Utrecht: Boat Trips

Hotels Restaurants Cafs Nightlife Sightseeing Events Maps
utRECHt
Spring 2012
In Your Pocket: a cheeky, wellwritten series of guidebooks. The New York Times
Boat trips
The best way to see the city is from the water
Dom Square
The most ancient part of the city beckons
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Contents
E S S E N T I A L C I TY G U I D E S
Contents
Foreword
A few words from the editor 4 5 6 8 10
Utrechts Oudegracht, or old canal, and its UNESCO protected wharf cellars give the city its distinctive character. Discover them all from the comfort of a boat on p.42. Photo courtesy of Schuttevaer
Arriving in Utrecht
How to get to your hotel
Basics
Getting to grips with Utrecht
History
The citys past on two pages
Culture & Events

Concerts, galleries and events
Where to Stay 16 Beds for backpackers and business executives Restaurants 22 The Dutch have much more to offer than cheese Cafs
Classic cafs for high tea, coffee and cake 30 32 38
What to See
Museums, churches and other sights
40
Getting Around 47 Planes, trains and automobiles (and bikes, too!) Directory
Shopping Sports & Leisure Football: FC Utrecht Health & Lifestyle Utrecht for kids 48 50 51 52 53 5 9 13 23 25 31 38 42 44 54 55 56 57 58
Nightlife
Bars, pubs, clubs and cafs
High times in Holland

How to smoke legally and responsibly
List of Small Features

Message from the Mayor Treaty of Utrecht Utrecht: Capital of Culture? Dutch tap water Trajectum Lumen Oracle Caf Embracing the haze Boat trips Dom Square
Maps & Index

Like every medieval town, Utrecht has its fair share of squares. But theres only one that really matters: the Dom Cathedral Square. Read about his amazing 112.34m-high monument and its surrounding square on p.44.
Hotel, restaurant and nightlife index Utrecht centre map Utrecht city map Greater Utrecht area map Netherlands map
Spring 2012
Foreword
In our humble opinion, Utrecht is the Netherlands most charming city. Anyone who disagrees has probably never been to this vibrant student town. With no less than a millennium of history, Utrecht is proud of its age-old traditions. Hollands fourth largest city is the kind of town you can visit at any time of the year. If youre a fan of incredible architecture, then Utrechts churches and ancient sunken wharf cellars will be a real treat. Of course, visiting a city isnt just about seeing all of the sights and with this guide in your hand youll be able to get to know the real Utrecht, which you can thoroughly explore in a few days. More intrepid travellers can take not of our Out of town section to find natural and architectural wonders just outside the city limits. And although Dutch politicians are grumbling about the economic collapse of the Western World and using this as an excuse to make even more budget cuts, especially to cultural life, you can rest assured that there are plenty of concerts, festivals and other special events scheduled in Utrecht this year. The writing staff at Utrecht In Your Pocket have also been busy creating new reviews of restaurants, cafs, clubs and shops for this spring edition. Completely revised and updated, youll find everything you need to know tucked inside the following 60 pages. Whatever your plans, youre bound to have a fantastic time in Utrecht, a Dutch candidate city to become European Capital of Culture in 2018.
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Newsstand
I went to the Dutch city of Utrecht a few weeks ago, and struggled to find any good information on it - until I came across In Your Pocket. The website has detailed, carefully researched guides that cover dozens of often offbeat European destinations. The Daily Mail, August 24, 2011
Cover story
Utrechts Oudegracht, or old canal, is reason enough to visit this vibrant city, which is why we decided to put it on the cover of our latest edition of our city guide. If youre curious about the elderly lady on the sign, she happens to represent one of the best places in town to try authentic Dutch cuisine Tantes Bistro (Aunts Bistro).
It was a busy 2011 for In Your Pocket, with new guides published in Bulgaria (Veliko Turnovo), Netherlands (Amsterdam, Tilburg, Utrecht and Sittard-Geleen), in Austria (Vienna), in Croatia (ibenik), in Switzerland (Zurich) and in Belarus (Minsk); 2012 promises to deliver many more new Pockets, including our first guides in Italy. The number of cities we cover has now climbed past 75, and the number of In Your Pocket guides published each year is approaching an amazing five million. To keep up to date, like In Your Pocket on Facebook (facebook.com/inyourpocket) or follow us on Twitter (twitter.com/inyourpocket). You can also now follow our tips on Foursquare (foursquare.com/inyourpocket).
Copyright notice
Text and photos copyright In Your Pocket Netherlands 2010 - 2012. Maps copyright cartographer. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, except brief extracts for the purpose of review, without written permission from the publisher and copyright owner. The brand name In Your Pocket is used under license from UAB In Your Pocket: Vokieciu 10-15, Vilnius, Lithuania.
E S S E N T I A L C I TY G U I D E S
In Your Pocket Netherlands Weikesstraat 21 5335 LE Alem Netherlands tel. (+31) 653 79 91 46 utrecht@inyourpocket.com utrecht.inyourpocket.com www.inyourpocket.com ISSN 2210-545X In Your Pocket Netherlands Printed by Microdot in the EU Published four times per year 60,000 copies annually
Editorial Editorial team Theo Leerintveld (theo.leerintveld@inyourpocket.com) & Martins Zaprauskis Contributors Polina Burashnikova & Sasja van Deenen Research T. Leerintveld & Lies Heessels Layout & Design Martins Zaprauskis Photos T. Leerintveld, Toerisme Utrecht, Ilse Ouwens and Lya Cattel unless otherwise noted. Cover photo Theo Leerintveld Sales & Circulation Advertising Ardi Lock (ardi.lock@ inyourpocket.com) Circulation T. Leerintveld & Ardi Lock
Editors note
The editorial content of In Your Pocket guides is independent from paid-for advertising. Sponsored listings are clearly marked as such. We welcome all readers comments and suggestions. We have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information at the time of going to press and assume no responsibility for changes and errors.
Utrecht In Your Pocket
arriving in utrecht
As a trade centre, Utrecht has always been well connected with the rest of the world. The inner city of Utrecht is small enough to be tackled on foot. For longer distances, there are plenty of city buses. Travel within the city using buses and trams is efficient, fast and relatively cheap. We dont recommend driving in the city centre, especially not near or in Old Town, because almost every street is a one-way and cyclists whoosh past from all directions making it a nerve-racking experience. Fortunately there are parking garages around the edges of the centre.
Message from the Mayor

You are on the verge of buying this guide - or you bought it already. So you must be - like myself - a lover of cities. No holiday trip is complete without a visit to one of the many, many beautiful cities in the neighbourhood or without a reliable and practical travel guide about that city. What could I as mayor of the city tell you, by way of introduction? Give you an overview of the citys interesting history and architecture, an overview of the main tourist attractions of Utrecht or the addresses of the best, the cheapest, or most characteristic hotels? No, because you will find all this in the following pages of this guide. What I myself would like to read is, for example, that the medieval heart of our city is a place of human proportions, a place to feel - as the excellent Utrecht designer and architect Gerrit Rietveld put it - like a cat in a basket. In our beautiful churches and museums - of course. But also in our downtown pubs and restaurants. Along our characteristic canal wharves - yes. But also in our many small and colourful shops and markets. Glancing through this little book, I more and more feel like taking a week off myself. Aleid Wolfsen Mayor of Utrecht
By bus
The rear side of the train station is the arriving and departure point for international buses to various destinations. Eurolines travels to more than 35 European countries and over 200 cities.
By car
Driving to Utrecht can be a difficult task and be quite costly. Parking costs a hefty 4.10/hour and its hard to find a parking spot in or near the old town. Dont park without paying unless you want to pay a huge fine. If your coming from out of town, parking at one of the four Park and Ride places is your best option. If youre determined to drive into the Old Town then look for a parking garage. There are no less than 15 in Utrecht and 12 of those are located in and around the centre. The rates vary from 2 - 3/hour. You can find them easily by following the blue signs, which will also tell you how many free spaces are available. Parkeergarage Paardenveld, within walking distance of the Hoog Catharijne shopping mall, is probably your best option. Its not only open 24hrs, it also offers competitive rates and 384 parking places.
By plane
If you arrive at Schiphol you can easily take the train to Utrecht. When you leave the arrivals hall, follow the signs to the train station. The trains in the direction of Utrecht leave from platforms 1, 2 or 3 and leave every 15 minutes. The trip takes about half an hour and costs about 8. From Eindhoven Airport you take the bus to Eindhoven train station, after which you can travel onward by train. This trip takes about 90 minutes and costs about 14, after which youll be strolling on the Oudegracht within 5 minutes. Adventurous travellers can also choose to fly to one of the German airports. The Cologne S-Bahn will take you to Cologne central train station, after which the ICE will take you straight to Utrecht. Buses and shuttle buses from Weeze to various destinations in Germany and the Netherlands are available outside to the right.
By train
The station area is undergoing a facelift with the ultimate goal to combine the station with the old city centre. Inconvenience has been limited as much as possible but cant be avoided completely. International and domestic trains arrive here very often. Utrecht has no less than five train stations: Utrecht Central and the suburban stations Lunetten, Overvecht, Zuilen and Terwijde. Theres not much to experience at the smaller stations, which is why most tourists arrive at Utrecht Central. If you get off at the central station there are two exits: the rear exit leads to the De Jaarbeurs events hall and the front exit leads to the city centre. If you follow the signs for Hoog Catharijne youll walk in the direction of the centre. The tracks run underneath the central hall. If you take the stairs up youll find various kiosks, book shops, a music shop, a Starbucks and a chemist. Food is available at the mini-supermarket AH to-go, or you can grab a snack from the Burger King or one of the other fast food places. The large, blue departure signs are a good place to agree to meet someone in the busy hall. You can buy tickets during office hours at the NS Tickets & Servicedesk at number 12. Although there are 5 desks with staff, expect long waiting times. Also you can buy a ticket automatically from one of the many yellow machines, but only with coins or with a Dutch bank card. Because of the central location of Utrecht, trains go almost anywhere. Four times per hour there are direct trains to Amsterdam (25 minutes, 6.70), Schiphol (30 minutes, 7.70), Rotterdam (40 minutes, 9.10), The Hague (40 minutes, 9.70), Arnhem (35 minutes, 9.40), Nijmegen (55 minutes, 12.10), s-Hertogenbosch (30 minutes, 8.00), Eindhoven (50 minutes, 12.60) and Maastricht (1 hour and 55 minutes, 22.20).
Tourist information
VVV Utrecht B-2, Domplein 9, tel. (+31) 900 12
87 32, info@vvvutrecht.nl, www.visit-utrecht.com. The centrally located Utrecht Tourist Office (underneath the Dom) is well equipped with brochures, entertainment schedules, plenty of maps and informative booklets and boasts a friendly, informative and knowledgeable staff. Lots of gifts and souvenirs can also be found here and its the starting point for many city walking tours and guided excursions, not to mention a distribution point for this guide. They can help with car rental and reserve accommodation and their website is one of the best in the tourism industry in the Netherlands. QOpen 10:00 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. TJAU
Spring 2012
Basics
Read on and find out why the Dutch allow people to smoke joints, but not to operate a bicycle while intoxicated. Plenty of other funny facts about the Netherlands are available here.
Market values
McDonalds Big Mac 3.25 $4.30 2.72 Loaf of white bread 0.55 $0.73 0.46 Snickers bar 0.75 $0.99 0.63 0.7L of vodka 7.99 $10.57 6.70 0.5L bottle of local beer 0.54 $0.71 0.45 20 Marlboros 4.80 $6.35 4.02 Public transport ticket 1.60 $2.12 1.34 Cinema ticket 9.00 $11.91 7.55 1l of petrol 1.55 $2.05 1.30 Exchange rates (as of 08.03.2012) US$1 - 0.76, 1 - 1.19, 100 - 0.93, AUD$1 - 0.80
Alcohol
Utrecht is famous for its many cafs and restaurants so youre never far from a glass of wine or a pint of beer. Heineken, Amstel and Bavaria are the three most popular beers on offer at most places in the inner city. Other tasty brews include Grolsch, Hertog Jan and the Belgian Jupiler. Beer is served everywhere, especially Belgian brews, but you must be able to prove that youre at least 16 years old (to drink beer or wine) or 18 for spirits. If you look too young youll be carded, so always bring identification. This holds true for supermarkets and off-licences, too. If youre a little too tipsy youll probably be asked (firmly, yet kindly) to leave the premises and if you dont cooperate you could end up spending a night sobering up in a police drunk tank, most likely followed by a decent hangover
Habits
No, the Dutch do not wear clogs en masse, and not everybody cultivates tulips, makes cheese or works in a windmill. That the Dutch are busybodies has been known for centuries. In the Dutch Golden Age, the Dutch East India Company spread its tentacles across the world and this trading spirit is still a part of the local mentality. The largest part of the population works in financial services or retail trade. Bargaining when you buy something in a shop or at a market is not customary and you can expect surprised expressions from shop staff if you do. The Dutch are generally friendly, but they may strike you as reserved. When people meet each other, they shake hands; friends kiss each other three times on the cheek: left, right, left. Dutch men are not too attentive, although they may remember to hand you your coat and let ladies go first.
Cycling
Being one of the smaller countries in the world and as flat as a pancake, makes this country attractive for cyclists. Add to that an unbelievable amount of criss-crossed cycle paths, and you know why the Dutch love cycling so much. Although cycling in the bigger cities can be - thanks to lots of trafficequal to a premature death certificate, we recommend that you cycle as much as possible. Yes, even in the rain. It seems like all foreigners stop simultaneously when there is only a few drops falling from the sky. So, if youre up before happy hour and feel like doing something healthy for your body for a change, rent a bike and discover Utrecht.
Health & Safety

Utrecht is a relatively safe city for both residents and tourists, but you should watch out for pickpockets and shady street traders. Obviously, dont leave your belongings unattended and use common sense. It might make you more comfortable to know that the old town is full of fake birds which are in fact video cameras watching everyone. If youve lost (or found) something visit www.utrecht.nl/verlorenofgevonden where you can register these items. You can pick up found items with a valid ID at Depot Gevonden Voorwerpen at Kanaalweg 50 (open Tue 13:00 - 17:00, Thu 13:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 14:00).
Drugs
It comes as no surprise that in many places in the Netherlands youre allowed to buy and smoke marijuana and other soft drugs. And you may have also heard that dealing or possessing hard drugs is forbidden. You can be arrested for it and punishments are no laughing matter. Soft drugs are sold exclusively at so-called coffeeshops so dont buy them on the streets. These products are often not inspected and may be adulterated with unknown rubbish. Stay wise and limit yourself to the coffeeshops and get high responsibly.
Emergency numbers
In case of an emergency, call 112. This number will connect you to the emergency centre that will put you through to the local police, ambulance or fire department.
Language
Dutch is an Indo-European Germanic language that is mostly spoken in the Netherlands, Flanders and Suriname (South America). It is closely connected to the Low German dialects which by now have largely been flooded by official German. These dialects managed to keep a number of proto-Germanic characteristics and for this reason Dutch as a language is a living fossil. It represents a group of important dialects that were spoken by the founders of the Frankish Empire and the Saxons. The latter group were the founders of the English language as it is spoken today, hence Anglo-Saxons. Afrikaans, as it is spoken in South Africa, is descended from the 17th-century version of modern Dutch. To the dismay of language purists, many English words have been integrated into Dutch. Moreover, many youth are responsible for a shift in the language. Most Dutch have a more than fairly healthy command of the English language. Many will also be adept at other European languages with German being the most commonly spoken. Mastering the Dutch language can be a terrifying ordeal, but learning a few key phrases will make things easier and may even win you friends and admirers.
Student in search of inspiration
Basics Basics
Money
Since 2002, a large part of the European Union has adopted the euro as its local currency and the Netherlands is no exception. One euro contains 100 eurocents. There are coins of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 eurocents, and also of 1 and 2 euro. Banknotes are available with the following values: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500. Although a collection of 200 and 500 bills in your wallet might make you feel like Bill Gates, or better yet Steve Jobs, bear in mind that theyre almost never accepted in shops or restaurants. You can exchange and withdraw money at most large banks; there are plenty in the centre of Utrecht. All Dutch banks accept Visa and MasterCard at their cash dispensers. At the train station (Stationshal 11) you can find a GWK Travelex shop (open 08:00 - 20:00, Sat 08:00 - 19:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00).
Phones
All In Your Pocket guides list country codes before all telephone numbers. The Dutch country code is (+31), but you only have to use this if youre dialling from abroad. If youre already in the Netherlands just ignore the (+31) prefix, dial 0 and then the nine-digit number. Modern transport by the canal
Smoking
Until recently, smoking was very common in the Netherlands. Since the introduction of the ban on smoking in public places on 1 July 2008, smoking has become a lot less common. This is partially because the government started a huge campaign to make people aware of the effects of smoking on their health. Nowadays you can have a wild night out and come home without your hair and your clothes reeking of cigarette smoke. For some this is an enormous benefit, and others (read: smokers) find it a pain, and banish themselves to the many smokers rooms in the country. Moreover, thanks to unclear rules you may suddenly find yourself in a pub where there are people smoking. This is usually in pubs with just a single staff member: the boss. Or you may find yourself in a pub that flouts the ban on smoking. This will not have any consequences for you: if you light a cigarette in a pub and the manager tolerates this, then the manager will receive a fine upon inspection. The Netherlands is of course also known for its wafts of marijuana. For more information see Drugs.
Roads
For a country as small as the Netherlands, there are a ridiculously high number of asphalt roads and motorways. Despite the excellent state of Dutch roads (and cars - it is compulsory in the Netherlands that your car is checked for faults at least once every two years) traffic quite frequently jams at a large number of bottlenecks. This is not very strange if you consider that there are, on average, two vehicles per household. And there are 7 million households! The majority of Dutch drivers never break the speed limit, and considering the severity of traffic fines, this seems wise enough. Driving through a red light? This will cost you 160. Driving too fast within city limits? Be prepared to pay 180! And as soon as you exceed the maximum speed by 50km/h youll lose your driving licence and be fined. Just a few rules: within city limits you must drive 50km/h, outside city limits 80 and on motorways 100 or 120 (check the road signs!). In the Netherlands you must drive on the right side of the road, and you are not allowed to cycle on motorways! You dont want to know how many tourists are plucked off the road by police each year, happily pedalling to their next destination.
Tipping
Tipping, if deserved, is up to the diner, with 10 per cent or a rounding up of the bill both being acceptable.
National holidays
January 1 April 6, 2012 April 8 - 9, 2012 April 30 May 1 May 4 New Years Day (Nieuwjaarsdag) Good Friday (Goede Vrijdag) Easter (Pasen) Queens Day (Koninginnedag) Labour Day (Dag van de Arbeid) Remembrance of the Dead (Nationale Herdenking) May 5 Liberation Day (Dag van de Vrijheid) May 9 Mothers Day (Moederdag) May 13 Ascension Day (Hemelvaartsdag) May 23 - 24 Whitsun (Pinksteren) June 20 Fathers Day (Vaderdag) June 26 Veterans Day (Veteranendag) September 21 Budget Day (Prinsjesdag) December 5 St. Nicolas (Sinterklaas) December 25 - 26 Christmas (Kerstmis) December 31 New Years Eve (Oudejaarsdag)
Visas
In the Netherlands, the rules and regulations for visitors from abroad are contained in the Aliens Law. Whether a prospective visitor requires a visa depends on his nationality and how long he intends to stay in the Netherlands. Nationals of many countries require a visa for an uninterrupted stay of up to three months. Countries whose nationals do not require a visa for a stay of three months or less include: Andorra, Argentina, Austria, Australia, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Canada, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, El Salvador, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany (Federal Republic), Greece, Guatemala, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Vatican City and Venezuela. For an overview of all regulations visit www.learn4good.com/ travel/nl_regulations.
Spring 2012
history
From the rampaging Vikings to Hitlers Nazis, beautiful Utrechts history has been turbulent to say the least.
47 AD - Castellum Traiectum
Around the start of the Common Era, the Romans expand their empire to the Rhine delta and the areas along the Elbe. In the year 47 AD, Roman emperor Claudius decides that the River Rhine is to become the northern border of the empire. The border, also called Limes, is protected with fortresses. At a fordable place along the Rhine they build the Castellum Traiectum, which will later become Utrecht.
Oudegracht
1122 - Holy Roman Emperor Henry V grants Utrecht a charter

In 1122, Holy Roman Emperor Henry V visits Utrecht to confer with nobles and clergymen. A few days after Whitsunday, fatal clashes arise between the emperors guards and the servants of Bishop Godebald of Utrecht. Henry imprisons Godebald and lets Utrechts inhabitants take an oath of loyalty. In exchange he grants the city a charter.
695 AD - Willibrord arrives in Utrecht

In 695 the Anglo-Saxon missionary Willibrord settles in Utrecht. Here he helps build a stone church which he dedicates to St. Martin and founds a second church, the St. Salvator. Willibrord, who had been initiated as Bishop of the Frisians by Pope Sergius I, now tries to convert Frisians while in Utrecht. As a cathedral city Utrecht later grew to be the most important ecclesiastical centre of the northern Netherlands.
1254 - Building of the Dom Church

In 1253 the Romanesque Dom Church was heavily damaged by a large town fire. The Dom chapter chooses not to renovate and instead decides to build a new Gothic cathedral. In 1254 Bishop Hendrik van Vianden placed the first stone of the new Dom Church. Construction is subsidised by, amongst other sources, Pope Clements granted indulgences. After the choir, the tower and the transept are built a lack of funds brings building to a halt. The Dom is finally completed in 1520.
857 AD - Vikings attack Utrecht

In 857 AD Vikings reach Utrecht during a typical pillaging journey. During their attack they destroy the towns gates and walls, and they kill civilians and clergymen at the bishops court. The bishop himself narrowly escapes death by fleeing to the protection of the Frankish king Lothar. The Vikings use Utrecht as a base of operation for plundering the citys surroundings. Historic images seen here are courtesy of Utrecht Stadsarchief. 1713 map courtesy of Vrede van Utrecht
1529 - Construction of Vredenburg

After Holy Roman Emperor Charles V conquers the Utrecht bishopric in 1528, he commissions the citys inhabitants to build Vredenburg. This castle built under coercion was meant to keep the citizens of Utrecht under control, as well as to better protect the area against the Duke of Guelders. Spanish troops leave the castle in 1577 after being beleaguered by Dutch rebels. It is then destroyed by the people of Utrecht who feared the Spanish might return.
history
1579 - Union of Utrecht
On 23 January the signing of the Union of Utrecht took place in the charter hall of the Dom of Utrecht. In this treaty, which was a reaction to the Union of Atrecht, a number of towns and districts - including Holland, Zealand, Utrecht, Gent and Bruges - agree to march against the Spaniards. Moreover, the agreement settled some disputes in the fields of religion, defence and taxes; thus it can also be seen as the first version of a constitution.
1945 - Utrecht Liberation

On 2 May the news of Adolf Hitlers death is spread throughout the country and on 4 May illegal underground radio reports that the Netherlands has been liberated. Many inhabitants of Utrecht go out onto the streets, but German soldiers shoo people back inside by shooting. While the German commander refuses to acknowledge the capitulation, British and Canadian troops enter Utrecht on 7 May, where they are greeted by rejoicing crowds.
1636 - Founding of the University

While the first plans for the foundation of a university in Utrecht stem from the late 15th century, it is only in the 17th century that the city council takes action. In 1632 the city council founds an illustrious school, which is proclaimed to be an academy four years later. Theologian Voetius and lawyer Antonius Matthaeus are the first professors of the new university. In 1642 an observatory becomes part of the university, which makes Utrecht, after Leiden, the oldest university in the world with an observatory.
1973 - Opening of the Hoog Catharijne Shopping Centre

In 1962 the local council decides that the old station neighbourhood does not adhere to the needs of modern traffic and asks the company Empeo for advice. Together with the council, Empeo draws up a plan for a new, raised station square with shops, residences, offices and parking garages. After an understanding is reached with Dutch Railways (NS), construction of a new centre is begun. In 1973 Hoog Catharijne - now the oldest example of a shopping and office centre in the Netherlands - is officially opened by Princess Beatrix.
1713 - The Treaty of Utrecht

The Treaty of Utrecht was concluded on 11 April 1713 and marked a critical moment in the history of Europe and Utrecht. This brought an end to a series of devastating wars that had claimed many millions of lives over a period of two centuries. The Treaty of Utrecht is regarded as an important event that paved the way for European cooperation and conflict management a forerunner to todays European Union and United Nations.
Treaty of Utrecht
Treaty of Utrecht 2013 (Vrede van Utrecht 2013) B-2, Kromme Nieuwegracht 70, tel. (+31)
302 39 38 90, fax (+31) 302 39 38 91, info@vredevanutrecht.nl, www.vredevanutrecht2013.nl. In 2013, the 300th anniversary of the Peace Treaty of Utrecht will be celebrated in a grand way. The real festivities will only begin on 11 April 2013, but over the next few years many events will lead up to the celebrations. Utrecht is looking to top its efforts in 1713 with an incredible and unforgettable calendar of events. In case youre not an historian, the Peace Treaty of Utrecht was signed on 11 April 1713: a treaty that ended almost two centuries of war in Europe. Prior to this historic event, Utrecht functioned as host, partner and stage for an international group of dignitaries that determined Europes future. This was the first peace treaty ever to be realised solely by diplomacy and Utrecht played a large role with its incredible hospitality that lasted 18 months! Q
1807 - Palace of Louis Bonaparte
Napoleon Bonaparte comes to power in 1802 and in 1806 he appoints his brother Louis Bonaparte as king of Holland. As Louis doesnt enjoy The Hague he moves his residency to Utrecht in 1807. After the necessary houses have been purchased, palace construction begins, which Louis will later occupy in 1808. A year after that, he heads off to Amsterdam. Today the building is used as the University Library.
Spring 2012
10
Culture & events

Worldwide, the Netherlands offers the largest concentration of art and culture per square kilometer and Utrecht is the city with the largest density of cultural treasures in Holland! Its been home to great designers and artists like Gerrit Rietveld, who lived and worked in the city his entire life, as well as cartoonist and childrens author Dick Bruna.
Rock, pop, jazz & More

