving at the Utrecht station, was announed in English and had signs a plenty. I stayed in the NH Utrecht Hotel, which although maybe a bit pricey for a tourist (I was on buisness so didn't worry too much) would be a thoroughly recommended place (apart from the price of their internet connection!) as they have the best breakfast buffet you can immagine! Anyway, in and around the city: It was easy to navigate quickly away from the central ...

mysticninja 03.08.2008 · Read full review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: helpful
Review of Utrecht (Netherlands)

Forget Amsterdam

Advantages: All the benefits of Amsterdam but cheaper and more relaxed
Disadvantages: Maybe not as 'full on' but still a great place to stay!

...that just 45 minutes away, Utrecht has just as much to offer the traveler without being overrun by tourists and pickpockets. With its winding streets, historical buildings and endless canals, Utrecht has a lot to offer the aesthete as well as the party animal. The Domkerk (a cathedral dating back to the 1400s that also has the tallest bell tower in the country - you can see Amsterdam from the top on a clear day), the 'Nationaal Museum van Speelklok ...
...all worth a look. Utrecht also has its fair share of eateries, pubs, clubs and of course, hash cafes and sex shops, so no matter what your taste you're bound to find something to keep you interested. To be honest, the only reason I originally came to Utrecht was because I was too late in booking accommodation in Amsterdam during the Queen's Day festival. However I'm very glad I did. The Queen's Day celebrations were at least as good in Utrecht itself, ...

gennymutant 10.05.2001 · Read full review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful
Review of Utrecht (Netherlands)

This is where its at

Advantages: Far from the Amster-madding crowd
Disadvantages: None

...place for you. Utrecht is one of the fastest growing cities in Europe but still retains an oasis of tranquility compared to Amsterdam which is only half an hour's train ride away. Head away from the Hoog Catharijne, (one of the largest shopping centre in Europe - and possibly the ugliest), which connects to the railway station and discover the hundreds of shops, bars and restaurants along the canals and sidestreets - these will cater to your every ...
...(on Lucasbolwerk) - I've visited Utrecht a dozen times and never missed a trip here! On this same road (Lucasbolwerk) is a new hostel designed at all age groups where you can crash down in relative comfort from about £12 per night. Other good restaurants include Luden (on Janskerkhof), Broers (next door to Luden) and Opus (near the Dom Tower) fantastic international cuisine, great wine and beers in beautiful surroundings. If you're really looking ...

Natalie 27.07.2000 · Read full review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: very helpful
Review of Utrecht (Netherlands)

Utrecht, pleasant city

Advantages: Big shopping centre, Great city centre
Disadvantages: none

Utrecht is situated in the centre of the Netherlands. If you want to visit Utrecht, you best travel there by train. From the trein you walk directy in one of the largest shopping centres of the Netherlands : “Hoog Catharijne”. You will find many many shops there from various genres. Ofcourse many clothing shops, but also electronics, music, food etc. If you leave the shopping centre you will enter the city centre. This is one of the most pleasant ...

jthesing 13.07.2000 · Read full review
Ciao members have rated this review on average: somewhat helpful
Review of Utrecht (Netherlands)