If you're looking for somewhere with all the benefits of Amsterdam without the disadvantages, this is the 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 need.
Utrecht is a great place to shop with a mixture of old and new, bargain finds and designer labels. Prices are apx 25% cheaper than the UK. Stores such as 'Dept' offer styles similar to Gap/Banana Republic at a much better price.
If you're a culture vulture, pop in to the VVV (tourist information) and ask for one of the walking guides for Utrecht. This ensures you see all the best buildings and takes you away from the busy centre. Don't miss a visit to the Domtoren (Dom Tower). This imposing structure is the highest church tower in the country with (only) 465 steps to the most spectacular view of Utrecht.
Hungry? For some of the best Indonesian food in the Netherlands (and perhaps Europe) head for Djakarta (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 to push the boat out - track down Restaurant het Grachtenhuys - a meal not to be forgotten.
The selection of cafes and bars are endless. Cafe le Journal (on Neude), the three bars beneath the Dom Tower (their names escape me) and Ouaden (the spectacular old brewery on Oudegracht) are just some of the great locations where you should find yourself on a warm summer's night. Sit outside, people watch, see the world rush by and patiently wait for your chilled beer or cup of coffee to arrive.
If you're here for a while, hire yourself a bike and go explore the countryside too. With some of the best road systems for cyclists I've ever seen and not a hill in sight, its the perfect opportunity to get out on two wheels. Even in the centre of Utrecht, bikes take precedence over cars (wahey!) and so you can afford to feel safe.
There is a fantastic pancake house called Rhinaijwen (sp?) by a river and a small forest just to the west of the city. It is well worth cycling here (or catching a bus or taxi) and just enjoying the surrounding area and some very tasty pancakes.
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Advantages: Excellent activities, good accommodation, not too pricey Disadvantages: Range of food outlets could be better, lighting by signs could be improved
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