Mar Date Time Event Venue 21 20:15 Punk/Metal. (hed)p.e. (USA). TDH 17.50 22 20:15 Punk. Touch Amor (USA). A TDH sharp and savage mixture of anger and song structure. 12 23 23:00 Dance. Bright, Ekko's new club EK night. House, garage, funky and electro. 8 23 20:30 Maqam. Iraqi Maqam Ensemble RS ft. Farida Muhammad Ali & Hussain al -Azami (Iraq). 22 23 20:00 Burlesque. Emilie Autumn TOG (USA). Singer, violinist and poet performs her own style: victoriandustrial. 25 24 20:15 Close harmony. The Magnets VLR (UK). 29.50 24 21:00 Balkan. Orchestre International RS du Vetex followed by Club RASA Gypsy Balkan with DJ Safri. 14 25 20:30 Salsa. Union Salsa Party. 5 WS 25 20:30 Doom metal. Scott Weinrich aka DB Wino (USA). 7 28 21:00 Blues. Popa Chubby (USA). His TDH guitar playing is as impressive as his stature. Popa Chubby is the king of big city blues. 19 29 20:00 Klezmer. Mizrakh. 15 MZ 30 20:30 Traditional. Vardan Grogoryan RS Duduk Quartet and Ensemble Tirana (Albania). 19 31 20:30 Choir. Kamerkoor Decamerone EK (NL) performs old and new madrigals. 12 31 21:00 Afropop. Minyeshu. This RS singer combines Ethiopian and European music creating exciting and danceable songs. 16 April 2 20:15 Rock. Therapy? (UK). 18 3 20:45 Folk. Laura Gibson (USA). The singer/songwriter will perform an unplugged show. 10 5 20:30 Psychedelic rock. Strange Flowers (Italy) with supporting act Philistines (NL). 7.50 5 20:30 Indie. Isbells (Belgium). Melancholy, beautifully hushed accents. A church is the perfect location for this nearly sacred music! 14 6 20:45 Folk. Dark Dark Dark (USA) with supporting act Love Like Birds (Belgium). 11 7 20:15 Post-rock. 65daysofstatic (UK) with supporting act Aestrid (NL). 14 7 23:00 Disco. We All Love 80s and 90s. 15 8 23:00 Disco. 80s Verantwoord. 1980s party. 12.50 9 20:15 Singer/songwriter. Pete Murray (Australia). This bloke from down under will entertain the crowd. 30 TOG KA DB VL
Cinemas
Louis Hartlooper Complex B-5, Tolsteegbrug 1, tel. (+31) 302 32 04 52, www.hartlooper.nl. Built in a former police station, this complex shows only independent art house films, but lots of them and most are of outstanding quality. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. TJAUGBKXW Springhaver B-3, Springweg 50, tel. (+31) 302 31 37 89, fax (+31) 302 31 09 68, www.springhaver.nl. This venue has provided entertainment since 1885. Today, it boasts a theatre, a caf and a cinema. QPTJUGK t Hoogt B-2, Hoogt 4, tel. (+31) 302 32 83 88, info@ hoogt.nl, www.hoogt.nl. Not the place for Hollywood blockbusters or popcorn fights; art cinema t Hoogt is for serious cinephiles. The three red velvet theatres are spread across a number of monumental buildings. QOpen 18:30 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 13:30 - 22:00. PTJAGKW
Classical music venues

kerk.nl. Utrechts Dom Church has offered a free concert every Saturday at 15:30 since 1971. This concert series stems from a long church music tradition which can be traced back to the year 1023. Upon exiting the church, visitors are asked to leave a recommended donation of 5. QOpen Sat 15:30 - 16:30. TJEG
Dom church (Domkerk) B-2, Domplein, www.dom-
St. James Chur ch (Jacobikerk) A-1, St Jacobsstraat 171, tel. (+31) 302 31 78 62, www.jacobikerk.nl. The original Jacobikerk had its origins in the 10th century, but the current Gothic church was built in 13th century and is now a venue for classical music concerts.
laaskerkhof 9, tel. (+31) 302 31 57 34, info@nicolaikerk.nl, www.nicolaiThe young and talented kerk.nl. This church has two Dutch pianist Thomas monumental organs and an Beijer will perform works by incredible Hemony carillon in Scarlatti, Falli and Albniz its tower. Most concerts are on April 18 at Vredenburg held here on Saturday nights Leeuwenbergh by candle light. Tickets are available half an hour before scheduled concerts at the entrance of the church. Q TJULEG St. Peters Church (Pieterskerk) B-2, Pieterskerkhof 3. The Pieterskerk is one of the oldest churches in Utrecht and its currently used by a Walloon congregation. Its also occasionally a venue for concerts. St. Willibrords Church (Willibrordkerk) B-2, Minrebroederstraat 21, tel. (+31) 302 31 32 17, www. sintwillibrorduskerk.nl. Each Sunday at 14:00 a concert is held at this church. The concerts usually include organists, ensembles, choirs, music students or professional musicians. A small donation is asked to cover the costs of the concert and to support the maintenance of the building. QOpen Sun 14:00 - 15:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat. JG
St. Nicholas Church (Nicolaikerk) B-4, Nico-
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Culture & events

28 20:15 Rock. The Lemonheads (USA). 18 TOG
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La Caravane Passe will perform their Balkan beats at Ekko on June 2. Photo courtesy of La Caravane Passe

11 12 12 20:00 Klezmer/Rembetica. Amsterdam Klezmer Band (NL) and Bouzouki' Orhan (Georgia). 12 - 23 20:30 Indie. The Twilight Sad (UK). 9 20:30 Modern. Ensemble Modelo62 (NL). New music without the stifness of classical, but with the intensity of a rock band. 15 22:00 Dubreggae. Zion Train (UK). Buzzing, pulsing, pounding or even floating, this collective has bass in all shapes and sizes and isn't afraid to use it. 13 21:00 Fado. Antnio Zambujo (Portugal). 22 20:30 Rock. Motorpsycho (Norway). Be prepared to be surprised, because this band will never cease to amaze you. Everyone who has ever been to a concert by these three gifted musicians has never regretted it. 22.50 21:00 Latin. Los Chinches (UK). 14 23:00 Disco. Remember the 00s. 15 20:30 Pop. School is Cool (Belgium) and Sideditch (NL). 9 20:15 Gospel. Lizz Wright (USA). 20 20:30 Metal. Footprints in the Void (NL) with supporting acts Ortega (UK) and Cannon (UK). 7 20:30 Traditional. Journey into Sanjo II. Sanjo is the Korean version of the blues. 16 20:30 Indie/Breakbeat. Middleman (UK). 7 21:00 Balkan/Gypsy. Sndrg & Vojasa. 19 21:00 Swing. Movits! (Sweden). Believe the hype, get to know them and become an instant fan! 11 21:00 World beat. Tidziwani Bandi (Mozambique). 19 20:30 Country/Blues. Pokey Lafarge & The South City Three. 10 20:15 Pop. The Stranglers (UK). 30 20:15 Singer/Songwriter. Jaimi Faulkner (Australia). Strong songs, incredible guitar play and an engaging stage presence. 8.50 SU EK HU
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May 1 20:15 Noiserock. A Place to Bury Strangers (USA). 12.50 2 20:15 Gothic. Paradise Lost (UK). In 1991 these guys were, by coincidence, the founders of a new movement in music: gothic metal. After almost 25 years, they're still going strong. 21 4 20:15 Rockabilly. J.D. McPherson (USA). 15 6 20:15 Electro rock. The Rapture (USA). A mix of indie and punk with a nice French sauce by producer and Cassius member Phillipe Zdar. 15 10 20:30 Psychedelic rock. Royal Baths (USA). 7 11 21:00 World beat. Warsaw Village Band (Poland). 19 11 22:00 Pop. Hunx & his Punx (USA). Flamboyant gay-rocker Hunx performs bubblegum pop with a pinch of punk. 7 12 20:30 Vocal/Traditional. Trys Keturiose (Lithuania). 19 18 20:30 Reggae. Stephen Marley (Jamaica) and special guests Jo Mersa & Jasmin Karma. 25 19 20:30 Garage rock. Bass Drum of Death (USA) with supporting act Rape Blossom (Belgium). 8 20 20:15 Rock. Tim Christensen And The Damn Crystals. 14 30 18:30 Pop. Julian Thomas (NL). This talented singer/songwriter will entertain you with pop, soul and jazz during this fabulous dinner show. 42.50 30 20:30 Soul. Bernhoft (Norway). This nerdy looking multiinstrumentalist only needs one guitar and a loopstation to blow your your socks off. 9 31 20:15 Indie. I Am Oak (NL). 12
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June 2 20:30 Balkan beats. La Caravane EK Passe (France). 14 3 16:00 Traditional. Maryam Akhondy & SU Ensemble Banu (Iran). Persian women's songs. 17 3 20:15 Pop. Amatorski (Belgium). 12 TDH 4 20:30 Folk. Father John Misty (USA). EK 12.50 7 20:30 Pop. Emsemble Klang (NL) HU performs Slam, Pluck & Blow 8 21:00 Various. Lo Friday. Unknown KA and innovative artists. Singer/ songwriters, acoustic bands and experimental, electronic acts. 3 9 21:00 Pop. Abelardo Carbono y su RS Conjunto. 19 19 20:15 Rock. My Morning Jacket (USA). TOG 32.50
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Culture & events

Classical music & Opera
Mar Date Time Event Venue 22 20:00 Classical. Ysae Quartet (France). VL Works by Brahms, Faur and Schubert. 39.50 23 20:00 Classical. Tenebrae (UK). VL Medieval songs. 29.50 24 20:15 Choral music. Th Cantatrix vocal WK ensemble (NL) performs Pure Passion. One story with multiple composers and a mix of styles. 13 25 14:00 Classical. Valrie Guillorit WK (soprano) and Christine Kamp (organ) bring Missa in Simplicitata Langlais and Passion Songs by Andriessen. Free admision/donations 27 20:15 Classical. Amsterdam Baroque GK Soloists (NL). 21 28 20:15 Symphonic. Dutch Harp VL Festival: final of the composition competition. It's sometimes said that the harp is a composer's dream with unlimited possibilities. 15 30 20:15 Choral music. Monteverdi PK Kamerkoor performs works by Ferenc Liszt. 15 30 20:15 Symphonic. Radio Filharmonisch VLR Orkest (NL). Works by Messiaen, Saint-Sans, Ravel and Debussy. 33 31 23:00 Classical/Spanish. Dutch Harp VL Festival Late Night: Spanish Evening. Dutch Harp Quartet accompanied by Eric Vaarzon Morel (guitar) and Idske Bakker (harp). 15 Apr 3 19:00 Symphonic. De Nederlandse Bachvereniging (NL) performs the Matthus Passion by J.S. Bach. 45 5 20:15 Symphonic. Orkest van de Achttiende Eeuw (NL). J.S. Bach's Johannes Passion. 38 7 20:00 Classical. Nieuw Ensemble (NL) performs Paris and Vienna Impression and Expression: works by Debussy, Webern and others. 25 10 19:30 Opera. Le Nozze di Figaro performed by Nationale Reisopera (NL). 24 - 48 13 20:15 Choir. Kamerkoor Decamerone (NL) performs old and new madrigals. 12 13 20:15 Symphonic. Radio Kamer Filharmonie (NL). Works by Nielsen, Schumann and others. 33 18 20:00 Classical. Thomas Beijer (NL). This young and very talented pianist performs works by Scarlatti, Falli, Albniz and others. 22.50 VLR
Classical music & Opera

20 20:15 Choir. Capella Amsterdam (NL) PK performs A Suitcase from Berlin. An anthology of German choir literature by conductor Ralf Sochaczewsky. 23.50 20:00 Opera. Il Barbiere di Siviglia SU performed by St. Internationale Opera Producties (NL). This opera by Rossini is sung in Italian. 23 - 46 20:15 Choir. Nederlands Kamerkoor PK (NL) performs Peace and Sorrow, memories of the horrors of World War II. 23.50 20:00 Classical. Staier & Melnikov. VL Works by Bach and Shostakovich on piano and harp. 32.50 21:00 Classical. Varse Kwartet VL (France). String quartets by Beethoven and Haydn. 20 VL PK
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May 9 20:00 Classical. Tal & Groethuysen. Two pianos and works by Brahms and Tchaikovsky. 32.50 11 20:15 Choir. Collegium Musicum Amsterdam (NL) performs Lord, Save Us, We Perish! Works by De Wert and Monteverdi. 15 15 20:00 Opera. Donizetti's Lucia di Lammermoor performed by Nationale Reisopera. 24 - 48 17 20:00 Classical. Radio Kootwijk Live (NL) presents Nightshift. RKL seduces the audience and explores the night. 22.50 18 20:15 Symphonic. Radio Kamer Filharmonie (NL) and Cappella Amsterdam (NL) perform Berlin. Works by Weill, Hindemith and others. 33 20 20:00 Classical. Holland Baroque Society (NL) performing symphonies by C.P Bach. .E. 32.50 24 20:15 Choir. Nederlands Kamerkoor (NL) performs works by Carlo Gesualdo (1590) completed by Igor Stravinsky (1910). 23.50 25 20:15 Symphonic. Radio Filharmonisch Orkest (NL). Works by Jancek, Shostakovich and Dvork. 33 27 11:00 Classical. Doris Hochscheid (cello) and Frans van Ruth (piano) perform works by Faur, Chausson and Escher. 22.50 June 1 20:15 Symphonic. Radio Filharmonisch Orkest (NL) performs works by Shubert/Glanert and Mahler. 33 2 20:00 Classical. Insomnio (NL) performs Winterreise by Schubert. 25 7 20:30 Classical. Ensemble Klang (NL) with Slam, Pluck and Blow. Works by various composers. 15 16 20:15 Symphonic. Utrechtse Studenten Cantorij (NL) perfoms works by Kabalevsky, Smit and Ravel. 14
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Culture & events

Capital of Culture
Utrecht 2018 Candidate European Capital of Culture
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Exhibitions
Turf. Works by various artists. Free admission. Open 23.03 - 25.03 from 13:00 - 17:00 KL Photos. Het Hoofdboek (The Headbook). One Muslim woman and her hijabs in 100 different photos. 9. On display until 01.04. Open 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon CM Easter in image and sound. 11.50. On display until 15.04. Open 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon CC Tattoo: Who are You. Signs of civilization and identity. Tattoos of third and fourth generation Moluccans in Holland. 6.50. On display until 06.05. Open 12:00 17:00. Closed Mon MM Fortune Hunters: the Magic of Money. For thousands of years money has played an important role in our daily lives. But important things like good health, love and happiness are not for sale. Or are they? 9. On display until 06.05. Open 12:00 - 17:00 GM Men and Beasts in the Van Baaren Collection. Paintings and sculptures. 9. On display until 27.05. Open 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon CM Heart and Soul. The Laverty Collection. The most important private collection of indigenous art in Australia. 8. On display until 10.06. Open 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon AAM God Save the Queen. This exhibition covers the period from 1977 - 1984 when Dutch youth decided to break free from a dire situation of crisis, high unemployment, housing shortages and the threat of nuclear war. 9. On display until 10.06. Open 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon CM
B -2, Kromme Nie uwegracht 70, tel. (+31) 302 39 38 90, fax (+31) 302 39 38 91, info@ utrecht2018.nl, www.utrecht2018.nl. Athens had it first and Paris and Berlin have had the title since then. In fact, since 1985, 40 European cities have been European Capitals of Culture, including Amsterdam (1987) and Rotterdam (2001). Utrecht is hoping to gain the title in 2018, as the Netherlands would then be the cultural centre of Europe for a year, together with Malta. Utrecht is, however, not the only Dutch city which has applied for candidacy for this prestigious title. Maastricht, Den Haag, Leeuwarden and Brabantstad (a collaboration between Breda, Eindhoven, Helmond, s-Hertogenbosch, Tilburg and the Ommeland) have also thrown their hats in the ring. All candidate cities have to submit a detailed cultural plan called a bidbook. In August 2013 an international jury will make the final decision. Until then Utrecht will keep its fingers crossed for a positive result. Q
Concert halls
Acu B-1, Voorstraat 71, tel. (+31) 302 31 45 90, www. acu.nl. ACU hosts a wide range of activities including catering, concerts, dance nights, political information nights, poetry readings, parties and conferences. Q JEK dBs D-8, Rondom 100, tel. (+31) 302 93 82 09, www. dbstudio.nl. Watch anything from modest singer/songwriters to hellish metal, and everything in-between. For a small amount of money, you can discover bands here, before they get big, attend the monthly Club3voor12/Live and dance to, amongst others, DJ DNA. Q AEG Ekko A-1, Bemuurde Weerd WZ 3, tel. (+31) 302 31 74 57, www.ekko.nl. Local and international bands and DJs often perform at EKKO, one of the most trendsetting pop stages in the Netherlands. Its a lively and exciting place with loads of things going on: modest pop, screeching rock, booming techno and electro, the newest hip-hop, roaring Balkan Beatz and much, much more. Q PJ6EG Rasa A-1, Pauwstraat 13a, tel. (+31) 302 31 60 40, www. rasa.nl. Tickets on sale Wed - Fri 15:00 - 18:00. Q JE Tivoli De Helling F-11, Helling 7, tel. (+31) 90 02 35 84 86, info@tivoli.nl, www.tivoli.nl. Since 2003 pop stage Tivoli has ruled this annex where alternative concerts and dancing nights take place featuring dancehall, hip-hop, electro, gothic and other music genres.QOpen , Fri, Sat 23:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun. PEGX Tivoli Oudegracht B-3, Oudegracht 245, tel. (+31) 900 23 58 48 6, www.tivoli.nl. Tivoli is a centre for pop culture in the heart of Utrecht. With 305,000 visitors each year, Tivoli is one of the larger pop stages on the Dutch club circuit. It can host up to 1,000 concert-goers. Q JAEG Vredenburg Leeuwenbergh C-3, Servaasbolwerk 1A, tel. (+31) 302 31 45 44, www.vredenburg.nl. Vredenburg Leeuwenbergh specialises in unamplified chamber music, jazz and world music concerts, but theres also room for experimental music and young talent. Q JAE Vredenburg Leidsche Rijn J.C. Verthorenpad 100, tel. (+31) 302 31 45 44, www.vredenburg.nl. Largescale concerts will take place in Vredenburg Leidsche Rijn, while Vredenburg Leeuwenbergh will serve as a recital hall. Q AULEG utrecht.inyourpocket.com
God Save the Queen. Nikki Ilva & Nixe. Photo by Buffel 6 Ateliers. Six artists present their works. Free admission. On display from 12.05 - 17.06. Open 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue KL Women in the Spotlight. Focus on the role of women in the church. 11.50. On display from 31.03 - 24.06. Open 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon CC Stencil Station. Spray art by Hugo Kaagman. 14.50. On display from 21.03 - 24.06. Open 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon RM Space images II. The Sonnenborgh Observatory zooms in on the solar system. 7. On display until 01.07. Open 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon SO Coin with a Mission. 50 years of the World Nature Fund: modern art , fashion and design. 9. On display until 19.08. Open 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon CM Utrecht 3D. Meet two of Utrechts families from 1860 and 1910 and check out a 1900s living room. Learn more about stereo photography. Free admission. On display until 01.09. Open 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun, Mon HUA Heavenly Treasures. New discoveries from the special collections of the Utrecht University. 11.50. On display from 27.04 - 25.11. Open 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon CC
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Culture & events

Festivals
Mar Date Time Event Venue 23.03 Tweetakt Festival. Theatre, music and more. Visit www. 01.04 tweetakt.net for more info. Events at various locations 24 - 09:00 Flea market with 750 stalls VM 25 16:30 25 19:30 Kargakinema. Arthouse film night KA at the Kargadoor. 3 27.03 Dutch Harp Festival. Second VLR edition. Visit www.harpfestival.nl 01.04 for more information 30 19:30 Concert Night in Speelklok. Non- MCM stop live music in almost all halls and at the cafe. The colourful instruments from the museum's collection play lively music throughout the evening. 9.50 Apr 5 20:30 Intercultural Teahouse. Meet people from different countries and cultures. Live music, a dance workshop and a theme night 6-9 Disney on Ice - Worlds of Fantasy. Your favourite Disney moments come to life in this show. 24.50 - 41.50. Fore more info please check www. disneyonice.ntk.nl 7 - 8 12:45 Nostalgia Express. Take a 40 minute trip on the Rode Duivel 13:46 (Red Devil) train. Museum tickets 14.50, ticket Nostalgia Express 14:46 2.50 14 - 10:00 International Collectors' Fair 15 Utrecht. Europe's biggest vintage 17:00 collectors' fair combined with the Mega Record & CD Fair. 10.50 18 Latin American Film Festival. 27 The 8th annual with a focus on Colombia. Visit www.laff.nl for its programme 19 Springdance Festival 2012. 29 Visit www.springdance.nl for more information on artists and venues. Events at various locations 22 ArtAntique. Arts, design and 29 antiques. For more information visit www.artantique.nl 26 - 19:00 Baran Festival. Two days of 27 world jazz. Check www.rasa.nl for more information. Day tickets cost 22 29 19:30 Kargakinema. Arthouse film night at the Kargadoor. 3 30 Queen's Day. Her majesty Queen Beatrix sure knows how to throw a party with music, dance and flea markets. Everyone comes out to celebrate. Check www. koninginnedag-utrecht.nl for more information on locations and activities. Events at various locations KA
American gospel star Lizz Wright will perform at Tivoli Oudegracht on April 17
Festivals
JU May 5 13:00 Bevrijdingsfestival. On May 5th the Dutch reflect on the meaning 23:00 of freedom at liberation festivals across the Netherlands. Check www.bevrijdingsfestivalutrecht.nl for more information on artists. Free admission 10 20:30 Intercultural Teahouse. Meet people from different countries and cultures. Live music, a danceworkshop or a theme night 12 09:00 Dag van het Aangespannen Paard horse festival with 17:00 demonstrations, carriage rides and more. Organised by veterinary students of the Utrecht University 17 Festival aan de Werf. 26 Performances at various locations throughout Utrecht. Visit www.festivalaandewerf.nl for more information. Events at various locations 22 21:00 Burlesque. A genuine burlesque party with a circus twist. This will take you back to the oldschool performances of the Bump n Grind and Freak shows from the 1950s. At Burlesque Circus everyone is a V.I.P so dress . accordingly! 20 27 19:30 Kargakinema. Arthouse film night at the Kargadoor. 3 28 09:00 Flea market with 600 stalls! 16:30 June 7 20:30 Intercultural Teahouse. Meet people from different countries and cultures. Live music, a dance workshop or a theme night PT
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Culture & events

Theatres
31 53 55, www.huisaandewerf.nl. Huis en Festival a/d Werf is a production house and festival in one. The production house - Huis a/d Werf - invites artists to create performances, carry out research or work in residence and for 10 days each year, Festival a/d Werf offers a platform from which these artists can present their work. Rasa A-1, Pauwstraat 13a, tel. (+31) 302 31 60 40, www.rasa.nl. Tickets are on sale Wed - Fri 15:00 - 18:00. C-2, Lucas Bolwerk 24, tel. (+31) 302 30 20 23, www. stadsschouwburg-utrecht.nl. The City Theatre was completed in 1941 by the well-known Dutch architect Willem Dudok. Dance, ballet, music, theatre, cabaret, musicals and other concerts are held here nearly every day in two halls with a capacity for 1,000 and 255 visitors respectively. Q PTJAULEGBKX Theater Kikker B-2, GanzenThe Russel Maliphant markt 14, tel. (+31) 302 31 Company (UK) will 96 66, www.theaterkikker. perform The Rodin nl. Theatre Kikker has been Project in April entertaining Utrecht culture enthusiasts for nearly forty years. It specialises in contemporary theatre, modern dance, youth theatre and new music. Q JUEGX Vorstelijk Complex Prinses Christinalaan 1, tel. (+31) 643 16 81 77, www.vorstelijkcomplex.nl. The Vorstelijk Complex offers a theatre hall which provides space for more than 220 visitors. Q TULG
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Ballet, dance & Theatre

Mar Date Time Event 26 21:00 Dance. Conny Janssen Danst performs Meer Ruis. 11 - 21 27 - 18:30 Theatre and dinner. Interactive 31 Theatre Australia performs Faulty Towers: the Dining Experience. 52.50 Apr 1 12:30, Theatre and dinner. Interactive 18:30 Theatre Australia performs Faulty Towers: the Dining Experience. 52.50 1 15:00 Flamenco. Olga Pericet (Spain). Beautiful mix of Spanish classical dance and flamenco. 22 3, 4 21:00 Dance. Pedro Goucha Gomes (Portugal)/Korzo Producties (NL) perform Of Animals and Other Humans. Quirky dance. 15 4 20:30 Theatre. Dickens by Pip Utton (UK). 17 14 20:30 Dance. Liteside Productions (NL) presents the Shimmy Shake Show. Belly dancing and more 17, 20:30 Dance. Productiehuis Brabant 18 (NL) dances choreographer Arno Schuitemaker's (NL) The Fifteenth Project. 17 19, 20:30 Dance. Russel Maliphant 20 Company (UK) performs The Rodin Project. 18 21, 20:30 Dance. Batsheva Dance 22 Company (Israel) dances The Toxic Dissappearance Act. 18 26 19:30 Dance. Meg Stuart/Damaged Goods (Belgium/NL/US) dances Violet. 17 28 21:00 Dance. Ari Benjamin Meyers, Redux Orchestra & Tino Sehgal (DE/USA/UK) perform the world premiere of Symphony X. 17 May 6 15:00 Flamenco. Compania La Serrana performs Ida y Vuelta. 25 6, 7 20:30 Dance. LeineRoebana dances Next; LeineRoebana meets breakdance. 17 12 20:00 Indian dance. Natraj Next Level (NL). A sampling of Indian dances. Classic Bharata Natyam, Bollywood and classic Western. 11 - 21 13 15:00 Dance/Music. Tap 'n Tabla. A combination of Sandip Bhattacharya and tap dancer Peter Kuit. 16 21 20:00 Ballet. Het Nationale Ballet (NL) performs Giselle, one of the oldest surviving and still most frequently performed ballets in the world. 24 - 48 June 18 20:00 Dance. Requiem performed by Dance Company Osnabrck. 25 Venue SU SU
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Tickets
Tickets for events (music, sports, arts and theatre, family fun and festivals) are best bought at the venue itself or from TicketMaster outlets (www.ticketmaster.nl). You can buy tickets by phone or pick up reserved tickets from selected VVV Outlets, TicketShops (Plato at Voorstraat 35) and Free Record Shops at Hammerskjoldhof 73, Oude Gracht 113 and Radboutkwartier 20.
Venues
AAM CM DU GK HUA JU KL MZ MCM PK RS SG SU TK TOG VB VL VLR WK Aboriginal Art Museum CC Catharijneconvent Centraal Museum DB dBs De Uithof EK Ekko Geertekerk GM Geldmuseum Het Utrechts Archief HU Huis a/d Werf Jaarbeurs Utrecht KA Kargadoor Kunstliefde LH Louis Hartlooper Complex Merkaz MM Museum Maluku Musical Clock Museum PT Park Transwijk Pieterskerk RM Railway Museum Rasa SO Sonnenborgh Stadion Galgewaard Stadsschouwburg Utrecht Theater Kikker TDH Tivoli De Helling Tivoli Oudegracht VM Veemarkthallen Vechtsebanen VC VorstelijkComplex Vredenburg Leeuwenbergh Vredenburg Leidsche Rijn Willibrordkerk WS Winkel van Sinkel
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Spring 2012
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Where to stay
Utrecht provides plenty of places to stay the night for people of all budgets. If for some reason the hotel reviews listed here arent enough, the staff at the tourist information centre can also provide visitors with loads of accommodation options. All prices listed here include VAT and most of them offer breakfast (sometimes for a hefty extra fee). Please note that hotel prices rise and fall with the arrival and departure of conventions and events as Utrecht is home to the biggest trade fair complex in the Netherlands - Jaarbeurs.
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P Air conditioning C Swimming pool F Fitness centre 6 Pets allowed K Restaurant W Free wireless internet A Credit cards accepted H Conference facilities U Facilities for the disabled L Guarded parking D Sauna
Cream of the crop

Grand Hotel Karel V A-3, Geertebolwerk 1, tel. (+31) 302 33 75 55, fax (+31) 302 33 75 00, info@karelv. nl, www.karelv.nl. If you saw pictures of this monumental complex of buildings, youd hardly believe that this five-star hotel is located in the city centre of Utrecht. Each of the buildings two wings, both the Roman and the Napoleonic, has its own charm and previous guests such as Holy Roman Emperor Charles V never had any complaints. Grand Hotel Karel V manages to create a perfect symbiosis between historical elements of style and modern conveniences in an elegant way. The 121 rooms are spacious and equipped with everything youd expect from such a hotel. Exit the gate of this 14th century oasis and youll once again find yourself in the bustling centre of present-day Utrecht. Q 121 rooms (10 suites 199 - 358, 12 single executive 119 - 258, 2 single superior 149 - 298, 18 deluxe 154 - 298, 37 superior 169 - 318, 42 executive doubles 139 - 278). PTJHA R6UFLGBKDC hhhhh
Court Hotel City Centre Utrecht B-3, Korte Nieu-
wstraat 14, tel. (+31) 302 33 00 33, info@courthotel. nl, www.courthotel.nl. Sick of those tiny shoebox hotel rooms in Amsterdam? In the heart of Utrecht youll find the attractively renovated four-star Court Hotel. For centuries this building served as a courthouse, but now its one of the citys best design hotels. The 27 rooms are trendy with stylish interiors and all have a unique view of the old inner city. The large rooms with high-ceilings on the top floor are especially good and are highly recommended. Q27 rooms (27 doubles 99 - 200). PTJHAUB KXW hhhh
Upmarket
Apollo Hotel Utrecht City Centre A-2, Vredenburg 14, tel. (+31) 302 33 12 32, fax (+31) 302 31 21 00, Info.utrecht@apollohotelsresorts.com, www.apollohotelsresorts.com/utrecht. If youre looking for a hotel with a central location in the inner city, this four-star hotel only a stones throw from Hoog Catharijne is a good option. The spacious bathrooms, the beautiful location, the stunning views from the rooms on higher floors and the comfortable sitting corner all compensate for the lack of other amenities such as a mini-bar, a restaurant or a bar. Dont fiddle around too much with the somewhat complicated remote control or you might find an extra charge of at least 15 for pay-TV on your bill. Thats the excuse we gave our boss anyway. Q90 rooms (17 singles 79 - 219, 35 doubles 79 - 219, 4 triples 79 219, 34 suites 104 - 244). PJHARLGW hhhh Carlton President B-3, Floraweg 25 (Utrecht-Area), tel. (+31) 302 41 41 82, fax (+31) 302 41 05 42, info@ president.carlton.nl, www.carlton.nl. Carlton President offers a lot of comfort for only a relatively small amount of money. Extremely friendly service, clean rooms, comfortable beds, lots of extra amenities are all part and parcel of the experience. The terrace and the beautiful garden are extra perks for this four-star hotel located outside the city centre. The interior of a number of rooms is a bit dated, but the general atmosphere is good and the Leisure Centre with sauna, fitness room, whirlpool, solarium and Turkish bath is excellent. Q164 rooms (148 doubles 90 - 129, 16 suites 140 - 179). PTHAUFLGBKDXCW hhhh
Mitland Hotel E-3, Arinslaan 1 (Utrecht-City), tel. (+31) 302 71 58 24, fax (+31) 302 71 90 03, info@ mitland.nl, www.mitland.nl. Guests who like nature will feel right at home here. This hotel has a delightful setting in a green area by the edge of a lake teeming with water lilies and bird life. The rooms are spacious and fitted with modern conveniences and the staff is friendly and helpful. The indoor bowling alley and alcoholic drinks are, however, rather pricey. Ask for a room with a view of the forest. At a mere 250m from the hotel, you can take a cheap bus into the bustling city centre. Q 135 rooms (131 doubles 135, 1 suites 175, 3 junior suites 135). PHA6UFL GBKDCW hhhh NH Utrecht De Luxe B-4, Jaarbeursplein 24 (UtrechtCity), tel. (+31) 302 97 79 77, fax (+31) 302 97 79 99, nhutrecht@nh-hotels.com, www.nh-hotels.com. If youre on a business trip, the NH Utrecht De Luxe is probably the best choice in town. This gigantic tower block is situated right next to the central train station and straight across from the most important conference centre in the Netherlands. Each of its 276 rooms is spacious with wonderful box spring beds, clean bathrooms and modern conveniences and the 19th and 20th floors provide beautiful views of the city. Unfortunately, the design of the hallways seems rather dated and a bit oldfashioned, but the rooms are comfortable, which is, after all, the most important aspect of a hotel. Q276 rooms (272 doubles 99 - 165). PTJHAUFLGBKXW hhhh
City), tel. (+31) 302 92 52 00, fax (+31) 302 92 51 99, ppures@pphe.com, www.parkplaza.com. Light sleepers had better book a room at the front of this four-star hotel, as the rear of the building looks out over the busiest bit of railway in the Netherlands. Perhaps thats why the windows cant be opened. No matter. All 120 spacious rooms have air-conditioning. The rooms are stylish and practical, especially the executive rooms on the first and second floors and the extensive breakfast with warm rolls and lots of fresh fruit is reason enough to stay the night. Q 120 rooms. PTJHAUFL GBKDXW hhhh
Park Plaza Utrecht B-4, Westplein 50 (Utrecht-
More hotels at utrecht.inyourpocket.com

Where to stay Where to stay

Sandton Malie Hotel D-3, Maliestraat 2 (Utrecht-City), tel. (+31) 302 31 64 24, www.maliehotel.nl. Located a short distance from the city centre is the classically designed Sandton Malie Hotel. Despite the fact that the majority of its 45 rooms are somewhat small, we still highly recommend this place. Upon entering, youll immediately notice the spacious lounge and informal bar. The biggest surprise can be found on the other side of the building where the enormous city garden becomes any hotel guests favourite. Unfortunately some bathrooms are so small that the door opens against the wash basin, but the collective balcony is an ideal meeting point and a good place to have a chat with your neighbours. Q 42 rooms (42 doubles 89 - 150). PHARLG BXW hhhh
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Mid-range
87 14 00, www.bastionhotel.nl. Bastion Utrecht is a clean and affordable hotel and despite the fact that its close to the busy A12 motorway, its 80 standard rooms are completely insulated from the noise. But dont expect any flashy design elements. Bastion is popular due to its simplicity. Although the free wifi is a big bonus. Breakfast is the best part of sleeping here, with freshly baked rolls and delicious salmon. The dinner menu is somewhat limited, but offers enough to make hungry souls happy. Try the Giant Schnitzel, enough to feed a footballteam. And if you dont like the astronomical parking rates in the centre of Utrecht, you can park for free in Bastions private car park. Transferium (Park & Ride) Westraven is also around the corner and the express tram will take you to the heart of Utrecht within 10 minutes. Q80 rooms (80 doubles 90 - 160). PAFLGKXW hhh
Bastion Hotel A-12, Mauritiuslaan 1, tel. (+31) 302
Hotel Badhu F-8, Willem van Noortplein 19, tel. (+31) 302 72 04 44, www.badhu.nl. The only negative aspect of this hidden gem is that it only has eight rooms. Otherwise, the Arabic-looking Hotel Badhu is our first thought when choosing accommodation in the city. Every detail in this stylish old bathhouse dating back to 1927 has been carefully thought out and it really is a feast for the eyes. The spacious rooms each have their own colour-scheme in either silver, red, purple, white, gold, blue, brown or green. Expect genuine hospitality, especially when the staff deliver your breakfast to your room. Q 8 rooms (8 doubles 109 - 139). AGW Ibis Utrecht Bizetlaan 1, tel. (+31) 302 91 03 66, www. ibishotels.com. This completely smoke-free hotel may not be located in Utrechts best neighbourhood, but the Ibis Utrecht is still a good business hotel and a fine place to spend the night. Most of the 80 rooms are somewhat small, and sometimes a bit thin-walled, but at least theyre clean. The extensive breakfast, the helpful staff, free parking and the use of a nearby swimming pool and tennis courts are some of the hotels advantages. The beds creak a bit, so you might want to make a reservation elsewhere for your honeymoon. The historical centre is a 20-minute walk away or you could take the tram, which will bring you there in only five. Q84 rooms (84 doubles 75 - 125). PHA6ULGKW hhh
(+31) 302 31 31 69, www.nh-hotels.com. The biggest advantage of this recently renovated hotel, is its central location in the heart of the city. But bear in mind that this historic building from 1870 is surrounded by dozens of pubs and restaurants, which can be either a blessing or a curse depending on your point of view. In any case, the gorgeous beds with their multiple pillows make this three-star hotel worth a visit. Q 47 rooms (47 doubles 90 - 180). PT JALGBKXW hhh
Bed & Breakfast

55 24. The linguistic geniuses who rent out the two rooms in this monumental town house receive their guests in every language imaginable including Japanese! The bigger room at the rear of the building is our favourite, partly because of the gorgeous double bed, the balcony and the large bathroom with bathtub. The room at the front is cheaper and therefore has fewer amenities. Q2 rooms (2 doubles 85 - 110). JBW
Always Good B-4, Tolsteegsingel 33, tel. (+31) 614 55
NH Centre Utrecht Hotel B-2, Janskerkhof 10, tel.
B&B De Vossenpoort A-1, Oudegracht 40E, tel. (+31) 651 52 18 68, www.devossenpoort.nl. Anyone simply looking at the prices at this B&B will probably experience some sticker shock at first, but after visiting these stately premises it will become obvious why they have such a high price tag. YThe slightly more expensive apartment called Reynaert has a fabulous bedroom located in a 17th-century cellar whose restored walls are a sight to see. Included in the price are a large sitting room, bathroom and private patio. The first floor luxury studio has a private kitchen, sitting area, bathroom and balcony. Q 2 rooms (2 apartments 100 - 175). TJLGBW Carlas Smaak Draaiweg 97, tel. (+31) 624 43 66 32,
www.carlassmaak.nl. Owner Carla is an incredibly charming host who treats her guests with homemade biscuits and an organic breakfast. Despite the fact that the terraced house doesnt look very special from the outside, its comforts will become apparent once youre inside. The apartment stretches across the entire upper floor and consists of a spacious bedroom, a sitting corner and a modern bathroom. Q1 room (1 apartments 70 - 100). GW
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Where to stay
Chambres en Ville B-3, Zuilenstraat 10, tel. (+31) 302 36 43 73, info@chambres-en-ville.nl, www.chambres-enville.nl. Chambres-en-Ville has a French name, but it offers Dutch comfort in a calm environment. The friendly hostess, owner Ida van der Wal, presides over two luxurious rooms with new beds, fine linen, a TV, music system and comfortable sofas and chairs. The first room is located on the second floor of the building and consists of a large double bedroom with its own bathroom and a living room which includes a PC with internet. The second room is also comfortable but smaller with a double bedroom (22m2), writing desk and bathroom. Q2 rooms (2 doubles 100 - 140). JW Chez Marianne B-3, Haverstraat 10, tel. (+31) 653 39 44 77, info@chezmarianne.nl, www.chezmarianne.nl. This guesthouse is ideally situated in the Museum Quarter of the city centre. Inside this historical monument from 1644 youll find a fully furnished, recently renovated, spacious apartment. A separate guest toilet, private entrance and garden, kitchen with dishwasher and a living room with woodburning stove are all major draws. Q2 rooms (2 apartments 75). JBW Cosy Corner Laan van Nieuw Guinea 37, tel. (+31) 626 93 64 97, japrachan@ziggo.nl, members.ziggo. nl/japrachan. Many Dutch B&Bs have names that hardly do justice to the place, but the Cosy Corner is a pleasant exception. Its spacious, clean room is more reminiscent of a small apartment due to the hallway and the kitchenette. Other perks include the king-size bed and a single bed, each with good mattresses, the tasty breakfast, proper lighting, wireless internet and free parking right out front. At first glance the old working-class neighbourhood may seem a bit shabby, but you can also view it as an ideal opportunity to see how normal Dutch people live. Q1 room (1 doubles 50 - 75). TGW
tel. (+31) 302 31 56 05, info@gast-en-verblijf.nl, www. gast-en-verblijf.nl. Dales Gast-en-Verblijf is a unique B&B where you can choose from three rooms, each decorated in a different style. On the ground floor of this spacious mansion youll find an apartment with medieval plaster ceilings, old window shutters and a pine wooden floor. The studio on the second floor is a comfortable room with oak beams and a pretty view of the city. Aan de Werf is the largest apartment and it can accommodate as many as four people. Its located in the yard cellar on the old canal and boasts its own terrace on the water. Q3 rooms (1 doubles 95, 1 suites 105, 1 apartments 115). JA6BW
Gastenkamer Gaardbrug B-3, Oudegracht 186bis,
tel. (+31) 302 74 68 09, info@Gaardbrug-Utrecht.nl, www.gaardbrug-utrecht.nl. This large studio apartment is on the ground level of a building overlooking the Oudegracht and canal. Its just around the corner from the Dom Tower and a few minutes walk from the station. In other words, its got a great location and its a much better option than staying in a hotel. Its also incredibly clean, quiet and offers cooking facilities. Q (1 studio apartment 85). JW
La Perle B-4, Twijnstraat 69, tel. (+31) 243 77 35 68,
a.t.g jetten@freeler.nl, www.happytown.nl/La-PerleUtrecht/. This spacious apartment is more reminiscent of a French mansion than a Dutch inner city dwelling. The upper two floors of this monumental late 17th-century building cater to guests who enjoy a bit of luxury for a good price. A beautiful, spacious living room, a kitchen, a desk, wireless internet and a stylish bathroom with bathtub are all included in the price. Q2 rooms (2 apartments 115 - 175). JW 306 91 20 74, www.bedandbreakfast.nl/bed-andbreakfast/7392/1. The friendly and flexible owners of this historic building rent out two of its rooms. On the first floor, at the rear, youll find a luxurious double bedroom, with private bathroom and a terrace. On the same floor, but at the front, you can rent a spacious two-person apartment with two single beds. This bright room has its own kitchen and bathroom. The beautiful beds are reason alone to stay here and the heavy duvets and pillows could keep you warm and toasty through a Siberian winter. Q2 rooms (1 doubles 70, 1 apartments 85). JBW
t Singelhuis B-4, Tolsteegsingel 44, tel. (+31)
Van Haver tot Gracht B-3, Haverstraat 35, tel. (+31)
Dales Gast-en-Verblijf B-3, Lange Nieuwstraat 22,
641 73 30 68, info@vanhavertotgracht.nl, www.vanhavertotgracht.nl. Van Haver tot Gracht is an old romantic 55m2 apartment on the ground floor of this building. A two person boxspring bed, a large living area with modern amenities, a private terrace and a fully equipped kitchen are all included in the price. Q1 room (1 apartments 125). J
Villa Cornelia Bed & Breakfast MH Trompstraat 7,
tel. (+31) 650 22 27 22, jan@villacornelia.nl, www.villacornelia.nl. This B&B is housed in an attractive urban villa originally built in 1905 and is full of Art Deco design accents. Its located on a quiet street in the middle of a residential area a 15-minute walk from the city centre, yet close to nearby motorways. Villa Cornelia offers a studio of two separate elegantly furnished rooms. Digital TV and internet are also available. Q1 room (1 triples 80 - 130). TLGBXW
Den Ulch B-5, Westerkade 8, tel. (+31) 302 40 06 96, www.martschellekensdesign.nl/denulch/. Den Ulch, which is located just outside the former Tolsteegpoort, got its name from the 15th-century inn that once stood here and the current B&B continues this age-old tradition of hospitality. The stylish guest rooms are situated on the second floor and consist of two double rooms with a shared bathroom, a breakfast room and a terrace. All rooms overlook the Vaarse Rijn river and an old farm. Q2 rooms (2 doubles 50 - 60). JG Equipe Peltlaan 77, tel. (+31) 634 94 36 95. If youre looking for a simple room with outdated furniture, Equipe is the place for you. The friendly owner rents out no less than three simple, almost Spartan rooms in this terraced house. The rooms vary in price and size, but they share a lack of finery and frills. Dont expect an artsy interior or any other such embellishments. Youll sleep and sit on ordinary IKEA furniture here, but Equipe is perfect if youre looking for an affordable place to spend the night. Q3 rooms. GW Utrecht In Your Pocket
Even goddesses enjoy Utrechts parks
Where to stay
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Zara Herenweg 30, tel. (+31) 642 99 00 37. At Zara the gentle hostess ensures a friendly, Eastern atmosphere in this typical Dutch terraced house. Through the use of many stylish design elements, the two spacious rooms radiate a lot of warmth. People who arent steady on their feet or are afraid of heights should probably give this place a pass as the rooms are only accessible by two steep staircases. Newlyweds would also have a problem with the single beds. Dont worry if you hear a loud bang in the middle of the night as the toilet seats are somewhat rebellious. Q2 doubles 50 - 60. GW
De Admiraal Admiraal van Gentstraat 11, tel. (+31)
Boats
Apokalyps - In de Vecht Vechtdijk. For a unique and not too expensive experience take a 10-minute bike ride out to the River Vecht. Youll discover a cosy room and a friendly host on this houseboat with the slightly scary name of Apokalyps. A family basically offers you a room in their floating home, where you feel more like a visiting relative, than a guest at a B&B. The bathroom is clean and tidy with all manner of personal care products provided and the room is equipped with TV and an internet connection. There are also boats with prostitutes in the neighbourhood should you want to step out for a different type of hospitality in the evening. Q1 room (1 doubles 50). 6BW
30 66, info@buurboot.nl, www.buurboot.nl. You cant leave the Netherlands without having stayed on a boat at least one night. The BuurBoot is a luxurious houseboat moored in Lombok, a multicultural suburb, close to the city centre of Utrecht. Its equipped with modern amenities including a large living room, kitchen, two bedrooms with king size beds, bathroom with shower and bathtub and separate toilets. Free wi-fi and an internet computer are also available on board. Located on the water side of the Oude Rijn youll be surrounded by the sounds of silence and nature. Q2 rooms (1 triples 80 - 135, 1 apartments 150). TGBDW
302 75 85 00, fax (+31) 302 75 85 01, mail@hoteldeadmiraal.nl, www.hoteldeadmiraal.nl. First of all, De Admiraal is a very friendly place. This is chiefly because the owners live in the hotel and its as if youre staying in their home, but with the privacy and professional care you would expect from a hotel. De Admiraal has four double bedrooms and four single bedrooms. Most have en suite facilities and four of them have a private balcony with a roof overlooking the spacious and lovely secluded garden of this 19th century mansion. Q 8 rooms (4 singles 73 - 93, 4 doubles 113). PAW hh (+31) 302 71 63 03, fax (+31) 302 71 46 19, info@oorsprongpark.nl, www.oorsprongpark.nl. No less than 38 rooms are available in this simple and sober hotel. Everything is small, from the bathrooms to the halls; from the bedrooms to the lobby. Thankfully the breakfast is of a different calibre. Plenty of fresh food will give you a brisk and energetic start to your day. This place is less suitable for people who travel in a group, as there is no communal space to sit and have a chat. Q38 rooms (17 singles 75, 21 doubles 85). JA6LGW hh
Hotel Oorsprongpark F.C. Dondersstraat 12, tel.
Buurboot La Luna Biltonkade 152, tel. (+31) 307 85
Hotel reservations
Netherlands In Your Pocket has teamed up with Europes leading online hotel reservation agency, Booking.com, to offer hotel booking direct from our website. Nearly 2,000 hotels in the Netherlands are already members of Booking.com and more join every week. So now all you need to do is read through our numerous reviews online and if you like the look of a place click on the link and youll be directed straight to the venues booking page. Then you can browse through what special deals the hotel of your dreams is offering without even picking up the phone. Photos, maps and lots of other important information is also available and you can search by a variety of criteria including price, location, number of stars, rooms for singles, couples or families, etc. Head to our site netherlands.inyourpocket.com to try it out for yourself. To answer your question, yes, we do receive a commission, but this in no way affects the price of your room and the offers online are often better then the rates youll find on hotel websites.
Budget
Beurshotel E-10, Balijelaan 1, tel. (+31) 302 94 14 20, fax (+31) 302 93 99 33, info@beurshotel.nl, www. beurshotel.nl. This small, recently renovated 2-star hotel is located just outside the city centre. This means that youll have a good nights sleep, but avoid one of the noisy rooms near the road. Although the hotel offers only 10 rooms and it lacks luxurious amenities, it excels in its high level of personal service and attention. The single room is rather modest for its stellar price, but most of the other accommodation is good value for money. Some rooms share a communal shower and toilet. Q 24 rooms (6 singles 82, 14 doubles 92, 2 triples 119, 2 quads 149). A6LGBKW hh utrecht.inyourpocket.com
Spring 2012
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Where to stay
Apartment rental
D & D Shor tstay D-4, Wolder Heukelslaan 68b (Utrecht-City), tel. (+31) 302 51 11 39, www.ddshortstayutrecht.nl. This central location offers you a comfortable stay in a building situated in the Oudwijk Quarter within walking distance of Utrechts highlights. The non-smoking apartment is on the second and third floor and is suitable for couples and families up to four people. On the second floor guests will find a fully equipped furnished dining room and a modern kitchen with a veranda and the toilet and study-room are also located here. A floor higher are the bedrooms, one of which has a balcony, and a fully renovated bathroom. Wi-fi and paid parking are available. Q1 room (1 apartments 100 - 200). TJAGBW
302 31 71 00, info@havaa-apartments.com, www. havaa-apartments.com. The apartments are located on the Plompetorengracht, while its studios and penthouse are located on Korte Jansstraat in the historical centre of Utrecht. You can expect luxurious and fully-furnished apartments with doorman service, state-of-the art fitness centres and indoor private parking in a prestigious high-rise apartment building designed by renowned architect Cees Dam. Q13 rooms (13 Total rooms ). 7 apartments (studios 89, apartments 129). JAGBW
Havaa Apartments Plompetorengracht 11A, tel. (+31)
Studio Zaagmolen Zaagmolenkade 49, tel. (+31) 618 53 18 26, info@studiozaagmolen.nl, www.studiozaagmolen.nl. Studio Sawmill is a modern apartment in a residential neighbourhood close to the centre of Utrecht. Its situated on the ground floor of a house that was built in 1910. In 2008 it was completely renovated and the 65m2 apartment also includes a fully equipped kitchen, garden, veranda and a sun room. The entire apartment is furnished with Dutch Design Classics and the shower is decorated with mosaic tiles from England. Wireless internet, TV, radio, smoke sensor, alarm system and ventilation system are all included in the package. Q 1 apartment (110/night for 2 people, 750/week and 2,500/month). TJGBW
Hostels
B&B Utrecht B-2, Lucas Bolwerk 4, tel. (+31) 650 43 48 84, info@hostelutrecht.nl, www.hostelutrecht.nl. All inclusive resorts are very popular with the Dutch when they travel abroad, but Utrechts visitors can also try this concept at B&B Utrecht. Coffee or tea, breakfast, lunch and dinner are all included in the price of a bed or a room. Although the name is misleading, this place is actually a hostel. Complimentary internet and a well equipped music corner with more than 20 different kinds of musical instruments are a couple more reasons why this centrally located hostel is such a hit with the budget-minded. Q Prices from 23.50. JALBW Hostel Strowis B-1, Boothstraat 8, tel. (+31) 302 38 02 80, info@strowis.nl, www.strowis.nl. Youll discover a true backpackers oasis in this 17th-century building in the middle of the centre. Strowis has clean and spacious dormitories with bunk beds spread out across three floors, with clean showers and toilets. Private rooms are also available. Strowis is equipped with all of the amenities a budget traveller might desire including a kitchen, free lockers, wi-fi, liberal opening hours, bicycle rental for 7/day and extensive information on the city and its surroundings. Try the all-youcan-eat organic breakfast buffet for 7, after which you can relax outside with the other guests or in the large foyer which has comfy chairs, books, a computer and a bar. Outside, the inviting garden is the perfect place to enjoy an organic draught beer. You might just forget that theres still a whole city to be discovered. Reservations recommended. QOpen 08:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 08:00 - 03:00. 14-bed dorm 15.50/ person, 8-bed dorm 16.50/person, 6-bed dorm 17.50/ person, 4-bed dorm 18.50/person, doubles 60 - 70, triples 72. JAGBKW utrecht.inyourpocket.com
Camping
Fort aan de Klop J-15, 1e Polderweg 4, tel. (+31) 302 66 05 55, info@fortaandeklop.com, www.fortaandeklop.com. Time has stood still on this historical military object. Only a 15-minute bike-ride from the city centre, Fort aan de Klop offers 25 plots for tents on the earthen defensive walls of the fort, but caravans and motor homes are prohibited. Although the campsite is located within city limits, its atmosphere is rural. Fortunately, in the process of renovating the fort they still managed to preserve its historic atmosphere. The camping season begins in May and ends on 1 October. Q (6 apartments ). Camp sites 6/person, tents 6. T6IBKW
Out of town: Camping

306 56 38 96, info@campingdeboomgaard.nl, www. campingdeboomgaard.nl. The location is simply unbeatable. In the nearby town of Bunnik (8km east of Utrecht) youll find De Boomgaard, meaning The Orchard. A lake, an outdoor swimming pool and plenty of farm animals make for a relaxing day in the country. Lazy campers can even rent their own caravans on the premises and use free wi-fi on their laptops. Take a train from Utrecht to the Bunnik station and then walk 800 meters to the campground. Q Camp sites 3.50/person, tents 2, dogs 0.50. T6LBCW
De Boomgaard J-16, Parallelweg 9, Bunnik, tel. (+31)
Where to stay
Stone Hotel & Hostel C-1, Biltstraat 31, tel. (+31)
302 68 23 15, info@stonehotel.nl, www.stonehotel. nl. This hotel/hostel combination opened just recently. On the first floor are two clean dormitory rooms available for 19.50/bed. Toilet and showers are located in the rooms. One floor higher are some proper hotel rooms from 65. Breakfast will set you back another 7.50. A big bonus is the free internet and theres is cable TV in the room. There are two cheap parking garages (12/ day) nearby and the train station is only a 10-minute walk away. Q 15 rooms (15 Total rooms ). Rooms (20 - 100). TJHA6LGW
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Out of town: Hostels

14, Bunnik, tel. (+31) 306 56 12 77, fax (+31) 306 57 10 65, bunnik@stayokay.com, www.stayokay.com. If you want to enjoy a beautiful patch of nature, give Stayokay Bunnik a try. 139 beds are available in three centuries-old buildings dating from 1830 only 5km away from the city. The surrounding woods are perfect for hours of wandering or you can rent a canoe and glide across the picturesque Kromme Rijn river. Naturally, its also the perfect setting for cycling and theres no danger of running into anything other than a cow or maybe a deer. Until 1 March the hostel is only open at the weekend or school holidays. Q 139 beds (20/person). THA6ULGBKXW (+31) 356 01 22 96, fax (+31) 356 02 89 21, soest@ stayokay.com, www.stayokay.com. The rooms are dated and very plain, but at least theyre clean. Smoking is forbidden wherever you are, so dont allow yourself to be tempted to light up a joint as the smoke detectors go off at the sound of a loud fart. As the rooms are quite primitive, everybody ends up meeting in the friendly dining room, at the pool table or at the communal reading table. A large campfire is often lit outside by the friendly and enthusiastic staff. The beautiful forest is perfect for walking and hiking and the nearby Soesterduinen sand dunes are ideal for picnics. The train station is within walking distance, so many of the royal palaces and the Amersfoort Zoo are easy to reach. Q Dorm beds 20/ person. THULGBKX
Stayokay Hostel Bunnik J-16, Rhijnauwenselaan
Stayokay Hostel Soest Bosstraat 16, Soest, tel.
Out of town: Upmarket

00, fax (+31) 306 92 74 68, info@f igi.nl, w w w. figi.nl. Only a 10-minute drive from Utrecht youll come across Zeist, known throughou t the Netherlands for its large number of historical buildings. With imposing neighbours such as Slot Zeist and the monumental town hall, Hotel Figi immediately illustrates to which categor y it belongs. Despite its grandeur and stylish elements, Figi never does any thing over the top. With its many cul tural, recreational and culinar y possibili ties, this hotel/theatre/restaurant is perhaps the best option if you want to stay the night away from the busy Utrecht city centre. This four-star hotel has 97 rooms, including three royal suites with a view on the Dom tower. Q PTJHAUILEGBKXW
Figi K-16, Het Rond 2, Zeist, tel. (+31) 306 92 74
Out of town: Mid-range

Mercure Utrecht Nieuwegein Buizerdlaan 10, Nieuwegein, tel. (+31) 306 04 48 44, fax (+31) 306 03 83 74, H1164@accor.com, w w w.mercure. com. The historic ci ty centre of U trecht lies onl y 10 kilometres away from this con temporar y h otel and Amsterdam Schiphol Airpor t is onl y a 30 dri ve. This is the ideal business location due to its strategic position on the A2, Hollands busiest motor way. This four-star hotel offers 77 comfor table rooms, all equipped wi th modern conveniences. A sauna, fi tness centre and pool are major perks. The trend y restaurant Zil ver is also where guests feast on a huge breakfast bu ffet. Q 77 rooms (77 doubles 69). PTHAFLG KDXCW hhhh
Reserve a room at www.utrecht.inyourpocket.com

Hotel Houten J-16, Hoofdveste 25, Houten, tel. (+31) 306 34 68 00, fax (+31) 306 34 68 88, www. hotelhouten.nl. An old Du tch saying professes that details matter. The Van der Valk hotel chain, which is typically Dutch in so many ways, has taken this to heart in every possible way in its latest hotel. You dont have to pay some ridiculous fee just to use the internet in this ultramodern 4-star hotel as two hours of free wi-fi are included in the price. All 160 of its comfortable and spacious rooms are equipped with modern amenities such as wireless internet, writing desk, sitting area, fridge and a whirlpool and rain shower in the bathrooms. Parking is also free, while fast public transport gets you into the hear t of Utrecht within 10 minutes. Because of its location, a stones throw from the A27, the hotel is ideal for business travellers on the move. Dont miss th e ph enomenal view from th e 60m-high tower! Q PTHAUFLGBKXW Spring 2012
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RestauRants
The Dutch lack a haute cuisine of their own and consequently rely on the rest of the world for tasty food. Utrecht is no exception and it offers a wide array of ethnic restaurants and eateries for all palates. It is, however, also known for its pubs where you can devour a steak for only 10. Of course, in a student town like Utrecht you can still eat on the cheap, but the past few years have given rise to a new trend: exclusive, upmarket restaurants. Drieharingenstraat is the place to go for a culinary treat. If youd like to dine in style on quality food for affordable prices you wont be disappointed. This is the Netherlands, after all, where people demand the best for the smallest price possible. Prices listed in parentheses indicate the average price of a main course.
Symbol key
P Air conditioning E Live music T Child friendly X Smoking section A Credit cards accepted S Take away I Fireplace U Facilities for the disabled
W Free wireless internet 6 Pets allowed
American
American Steakhouse Broadway B-2, Oudegracht aan de Werf 139, tel. (+31) 302 31 26 43 www.steaksandribs.nl. For over two decades this American restaurant has been the place to go in Utrecht if youre like Uncle Sams cuisine. Its a place for carnivores with large portions of deliciously sweet spareribs, grilled fish, chicken and all kinds of tender slabs of meat, including a massive T-bone steak. The somewhat kitschy dcor wont win any awards, but the two monumental vaulted cellars certainly could. QOpen 17:00 - 21:30. Closed Mon. (16 - 20). TJAGBKXS Dinner66 Jaarbeursplein 31, tel. (+31) 302 93 69 30, www.diner66.net. This gloomy building fits in seamlessly with the bleak atmosphere of Jaarbeursplein. No one really wants to be here as everyone is waiting for one of the dozens of buses to take them some place else. Dinner 66 is an American-style restaurant with a 1950s atmosphere where George W. Bush would probably feel right at home even though the house rules do prohibit guns. The interior is more reminiscent of a Midwest roadhouse than one of the saddest locations in Utrecht. The shiny red leather benches, the old petrol pump, the nostalgic jukebox and license plates from every imaginable U.S. state are more worthy of your attention than the greasy food and the canned, reheated hamburgers that are served here. QOpen 08:00 - 24:00. (15 - 20). J6K
Charlie Chius J-15, Zamenhofdreef 21-25, tel. (+31) 302 61 09 28, info@charliechiu.nl, www.charliechiu. nl. In China its quite acceptable that people take an English name in addition to their Chinese surname, hence Charlie Chiu. In 1985, Charlie started the first Chinese fast food restaurant in Europe - or so he claims. In all his restaurants, minimum waiting times and excellent quality are the most important requirements and this place is no exception. Apart from a multitude of simple, but freshly prepared Asian dishes, Charlie has also kept his Muslim clientele in mind. Four different types of sandwiches with 100% Halal ingredients are available. QOpen 11:00 - 20:00, Thu 10:30 - 21:30, Sat 10:30 - 20:00, Sun 12:00 - 20:00. (5 - 8). TK Jasmijn & ik A-4, Kanaalstraat 219-221, tel. (+31)
302 93 89 07, info@jasmijnenik.nl, www.jasmijnenik. nl. An immensely popular restaurant in the west of the city, this place classifies itself as inspiring Asian. It serves reasonably priced fusion dishes with wordy names like The silky lake from Thailand and Heavenly softness from Penang in a hip and stylish Japanese-style atmosphere. Although the lyricism of the menu takes a little getting used to, the staffs apparent enthusiasm for what they serve is a welcome change from the general level-headedness that seems to rule this country. It has also opened a shop with all the ingredients and items necessary for Asian recipes. QOpen 17:00 - 24:00. Closed Mon, Sun. (14 19). PUBKS
Arabic
Badhu C-3, Willem van Noortplein 19, tel. (+31) 302 72 04 44, www.badhu.nl. Formerly a bathhouse, this art-deco style building has been transformed into a hip and stylish Arabic-style hotel and restaurant. You can lounge on the comfortable couches from breakfast all the way through to Middle Eastern high tea, lunch and dinner. The staff is friendly and the portions are big. The restaurant is located out of the city centre (about a 10-minute walk) but is well worth it and after all the baklava and Turkish delight the stroll will do you some good. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. (20 - 25). TK
Opium B-1, Voorstraat 80, tel. (+31) 302 31 55 15, www.restaurant-opium.nl. This Asian restaurant has an impressive interior that also includes a tranquil garden-like area with goldfish. A mouth-watering menu of, amongst other things, Szechuan duck, Thai curry and hot chocolate pie with an Asian flare are all on offer. Unfortunately, style and good cuisine dont come cheap and the average starter costs just under 10 and mains hover above 15 mark. However, if you ever feel like treating yourself then Opium might just be the place for you. QOpen 17:30 - 22:00. (15 - 19). JK
info@umami-restaurant.com, www.umami-restaurant. com. Not that long ago Utrecht was packed with restaurants that didnt put much thought into their interior design. Nowadays the opposite seems to be true. Virtually every new place that opens has spent a fortune on its dcor. This is also true for Umami that probably boasts the most modern interior in Utrecht. Where else can you find transparent chairs and purple bar stools? Fortunately the foods good too! The so-called Shared Dinner concept means you pay a set amount per person for a three-course meal and then you can choose any two Asian dishes per course from the extensive menu. The black sesame ice cream with raspberry sauce is excellent. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Mon 17:00 - 22:00. (20). TJAGBKX
Asian
Bamboo A-5, Croeselaan 391, tel. (+31) 302 93 22 27,
http://neeth.net/bamboo.html. With its sleek, modern look this takeaway restaurant appears to be a hip, exciting place, but once you enter you soon realise that its just an ordinary wok joint like many others in the city. However, its wide range of Chinese and Japanese dishes still makes Bamboo worth a visit. Youll come across some well-known dishes like chop choy or teriyaki chicken, but also a few surprises such as chuka wakame (Japanese seaweed salad) and kani (crab) sushi. Although it might fall short of the mark for true connoisseurs, the food is quite tasty and you can take it with you. QOpen 11:30 - 21:30. (6 - 11). 6GKS
Umami A-2, Oudegracht 74, tel. (+31) 302 31 64 84,
RestauRants
23
Wenzen A-2, Oudegracht 127, tel. (+31) 302 38 23 68, http://wenzen.eu. The open kitchen of this restaurant adds to the already great atmosphere of the place, which also boasts a brilliant view of the many boats that pass by on the canal below. These premises used to house the Thai/Indonesian restaurant Terang and, to our surprise and pleasure, the undisputed top dishes of that culinary establishment have made it onto the new menu. Give it a try. QOpen 16:00 - 23:00. (12 - 17). TJAGBKX Yumca B-2, Voorstraat 23, tel. (+31) 302 32 18 66, www.yumca.nl. If you were to judge Yumca on the basis of its exterior, youd probably never go in. Once inside, however, the negative feeling soon evaporates. You can order Asian tapas like spicy crispy beef, soft-shell crab and red curry duck here in a trendy and stylish environment. The extensive menu combines the best of Japanese, Thai and Chinese cuisine, but in small bite-size servings. Although Yumca is a newcomer, its already one of our favourite eating options in town. QOpen 14:00 - 22:00. (9 - 11). TJAULBKW Yum Saap B-4, Twijnstraat 40, tel. (+31) 302 34 24 53, info@yumsaap.nl, www.yumsaap.nl. The furnishings of brightly coloured plastic, one long row of tables and an open kitchen make this place look like a snack bar, but make no mistake, this restaurant may just serve the best Vietnamese and Thai dishes in town. The curries like the massaman are full of flavour and have thankfully not been adjusted to suit bland Western taste buds. In fact, theyre pretty hot. The prices are determined by a fair system so if you have a curry without meat you pay 8.50 and with prawns its twice as much. The smaller dishes are also worth a try, especially the Vietnamese egg rolls, which are raw, not deep fried, with fresh vegetables and mint. All this makes it easy to ignore drawbacks such as the lukewarm beer and the noisy environment. QOpen 17:00 - 23:00. (8 - 13). PJAGKS
Chinese
Although it has the appearance of your average take away, once you have a look at the extensive menu you know its dishes are anything but average. Whereas most Chinese restaurants in the Netherlands are a funny mix of Westernised Asian cuisine, this place serves the genuine article. Order a variety of authentic dim sum or a delicious char sew and discover why locals believe that this is the only authentic Chinese restaurant in Utrecht that serves Cantonese dishes. Youll have to ignore the curt manner of the majority of the staff, but where else do they bring you your food on a trolly? QOpen 12:00 - 21:30. TAKS
Paradijs A-1, Vredenburg 28, tel. (+31) 302 31 62 63.
Coffee bars
The Village Coffee & Music B-1, Voorstraat 46, info@
thevillagecoffee.nl, www.thevillagecoffee.nl. Coffee bars are extremely popular in Utrecht and many of these places are frequented by freelance something-or-others tapping away on their laptops. To avoid these posers writing their novels, The Village doesnt offer wireless internet, but it does employ a live DJ. Another remarkable feature of this coffee purveyor is a surprising lack of seating, because most of the room is taken up by, wait for it, an empty floor. Add deafening music, which renders a regular conversation impossible and youll understand why we headed for the door. A crossover between a disco and a coffee bar isnt quite our cup of tea... or coffee. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. (2 - 7). J6EGS
Dutch tap water

Dutch tap water is some of the best the world has to offer so its safe (and tasty) to drink the water pretty much anywhere and you dont have to waste money on the expensive bottled stuff. In fact, Utrecht is the fifth city in the Netherlands to have installed a public water tap. This is part of an international initiative to encourage people to stop buying disposable water bottles. The idea is very simple. Plenty of water taps will be available to the public so you can just fill your empty bottle whenever you need to. The mountain of plastic mineral water bottles will be somewhat reduced, or at least wont grow so quickly, and for every tap thats set up in Holland, one will be erected in a developing nation. We only wish their were a similar initiative for beer taps. Spring 2012
At the station - Hoog Catharijne

Hoog Brabant A-3, Radboudkwartier 23, tel. (+31) 302 33 15 25, fax (+31) 302 31 16 95, vergader@ hoogbrabant.nl, www.hoogbrabant.nl. In the middle of Hoog Catarijne youll find this indoor shopping centres largest terrace. Hoog Brabant is extremely popular with elderly shoppers who dont seem to mind the snack bar style surroundings, but bear in mind that if you want to join them inside, youll have to pay for the expensive lunch buffet. Fortunately, you can also enjoy a simple cheese sandwich, which for some reason is called an HB Health Sandwich here, sitting on a cheap camping chair. As far as drinks are concerned, Hoog Brabant is a bit more generous. Sip wine from a glass the size of a cowbell or tea from a cup that would make a decent fish bowl. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 11:30 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 18:30. (6 - 10). TJAUGBKX utrecht.inyourpocket.com
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RestauRants
Domplein
66, info@restaurantasiadecuba.com, www.restaurantasiadecuba.com. Located directly next to the Dom Tower, Asia de Cuba serves small, all-you-can-eat dishes from around the world. You can choose from more than 30 international dishes and the complex rules of the menu make ordering a part of the dining experience, but the staff is eager to help you in case you run into trouble. The interior of red and grey walls and beautiful photographs is stylish and vegetarians have plenty of dishes to choose from, too. QOpen 17:00 - 23:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 17:00 - 24:00. (18 23). TJGBK
Asia de Cuba B-2, Domplein 8, tel. (+31) 303 21 58
De Markt A-2, Drieharingenstraat 27, tel. (+31) 302 30 09 91, www.restaurantdemarkt.nl. The walls of this modern Italian restaurant display the best that Italy has to offer, visually anyway, and its kitchen serves up the best southern European cuisine around. Although this place has only recently opened, its filled to the brim every night. De Markt doesnt provide much privacy, but the cacophony of sounds and the somewhat chaotic service result in an almost realistic copy of the atmosphere youd encounter at an authentic Italian market. The portions are on the small side, but tasty and we recommend the antipasti mercato. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. (14 - 17). TJAUBK Straks A-2, Drieharingenstraat 1 - 3, tel. (+31) 302 31 79 71, info@tot-straks.nl, www.tot-straks.nl. Its never fun waiting for a table at a restaurant, but at Straks you wont regret it. The relaxed atmosphere at the bar makes time fly by and the restaurant itself is not unlike a cosy living room. Interesting dishes include the Japanese Wagyu beef hamburger. No other cow is cuddled, massaged and looked after so well, before ultimately sacrificing itself for your dinner. The signature dish is accompanied by homemade mayonnaise, tomato salsa and smoked Gruyere cheese turning a typical dish into an unexpected culinary experience. QOpen 17:00 - 22:00, Sat 12:00 - 22:00. (16 - 20). PTJAGBKXW
Bar Walden B-2, Domplein 16, tel. (+31) 302 36

49 82, info@barwalden.nl, www.barwalden.nl. The monumental, storied past of this historic building is one of the reasons that this restaurant is so popular with Utrecht locals. Add a warm atmosphere, knowledgeable and friendly staff and a fantastic price-quality ratio, not to mention the fact that the chef uses mostly local Dutch produce making lunch or dinner here ecologically sound and you have several more reasons to come here. Starters and desserts cost 5 and the seven main courses are 15 each. If you dont have any plans left for flirting try the tarte tatin of pumpkin and goat cheese with garlic foam. Q (15). TJA6GBKX www.brasseriedomplein.nl. Brasserie Domplein is located at the foot of the highest church tower in The Netherlands and Utrechts main tourist attraction - the sacred Dom. Here youll see senior citizens enjoying glasses of jenever, while young mothers with packed shopping bags gobble down the affordable special of the day or a pasta pesto, its undisputed number one dish. The high windows offer brilliant views of passers-by and of course one of the most beautiful churches in Holland. QOpen 08:00 - 22:00. (9 - 14). TJABKX
Dutch
Holland Casino Utrecht Overste den Oudenlaan 2, tel.
(+31) 307 50 47 50, fax (+31) 307 50 47 00, Utrecht@ hollandcasino.nl, www.hollandcasino.nl. Apart from losing all your money to one-armed bandits, you can also spend your preciously earned income on a complete sole fillet for 47.50, but that would be the most expensive dish on the menu, which is varied and offers a little something for everyone. The chef naturally changes the cuisine according to the seasons, but our favourite is still the salmon with sauerkraut. The seize-theday dish is different each day, but a great bargain for the fixed price of only 11. QOpen 17:00 - 01:30. (18 - 23). ALK
Domplein B-2, Domplein 20, tel. (+31) 302 32 28 95,
Lofen B-2, Domplein 17, tel. (+31) 302 31 52 17, www.lofen.nl. The numerous nostalgic black and white photographs on the walls give the impression that Lofen has a long and rich history. In fact, many centuries ago the Royal Palace stood on this square of the same name, but this tastefully decorated establishment has only been a bar and restaurant since 1992. Settle back on one of the many comfortable chairs in this cosy restaurant and enjoy the generous servings of international cuisine, while admiring the attractive female clientele. Dont miss its best dessert Grandmas steamed pears. QOpen 17:00 - 21:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 17:00 - 22:00. JBK
Drieharingenstraat
38 18 70, info@degarde.nl, www.degarde.nl. Dinner at De Garde is bound to set you back almost double what it would cost you at one of Utrechts canal restaurants, but then again, this is no average eatery. The small French menu has been put together with the same love and affection with which its age-old building has been renovated and offers only top dishes with almost poetic names like Scottish Razors and Atlantic Bonito. Theres no point in recommending anything specific as the menu changes frequently, but we do suggest you skip the upper floor, if only to avoid any difficulties the steep stairs might cause after consuming some of De Gardes all too delicious wines. QOpen 17:00 - 22:00. Closed Sun. (21 - 24). TJAGBKX
De Garde A-2, Drieharingstraat 10/12, tel. (+31) 302
11 58, www.eetcafe-tekoop.nl. In addition to the regular restaurant bill, a night out at Te Koop can become pretty expensive. This somewhat kitschy restaurant is full of great stuff which is all for sale including the chairs you sit on, the plates that the organic and local dishes are served on, as well as the vintage lamp above your head, the Chinese porcelain chicken or a Barbie doll. All are decorated with old-fashioned price tags. The quirky surroundings almost make you forget that the two chefs put plenty of thought into the excellent regional cuisine and delicious seasonal dishes. The attractive 1960s wallpaper continues into the toilet where - thank goodness - at least the toilet has been spared a price tag. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Mon, Sun 16:00 - 22:00. (14 - 18). TJUGBKXW 25 55, reservering@toque.nl, www.toque.nl. Where Dutch people may have an inclination to get depressed with the changing of seasons (especially in autumn and winter), the chef of restaurant Toque Toque simply loves it. Every four months he surprises his patrons with a new Dutch menu with Mediterranean influences. Its a true pleasure to watch this enthusiastic cook at work in the open kitchen of this monumental building. The interior of the restaurant is a combination of old and new styles, which seem to have been brought together at random, yet somehow complement each other. QOpen 08:00 - 22:00, Sun 11:00 - 22:00. (15 - 20). JAGBKXW
Te Koop (For Sale) C-1, Biltstraat 23, tel. (+31) 302 23
Toque Toque A-2, Oudegracht 138, tel. (+31) 302 32
RestauRants
Ethiopian
25, sunshine@ethiorest.nl, www.ethiorest.nl. Up for something different? Enjoy eating with your hands? Especially off someone elses plate? Then try Sunshine, because this Ethiopian restaurant makes very few concessions to Dutch cuisine. Whatever you order from the menu will end up in small heaps on a large enjera (sourdough pancake), which you eat off of together with your friends in a brotherly manner until the restaurant staff drags you away from the table for an African dance. The vegetables, lamb and lentil puree are well-spiced, but given its price the enjera could use some more toppings. Unfortunately, the toilets are dirty and the plastic table cloths are sticky, but the heart-warming enthusiasm of the people who run the place makes up for it. QOpen 16:00 - 22:00, Fri, Sat 16:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (12 - 15). JAGKS
25
Sunshine C-3, Pauwstraat 11, tel. (+31) 302 23 25
Trajectum Lumen
Trajectum Lumen is an illuminated night time walking tour that covers many of Utrechts most remarkable sights, buildings, bridges and other exceptional spots creating beautiful visual art for all to behold. The 19th attraction was recently unveiled at one of the citys most attractive and as yet undiscovered locations. LED lighting illuminates the Pausdam and university buildings. The light show on the historic buildings creates the illusion that the buildings have almost come to life. This experience is reinforced by two digital plaques which depict a barn owl and a dove, symbolising wisdom and peace. Although not all of the light attractions are as spectacular as its website (www.trajectumlumen.nl) claims, the route serves as a beautiful walking route for an evening stroll and its a great way to see the citys most interesting sights from a different perspective. Every Saturday night at 20:30 a guide takes people from VVV Domplein on a special night tour. Along the way youll encounter artistically illuminated bridges, churches and canals. Tours are arranged by the VVV office (Tourist Information Office): infovvv@toerisme-utrecht.nl or (+31) 302 36 00 00.
European
Midi E-10, Croeselaan 140, tel. (+31) 645 05 18 02, hetkleinehart@hotmail.com. This is one of the most curious restaurants in the city. It looks like a local pub, it only accept cash and the toilets are untended, yet its French, Italian and Dutch dishes are of restaurant calibre disconsolate. The catfish with Serrano ham, deer steak with mushrooms, pigeon breast, savoury pancakes with goat cheese and about six other main courses are delicious. The place is run by a couple, without any staff, so at times youll have to wait. The wife cooks everything in a kitchen the size of a broom closet on only three gas burners. Her extremely friendly, talkative husband told us that he would rather not be included in a travel guide, because this would just make the place even busier. So we offer our sincerest apologies. QOpen 17:30 - 22:00, Fri 17:30 - 23:00, Sun 17:30 - 21:00. Closed Mon. (15 - 20). GBK
Fast food & Delivery

6 for a kebab with Turkish bread instead of the usual storebought pita at this multicultural fast food joint. If the meat was a bit spicier, the bread a bit fresher and the sauce wasnt rationed, we would seriously consider coming back. Right now the vegetarian pizzas are a much better option and the salad bar also looks tempting. That said, the outside seating offers a great vantage point for people watching. QOpen 12:00 22:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 12:00 - 05:00. (4 - 8). TJBKS
Doner66 B-2, Vismarkt 22. Youll have to shell out a hefty
French
Bresson B-3, Oudegracht 214, tel. (+31) 302 32 26 23, www.brasseriebresson.nl. This stylish place has a French-chic theme and a black and white colour scheme that is present in everything from the spotless wait staff and the photos on the wall to the furniture and pretty much everything else in the restaurant. Its a pleasant break from the usual casualness and fusion of styles so typical of Dutch establishments and, more importantly, the chicness isnt reflected in its prices. QOpen 10:00 - 01:00, Mon, Tue, Wed 10:00 - 24:00. (16 - 23). JAGK
306 35 08 88, www.culinairpodium.nl. In Utrecht theres only one choice for people who want to eat at the Michelin-star level, but dont fancy the sky-high price tag that usually comes with it: Culinair Podium (Culinary Stage). Thats not to say that this place is cheap. Its unusual menu may be quite limited, but the small works of art brought to your table caress your taste buds to create a superior taste sensation. QOpen 17:00 22:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. (set menu 35 - 55). JAKW
Kentucky Fried Chicken A-1, Vredenburg 13, tel. (+31) 302 31 42 84, www.kfc.nl. If 8 million people throughout the world eat a Colonels fillet-burger or Mexican twister every day there must be a good reason. Lets face it. KFC isnt healthy, but its delicious so put your contempt for American fast food chains aside and order some deepfried chicken, because it really is finger lickin good. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 23:00. PTJGK Manneken Pis B-4, Vredenburg 154-155, tel. (+31) 346 56 20 40, info@mannekenpis.nl, www.mannekenpis.nl. Manneken Pis has already won the Best Fries in the Netherlands Award by Frietopia three times and in Utrecht it has grown to become the unofficial caterer for the shopping masses. The fries are fresh and crunchy and you can choose from no less than 21 types of sauces like Andalusian, green pepper and low-fat mayonnaise. The servings are named after comic book and cartoon characters so watch out for the Obelix which amounts to nearly a kilo of golden potatoes! QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Thu 11:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 19:00. (2 - 5). JGBKS utrecht.inyourpocket.com
Culinair Podium B-4, Lange Nieuwstraat 88, tel. (+31)
Goeie Louisa A-3, Geertebolwerk 1, tel. (+31) 302 33
75 55, www.goeielouisa.nl. Not as average a place as the name would lead you to believe, as a part of the five-star Grand Hotel Karel V, this restaurant has an impeccable reputation for gastronomic excellence. Goeie Louisa is housed in the kitchen of a former monastery, which lends an authentic medieval feel to your dining experience. The prices here are higher than average, but top quality cuisine doesnt come cheap.QOpen 08:30 22:30, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 22:30. (17 - 25). TJHAUGB
Spring 2012
26
RestauRants
Fusion
30 22 25. This trendy little place is located in what could be the narrowest alley in the city, but its worth the extra effort to find it. The staff is friendly and the 5 mini-dishes, consisting of, among other things, sashimi on skewers and smoked bass in orange sauce, are delicious and original. Moreover, for that price you can try a few so you dont have to feel like youre missing out on something. But dont come here expecting Portuguese cuisine as the name Lisboa is deceiving and certainly doesnt reflect the fusion food it serves. Q Open 17:00 - 24:00. (5 - 15). TJAGBK
Indian
47, info@restaurant-namaskar.nl, www.restaurantnamaskar.nl. The smile that seems to have been permanently affixed to the faces of all Indians at birth is certainly lacking from the surly staff at Namaskar. Unfortunately thats not the only problem. Usually one of the most appealing elements of this Asian cuisine is the multitude of vegetarian dishes it offers, not to mention its flavourful and spicy curries. You wont find any here. Fortunately, Utrecht has plenty of other Indian restaurants where the chefs arent afraid to reach for the spice rack. QOpen 16:30 - 23:00. (16 - 20). JLVKS
Lisboa A-2, Zakkendragerssteeg 25, tel. (+31) 302
Namaskar A-1, Vredenburg 38, tel. (+31) 302 31 04
Greek
straatweg 701 E, www.lemonia.nl. Its obvious once youve visited this place that the owner has some experience in show business. All kinds of ar tists frequently per form in this trendy, contemporar y restaurant, but Lemonia doesnt actually need these superficial extras as the quality of the food speaks for itself. Perhaps it could just lower its prices to a more acceptable level and skip the unnecessary performances by second rate singers and no-hit wonders. QOpen 17:00 - 22:00. (19 - 24). POA6ULBKS
Indonesian
Asli C-1, Biltstraat 58, tel. (+31) 302 71 13 85. In this restaurant where almost every customer comes for takeaway, there are only five tables. So this is not the type of restaurant where you would come to sit down to an extensive five-course meal as it is not much fun to sit down at a wall full of spice jars and tacky Indonesian masks. However, the lack of cosy ambiance is more than compensated for by the high quality of the food. There are over 30 dishes with a variety of vegetables, meat and fish on display. Choose eleven dishes and put together your own menu with top favourites such as Telor Bumbu Bali (boiled egg is hot sauce) and Ayam Besengek (chicken breast in a spicy Indonesian besengek sauce). QOpen 12:00 - 20:00, Sun 13:00 - 20:00. (6 10). T6GKS Blauw B-3, Springweg 64, tel. (+31) 302 34 24 63, info@restaurantblauw.nl, www.restaurantblauw.nl. What many Dutch people consider to be Chinese food - nasi goreng, sateh and so on - really originates from Indonesia, a former colony of the Netherlands. Usually its cheap, tasteless take-away, but this restaurant has attempted to prepare Indonesian food like haute cuisine. Its not cheap and the tables are sometimes placed rather close together, but none of this matters once youve tasted the food. While the servings are modest, youll still be satisfied after your meal, because its so delicious. For the most part its not too spicy and a bit sweet, which is typical of Javanese cuisine) with lots of soy sauce. The option of a-bit-of-everything (rijsttafel) is recommended. QOpen 18:00 - 22:00, Fri 18:00 - 23:00, Sat 17:00 - 23:00, Sun 17:00 - 22:00. (21 - 26). PJAGK Selamat Makan B-1, Voorstraat 100, tel. (+31) 302 36 89 17, www.selamat-makan.nl. Selamat Makan is stylishly decorated and the staff will do anything to make you feel comfortable. There are plenty of rice tables to choose from (a Dutch twist on typical Indonesian cuisine), but unfortunately the portions are somewhat small - especially for big eaters such as our research team. In fact, the draught beers, too, could be much bigger. QOpen 17:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. (17 - 23). TJAGK
Lemonia: de Nieuwe Griek D-7, Amsterdamse-
Ouzeri To Steki B-3, Oudegracht 261, tel. (+31) 302
33 39 98, mail@ouzeritosteki.nl, www.ouzeritosteki.nl. This cosy Greek restaurant specialises in mezethes (small dishes that you can share with your table companions). The service isnt exactly perfect but always friendly and helpful. Dont get too carried away ordering the small dishes though, because theyre filling and the garlic can be overpowering. The lack of the usual Greek-style knick-knacks hanging from the ceiling is refreshing. QOpen 16:30 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (8 - 13). TJ6GKS
Grill
Den Draeck A-2, Oudegracht a/d Werf 114 - 122, tel.
(+31) 302 32 19 99, fax (+31) 302 31 46 33, info@dendraeck.nl, www.den-draeck.nl. Many European cities offer medieval restaurants where the staff walks around in furs, the atmosphere is authentically ancient and patrons eat large chunks of meat by hand. Utrecht has wisely avoided this culinary experience, but the restaurant that comes closest is Den Draeck. The marginal lighting makes sitting in this historic building cosy and romantic and it also has the distinction of being Utrechts only stone grill restaurant. QOpen 17:00 - 21:00, Thu, Fri 17:00 - 21:30, Sat 17.00 22.00. JGBKX
Ice cream
Il Mulino B-2, Adelaarsstraat 2-4, tel. (+31) 302 71 74
11, ijs-ilmulino@hetnet.nl, www.ilmulino.nl. Despite the fact that the name of this lovely ice-cream parlour suggests a Mediterranean influence, the setting and the traditionallymade ice-cream could hardly be more Dutch. Where else can you buy ice-cream with flavours like Dutch liquorice and cucumber? This pastel-coloured jewel is situated in the shade of a windmill bearing the same name. Watch the boats pass by the Weerdsingel, armed with our all-time favourite: creamy mascarpone-orange ice-cream. Even people with food allergies will find something to their liking, but bear in mind that Il Mulino is only open from the end of February until October. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. TG
International
Aal B-2, Oudegracht aan de werf 159, tel. (+31) 302 33 48 26, www.aalrestaurant.nl. Aal is housed in a small, attractive wharf cellar that offers the dark atmosphere thats so typical of locations like these. You can get a three-course dinner for 22.50 and the seasonal dishes vary from mackerel rillettes with chive-crme fraiche to lamb with risotto and a cheese platter with balsamic-apple syrup. Its also a good place to go for wine aficionados as Aal doubles as a wine bar. In September its closed on Sundays and Mondays. QOpen 17:00 - 23:00. (17 - 22). JB utrecht.inyourpocket.com
RestauRants
Brass B-2, Janskerkhof 19, tel. (+31) 307 60 07 77. Although the renovations took a whole three months, it was definitely worth the wait as Utrecht has gained a new restaurant at the forefront of its culinary scene. Despite its limited menu that contains only three starters, mains and desserts, true foodies will love the experience. The elegant surroundings are impressive, but not to the point where theyre overbearing. Excellent staff and a spacious layout with tasteful furnishings are yet another reason to drop by. QOpen 12:00 - 01:00. Closed Mon, Sun. (19 - 24). JALGK De Rechtbank B-3, Korte Nieuwstraat 14, tel. (+31) 302 33 00 30, www.de-rechtbank.nl. Whether its breakfast, lunch, brunch, high tea or dinner, De Rechtbank is a must see when it comes to food. Each morning patrons can take a seat for the breakfast buffet from 06:30 under the watchful gaze of a life-sized portrait of Maffia boss Al Capone. During the day, this stylish place is popular with home-makers who often deposit their offspring at the basket full of toys or on the restaurants outdoor terrace, one of the most child-friendly in the city. Surrounded by 200-years old trees this is the perfect oasis in a busy city. QOpen 06:30 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 07:30 22:00. (15 - 20). TJAUGBKXW Four B-2, Domstraat 4, tel. (+31) 302 32 42 42, www. hoteldom.nl. For anyone who appreciates luxury, and can afford it, there are few better places than Allure, the upmarket restaurant in the Dom Hotel. The restaurant is decorated in a sophisticated manner, which is an obvious extension of the uniformly stylish atmosphere of the entire hotel. The impressive tables are set with whiter-than-white table linen, shiny cutlery and spotless glasses. The courteous staff provide impeccable service and the excellent wines are reason enough to come here. QOpen 07:00 - 01:00, Fri 07:00 - 02:00, Sat 08:00 - 02:00, Sun 08:00 - 01:00. Four-course dinner: 80. PTJAULKW Jaap Neude 31, tel. (+31) 302 30 29 60, info@eetcafejaap.nl, www.eetcafejaap.nl. To be honest, although it sports a good city centre location, especially in summer, the Neude Square doesnt exactly boast the classiest cafs youve seen. Jaap, however, is a welcome change from all the student hangouts that surround it and could even strike you as a tad chic. Its interior is stylish and the staff are well presented and clean-shaven. The cuisine is of a generic variety, but it looks pretty on the plates and is nonetheless quite tasty. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00, Tue, Wed, Sun 12:00 - 21:30. Closed Mon. (14 - 19). JAGBK Keuken B-5, Oosterkade 30, tel. (+31) 302 52 26 17,
NEW
27
Italian
11 13, post@centralparkutrecht.nl, www.centralparkutrecht.nl. Since 1853 New York has been the proud location of the worlds most famous park. But Utrecht, too, has a Central Park. If you wish to flee from the stress, noise, and bustle of the city for a moment, then this restaurant is the place for you. Try pizzas, pastas and meal salads with your favourite ingredients for a uniform price of 10. A variety of other traditional Italian dishes are cooked in the restaurants wood-fired oven. QOpen 16:00 - 22:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 16:00 23:00. (10 - 17.50). TAUGBKW
Central Park B-5, Oosterkade 18, tel. (+31) 302 51
Pronto Pronto! B-2, Schoutenstraat 19, tel. (+31) 302
14 55 52, www.prontopronto.nl. Although many large cities have a Chinatown, Utrecht has a genuine Little Italy, which revolves around the Schoutenstraat. Many shops, restaurants and domestic caterers breathe a Southern European atmosphere into this area and Pronto Pronto, with its open kitchen, is a great place to go if you enjoy truly fresh ingredients and typical Italian dishes. You wont find a standard pizza or pasta, however, but there is a range of small, original dishes. Save some space for the homemade apple pie with a dash of rosemary. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. (All maincourse orders 9). JK
Japanese & Sushi

Hasekura Veilinghavekade 115 - 127, tel. (+31) 306 77 78 38, www.hasekura.nl. This is the only place in Utrecht that offers all you-can-eat Japanese cuisine. Located outside the city centre next to a recently developed marina, Hasekura offers an incredible feast for only 24.95. In a period of 2.5 hours you can tick all the dishes youd like to eat on an order form. If youre up for another round of sushi or teppan yaki, you just ask for another form. The advantage of this measured method is that theres less risk of you ordering more than you can possibly eat. However there is a downside: the wait staff will know just how much of glutton you really are! You can also ask for its la carte menu if youre not in the mood to eat like Homer Simpson. QOpen 15:00 - 22:30. (15 - 20). K Sushi Today H-10, Herculesplein 373a, tel. (+31) 302 51
16 18, www.sushitoday.nl. This restaurant is located inside FC Utrechts stadium, the Galgenwaard. From the outside it seems to lack atmosphere, but this no-frills restaurant is worth a visit. Its a good place to try a wide selection of unlimited sushi for affordable prices and its also possible to enjoy your food straight from the griddle, sitting at the bar. For those of you who dont like fish, plenty of meat and game dishes are also on offer. Make sure you keep some room for the dessert which you can put together yourself. QOpen 16:00 - 22:30, Wed, Thu 16:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon, Tue. PKX
www.keuken-deli.nl. If you havent got time to settle in at one of the small tables, but youd like to enjoy the wide variety of delicious dishes on offer here, you can have Keukens food neatly wrapped up to take home, which is unusual for Dutch restaurants. The cosy atmosphere, the open-plan kitchen and the extraordinary menu full of seasonal ingredients are just a few reasons why this trendy venue is so popular. In case you arent convinced, the stylish black and white dcor is yet another. QOpen 17:00 - 24:00. (15 - 19). JALKS
Oost C-1, Bollenhofsestraat 2, tel. (+31) 302 72 01 51, www.restaurantoost.nl. In summer the terrace is a hangout for the countless urban professionals and their young children who live in this upscale neighbourhood. However, throughout the year, Oost is also a fairly successful local restaurant. Their sam-sam concept (meaning something like sharing together) is a great find and its possible to get half servings of appetisers and main courses for half the price. This allows you to try various dishes without having to empty your wallet. QOpen 11:00 - 00:30. (14). PABK utrecht.inyourpocket.com
Enjoy a meal on the Oudegracht
Spring 2012
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RestauRants
Mediterranean
(+31) 302 32 27 90, www.restaurantdelphis.nl. In 1981, the owner of this building opened the very first Greek restaurant in the Netherlands. Since then the concept of quick service and reasonable prices has been copied innumerable times, which is, perhaps, the reason that Delphis now also serves international dishes. Thankfully there are still authentic Greek wines on the menu and bottles of olive oil on each table. If you have a meal here in the evening youll experience some traditional Greek atmosphere, but during the day its more of a caf. QOpen 10:00 - 23:00. (16 - 21). JK
Delphis B-2, Neude 29, tel. (+31) 302 31 71 47, fax
Nourish B-4, Twijnstraat 65, tel. (+31) 308 88 50 50, www.nourish.nl. For those who are not averse to something different, this is the place to be. Situated on one of the prettiest streets in Utrecht, this raw food caf prepares everything fresh with an original twist. The organic pureness which oozes out is hard to miss and even the green company logo colour is carried as far the toilet seats. In short, this tiny place is absolutely charming. Where else are your apples juiced right in front of you and where else can you get such incredibly lush feta cheese sauce? Atmosphere wise, its probably not something for a first date, but health food fanatics will love the alternative experience. QOpen 09:00 - 20:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 08:00 - 22:00, Sun 11:00 - 21:00. (6 - 11). JAGK
Wenzen A-2, Oudegracht 127, tel. (+31) 302 38 23 68, http://wenzen.eu/. Wenzen deserves a big compliment for its unusual combination of Asian and Mediterranean cuisine alone. Our deadline was set for the day after its official opening, so unfortunately weve only been able to try a few of the many small delicious snacks on the menu. We will be back, however, because the tapas dishes are more than delicious! You can even enjoy all these treats while cruising the Utrecht canals on its private boat. QOpen 16:00 - 23:00. (12 - 17). TJAGBKX
Out of town
Theehuis Rhijnauwen J-16, Rhijnauwenselaan 16, Bunnik, tel. (+31) 306 56 12 85. This tearoom/pancake house is located in the middle of a country estate, only a 15-minute bike ride from the city centre and is a perfect setting to stretch your legs and have a hearty meal. For those already sick and tired of cycling everywhere: you can also rent a canoe in the city centre and paddle your way here! In summer the round-trip boats also moor here. Walk five minutes from the Bunnik train station to Van Zijldreef and take bus Nr.43 six minutes to Rhijnauwenselaan and then walk another five minutes. QOpen 11:00 - 20:30, Sat, Sun 10:30 - 20:30. (5 - 10). TA6ULGBKXW Vroeg J-16, Achterdijk 1, Bunnik, tel. (+31) 308 20 10 10, info@vroeg.nl, www.vroeg.nl. Simple country life was reviled in Dutch culture for many years. But this trend has changed and now city dwellers in particular embrace the country en masse. Vroeg is an excellent example. This authentic white farmhouse with original small rooms offers breakfast, lunch and dinner. Dishes include Texel lamb, Dutch crab and homemade fries. Although theyre not likely to be nominated for a Michelin Star any time soon, the cuisine tastes great. Anyone who claims that rustic Dutch cooking has little to offer has probably never been to Vroeg. QOpen 07:00 - 21:00, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 21:00. (17 - 22). THLBKS
Mexican
Popocatepetl B-2, Nobelstraat 163, tel. (+31) 302 31
57 19, popo.nl. The colourful contents of Popocatepetl, which occupies two floors and is named after Mexicos most famous volcano, could easily be transferred to a museum of Central American culture. Should you wish to admire all the curiosities collected here, it would probably take you a week to do them any justice. Absorb the multicoloured ambience of paintings, fake cacti, religious depictions and Mexican nick-nacks while eating its staple cuisine of tapachula and fajitas which its been serving for over 25 years. QOpen 11:00 - 22:00. (10 - 15). JAK
Moroccan
Salaam Kanaalstraat 124, tel. (+31) 302 96 76 04,
www.restaurantsalaam.nl. Although many prejudices have been perpetrated against Moroccans in Holland recently, if youve ever eaten at Salaam, youve already embraced this North African nation forever. The spiced, but not too spicy dishes, the friendly staff and the attractive prices make this authentic Moroccan restaurant a great place to dine. We recommend the starter Harira (celery soup with chickpeas) and the lamb and chicken couscous as a main course. Unfortunately, the pastries arent the best, so dont bother saving room for dessert. QOpen 17:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (10 - 15). TJUGBK
Pancakes
De Oude Muntkelder C-4, Oudegracht 112 aan de
Werf, tel. (+31) 302 31 67 73, info@deoudemuntkelder. nl, www.deoudemuntkelder.nl. If its pancakes youre after come to De Oude Muntkelder, which is the only pancake restaurant in a radius of three kilometres. Wolf down your Dutch flapjacks with litres of syrup or try something more exotic like the savoury Chilean pancake with beans and ground beef. Situated at the canals of Utrecht, the open space of the terraces makes up for the cramped tables that are huddled together inside. Have kids? No problem. Put them in the play area inside. QOpen 12:00 - 21:00. (8 - 11). PTJAGBKW
Organic
Deeg B-3, Lange Nieuwstraat 71, tel. (+31) 302 33 11 04, www.restaurantdeeg.nl. Deeg is a fairly chic restaurant, but not in an awkward kind of way, and one of the few places in town that only serves organic food. In fact, it has it all from pomodori biscuits with sauerkraut salad to trout saltimbocca with sage butter. You can choose between a fish menu, a meat menu or a vegetarian option and these semifixed menus change monthly depending on what vegetables are in season. For dessert theres a choice between a combination of sweets or organic cheeses. Its not the cheapest restaurant in town, but its ideally located and certainly worth the extra few euros if you take into consideration the classy atmosphere, the quality of the food and the enthusiasm of the staff. QOpen 17:30 - 22:00. (20 - 25). PTJLBK Utrecht In Your Pocket
Portuguese
Algarve C-1, Biltstraat 98, tel. (+31) 302 71 84 08, restaurantalgarve@mail.nl, www.restaurantalgarve.nl. Unlike most Portuguese restaurants this one isnt stuffed with fishing nets, crabs and stone jugs. Nevertheless, it has white walls and wooden tables and reversed plates on the tables. Not just for Portuguese food aficionados, Algarve is also good for people on a budget, but bear in mind that service is also Portuguese, meaning slow, yet remarkably friendly, which is why its been in business for over a quarter of a century. QOpen 18:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon, Tue. (12 - 15). TJGK utrecht.inyourpocket.com
RestauRants
29
Quick eats
132, tel. (+31) 302 32 21 43. This pizza stand is one of the best-known places in the city. Day trippers and even foreign pop artists like Stephen Malkmus (of Pavement) adore a broodje Mario when theyre in town. This is also its most popular offer. For 3 you get a lovely Italian bun with salami, chorizo and lots of vegetables and once youve had one, you wont need dinner. Reviewers tip: ask for some free green peppers. Marios pizzas, especially the calzone tonno, are really worthwhile as well. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. (2 - 7). J6BKS
Spanish
Amor A-2, Oudegracht 109, tel. (+31) 302 36 88 05,
www.restaurantamor.nl. This beautifully decorated, romantic tapas restaurant is located in one of Utrechts many vaulted cellars. As soon as you walk in, two life sized paintings on the age old walls transport you to the Iberian peninsula. The Spanish cuisine is reasonably priced, spicy and large enough to fill you up with just three small bowls. But bear in mind that you should probably come here with your significant other as many of the tasty dishes are intended for two! But then again, what else would you expect from a restaurant called Amor? QOpen 16:00 - 23:00. (16 - 20). JAGBKX
Pizzakraam Mario (Pizzastand Mario) Oudegracht
The Food Shop A-1, Oudegracht 54, tel. (+31) 623
Turkish
www.orkide.nl. Since 1979 Orkide has been a good example of how Turkish immigrants can successfully combine the rich traditions of their culture with Dutch business acumen. This recently renovated restaurant is located in the multicultural district of Lombok and is now run by the third generation of this enterprising family. Many Eurasian objects enhance the dcor, while the display cases are full of delicious food. You wont find gourmet food here, but if you enjoy affordable and freshly prepared halal dishes and homemade soups, you wont be disappointed. Save some room for the deliciously sweet Turkish dessert consisting of pumpkin, sesame oil and walnuts. QOpen 09:30 - 05:00, Fri, Sat 09:30 - 06:00. (7 - 12). TLGKSW
01 79 43, info@thefoodshop.nl, www.thefoodshop.nl. If you feel like something a cut above the average chips or kebab shops, we recommend this place. For prices of around 10 youll get fresh European and Asian dishes served quickly. You can come up with your own combination of about eight daily salads and pasta, rice, fish and meat dishes among others. There should be ample space for you to eat it directly, but hardly anyone does this. It is takeaway, after all. QOpen 16:00 - 21:00. Closed Sat, Sun. (8 - 12). JKS
Orkide E-9, Kanaalstraat 66, tel. (+31) 302 93 54 22,
Seafood
02 27, www.fishes.nl/en/utrecht. Ahoy all fish lovers! Dont skip this one! From the outside it might look like just another fishmongers, but nothing could be further from the truth. For a start, every thing Fishes sells is certified with the added bonus of not being on the endangered species list. But you shouldnt come here just to make yourself feel better, the seafood here is super fresh and well prepared. The atmosphere in the seating area leaves a little to be desired, but even that contributes to the authentic feel that permeates this place. Q Open 10:00 - 18:30, Mon 12:00 - 18:30, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. JAGKS
Fishes C-2, Nachtegaalstraat 33, tel. (+31) 307 07
Vegetarian
31 45 90, www.acu.nl. Inside youll see an interior reminiscent of a second hand shop, in the background you hear alternative music coming from dusty speakers and the vegan day menu is scrawled across a blackboard by the bar. ACU is not for profit and is run by volunteers. This has the added benefit of relatively low prices for tasty food and drink. QOpen 18:00 - 20:30. Closed Mon, Fri, Sat. ( 8,50). TJ6K
Kitchen Punx Acu B-1, Voorstraat 71, tel. (+31) 302
Harbour E-10, Veilinghavenkade 177, tel. (+31) 302 93 75 63, info@harbourutrecht.nl, www.harbourutrecht. nl. Although it might not be the most atmospheric of areas yet, this new marina has got a few things going for it. In addition to pretty yachts to admire, it also houses quite an appropriately named seafood restaurant. The terrace is big and catches the suns rays until sunset, the atmosphere is sophisticated and the food is tasty and affordable. Harbour offers an la carte menu, a catch of the day and an unlimited jumbo shrimp buffet. QOpen 12:00 - 22:00. (13 - 19). TAULGBKX utrecht.inyourpocket.com
Vietnamese
www.restaurantsaigon.nl. If there was a competition for the restaurant with the most hideous dcor in Utrecht, Saigon would be a strong contender. Still, as far as were concerned, this Vietnamese restaurant is one of the best places to eat in town. The only problem is that the menu is so extensive that it could take you hours to order. You could of course just close your eyes and choose a dish, because everything is authentic, spicy and delicious. QOpen 16:00 - 22:30. (13 - 18). JKS
Saigon B-1, Voorstraat 68, tel. (+31) 302 30 49 83,
Spring 2012
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cafs
Utrechts caf culture is one of the citys best features. Cafs in Utrecht quite often offer much more than just a cup of coffee with pastry or a cup of tea. Most serve soups, salads and sandwiches, so the border between restaurants and cafs is very thin. But have a look at our carefully selected cafs and pick the one thats just right for you, so Eet smakelijk (bon appetit)!
Classic cafs
Bagels and Beans C-1, Biltstraat 60, tel. (+31) 302 71
73 71, biltstraat@bagelsbeans.nl, www.bagelsbeans. nl. Although every decent sized town has one of these, its still worth a visit. As the name suggests, it specialises in coffee and bagels and even though you can get the black stuff of a comparable quality in every single caf in the city, bagels are not yet an established lunch item in Utrecht. You can build your own bagel and pick the dairy spread, toppings and dressings of your choice, which is a nice touch. Unless youre principally against chains, or bagels for that matter, theres no reason to skip this one. QOpen 08:28 - 17:31, Sun 09:58 - 17:02. (3 - 6). J
De Burgemeester (The Mayor) B-2, Korte Minrebroederstraat 5, tel. (+31) 302 31 67 56, www. deburgemeester-utrecht.nl. Big as well as small eaters will get what theyre looking for in this attractive lunchroom. A local speciality such as Domtorentjes (a type of bonbon), muffins and brownies will satisfy any sweet tooth, while richly filled sandwiches, toasties and paninis will satisfy the largest appetites. Every week four fresh, homemade soups are also available. Size does matter here, cause the 900 ml cups are really popular for take-aways. If youd like to enjoy it on the spot you can do this in one of the cosy corners or on the terrace of De Zaak (close neighbor). QOpen 10:00 - 19:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. (2 - 4). J De Moestuin H-10, Laan van Maarschalkerweerd 2,
tel. (+31) 302 14 48 69, www.moestuinutrecht.nl. On the very spot where monks used to look after the needy, De Moestuin (The Allotment) now offers socially disadvantaged youngsters a job and a place in society. The service might not always be what you would expect of a typical caf, but dont worry about it. The food is more than worth the delay and although the menu is limited, every sandwich is delicious. In short, the chef transforms tasty organic ingredients into small works of art. You shouldnt come here for the atmosphere, but if you enjoy unique vegetables and fresh herbs, which have only just been picked in the kitchens own garden then by all means give it a try. QOpen 10:00 - 16:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. (3 - 7). 6ULGBKS
Bond & Smolders B-3, Lijnmarkt 9, tel. (+31) 302
31 09 13, info@bondsmolders.nl, www.bondsmolders. nl. Bond & Smolders is the last true patissier in the city. Whatevers on sale looks truly delicious and tastes even better! The Valrohna chocolate makes women go wild and the homemade breads are a little piece of heaven. But believe it or not, its cakes are even better. QOpen 09:00 - 17:30, Sat 08:30 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. TJ
Brandmeesters Korte Jansstraat 5, tel. (+31) 302 30 61 60, www.brandmeesters.nl. Everything coffee related can be purchased here, from ground beans to a 2000 coffeemaker within a somewhat clinical environment of a green and white interior. Despite how it may look from the outside, this is a coffee drinking establishment. Find a seat (which may not look like a seat) to taste your liquid of choice or wander around looking at all the articles on sale here. Books can also be picked up and read while sampling a cappuccino and complimentary iced water is also available - the perfect chaser for an espresso. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 12:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:30. Closed Sun. J
90, www.coffeecompany.nl. The Coffee Company doesnt see coffee as a generic black liquid. The most consumed beverage in the world is in their eyes a beautiful, diverse, complex and above all a very labour-intensive natural product. See for yourself if they arent exaggerating. This chain is so popular that its expanded to include 24 venues throughout the Netherlands. With specially built espresso machines and extensive training for the staff, making java at the Coffee Company is an art form. Young, beautiful and stubborn staff toil at the machines while patrons take advantage of great music and free wi-fi. QOpen 08:00 - 19:00, Thu 08:00 - 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 19:00, Sun 10:00 - 19:00. (3 - 6). JGW
Domkerk B-2, Achter de Dom 1, tel. (+31) 302 31 04 03. Although this place is actually right in the heart of the most visited tourist attraction in Utrecht, the Dom Church, most people tend to skip this friendly caf. Despite the corny surroundings, the coffee is cheap (1.50) and good and so are the toasted cheese sandwiches for 1.80. Naturally, it also has one of the most incredible views of the inner courtyard of the Dom from behind a glass wall. Elderly volunteers run this place that hasnt changed in years, so have a bit of patience and enjoy the slow pace of life here. We almost feel guilty to reveal this hidden gem to you. QOpen 11:00 - 16:00, Sat 11:00 - 15:30, Sun 14:00 - 16:00. TJG Douwe Egberts Korte Jansstraat 17 - 19, tel. (+31)
307 50 82 89, www.decafeutrecht.nl. This chain provides a particularly pleasurable coffee experience. Located next to a church on a quiet but central street with outside seating at quaint little coffee tables, Douwe Egberts provides helpful staff that will ensure your every wish is met. Freshly made cakes and pastries are available and the large but classic selection of coffees is fairly priced. Inside coffeepot wallpaper and shelves entirely filled with coffee making ingredients make for an interesting dcor. QOpen 07:30 - 18:00, Thu 07:30 - 21:00, Sat 08:30 - 18:00, Sun 09:30 - 18:00. J
Coffee Company B-2, Vismarkt 4, tel. (+31) 302 40 09
De Bakkerswinkel B-1, Wittevrouwenstraat 4, tel. (+31) 302 33 22 30, www.debakkerswinkel.nl. The bakery shop is a bread and cake lovers paradise. This is the place to go for big, healthy-ish breakfasts, sumptuous lunches and lavish high teas. The comfortable seats, the view on the canal, the stuffed animals on the wall and the (living) curious cat will probably prevent you from leaving this pleasant wharf cellar and therein lies its main problem. Popping in spontaneously is almost impossible, especially on weekends, so make sure you make a reservation first. QOpen 08:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. (2.50 - 4). TJBS Utrecht In Your Pocket
Terrace on the Oudegracht
Theo Leerintveld
cafs
Hooi G-9, Burgemeester Reigerstraat 25, tel. (+31) 307 67 00 61, info@hooiutrecht.nl, www.hooiutrecht.nl. If you dont suffer from amnesia and you can still remember your school days, youll probably experience some flashbacks from your childhood at Hooi (Hay). The place is decorated with drawings on the wall, furniture in primary colours and tiny tables. Even the numerous laptops on offer are more reminiscent of a classroom than a trendy caf. The friendly, cheerful waitress is also the manager who obviously has a passion for the food cooked in the kitchen. The home-made bread and award winning butter are reason enough to visit Hooi. QOpen 07:30 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. (4 - 8). TJLGKSW KEEK B-4, Twijnstraat 23, tel. (+31) 302 33 32 99,
www.kunsteneerlijkekoffie.nl. KEEK stands for Kunst En Eerlijke Koffie (Art and Fair Trade Coffee) and is pronounced cake, which, coincidentally, happens to be one of the lunchrooms specialities. All muffins, brownies and sandwiches are organic and homemade and youll definitely taste the difference. The staff understands the art of making coffee and will gladly tell you about the origins and taste of the various kinds of fair-trade beans on offer. If you prefer tea you can choose from one of many types or sample a selection during a high tea. The walls display an ever changing collection of paintings which are for sale. QOpen 09:30 - 17:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. TJUGKS
31
Oracle Caf
If youre curious about wh a t t h e fu tu re m ay hold, you could have your palm read by cheer ful and some would say prescient Sjaak. This friendly 68-year-old fortune teller can be found in a small corner next to the Winkel van Sinkel bar every Wednesday night from 19:00. After having studied and felt your palm for about half an hour, he will give you a thorough analysis of all the lines, grooves and wrinkles that criss-cross your hand. Although naturally sceptical, we have to admit that the predictions laid out before us were pretty much in sync with our intended life plan for the next couple of years, so Sjaak might just be on to something. If nothing else its a bit of harmless entertainment for only 10. Youll find him at A-2, Oudegracht 158.
Le Journal B-2, Neude 32 - 34, tel. (+31) 302 36 48 39, info@lejournal.nl, www.lejournal.nl. This classically decorated bar is an ideal place if youre looking for style, peace and impeccable service. The long reading table, the comfortable chairs and the large selection of newspapers and magazines all contribute to the relaxed ambience. A rather weird mix of modern icons including the Dalai Lama, Che Guevara and James Bond look down benignly from the walls, while the menu offers something for everyone. The variety is also sure to whet your appetite without raiding your wallet. QOpen 08:45 - 01:00, Thu 08:45 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 08:45: - 02:30, Sun 09:45 - 01:00. (4 - 8). TJGBKX
302 40 01 90, info@sappiesenhappies.nl, www.sappiesenhappies.nl. The Steenweg, Utrechts busiest shopping street, isnt particularly attractive and its full of the kind of shops that youll find in any Dutch city. On the left theres H&M and another one on the right as well as a HEMA and several large fashion chains. Fortunately one of the side streets offers an escape from all this blandness. This lunchroom uses mostly regional and organic products, which is not only responsible but definitely beneficial to the taste of the final product. The coffee, homemade bread and smoothies are all the better for it. However, at the weekend the small shop often gets packed and you can only pay in cash. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Thu 11:00 - 19:00. Closed Mon, Sun. (2 - 7). TJBKS
High tea
Broers stadscafe-restaurant B-2, Janskerkhof 9, tel. (+31) 302 34 34 06, fax (+31) 302 36 44 09, info@stadscafe-broers.nl, www.stadscafe-broers.nl. Every afternoon from 13:30 - 16:30 this multifunctional pub is mobbed by men and women with a sweet tooth eager to sample Broers high tea menu. Were not going to lie. Its a bit more expensive than at other cafs, but the quality is worth the extra cash. The fun begins with a large pot of tea, after which come scones, clotted cream, cranberry jam, quiche and mini-sandwiches. Real gluttons can extend this menu with lemon ice-cream, bonbons, Grandmothers cake and champagne. QOpen 13:30 - 16:30. (14.90). TJAG Puur Eten & Drinken B-2, Lange Janstraat 28, tel.
(+31) 302 38 24 54, info@eetcafepuur.nl, www.eetcafepuur.nl. At Puur the high tea isnt too expensive and youll definitely fill your belly. This small jewel is also only a five-minute walk from the central station. The interior consists of peaceful brown and white hues and two long, comfortable sofas. Thanks to the large window, you also have a great view of the busy street outside. For 10 two people can get a mix of cupcakes, chocolate cake, cream puffs, scones and cheesecake, not to mention a large pot of fresh mint tea. Delicious! QOpen 11:30 - 16:00. (10). TJ6GB
Sappies en Happies B-2, Donkerstraat 2, tel. (+31)
Zeyn E-9, Jaarbeursplein 4, tel. (+31) 302 95 56 65, info@zeyn.nl, www.zeyn.nl. Whether youre here for breakfast, lunch or dinner youll always feel at ease at Zeyn. This popular, modern looking restaurant owes its popularity to its excellent location. Here at the back end of the Central Station opposite the largest events centre in Holland, youll find the best egg salad in all of Utrecht. That is if you can find a place among the many tables cluttered with papers and laptops. It seems half the citys office workers come here for informal meetings during the day, but the large windows also inspire daydreaming, not to mention people watching. QOpen 07:30 - 21:00, Sat, Sun 09:00 - 21:00. (14 - 17). TJAULBKSW utrecht.inyourpocket.com
Sector 3 B-4, Twijnstraat 9, tel. (+31) 302 31 15 70, info@sector-3.nl, www.sector-3.nl. The high tea in super trendy Sector 3 is remarkably different, to say the least. You wont find egg or salmon sandwiches here or other predictable snacks, but rather freshly baked Italian bread filled generously with air dried ham and creamy brie. The different types of tea are by no means standard either and the Indian Chai is our absolute favourite. If nothing else, Sector 3 is a paradise for bread lovers. The beautiful vaulted cellar in a former factory decorated in a modern style is the perfect setting for a lazy afternoon. We would, however, appreciate some cushions on the hard benches. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00. (18.50/person). TJ6UGKSW Spring 2012
32
Nightlife
And with nightlife from standard bars to more mature music clubs and raging discos, Utrecht has no problem providing a good night out. Theres a wide selection of cafs at the Neude and more intimate ones at t Wed, Janskerkhof and the Domplein. A bit further away is the Ledig Erf, which is immensely popular with locals due to the three huge terraces. Also note that this is by and large an easy going city, so dont worry about walking (or cycling) home on your own late at night. Whether youre after a nightclub with face control and scary bouncers, a dingy dive with cheap beer or an underground bar where you can hole up till the wee hours of the morning, Utrechts nightlife scene wont disappoint. The best are of course listed here.
Kafe Belgi B-3, Oudegracht 196, tel. (+31) 302 31 26
66, www.kroegpagina.nl/belgie. Even though this Belgian beer bar always seems full to bursting, its a definite must-see for beer lovers. Many brave souls have made it their goal to finish the endless list of available brews on the blackboard, which is, looking at the alcohol content of your average Belgian beer, a challenge, to say the least. Find a vacant seat among a diverse public of spinsters, teenagers, locals, students, hippies, pets and everything in between. Q J6BK
Bars
302 32 25 55, info@debastaard.nl, www.debastaard. nl. This so-called theatre bar lacks the highbrow frills one might expect. The Bastard frequently organises small-scale theatrical performances and consequently many of the regulars are Utrecht artists meaning pop musicians, actors, travel writers and other layabouts. The interior is modern and spotlights are aimed at little square tables often occupied by students. The busiest evenings are Fridays and Saturdays, so if youd like to get a seat it would be best to arrive before 22:00. QOpen 16:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 16:00 - 03:00. JA6EGBW
De Bastaard theatercaf B-2, Jansveld 17, tel. (+31)
Ledig Erf B-5, Tolsteegbrug 3, tel. (+31) 302 31 75 77, info@ledigerf.nl, www.ledigerf.nl. This so-called chess and games bar offers one of the best and largest outside seating areas in town which is open all year long. The terrace is surrounded by trees and lies next to a canal. Inside is a small, but pleasant bar with a large variety of beers on draught, water bowls and food for dogs and picnic baskets for people who happen to stop by with rented canoes. Apparently that happens now and again. QOpen 10:00 02:00. J6B Marktzicht B-1, Breedstraat 4, tel. (+31) 302 31 33 90, marktzicht.intercafe.nl. Despite its old-fashioned atmosphere and dated furnishings, we still like Marktzicht, if only because the owners couldnt care less about the latest trends. You wont find any students here, but you will encounter sincere service with a genuine smile. Every Saturday a fabric and clothing market with a 400-year-old history is held virtually in front of the entrance and then the clientele tends to change a bit. But during the week the vast majority of visitors are regulars who will give you a friendly nod and wont mind your presence at all, as long as they can continue playing pool on the nearly antique Wilhelmina billiards table. The terrace is also a major bonus. Q TJLEGBXW
www.orloff.nl. Just one of the many cafs located on this pleasant square, Orloff is an especially good lunch caf to be in during the summer when the terrace reaches around the corner and guarantees sun all day long. Not unlike some of Utrechts other establishments, this one functions as some sort of living room for people who can afford to spend an entire day in a caf with pleasant background music, great coffee and lots of newspapers and magazines. QOpen 10:00 01:30, Fri, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 02:30. (4 - 8). TJHBK
Derat B-4, Lange Smeestraat 37, tel. (+31) 302 31 95 13, erik@cafederat.nl, www.cafederat.nl. This local pub can be a bit intimidating at first. Its an oversized living room, which in the evenings is packed with people who all seem to know each other. Theres no chance of sneaking in unnoticed. Thankfully, the artistic looking people in their thirties and forties who frequent this place are friendly and the atmosphere is good. The main musical theme is pop on vinyl: they play old pop music on the record player, the ceiling is covered in records and the walls are decorated with Top 40 lists from decades ago. Theres a also a wide variety of good beers on tap, which is another draw. QOpen 14:00 - 01:00. J6 Flater C-4, Oudegracht 140, tel. (+31) 302 32 17 28, info@cafeflater.nl, www.cafeflater.nl. Looking for a place in Utrecht where other hipsters, youngsters and the like hang out at night? Members of the surf and skateboard club meet at this small, dark caf at a near-perfect location along the canals every Monday. An attractive crowd and equally good-looking bar staff listen to indie and electro music here, but either youre in or youre out: for Flater outsiders, its usually out. QOpen 20:00 - 02:00, Thu 17:00 - 02:00, Fri 17:00 - 04:00, Sat 20:00 - 04:00. PJGB Hofman Caf B-2, Janskerkhof 17a, tel. (+31) 302 30 24 70, info@hofman-cafe.nl, www.hofman-cafe.nl. Its hard to miss this caf, bar and club. Just look for the brick building on the Jankerkhof with the giant Hofman sign that changes colour. Inside the red wallpaper and curtains behind the stage and the Venetian-style glass chandeliers lend the place a certain boudoir quality, while the long granite bar adds a touch of elegance. Foreign and local youngsters come here for live concerts on a small scale as well as DJs, but during the day you can pop in for a good craft brew and huge servings of international fare, which include the usual suspects: sandwiches, uitsmijter, satay and steak. It also provides a large terrace in summer and a big flat screen for sports. QOpen 11:00 - 01:00, Thu 11:00 - 02:30, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 04:00. Closed Sun. JABW Utrecht In Your Pocket
Orloff B-2, Donkere Gaard 8, tel. (+31) 302 32 16 79,
Stichtse Taveerne B-4, Twijnstraat 43, tel. (+31) 302
31 55 55. To say that this place is a pleasant games bar with a cosy, pub-like atmosphere pretty much sums up the Stichtse Taveerne. Its one of the few establishments where you can always find a place to sit and if youre lucky maybe even get a spot on the balcony at the back overlooking the canal. You can play pool, billiards, darts or one of the many board games on offer and smokers who still havent kicked the habit can indulge their addiction in a separate room. QOpen 13:00 - 01:00. Closed Sun. TJGBX hoogt.nl, www.hoogthoreca.nl. The furnishings of this protected, historic building make it immediately clear that this is no ordinary pub. Inside youll also see large film posters, loads of TV screens and plenty of artistic-looking people playing with their laptops. The majority of t Hoogts patrons come for its organic beer or fresh herb tea as a prelude to watching a film in one of three movie theatres. If youre bored, you can always watch passers-by through the vast windows or browse through one of the high-brow literary magazines laying around. The delicious homemade cheesecake alone justifies a visit to this stylish, yet cosy location. QOpen 12:00 - 21:00. PTJAGKW
t Hoogt B-2, Hoogt 4, tel. (+31) 302 31 22 16, info@
nightlife Nightlife
08, info@cafevanvelsen.nl, www.cafevanvelsen.nl. Local entertainer Henk Westbroek is the reason that many Dutch tourists visit the Mariaplaats, where his rock bar is located. However, this busy spot is full of fun haunts and the hospitable pub Van Velsen caught our attention. Everything is in order here. The music as well as the cocktails, the quasi trendy dcor and the staff, who werent overlooked when the Almighty handed out good looks, are all reasons to give it a shot. The terrace also offers hours of observation fun as this is one of the shortest walking routes from the centre of town to the train station. The long narrow bar is a popular meeting place for the citys Young & Beautiful crowd. QOpen 12:00 - 02:00. (4 - 9). JAUGBKXW cafevoortuin.nl. Dont tell anyone because this is one of the very few city centre locations where you can probably still find a place to sit on a night out and wed like to keep it that way. But of course, thats not its only advantage. Voortuin (Front Garden) is a pleasant little place with a pot pouri of different style tables and chairs, a friendly and knowledgeable crew, a house cat and a DJ every Thursday night. QOpen 12:00 - 03:00, Mon, Tue, Wed 12:00 - 02:00, Sun 12:00 - 24:00. JAEG
33
Van Velsen A-3, Mariaplaats 8, tel. (+31) 302 36 41
Voortuin B-2, Voorstraat 4, tel. (+31) 302 23 17 78, www.
Beach bars
Strand Oog in Al J-16, Kanaalweg, www.strandooginal.
nl. If youre looking for sand, sun and water you can either join the traffic jams and head toward one of the North Sea beaches, which are too crowded anyway, or you can relax and cycle to the most northern point of the Kanaalweg. Youll find a wooden bar on this small man-made beach which is ideal for some rest and recreation. Its one of the citys most attractive spots, where two excavated waterways meet, but civilisation is never far away as many bridges dominate the view. Whenever temperatures rise above 18 degrees half the student population of Utrecht makes its way over to the covered terrace or onto its elegant white seat cushions. If youre interested in fine dining, you might be better off elsewhere, but the friendly staff make it a great place for a drink. Live music and DJs also keep reality at a pleasant distance. Q TAGBKXW
El Club Brillante C-1, Biltstraat 337, tel. (+31) 302
Clubs
Aus der Reihe Derrick B-1, Voorstraat 102, info@
derrick.nl, www.ausderreihederrick.nl. Named after the protagonist of the popular 20th-centur y German TV-hit, this joint is as kitschy as they come. Beer here is cheap and flows in abundance. The music exists mainly of familiar old-timers from the 1980s and 90s with an occasional Dutch classic, which youll recognise by the crowds sudden and simultaneous swaying. Its a pretty mixed bag; people in all shapes and sizes tend to end up here at the end of their night, as a last stop before bed. QOpen Thu 23:00 - 04:00, Fri, Sat 23:00 - 05:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun. JG 57, www.ekko.nl. Thanks to various renovations, EKKO has been transformed from a 1980s youth hangout into a proper music club. The concerts do, however, still have an edge and you can expect raging rock bands from the Netherlands and abroad and nights full of alternative electronics like electro and dubstep. Concert tickets rarely cost more than 10. Saturday night is the most popular night at EKKO, when itll usually play a medley of pop and alternative dance hits, but try to get here before midnight if you want to get inside. QOpen 19:30 - 04:00, Sun 20:00 - 24:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed. PJEKX
36 82 30, www.molote.nl. Each Friday night this ennobled canteen clears away all of its tables and chairs for anyone willing to do their worst on the big, wooden dance floor. Unfortunately the Salsa DJ at Club Brillante takes the task of rousing his audience a tad too seriously as he alternates salsa, merengue and bachata, where a more consistent style would suit the guests a bit better. Dont arrive before midnight unless you like being the only one on the dance floor. QOpen 23:00 - 04:00. Admission: 5. J
Filemon en Baucis B-2, Janskerkhof 22, tel. (+31) 302 30 46 04, www.filemonbaucis.nl. Four days a week the dining tables are put aside after 23:00 and a slightly older crowd goes wild at Filemon en Baucis, which were quite comfortable calling trendy. The name is derived from the Greek myth about the linden tree and the oak. Zeus and Hermes had given them eternal life, side by side, as trees. Thankfully things are not as static on the stylish dance floor. The DJ uses a varied selection of music from old disco to soulful house. QOpen 17:00 - 05:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. PJGK Havana B-2, Oudkerkhof 29, tel. (+31) 302 31 50 40, www.havanautrecht.nl. Go to Havana if you want to make a night of it. From late afternoon it serves Latin American inspired dishes like tapas, fajitas and enchiladas and from 23:00 onwards the tables and chairs are pushed aside to make room for a night of cocktails and hip shaking. Havana lives up to its name in that it caters to people whod rather dance to house, Latin-house, salsa, R&B and soul than to standard Euro-pop. On Thursday student nights you can only get in with a student card, while on Fridays and Saturdays young and old are free to mingle. QOpen 16:00 - 01:00, Thu, Fri 16:00 - 04:00, Sat 15:00 - 04:00. Closed Sun. JAGK Spring 2012
Ekko A-1, Bemuurde Weerd WZ 3, tel. (+31) 302 31 74
34
Nightlife
302 30 42 41, info@kosten-koper.nl, www.kosten-koper. nl. You wont find much choice in the way of food here (the menu offers only three different main dishes), but every Utrecht insider knows the Kosten Koper isnt really about eating. At the weekend the dinner tables are set aside and the place transforms into a mid-sized club - conveniently located in the midst of the city centre - that functions as the last stop for drunk party people. At 03:00 you can find a diverse audience here eyeballing each other and the eyeballing is usually done by lonely 30-something men at young female students. QOpen 17:00 - 04:00, Wed 17:00 - 22:30. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. PJAGK 26 73, info@clubpoema.nl, www.clubpoema.nl. On the outside it doesnt look very appealing. Picture a narrow entrance in a back street, with two or three enormous bouncers beside it. But dont give up just yet. Once you make your way one floor down (the club is literally underground) youll find yourself in one of the most beautiful clubs in the city. Its large, well-maintained and has an impressive sound system and is known as a stage for hard electronic music, especially techno music. Over the past years big names in this genre, like James Holden and Sven Vth, have played here. Perhaps its best feature is that everyone is welcome here from students to real working men from Utrecht. Unfortunately not everyone knows how to behave. Recently the club was closed down by the mayor for two weeks, because the police had encountered too many disturbances and hard drugs inside. QOpen Fri, Sat 23:00 - 05:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun. PJGX
Kosten Koper A-2, Loeff Berchmakerstraat 4, tel. (+31)
Cocktails & Lounges

Stockholm B-2, Bemuurde Weerd OZ 40, tel. (+31) 302
73 18 77, info@stockholmcafe.nl, www.stockholmcafe. nl. This hip and surprisingly narrow place is known to cause amusing misunderstandings among locals who discuss both the merits of a visit to the Swedish capital and this cool bar where the cocktails are good and the atmosphere friendly. Actually, its not very Swedish at all, apart from the moose hanging from the wall, and thats probably a good thing. If youve ever tasted akvavit then you know what were talking about. QOpen 17:00 - 02:00. J
Poema A-2, Drieharingstraat 22, tel. (+31) 302 32
Zussen B-2, Korte Jansstraat 23, tel. (+31) 302 33 36 33, fax (+31) 302 30 00 15, info@zussen.com, www. zussen.com. Not only hip and trendy people will feel at home in this stylish bar. Parents, too, can breathe a sigh of relief knowing that their children are in safe hands in the play area. While the kids are entertaining themselves in the ball pool or watching a Disney film, mum can flirt with one of the cool bartenders. Reminiscent of Tom Cruise in his best days, these quick young men prepare flashy drinks with flair. Every Tuesday night after 21:00 this place turns into a Tango bar. QOpen 11:00 - 24:00. TJGBKX
Gay Utrecht
47, info@bodytalk.org, www.bodytalk.org. For almost 25 years, Bodytalk has been Utrechts one and only real gay bar. Youll find students, lawyers and refuse collectors in this their home-away-from-home where everyone knows each others names. Its like the TV series Cheers, only the postal workers and psychiatrists are gay. On weekends from 18:00 - 19:00 the bar is packed for happy hour when only Dutch music is played. After a few beers youll enjoy it more and more and soon enough youll find yourself singing along even if you dont speak the language. QOpen 17:00 - 01:00, Thu 17:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 16:00 - 04:00, Sun 16:00 - 01:00. PJA6BX
Bodytalk A-1, Oudegracht 64, tel. (+31) 302 31 57
Winkel van Sinkel A-2, Oudegracht 158, tel. (+31) 302 30 30 30, info@dewinkelvansinkel.nl, www.nachtwinkel. nl. First opened as a department store in the early 19th century, this is probably one of the most famous establishments in Utrecht and it caters to all tastes. Even if you dont have money or simply dont feel like nestling in one of the large, lazy lounge chairs, you can still entertain yourself by checking out the neoclassical faade of this imposing building. Security staff is superfluous including the four enormous cast-iron female statues in Greek togas that have been guarding the place since 1839. The club hosts theme nights with names like Beat Gallery, Funky Night and Disco Inferno. QOpen Fri, Sat 23:00 - 05:00. J
Out of town - Clubs

Brothers B-4, Schoudermantel 52, Bunnink (UtrechtArea), tel. (+31) 306 57 00 30, info@brothers.nl, www.brothers.nl. The management of this multifunctional complex knows that you have to be innovative in the Dutch world of nightlife in order to keep consumers on your side. Brothers has managed to do this for over a decade. Recently, the Grand Caf changed styles and made another smart move with its recently opened The Clubb. Studio A12 and the Beierse Zaal also draw loyal audiences. Its variation of styles and large choice of themed parties keeps Brothers at the top. QOpen 20:30 - 03:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed. PAULEG
Cafe Kalff A-1, Oudegracht 47, tel. (+31) 302 31 09 19, www.cafekalff.nl. Cafe Kalff is a perfect addition to the vibrant homo scene in Utrecht. Before you move on to the dance floors of places like enSuite and the monthly Pann evenings, take a detour into Kalff - the ideal warm-up to a night out. This long, narrow pub located directly opposite the ever-horny Bodytalk is so small that youre forced to make contact with everyone else in the place. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in this intimate locale that sports a stylish dcor of attractive stained glass windows, leather seats, pink cushions, industrial lights and a tiny dance floor that complements its surroundings. Hollands Queen Beatrix and Argentinian-born Crown Princess Maxima smile approvingly from their framed portraits on the wall. QOpen 15:00 - 01:00, Thu, Fri 15:00 - 02:00, Sat 14:00 - 02:00, Sun 14:00 - 01:00. JBX Cruise Control B-1, Voorstraat 71 (ACU), info@cruisecontrol.nu, www.cruisecontrol.nu. Cruise Control is hot and queer. Good queer, actually. Every first Saturday of the month this event takes place in a dark squat where you can expect electronic music, shoulder pads and ripped T-shirts. If youre thinking of American football players then youve missed the mark and probably dont belong here. Alternative underground people dance and chat by the bar next to the dance floor while checking out the most handsome people in the crowd. Dance lovers often let themselves go completely, unreservedly. QOpen Sat 23:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun. JEBX utrecht.inyourpocket.com
Casinos
2, tel. (+31) 307 50 47 50, fax (+31) 307 50 47 00, Utrecht@hollandcasino.nl, www.hollandcasino.nl/ utrecht/NL. QOpen 12:30 - 03:00. Admission: 5, Wednesdays free. OALGKX
Holland Casino Utrecht Overste den Oudenlaan
Nightlife
enSuite B-3, Oudegracht a/d werf 97, www.en-suite. nl. Since 2004 enSuite is every Saturday Utrechts answer to trendy Amsterdam clubs which means that it offers hip music, beautiful people and transvestites with attitude. The venue is a medieval cellar in club LUX by the canal, which has the added benefit of insulating the surrounding community from the pumping bass. enSuite attracts more matured gay people then most other places in Utrecht. Using the toilets costs money, but its always cheaper than getting a ticket for urinating in public. QOpen Sat 23:00 - 05:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun. PJX Pann B-2, Oudegracht 245/Tivoli, www.pann.nl. Pann is an institution and every third Saturday of the month (for more then 40 years already!), Pann boys and girls let loose in the biggest club in Utrecht, Tivoli. Pann aims to provide gay youngsters with a good place to go out and it does this well. Visitors dance the night away warm and full of hormones and all of the profit from the event goes to charity. The party is frequently sold out, so your best bet is to buy a ticket online. QOpen Sat 22:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun. PJX Rits B-2, Bemuurde Weerd WZ 3, www.clubrits.nl. Once every two months Rits throws a Friday night party at the Ekko pop stage. Rits used to be alternative, but today songs by Lady GaGa have conquered the stage which could be good or bad depending on your point of view. Despite this, the DJs have broad tastes and sometimes even old-fashioned electric guitars make themselves heard. Going out at Rits will provide ample opportunities for relaxing chit-chat, especially with a delicious Limburg Land beer in hand.Q Admission: 5. J t Oude Pothuys B-3, Oudegracht 279, tel. (+31) 302 31 89 70, www.pothuys.nl. Tiny, but full of atmosphere, this place has been a must visit for people into live music since 1976. The century-old corner house has a gig on every single night of the week, ranging from jazz, to DJs and open mic nights. Unfortunately, the space is so confined that loud sounds in a closed cellar can be a bit overwhelming, but thats nothing that its massive range of beers and picturesqueness cant make up for. Also a good place for a simple (and dirt cheap) meal, especially from Monday to Wednesday when platters cost a mere 11.50. QOpen 12:00 - 03:00, Mon, Tue 14:00 - 03:00, Sun 12:00 - 24:00. J6EGK U Rock! A-2, Loeff Berchmakerstraat 10, tel. (+31) 302 33 44 94, info@urock.nl, www.urock.nl. If you dont break your neck tripping over the hazardous step at the entrance, youre in for a night full of laughs at U Rock! If you come here on a Sunday night, that is. The regular stand-up comedy nights offer a central theme of humour thats accessible to pretty much everyone. On other nights visitors listen to live music while sitting on empty beer crates covered with cushions. Q JE
35
Microbreweries
Stadskasteel Oudaen A-2, Oudegracht 99, tel. (+31)
302 31 18 64, fax (+31) 302 36 73 77, info@oudaen. nl, www.oudaen.nl. In 1990 a centuries-old tradition of beer brewing returned to the Oudegracht after 93 years of silence, when the Utrecht City Brewery settled in the vaults of City Castle Oudaen. While the Oudaen belongs to the worlds smaller breweries, its a modern business and about 75,000 litres of beer are produced here each year. The only steam brewery in Utrecht is situated in one of the four underground vaults located beneath street level inside the castle. Q J
Live music
31, www.boothillsaloon.nl. Real rock enthusiasts only have one option in Utrecht: Boothill Saloon. When the waitresses arent dancing on top of the pool table, this brownish bar is an ideal place for a couple of beers. Your drinking buddies will most likely be groupies, old hippies and heavily tattooed music fanatics. If you still need some more information before committing to a visit, the ceiling offers plenty to look at including dozens of hanging boots. QOpen 14:00 - 02:00, Fri 12:00 - 04:00, Sat 14:00 - 05:00, Sun 15:00 - 02:00. JE 36, www.cafehetcollege.nl. This bar has a retro chic feel, expressed mainly through some funny looking chandeliers and lamp shades and psychedelic wallpaper which doesnt quite do justice to its main purpose as a jazz and blues caf. However, its peculiar sense of design shouldnt be a reason to walk past it. Its a fun place with friendly staff, a large variety of snacks to choose from with your beer and a small but heated outside seating area in a good part of town. Live music is available every first Sunday of the month. Oddly enough, due to its modest size, it doesnt accept groups of more than four people. QOpen 10:00 - 01:00, Mon 11:00 - 19:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 02:00, Sun 12:00 - 19:00. JB
Boothill Saloon B-4, Twijnstraat 5, tel. (+31) 302 30 06
Midnight munchies
Winkel van Sinkel A-2, Oudegracht 158, tel. (+31)
302 30 30 30, www.dewinkelvansinkel.nl. If after an evening out you feel like consuming something other than your traditional deep-fried junk, youre welcome here at Winkel van Sinkels restaurant until the wee hours. Friendly waitresses serve Mediterranean tapas in the historical wharf cellars of this imposing building. Seated on Arabic lounge settees youll experience the joy of an informal and intimate atmosphere, while you munch on Turkish bread with mojo sauce (coriander-almond pesto). QOpen 18:00 - 02:00, Sat, Sun 17:00 - 02:00. (3 - 7). JGK
Het College A-2, Mariastraat 3, tel. (+31) 302 31 91
Pool, snooker & BIlliards

Poolcaf Hart van Utrecht B-2, Ganzemarkt 16B, tel. (+31) 302 33 23 15, www.poolcafehartvanutrecht.nl. Once youve found the hidden entrance, you can get ready for a fun night out in this pool caf right in the centre of town. Its frequented by youngsters and students who like to chill out in its cosy and snug surroundings. While American film stars and former mafia heroes look down on you benignly from their posters, you can enjoy a game on one of 10 pool tables. Although the walls are a boring yellow-brownish, the pool caf has a modern and open look. The bars also worth a a visit with its cheap drinks and impressive number of booze bottles. Live sports are broadcast on the large screen in the smokers room. QOpen 14:00 - 24:00, Thu 14:00 01:00, Fri, Sat 14:00 - 02:00, Sun 14:00 - 23:00. PJ Spring 2012
Stairway to Heaven A-2, Mariaplaats 11-12, tel. (+31) 302 32 22 88, www.stairway.nl. This is an all-time favourite with a lot of locals and with good reason. Rock lovers can indulge themselves sitting among the guitars and framed albums signed by their heroes, while students and people on a tight budget can come here for a decent meal for very reasonable prices. There are however some disadvantages. The music is so loud its really not an ideal place to catch up with long lost friends and vegetarians can spare themselves a trip altogether. QOpen 11:00 - 01:00, Sun 15:00 - 01:00. (10 - 21). JEGBK utrecht.inyourpocket.com
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Nightlife
Pubs
acu.nl, www.acu.nl. Many Utrechters are a bit uneasy when it comes to squatters. Prejudices prevail. But a pub with an adjoining nightclub such as ACU, which was started decades ago in a squatted car workshop, shows that this fear is unfounded. ACU has delicious and cheap organic beer, an eccentric concert programme (punk, queer nights, chiptune, etc.) and a great atmosphere. The only downside: theres no supervised cloakroom and things do get stolen, so keep an eye on your things, or someone might squat in your new coat. QOpen Tue 18:00 - 22:00, Wed 18:00 - 24:00, Thu 18:00 - 03:00, Fri 21:00 - 04:00, Sat 23:00 - 04:00, Sun 18:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. J6EX
Florin B-2, Nobelstraat 2-4, tel. (+31) 302 31 99 57,

www.florinutrecht.nl. The only English pub in town offers reasonably priced food for anyone missing typical British grub like fish and chips, steaks and burgers. Florin is known for its Super English Pub Quizzes on Wednesday nights (check its website for current dates) which are hosted by the legendary Mr. Balls - a guaranteed good laugh. On Saturday this establishment turns into a radio station, so unless youre fluent in Dutch, its probably not the place for you. QOpen 16:00 - 01:00, Mon 16:00 - 24:00, Thu 16:00 - 02:00, Fri 14:00 - 03:00, Sat 10:00 - 03:00, Sun 16:00 - 23:00. (8 - 12). JKX
ACU B-1, Voorstraat 71, tel. (+31) 302 31 45 90, home@
De Maan B-4, Twijnstraat 3, tel. (+31) 302 31 54 81,
info@cafedemaan.nl, www.cafedemaan.nl. Recently renovated, caf De Maan at the canals of Utrecht sports a spacious but cosy place to spend your late afternoons and evenings. Located at the start of one of the most popular little streets of Utrecht, the caf brings in different locals to enjoy dark beers and modern wall art in its soft sofas. Fancy having philosophical conversations? There is no loud music blaring in your ears here, so youll be over the moon in this place. QOpen 16:00 - 01:00, Fri 16:00 - 02:00, Sat 15:00 02:00. Closed Mon, Sun. PJGK
info@hethart.com, www.hethart.com. This place is a bit tucked away but nonetheless a good place for a coffee or beer, depending on the time of day or your mood. The owners obviously put some thought in the design of the place, which resulted in a hip caf where you can easily spend a good couple of hours on a Sunday afternoon. The collection of newspapers and magazines is also a nice touch. QOpen 12:00 - 02:00. JBX
Het Hart B-2, Voorstraat 10, tel. (+31) 302 31 97 18,
De Poort B-5, Tolsteegbarrire 2, tel. (+31) 302 31
45 72, www.eetcafedepoort.nl. An all-time favourite with people from all walks of life from students to construction workers and everyone in between, this bar/caf/restaurant doesnt offer much in the way of interior design, but has plenty of board games, a large selection of Belgian beer on draught and modestly priced dishes like pumpkin risotto and suckling pig salad. Another reason for its popularity is the outdoor caf, which is probably one of the busiest in town on summer days. Each November De Poort is also one of the main stages for the Smartlappenfestival (Tear-jerker festival), which gives you an entertaining insight into the Dutch peoples love for crooning en masse. QOpen 11:00 - 02:00, Mon, Sun 11:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 03:00. (13 - 15). PTJ6EGB
King Arthur A-2, Oudegracht 101-103, tel. (+31) 302 31 11 26, www.kingarthur-utrecht. This caf has been a busy place with a varied clientele for over 35 years, right in the centre of Utrecht, opposite where you board the boat tours. The food is hard to describe in a single word, because the diverse menu offers schnitzels and mussels, but also butterfly pasta and couscous. Tapas are also a good option. The top floor is a hidden gem, with one of the most beautiful views of the Oudegracht. For those who are still bored theres also a pool table. QOpen Mon 11:00 - 23:00, Tue, Wed 10:00 24:00, Thu 10:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 02:00, Sun 12:00 - 24:00. (15 - 20). TJHAUGBK Olivier A-2, Achter Clarenburg 6, tel. (+31) 302 36 78
76, utrecht@cafe-olivier.be, www.cafe-olivier.nl. Looking like a two a penny city residence, first time visitors are in for a real surprise when they walk inside. Olivier is situated in an old religious meeting hall, complete with high ceilings and organ loft. The caf owes its popularity to its original setting and the fact that it serves an incredible selection of more than 40 Belgian beers. You can also order mussels, Belgian chicken casserole and of course typical Belgian chips with mayonnaise. The staff is generally friendly, but sometimes you get overlooked in the midst of the crowds. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00, Mon, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. JGBKX
306 77 85 88, info@dezaak-utrecht.nl, www.dezaakutrecht.nl. This friendly caf is a bit of an oddity as this is the only bar in town that doesnt sell food and therefore allows you to bring your own. More often than not you see people here opening their lunch boxes and munching on a filled sandwich from Bigolis next door. Because of the favourable location and a large outdoor caf perfect to catch some sun in the summer, the place gets really busy. So do what the locals do and bring a days worth of food to go with the beers on offer. QOpen 08:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri 08:00 - 03:00, Sat 10:00 - 03:00, Sun 10:00 - 01:00. TJ6GBW
De Zaak B-2, Korte Minrebroederstraat 9, tel. (+31)
Springhaver B-3, Springweg 50, tel. (+31) 302 31 37
89, www.springhaver.nl. Of all of Springhavers functions - it also houses an art house cinema and a restaurant - the pub is probably its best asset. Its meals are big, reasonably priced and cooked with organic ingredients. The place also has a cosy atmosphere and a large quantity of reading material if you dont feel too sociable. Orders are taken at the bar and if you hang around long enough you might be paid a visit by the owners cat! QOpen 11:00 - 21:30. (12 - 16). J6BK
Flitz A-1, Rozenstraat 15, tel. (+31) 302 31 74 28,

www.cafeflitz.nl. Do you sometimes long for those teenage parties of yesteryear high on coca-cola while dancing to Rage Against the Machine and Nirvana? Then make your way to Flitz, the only alternative pub in Utrecht with a dance floor. It fits no more than 30 people and the sound quality is debatable, but on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays youll hear the soundtrack of your wasted youth. For others Flitz has little offer: the interior is dark and decrepit and it always smells slightly of the toilets, but at least the beer is cheap. QOpen 20:30 - 01:30, Thu 20:30 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 20:30 04:45. Closed Sun. J6EGX
t Gras van de buren B-2, Lange Jansstraat 16, tel. (+31) 302 34 33 25, www.grasvandeburen.nl. A tiny establishment with a cosy and at certain times electric atmosphere. Throughout the day it serves as a lunch caf with tasty sandwiches and in the evening you can stay for dinner and a little bit of dancing. A variety of cuisine is available at reasonable prices, with most dishes containing organic ingredients. The music includes 1980s and 90s hits mixed together with more recent songs. In summer you have the option of sitting outside, but the view of a bus and cycle lane isnt the best weve seen. QOpen 11:00 - 02:00, Thu 11:00 - 03:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 04:00. (3 - 8). JGBK utrecht.inyourpocket.com
Nightlife
Tilt B-2, Lange Jufferstraat 62, tel. (+31) 302 31 66 29, eetcafetilt@hotmail.com. At the start of the century this pub was a place to hang out for hip hop artists from Utrecht and their friends, but in the meantime the pub has become rather mainstream. When the tables are moved to the side at half past ten in the evening in order to create a dance floor, these days the DJ plays tasteful house and other easily digestible dance music. The crowd here is young and hip; youll find many urban professionals and the atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. What is exceptional is that at the Tilt you receive service at your table, something which is quite rare in pubs in Utrecht. Q Open 15:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 15:00 04:00. J6GBK t Pakhuis B-2, Janskerkhof 21, tel. (+31) 302 30 49
43, www.hetpakhuis.nl. Connoisseurs are advised to go elsewhere, but visitors on a shoestring budget will have a good time in this spacious student bar. Although it boasts quite a few disadvantages like a simple menu, lack of atmosphere and a penetrating stench of stale beer from the night before, its hard to deny the appeal of the reasonably priced daily specials and the cheerful staff. The party really starts after dinner when the DJ guarantees that the dance floors packed. QOpen 17:30 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. (8 - 12). JGBKX 80, www.olearys-utrecht.com. In this pub, just outside the city centre, Irish pride seems to be more alive than in similar bars in the city. Irish sports scarves hang from the ceiling and on the wall youll find paper clippings about a massive victory by the Irish rugby team over their English arch enemies. And there is no escaping the Kilkenny and Guinness ads which cover any free space. This improves the atmosphere, as does the hearty pub food, the dartboard and the wide screen TV for sporting events that arent broadcast on Dutch television. The public is varied including locals, but also quite a few Englishspeaking tourists and students. QOpen 16:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat 16:00 - 02:00, Sun 14:00 - 01:00. (8 - 13). P6GK
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OLearys A-1, Adelaarstraat 23, tel. (+31) 302 71 36
Student clubs
Ouwe Dikke Dries (Old Fat Dries) A-1, Waterstraat 32, tel. (+31) 621 58 60 02, www.ouwedikkedries.nl. Nicknames are fairly common in The Netherlands and this popular pub owes its odd name to a former proprietor known as Dn Dikke Dries because of his corpulent build. Nowadays its a hit with students during the week and at the weekend locals from Wijk C come here in droves. In spite of its small dimensions, the furnishings offer plenty of entertainment. The historical photographs and numerous beer adverts on the wall are worth a closer look, but the two one-armed bandits should probably be ignored. This may also be the only pub in Holland with more disco lights on the ceiling than square metres of floor space. QOpen 16:00 - 02:00, Thu 16:00 - 03:00, Fri 16:00 - 04:00, Sat 20:00 - 04:00. Closed Mon, Sun. JGBX t Neutje B-1, Neude 30, tel. (+31) 302 32 24 58, www.
studentencafeneutje.nl. The mother of all student bars, t Neutje offers loads of advantages including a wide selection of beers, tasty, cheap sandwiches for lunch and a crew of young and friendly staff. Its incredibly narrow, which could potentially be seen as a downside as chances are youll have to elbow your way to a seat, especially on student nights (Thursdays in particular) when this place can get a bit claustrophobic. It was, however, much worse before the smoking ban. QOpen 10:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 04:00, Sun 12:00 - 02:00. JG
82, info@bar walden.nl, w w w.bar walden.nl. Mul tifunctional enterprises such as Bar Walden are difficult to classify. Every Friday and Saturday night its governed by DJs and every first Sunday its heaven on earth for whining children. While mum and dad are taking relaxed sips from their glasses of wine, the children are entertained with face-paint and electronic games on the Wii. Those craving some quiet time will also enjoy this place, especially its large outdoor terrace and the hidden niches of this beautiful building. Its a shame, however, that the monumental cellars with stunning pillars are primarily used for private parties. Q Open 11:00 - 03:00. Closed Mon. TJAGBKX
Walden B-2, Domplein 16, tel. (+31) 302 36 49
West D-9, Vleutenseweg 433, tel. (+31) 302 99 33 77, restaurantwest@gmail.com, w w w.restaurantwest.nl. A little bit out of the city on a fairly busy road, this caf isnt what one would call conveniently located, but worth a visit if youre in the area. The bar basically functions as a living room for the people who live nearby including students, couples, groups of friends and young families. Its popularity has made some of the staff members a bit cocky, but that doesnt take anything away from the generally good atmosphere. Although slightly pricey, it also serves good food, but dont forget to make a reservation if youre planning to eat here. Due to its obvious popularity, the owners have opened another venue on the other side of town, appropriately called Oost (East). QOpen 11:00 - 22:00. T6BK
Wine bars
Avond B-2, Janskerkhof 23, tel. (+31) 302 30 04 30, www.avond.nu. Although Avond serves plenty of other drinks, this trendy place is best categorised as a wine bar. You can order about 10 different wines by the glass, while a whole range of red, white or ros wines and sparkling wines is available by the bottle. If you enjoy modern furnishings youll feel right at home as every small design detail was taken into account when its interior was created. The crowd is mainly around 25 and older and they meet here quite early to have a chat before heading out to do a club crawl. QOpen 17:00 - 02:00, Sat, Sun 16:00 - 02:00. JAGK
Irish pubs
Mick OConnells B-2, Jansdam 3, tel. (+31) 302 36 84 66, info@mickoconnells.nl, www.mickoconnells. nl. Theres nothing like a visit to an Irish bar when youre on holiday. Located in the centre of town, this pub represents the heart of Utrechts international student life with the inevitable fish and chips and Guinness on the menu, rugby matches on big-screen TVs and English-speaking staff. The place tends to get very busy in the late evenings, so you might want to get here early. QOpen 16:00 - 04:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 04:00. (8 - 13). JEGBKXW utrecht.inyourpocket.com
Alfresco drinking in Utrecht
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high times in holland

The Dutch peoples laid back liberal attitude is perhaps best illustrated by its very reasonable and unprejudiced drug policy. The Netherlands has been recognised as an excellent example in drug control matters. By decriminalising the consumption of some soft drugs it has successfully reduced soft drug abuse and relieved its justice and penal systems - as well as created an exceptional, unmatched party scene. In fact, the English word drug even comes from the Dutch drouge or droge-vate, which meant dry [-barrels] (as barrels of dried herbs used to be imported by the Dutch and were intended for medicinal use). The most famous soft drugs available in the Netherlands (to over-18s of course) are weed and magic mushrooms, as well as other legal highs. The questionable content of legal highs and recent criticism of the ingredients and manufacturing standards will mean that this guide will not cover this type of soft-drug. Naturally, we believe natural highs to be the only safe high. Despite recent legal changes due to pressure from the European Union, the Netherlands is still the best place for dabbling with new experiences. All types of weed, hash and skuff can be found at very good prices if you look hard enough, but decent stuff by world standards can usually be found around the corner. Look out for busy shops with little or no front decor, as well as the pungent aroma of cannabis smoke wafting from the entrance. Of course, this type of soft drug can be consumed in many different ways. Smoking is the most class mode of administration, however, eating is also commonplace, particularly in the new tobacco-free world which is coming into being. It is also possible to smoke cannabis without using tobacco, by using tobacco alternatives - pure cannabis or a vaporiser (available for use in only the best coffee shops). It may be important to note for cost-effectiveness in your partying that for a first-timer, eating cannabis can have a strong and sometimes unpleasant effect, so small quantities are advised. For regular smokers, however, they may be disappointed to hear that in our opinion, eating cannabis is a much less efficient way to get high, therefore the effect may be very much reduced. Also for cannabis food (also known as space food) its important for the THC (the active ingredient in cannabis) to be cooked into fat or dissolved in alcohol for the effect to be felt. A sprinkle of hash on a muffin or in a hot chocolate will most likely have no effect, as ones stomach acids destroy the THC without absorbing it. If its your first time sampling natures gifts, its important not to underestimate Mother Natures power and potential. They can be very potent and end up giving you a bad time if one doesnt follow a few simple rules: keep something sweet with you, in case you start seeing stars; keep something to drink with you, as a good smoke will completely dry out your mouth; keep someone with you, in case you fall over (or worse, particularly in the case of mushrooms). Youll be glad to know that the only known death from cannabis was in the United Kingdom, as a result of an illegal market which cuts cannabis with other substances to increase its weight. This hazardous concoction briefly appeared in the Netherlands, but quickly disappeared as people could easily avoid it. For mushrooms, some recent changes may put a damper on your party plans, as psilocybin-based mushrooms are no longer legal. This came about as a result of excessive mushroom use by tourists. Despite this change in the law, magic mushrooms which do not contain the illegal active chemicals, are still sold in some smart shops. The most common types are philosophers stones (truffles) and Mexicans. Peyote can also be purchased dried and gives a very strong trip which can cause strong nausea, so you might want to stick with more traditional soft drugs should you be inclined to experience high times in Holland. Remember to get rid of all these natural highs before leaving the Netherlands as the possession of these substances is illegal pretty much everywhere. In the case of weed, try to keep a separate change of clothes to travel home in, as sniffer dogs can even react to strong aromas left behind by cannabis such as smoky jeans. The main thing to remember is to be educated about the drugs you use so as not to be taken by surprise, whether by the authorities or by your own body.
Coffeeshops in Utrecht
Utrecht is one of the largest cities in Holland, but few coffeeshops are worth a detour. Despite the many pleasant scenic spots such as its wharfs and parks, none of them feature a nearby coffeeshop. In fact, only one of takes advantage of the scenery, a real gem on a sunny day. Some coffeeshops are light and airy, some dark and cosy and some are just counters that supply locals for consumption at home.
Embracing the haze

You should also bear in mind that there are usually two types of weed sold; haze, which has high THC content and creates a strong stoned or high feeling; and non-haze which has a somewhat milder effect. The price difference may sometimes be quite substantial between these two types, as haze weed plants (usually strong sativas - for those in the know) are bigger and harder to grow properly than non-haze (usually strong indicas) plants. If youre a non-regular smoker, or even a regular hashish smoker, start with non-haze, and then perhaps try a haze joint to see how you feel. For regular (weed) smokers (close to daily), haze weed will show you how truly stoned you can get, but beware as some types may stick you to your chair, and you may drool (well, maybe not the second part). Utrecht In Your Pocket
Andersom B-2, Vismarkt 23. Upon visiting this coffeeshop, we were told that we could only enter after buying a cannabis product at the entrance. Not only is this a great turn-off for people looking for somewhere relaxed and chilled to go smoke, or even to have a soft drink, its also not permitted under Dutch law. QOpen 10:00 - 23:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 24:00, Sun 12:00 - 22:00. Black and White B-2, Vismarkt 14. Very close to the town centre, this coffeeshop is only a counter with no seating. Many pleasant sit-down coffeeshop alternatives can be found nearby so dont waste your time here unless you want something for home. QOpen 11:00 - 18:30, Sat 11:00 17:30. Closed Mon, Sun.
fairly pleasant furnishings and a somewhat cosy feel provided by candles and mellow lighting, this coffeeshop doesnt look like much from the outside. The name would make one think that its a wine-shop, but dont be fooled. This is a coffeeshop, which appears to cater mainly to tourists, but only if they wish to consume drugs; no drug purchase, no entry. This rule is enforced by an unpleasant staff, particularly on larger groups. Unfortunately, nothing exceptional here. QOpen 09:00 - 24:00, Fri, Sat 09:00 01:00, Sun 09:00 - 23:00. J
Bordeaux Rood B-1, Voorstraat 81. Dark, but with
HigH times in Holland
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name suggests this coffeeshop is actually a boat - and quite a large boat at that. Its light in colour, has wooden tables and chairs, Moroccan lamps on its walls and many plants around the windows. In short, its a perfect environment for smoking and reading an In Your Pocket guide (although other literature is also permitted). With its friendly staff and pleasant surroundings on the canal, Culture Boat is one of the best in Utrecht, despite being on the outskirts of the city centre. Just make sure you buy and smoke their weed or hash in their coffeeshop, an important negative point. QOpen 13:00 - 23:00. Closed Tue. J
Culture Boat C-1, Wittevrouwensingel 206. As the
Freak Shop B-1, Breedstraat 55. If youre looking for a dark, cosy, somewhat romantic spot, then the Freak Shop is the place to go. Despite the fact that the smoking room is separated from the bar, we like its stylish interior. Trippy murals, colours, chandeliers and candles as well as good music all contribute to the complete smoking experience. For those looking to spend some time here, it also offers board games, a TV and free papers on the tables. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00. Closed Sun.
centre, but still within walking distance of the main train station, this coffeeshop caters mostly to descendents of immigrants living in the area. This results in a cosmopolitan, but less Dutch feel. Shabab offers a complete Moroccan interior from the tiles in the toilet to the bars separating the staff from the patrons. From the outside you might even think its a kebab shop, as the white frosty windows hide the attractive dcor inside. Q Open 11:00 - 00:30. hash and weed, all presented under a glass counter so you can see exactly what you get, is administered by a particularly friendly blond dread-locked (sha)man. A sunny window full of green plants and walls completely decorated with trippy painted imagery will ensure that your time in this establishment will certainly be well spent. Its more of a quiet coffeeshop where the Utrecht local might stop by for a cheeky joint (or a vaporizer toke - it has a very good one) with his or her after-work coffee. Not on a main street or close to the station, it may be a small trek to reach this coffeeshop, but its definitely worth it. QOpen 13:00 - 21:00. Closed Sun.
Shabab Vleutenseweg 92. Located outside the city
De Vipshop B-3, Daalsedijk 294. The best thing about
this coffeeshop, which is very small and caters mainly to locals, is its cosy atmosphere. De Vipshop has a slightly Hawaiian or maybe Caribbean dcor, as the counter is located beneath a kind of straw mini-roof, which might be the kind of thing youre looking for if you like to rub elbows with others and hopefully spark up an interesting conversation - as well as your joint. The selection of weed and hash is reasonable, but nothing special. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00. Closed Sun.
t Grasje C-1, Obrechtstraat 1. A large selection of
glance it isnt the most appealing coffeeshop weve seen in the centre of Utrecht, but you can easily spend half an hour or so in this small dark room. Skip the limited and pricey joint menu at Wietstok and move on to the homemade muffins packed with enough weed to keep you happy for hours. The hash and speedcakes are also worth a try, but, in our opinion, not as good as the muffins. The freshly made coffee is nothing to sneeze at either. QOpen 10:00 - 24:00, Mon, Sun 12:00 - 22:00, Tue, Wed 10:00 - 23:00. JS
De Wietstok B-1, Wittevrouwenstraat 21. At first
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What to see
Most of the citys historical sights - wharves, churches and monuments - are concentrated in a relatively small area that makes up the old town centre. This means that a full day and a good pair of walking shoes is all you need to cover most of the main sights. However, with inviting cafs every few meters, a couple of large parks that offer aimless wandering and lots of photogenic old buildings, you could spend the better part of a week exploring and still find something new around every corner.
Essential Utrecht
Catharijne Convent B-3, Lange Nieuwstraat 38, tel.
(+31) 302 31 38 35, www.catharijneconvent.nl. Located in a beautiful old building, St. Catherines Convent Museum invites visitors to discover the past and present of Christianity in the Netherlands. View a truly amusing collection of paintings in which Protestants and Catholics mock one another while trying to convince the other side that their view of Christianity is the correct one. For children the interactive presentation Feest! Weet wat je viert (Feast! Know what you are celebrating) is worth a look and adults will find the medieval altar dating back to 1410 of particular interest. This place is definitely worth a detour, wherever you are when reading this. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission: 9. PTJHAUGBK
Trajectum Lumen A-1, , tel. (+31) 302 86 00 00, info@trajectumlumen.com, www.trajectumlumen.nl. As soon as the sun sets, Trajectum Lumen comes to life. This route will take you - 365 days a year - along artistically illuminated bridges, churches and canals within the city centre. Download a free route map, pick one up from the tourist information office or just follow the orange lights embedded in the road. Following the map, youll walk from Vredenburg to the Mariaplaats in about an hour. Spend a few minutes at (#8) along the route and enjoy the changing light show which livens up the otherwise dark niche. Dont forget to take a peek through the gate at St. Willibrords (#6), where the inside of the church has been projected ingeniously onto its entrance. Sounds abstract? See for yourself! Not all light projects as spectacular as the website promises, but the route does serve as a beautiful guideline for an attractive evening stroll with just that little bit extra. Q Guided tour every Saturday night for 10/person at 20:30 beginning at VVV Domplein. TJ6
00 10, info@domplein2013.nl, www.domplein2013.nl. Two thousand years of history come to life in the Treasury, or Schatkamer, in the medieval cellars underneath the Dom Square. With new, audio-visual techniques, a stone wall tells its story in front of an audience. In the DIY cellar, visitors can browse through the past and the future of the square. One of the attractions of this one hour tour is the Roman wall, of which large parts were discovered during the building renovations. In 2013 the second Treasury will open , the one underneath the Dom Tower and Dom Church. Q Open 11:45, 13:45, 15:45, Sat 11:45, 13:45, 14:45, 15:45, Sun 12:00, 13:45, 15:45. Closed Mon. Admission: adults 8, children 4 - 12 4.50. TJAG
Treasury Domplein B-2, Domplein 9, tel. (+31) 302 36
Museum Quarter (Museumkwartier) Utrecht city centre. The Museum Quarter is the historical centre of the city of Utrecht. This part of the city is famous for its small estates, courtyards, medieval houses, churches, galleries, museums, restaurants and terraces. Discover beauty, history, art and culture in Utrechts very own treasure chamber. All of the citys essential museums can be found here. Q
Prins Hendriklaan 50, tel. (+31) 302 36 23 10, www. rietveldschroderhuis.nl. The best way to visit the Rietveld Schrder House is on a specially designed Rietveld-bicycle, which you can rent at the ticket desk of the Central Museum. You wont believe your eyes in the only house that has ever been erected according to the principles of Neoplasticism. Youll find yourself face to face with basic colours such as red, blue and yellow, typical of De Stijl (The Style), combined with white, grey and black. According to Gerrit Rietveld and Truus Schrder, who commissioned the house, man has to take an active approach in life and this is why every activity in the house requires a certain prior action. By folding open a wall you gain access to the bathroom and by shifting other walls you screen off the sleeping areas. We recommend you reserve a tour in advance as the house supports only a limited number of visitors. QOpen 11:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Tue. Admission: 9 which is also valid for the Centraal Museum, the Dick Bruna Huis and the Rietveld Schrderhuis.
Rietveld Schrder House (Rietveld Schrderhuis)
Buildings
The Netherlands doesnt have a long tradition of triumphal architecture. Squares, for example, were used for markets and offloading goods and not for showing off.
De Ster Molenpark 3, tel. (+31) 302 99 01 74, deSter@
lombok.nl, www.houtzaagmolen-de-ster.nl. This mill, which dates back to 1722, has a turbulent history that ultimately led to its destruction. Between 1996 and 1998 the mill was completely rebuilt and now each Saturday you can witness age-old activities here - providing the the wind cooperates. QOpen , Sat 13:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun. TJ Streets (De Zeven Straatjes) owe their fame to their simplicity. In 1852, the Catholic Poverty Organisation began building hundreds of simple houses. The houses were strictly meant for Roman Catholic families with many children that were dependent on charity. The citys population density in those years was high and there was a realistic fear of a breakout of contagious diseases such as cholera. The government started making demands for the building of houses. The houses on the Seven Streets did not have their own toilets, nor did they have kitchens; nevertheless, they were incredibly modern for those times. In 1992, these houses were properly restored, and they received, amongst other things, showers and built-in kitchens. The Korte Rozendaal, Lange Rozendaal, Kockstraat, Brouwerstraat, Boogstraat, Moutstraat, Suikerstraat and Fockstraat all managed to retain their working class neighbourhood characteristics. For three days each year at the end of August, residents still hold a traditional neighbourhood party on the birthday of (former) Queen Wilhelmina. Q TJ
De Zeven Steeg jes B-4, Kockstraat. The Seven
Flowers near the Schouwburg
What to see What to see
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Grand Hotel Karel V A-3, Karel van Geertebolwerk 1. In 1348, the Teutonic Order built a monastery within the city walls. Over the centuries important international bigwigs stayed the night here, before King William I turned the monastery into a military hospital. In 1989 the military departed and squatters took possession of the building. It was then converted into the current five-star Hotel Karel V, an ideal place to have a drink and ponder its regal past. Q TJ Hoofdpostkantoor A-2, Neude 11. This post office built in
1924 is the most beautiful of its kind in the Netherlands. Architect J. Crouwel received inspiration from the great masters at the Amsterdam School. The hall is 18m-high and has arches made of yellow glazed bricks that alternate with arches made of float glass. Six statues can also be found here. Five of these human figures represent the various continents and they are accompanied by corresponding animals. A sixth statue symbolises trade and prosperity. The statues and ornaments were handmade by Hendrik van den Eijnde. The stained glass windows above the entrance represent the Dutch Virgin in the garden of the provinces. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 10:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun. TJ
Paushuize (Pope House) B-3, Kromme Nieuwgracht
49, www.paushuize.nl. Paushuize, or simply the Pope House, is a Renaissance building with Gothic influences and its name comes from Hollands only pope: Adrian VI. The religious leader had this house built in 1517, even though he never actually lived there himself. For centuries it was a governors residence and today it has mostly a representative function hosting parties and seminars. A house that is as great and old as Paushuize naturally carries a plethora of wild ghost stories. One staircase in the cellar leads to a closed wall. The story goes that the soul of Hortense, wife of King Louis Bonaparte, lives behind this wall and sometimes comes out to haunt the building. The combination of red brick and lighter natural stone, as well as the striking stepped gable, make this historic building noteworthy. Q TJ
Louis Hartlooper Complex B-4, Tolsteegbrug 1,
www.louishartloopercomplex.nl. Many Utrechters may despise people from Amsterdam (especially football supporters), but the Amsterdam School was once incredibly popular. The Louis Hartlooper Complex is a great example of this. Built in 1926, the former police station is a state monument designed by Utrecht city architect J. I. Planjer. In 2003 the building became a cultural centre for film, debates and classes. Louis Hartlooper was one of the nations most famous narrators and made silent films come to life with his words and gestures. Q TJ
years ago, the Netherlands boasted over 10,000 windmills. This invention, which was originally Japanese, is now internationally associated with Holland. Unfortunately, less than 1,000 are left, a few dozen in the Utrecht region. One of the most beautiful ones, called Rijn en Zon (Rhine and Sun), was originally located somewhere else. During World War II, this mill from 1745 played an important role for Utrecht inhabitants who had managed to grab hold of a bag of flour. During a storm on 1 March 1949, the mill was damaged and became unusable, and during another storm in 1965, more parts of the gallery came down. In the 1960s, there were plans to demolish the mill, but after the municipality bought it in 1974, it was finally restored. Today the mill still frequently turns and it is sometimes even used to grind flour. QOpen Sat 10:00 - 11:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun. TJ
Rijn en Zon Windmill Adelaarstraat. Just under 100
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What to see
Boat trips
55 74, www.canal.nl/bike/en/utrecht. Opposite the Town Hall youll find the starting point for the Canal Bike tour. Forget average tours where you have to listen to boring tour guides. Here youre in control of the action. Utrecht is the perfect city for a 1.5 hours round-trip tour of its inviting canals, although it may take longer if you decide to hit any of the quayside cafs along the way. Each participant is given a detailed map of the canals that contain witty remarks. Proper rain gear is also provided on days when the weather is typically Dutch. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed. Prices: 8/person for 1 hour, 11/ person for 1.5 hours and 14/person for 2 hours. Deposit: 50/bike. Open April - October. TJAG 302 36 00 10, www.domkerk.nl. The Dom Church draws large crowds for daily guided tours or just a moment of silence and peace. Construction of the Gothic St. Martins Cathedral began in 1284 and took almost 250 years to complete. It replaced a previously existing Romanesque cathedral piece by piece. The ambulatory, the rest of the choir, the tower, the transept and the nave were built in succession. But by the beginning of the 16th century influences of the Renaissance and the Reformation led to dwindling financial support and enthusiasm for the colossal project. This is the reason why the nave was never completely finished. Its planned brick vaults and buttresses of sufficient height never came to fruition which ultimately led to disaster. In 1674 Utrecht was hit by a freak tornado and the nave of the cathedral collapsed. The last of the debris was only cleared away in 1826. Although the city fathers even considered demolishing the church completely for a time, it was eventually restored several times during the 19th and 20th centuries. The most recent restoration of the church took place between 1979 and 1988. The decorations of the facade were restored and the church pews rearranged. Despite all of the trials and tribulations the church has endured over the centuries, its still famous throughout the Netherlands due to its 112.3m-high making it the nations tallest cathedral spire and the citys tallest building. Church services are held Sunday (10:30 and 19:00), Monday (07:00), Wednesday (19:00) and a noon prayer on working days (12:30). QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat 11:00 - 15:30, Sun 14:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Tue. Admission free. TJAUG
Domkerk (Dom Church) B-2, Domplein, tel. (+31)
Canal Bike B-2, Oudegracht 167, tel. (+31) 206 26
Gondelvaarten A-2, Oudegracht (aan de Werf) 177, tel. (+31) 651 99 85 19, info@degondeliervanutrecht.nl, w w w.degondeliervanutrecht.nl. For tourists, theres nothing like this very special way of exploring Utrecht: enjoy the view from an authentic Venetian gondola and discover for yourself why the city is nicknamed the Venice of the North. Sip a delicious glass of cold Prosseco while the gondolier steers you through one of the Netherlands most magnificent canal cities. Q Prices: 50/30 minutes, 95/hour; maximum 6 people. Schuttevaer A-2, Oudegracht t/o 85, tel. (+31) 302
72 01 11, fax (+31) 302 72 07 00, info@schuttevaer. com, www.schuttevaer.com. Schuttevaer is the oldest canal boat company in town and has been ferrying tourists and locals around for 50 years. The one-hour trip through the citys unique canal system is a must see in Utrecht. The well maintained boats are completely covered and have a heating system for the winter months, but the roof panels and the side windows are opened during the summer. The guide offers the usual stories about the hidden treasures of the city and about historic and contemporary places of interest. Learn about the terraces along the canals, the old centre with its many churches and lush parks along the encircling defensive canals. There are many stops along the way where you can hop off or get on and it also offers tours of the River Vecht, the Kromme Rijn and the Hollandse IJssel. Our favourite trip out of the city is the one and a half hour boat trip on the Kromme Rijn towards Rhijnauwen, a beautiful nature area. You can get out there for 2.5 hours to explore the area before heading back to the canals of Utrecht.QOpen 11:00 - 17:00. Admission: adults 9.20, children 4 - 12 6.80. TJAUGB
Janskerk (St. Johns Church) B-2, Janskerkhof 26, tel. (+31) 302 32 16 16, www.janskerkutrecht.nl. The Janskerk or St. Johns Church is a beautiful historical building in the centre of Utrecht and one of the many churches that was built at the behest of Bishop Bernold, whose authority was greater than any other Utrecht bishop. The oldest part of the Janskerk was built in the 11th century as one of the five collegiate churches which, together, form the Utrecht cross of churches. The church was dedicated to John the Baptist. Until the first half of the 16th century, the architecture of the Janskerk was completely Romanesque. Only its choir was replaced by a Gothic one. However, in 1580 it was forbidden to openly practice Catholicism in Utrecht and the Janskerk lost its function as a collegiate church. Statues and altars were removed and the choir of the church was redesigned to become the city library and later the university library where it remained until 1821. In 1656 the Janskerk was given to a reformed protestant flock, but temporarily served as a military barracks for Russian and Prussian soldiers in the war against Napoleon. It was later used for storage and eventually fell in to disrepair. The choir was finally restored in 1947 and three decades later a new roof tower completed. The church is currently used by the Ecumenical Student Community, which has a service every Sunday at 11:00. QOpen Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun. Admission free. TJ Nicolaikerk (St. Nicholas Church) B-2, Nicolaaskerkhof 8, tel. (+31) 302 31 57 34, www.nicolaikerk. nl. For centuries St. Nicholas was famous throughout the Netherlands as a protector of children who gave them gifts each year on 5 December, but also as the patron saint of sailors and merchants. The Nicolaikerk was built around 1100 and completely dedicated to this popular Spanish saint. In the 15th century the church was rebuilt and its Romanesque style was replaced with Gothic elements. One of its big attractions is the choir vaulting, which contains a 14th-century mural. As the church is plastered white, it feels quite spacious inside. QOpen Wed, Sat 13:00 - 16:00, Sun 12:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri. Admission free. J
What to see
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5, tel. (+31) 302 31 14 85, www.pieterskerk-utrecht. nl. The Pieterskerk is one of the oldest churches in Utrecht. Its construction began in 1039 and on 1 May 1048 it was consecrated by Bishop Bernold. Today, the crypt containing the illustrious clerics stone sarcophagus can still be seen inside. The Pieterskerk was a collegiate church, meaning it could not be visited by average citizens. Only a college of canons, who lived in a secluded, independent enclave were allowed admission. While the church has changed over the course of time, its still the most completely preserved Romanesque church in Utrecht. The Pieterskerk suffered during the 1580 reformation iconoclasm known as the Beeldenstorm. After the Reformation there were plans for its demolition, but it was saved by the families who had crypts inside the church. A large scale renovation of the Pieterskerk took place from 1954 to 1970. The four sandstone reliefs which are considered to be the most important Romanesque sculptures in the Netherlands are also worth a look. They were found underneath the floor during the 1965 renovation. Currently, the Pieterskerk is used as a Walloon Church. QOpen Sat 12:00 - 16:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun. Admission free. TJ
Pieterskerk (St. Peters Church) B-2, Pieterskerkhof
Sint Catharinekerk (St. Catherines Church) B-3, Lange Nieuwstraat 36, tel. (+31) 302 31 85 45, info@ dekathedraal.com, www.dekathedraal.com. St. Catherines is part of a medieval monastery, which also houses the Catherines Convent Museum. The Carmelites of Utrecht began building a monastery here in 1468, but since 1529 its church has been dedicated to the patron saint Catherine of Alexandria. The Reformation was disastrous for the church and the Catholic faith was completely forbidden later in 1580. The convent lay in ruins until a large-scale renovation project was undertaken in 1955. Based on drawings from 1636 by Pieter Saenredam, the church was largely purged of its Gothic attire, which explains its rather sober interior today. Q Admission free. J Sint Willibrordkerk B-2, Minrebroederstraat 21, tel. (+31) 302 31 32 17, cultuur@sintwillibrordkerk. nl, www.sintwillibrorduskerk.nl. Most Dutch churches didnt have to take their surroundings into consideration when they were built. St. Willibrords Church is a remarkable exception. When it was constructed in 1875 the builders had to take its limited space into account. The result is a church which is much shorter than similar buildings, but also much taller. As far as were concerned this neo-Gothic church is the best in Utrecht, which is a city of churches and locals often call it the Big Heavenly Secret. The bountiful inventory of its medieval dcor includes three magnificent carved altars and refined woodwork. The light that enters the space via the beautiful stained-glass windows gives the church a mystical quality and the Gregorian chanting at Sunday services bolsters this effect. The acoustics are otherworldly given that the walls are 27m high. Q Open Fri 13:30 - 16:00, Sat 11:00 - 16:00. Guided tours at 11:30 and 14:00: 5/person. J Spring 2012
Sint Augustinuskerk (St. Augustines Church) A-2, Oudegracht 69, tel. (+31) 302 31 85 45, info@deaugustinus.com, www.deaugustinus.com. For more than 160 years St. Augustines Church has been a prominent feature of the Oudegracht in Utrecht. Everyone can visit this church for a silent prayer, to light a candle in the Chapel of Our Lady or just to have a look at the interior. The church is home to a vibrant community of believers and mass is held in Dutch every day. English speakers can participate in Holy Mass in English every Sunday at 12:30. QOpen 09:30 - 16:30, Sun 10:30 - 16:30. Admission free. J utrecht.inyourpocket.com
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What to see
Dom Square
Like every medieval town, Utrecht has its fair share of squares. But theres only one that really matters: the Dom Cathedral Square. And thats not only due to the fact that its the highest spire in the Netherlands at 112.34m. Whenever locals come back from holiday, theyre often heard saying I dont really feel like Im back until Ive seen the Dom. But the squares best kept secret is hidden behind the long wall between the Dom and the Academia building: the Doms Pandhof (courtyard). Its a medieval covered cloister set around an open courtyard, which literally takes your breath away. This ornamental garden with more than 140 different kinds of plants and herbs is a treat for the senses and a soothing and comforting oasis in the middle of a hectic, yet addictive city. People who set foot on Dom Cathedral Square for the first time are often left speechless at this place where the citys long history is so very tangible. And its hard to imagine that many years ago, it must have been even more spectacular. In the 11th century the Lofen imperial palace cast its splendour over this very spot, but in 1253 a massive fire, which lasted an amazing nine days, ruined many of the surrounding buildings, including Lofen.
Museums
(+31) 302 38 01 00, info@aamu.nl, www.aamu.nl. The Aboriginal Art Museum focuses on the contemporary visual art of the descendants of the original inhabitants of Australia. Its the only place in Europe where you can view modern Aboriginal art and this private museum is rightfully proud of this. The exhibition halls are spread across three floors of a former bank building along the typically Dutch Oudegracht (canal). Just like the art on display, the museum shop is quite varied with T-shirts with original prints and a wide range of books not to mention boomerangs! QOpen 10:00 - 17:00, Sat, Sun 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission: 8. PTJHAUGB kerkhof 10, tel. (+31) 302 36 23 62, info@centraalmuseum.nl, www.centraalmuseum.nl. The Central Museum isnt meant for a hasty visit. Your ticket is also good for free admission to the Dick Bruna House and the Rietveld Schrder House, and theres just so much to see in this former medieval monastery. View works by old Dutch and Utrecht masters such as Jan van Scorel (1495-1562) and his contemporaries. Moreover, there are impressive collections from the fields of history, modern fashion, design and visual art. The city of Utrecht is the museums starting point. If you need a moment to let all the impressions sink in, check out the large courtyard. QOpen 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission: 9 which is also valid for the Dick Bruna Huis and the Rietveld Schrderhuis. PJB 2, tel. (+31) 302 36 23 53, info@dickbrunahuis.nl, www. dickbrunahuis.com. The Dutch cartoon icon Miffy (Nijntje in Dutch) is a sweet, little rabbit, and she lives in style at the Dick Bruna House, straight across from the Central Museum. This place is well worth a visit for both young and old. Upon entering, visitors are dazzled by the greatness of Dick Brunas creations when they behold walls lined with Miffy books in all conceivable languages. Those who only know this Utrecht local as the artist of a cheerful little cartoon rabbit are in for a surprise in this modern museum, which opened in 2006. Dick Bruna (1927) also designed many famous book covers for Havank and Jules Maigret as well as posters. The Bruna collection in the museum consists of over 1,200 works and is still growing. Step into another world while the children are having a blast in the Miffy playroom with films, a playhouse and games of all kinds. QOpen 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission: 9 which is also valid for the Central Museum and the Rietveld Schrderhuis. PTJU
Aboriginal Art Museum B-3, Oudegracht 176, tel.
Centraal Museum (Central Museum) B-4, Nicolaas-
Dick Bruna Huis (Home of Miffy) C-5, Agnietenstraat
Castellum Trajectum In 2010 the Dom Square Treasury was established among the ruins of Roman habitation underground. Where Roman soldiers used to guard the northern border of their empire at Castellum Traiectum (as Utrecht was known back then), the citys illustrious past is now brought to life. 2,000 years of history are yours to discover in the Dom Square Treasury, or Schatkamer Domplein, in the medieval cellars underneath the square. A lovely square Above ground, Dom Cathedral Square also has a lot to offer. If you enjoy good food and a few drinks, youll definitely appreciate the variety of bars and restaurants available here and because many establishments have glass walls, a good view of the cathedral is never far away. The enviable location on this lovely square makes the cosy terraces of restaurants Asia de Cuba, Domplein, Lofen and Walden excellent places to have a drink or a bite to eat. Religious significance The VVV information centre on the square is also the starting point for many city walking tours and guided excursions, not to mention a distribution point for this guide. But you havent been to Utrecht until youve climbed the Dom Cathedral Tower. This 600-year-old building has a long and storied past. Its majestic exterior is a shining example of Utrechts former status as the centre of an important international religious network.
tel. (+31) 302 31 27 89, www.museumspeelklok.nl. This could be the most cheerful museum in the Netherlands! Enjoy a stroll past carillon clocks, music boxes, mechanical clocks, pianolas, the singing nightingale and street organs. Complete your visit to museum with an hour-long guided tour, as this is when the automatic instruments are set to play. The repertoire varies from the Viennese waltz and tango to old crooner songs and the latest hits. Not only worth it for music fans, but also for those with technical interests, especially if you consider that some instruments are almost 600 years old! You can also make an appointment to view the restoration workshop. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission: 8. J
Museum Speelklok (Musical Clock Museum) B-2, Steenweg 6,
What to see
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kruideniersmuseum.nl, www.kruideniersmuseum.nl. The Grocers Museum is hidden in a beautiful, historic courtyard. The word museum might be a bit of an exaggeration, but the small size of this romantic building is also its strength. Walk up the winding staircase to a tiny space where youll find a multitude of grocery items on display from decades past like soap and cigar boxes, old advertising posters, biscuit tins and an old cash register. Downstairs youll find sweets that can hardly be found anywhere in Holland these days such as polkabrokken, motto-caramels, bruidsuiker, and various types of licorice. Farmers mustard and apple spread are also on sale. Even the service is like it was in those sadly bygone years when the staff always offered a smile and some chitchat. QOpen 12:30 - 16:30. Closed Mon, Sun. Admission: free. TJG 18, www.sonnenborgh.nl. In Sonnenborgh several worlds come together: a museum, an observatory and a medieval bastion. This small museum focuses on meteorology and the sun. You can experience first-hand how wind is created and why its so difficult to accurately predict the weather. A look into the bastion will teach you that this 16th-century fortress has been enormously significant for the development of the city of Utrecht and many enemies were kept at bay from here. Sonnenborgh has five large telescopes directed at the skies and special stargazing nights are organised for a peek into the universe. An extraordinarily impressive library containing books on astronomy, meteorology and space research is also available. QOpen 11:00 - 17:00, Sun 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sat. Admission: 6. J
Museum voor het Kruideniersbedrijf (Grocers Museum) B-2, Hoogt 6, tel. (+31) 302 31 66 28, info@
Sonnenborgh A-3, Zonnenburg 2, tel. (+31) 302 30 28
van Oldenbarneveltlaan 1, tel. (+31) 302 30 62 06, info@ spoorwegmuseum.nl, www.spoorwegmuseum.nl. Dont let the bland name scare you off. The Railway Museum is much more than a collection of everything about trains. Its a wonderland with trains at its focal point. The excitement already begins at the entrance of the 19th-century Malibaan Station which has been restored to its former glory. The hall with its chandeliers, first-class dining hall and waiting rooms take visitors on a trip back in time. The Railway Museum will make you long for the old days when travelling was still an adventure; with old-fashioned suitcases, well-dressed travellers and whistling steam engines. The museum is divided into worlds or large studios and the first world is The Great Discovery. With an audio tour, visitors are led through a mine gallery, along English cottages, a workshop and steam engines. They arrive at the blinkende Arend (Shiny Eagle), the first locomotive in the Netherlands. The theme of the second world is Dream Travels where you can meet the Orient Express, fairytale destinations and luxury. The journey ends in an oriental theatre with interactive shows all day long. Trains from the 1920s and 1930s belong to the theme Steel Monsters, and the fourth world, The Workshop, displays many vehicles and locomotives undergoing maintenance. Everything that has anything to do with trains can be found at this location from models to real trains; travellers attributes and posters to the liveliest interiors. Children can do a treasure hunt or take a trip on the popular Jumbo Express. During these coming months this museum will be transformed into the so called Winter Station, with lots of X-mas trees, numerous lights and an indooriceskatetrack. QOpen 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission: 14.50. TJ
Spoorweg Museum (Railway Museum) C-3, Johan
Spring 2012
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What to see
Out of town
Groeneveld Castle (Kasteel Groeneveld) K-14,
Groeneveld 2, Baarn, tel. (+31) 355 42 04 46, www. kasteelgroeneveld.nl. Many Dutch castles and country estates were built in the 17th-century, the so-called Golden Age, but Castle Groeneveld was completed in 1710 and its many owners have each left their mark here. Perhaps the best is the long, narrow English garden, a maze of paths and greenery. In the 1980s and 1990s Castle Groeneveld became a lively centre specialising in art exhibitions, education programmes and treasure hunts for children as well as adults. Thanks to its charming park and Grand Caf, people of all ages can enjoy it. QOpen 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission: adults 4, children 4 - 12 years 2. THA6ILGBK
Sightseeing tours
Colorbike Tours Heycopstraat 40, tel. (+31) 307 37 03 77, info@colorbiketours.nl, www.colorbiketours.nl. Want to get to know the historical city of Utrecht in two and a half hours? Cruise the city with these funny, enthusiastic locals and discover this vibrant, centuries old city including many places that you would probably miss on your own. You can either come as a group or join an existing one. Colorbike Tours offers four different bicycle tours, all of which begin and end at the same location: De Loods. And while cycling through Utrecht youll be contributing to a better future for a child in a developing country as 15% of its proceeds help to buy bikes for children in Colorbike projects in Africa and Latin America. QOpen 10:00 & 14:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sun. Prices starting from 21.50 depending on the tour. TJ Domtower B-2, Domplein 9 - 10, tel. (+31) 302 36 00
10, www.domtoren.nl. If youd like to behold the most beautiful views of Utrecht from atop the Dom Tower, youll first have to suffer some serious physical exertion. No less than 465 steps - and we counted each one of them personally - will take you from the entrance door to the platform. Youre only allowed to climb the Dom Tower under the supervision of a guide, who will pause at various levels of the tower for a brief explanation of the towers history. At a little over 112m (368 ft) in height, the Dom Tower is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. The highest observation platform is at 95m (312 ft). The guided tour of the Dom Tower commences inside the Tourist Information Office (VVV). Entrance tickets to the tower are sold inside the Tourist Information Office. Guided tours are conducted in both Dutch and English (if necessary). Ask for extra information leaflets at the sales desk. Leaflets are available in German, English, French, Italian, Dutch, Russian, Spanish, Hungarian and Japanese. QOpen 11:00, 12:00, 13:00. 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, Mon 12:00, 13:00. 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, Sun 12:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00. Admission 8, children under 13 4.50. JA
Kasteel De Haar (Castle De Haar) I-15, Kasteellaan 1, Haarzuilens, tel. (+31) 306 77 85 15, www.kasteeldehaar.nl. De Haar Castle is the biggest and most fairytale-like castle in the Netherlands. With its towers, turrets, moats, gates and suspension bridges, De Haar Castle resembles a true medieval stronghold. A visit to De Haar is a journey of discovery to a marvellous world, yet this enchanting oasis is only a short distance from the daily bustle of Utrecht. The unique complex has something for everyone including both knowledgeable art lovers and casual tourists. Unfortunately, the castle can only be visited on guided tours which are available in Dutch only, with the exception of Sundays when English tours are on offer. Information sheets in English are however available. Q See website for exact times. Guided tours at 12:00, 13:00, 14:00 and 15:00. TALG Slot Zeist K-16, Zinzendorflaan 1, Zeist, tel. (+31) 306 92 75 50, www.slotzeist.com. The fairytale-like Slot Zeist has drawn hordes of people to its monumental buildings since 1677 and today it hosts almost half a million visitors each year. The stately driveway would be perfect for a documentary on the wealth of the Dutch Golden Age. Today, even ordinary people can partake in grand feasts here, which is what this beautifully renovated building is now known for. The romantic, 17th century interior of various styles is incredible and the historical elements and contemporary technical amenities make it the perfect place for business events, parties and weddings. When the sun is out, the classical English garden and the Slotpark (mansion park) are also worth a visit. On (some) weekends there are guided tours through the Baroc designed rooms. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00, Fri 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun. Tours on Saturday and Sunday start at 13:30 and 14:45, tickets cost 5.50. THALGBKX
00, info@trajectumlumen.com, www.trajectumlumen.nl. Every Saturday night at 20:30 a guide takes people from VVV Domplein on a special night tour. Along the way youll encounter artistically illuminated bridges, churches and canals. Tours are arranged by VVV office: infovvv@toerisme-utrecht.nl or (+31) 302 36 00 00. QOpen Sat 20:30. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun. Prices: 10/person. TJ6
Trajectum Lumen B-2, Domplein, tel. (+31) 302 86 00
Places of interest
(+31) 306 77 98 99, www.utrechtsebazaar.nl. Each Saturday and Sunday the most cheerful market in the Netherlands is filled with over 500 market vendors from all corners of the globe. Whether you enjoy a Turkish kebab, delicious Moroccan couscous, Egyptian shoarma or a Surinam roti pom you can find it all right here. Of course you can also get a Dutch meatball, a hearty pea soup or a smoked sausage sandwich. Apart from an enormous diversity of snacks, the large hall is filled with countless market stalls full of toys, carpets, clothes and tools. Still, many of the 10,000 weekly visitors drop by for its exotic fruits and vegetables. Regardless of whether you end up buying something or not, a visit to this colourful market is an experience never to forget, especially on Sundays when all sorts of second-rate musicians make themselves heard. Thankfully you can also buy cheap earplugs at the Utrecht Bazaar. QOpen Sat 08:00 - 16:30, Sun 08:30 - 16:30. C Admission: 3. ULK
De Utrechtse Bazaar I-16, Utrechtseweg 109c, tel.
Dome tower always looms in the background
GettinG around
As little as only half an hour away from the Amsterdam, travelling to and from Utrecht by train, bus or car is a relatively painless experience. Utrecht is the main transport hub for all of the Netherlands, and as such is well-connected by public transport to the rest of the country. There are always taxis waiting outside the train station if you dont feel like dragging your luggage through an unfamiliar city.
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Bicycles
Bah Tel. (+31) 302 34 33 01, info@b-a-h.nl, www.ba-h.nl. Bah is a Dutch word for anything that doesnt taste good. However, Dirk den Hamer uses it as the acronym for Bandenplakker-aan-huis (fixer of bicycle tires at home). This handy man on the move will go anywhere within Utrechts city limits to fix flat tires and perform small bicycle repairs. The door-to-door service costs 8 and having your tire fixed will cost you another 8 regardless of the number of punctures in it. Fietspunt B-2, Nobelstraat 293, tel. (+31) 302 30 08 49. Het Fietspad B-2, Weerdsingel WZ 18, tel. (+31) 302 33 43 73, joep@fietspad.net, www.fietspad.net. Rent a bike here for only 7/day! QOpen 10:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. JN Laag Caterijne Bicycle Shed A-2, Catharijnesingel 34, tel./fax (+31) 302 31 67 80, laagcatharijne@hetnet. nl, www.laagcatharijne.nl. Store or repair your bicycle, rent a bicycle or buy a used bike. Beneath shopping-centre Hoog Catharijne. QOpen 07:00 - 21:00, Sat 08.00 - 18.15. Closed Sun. TJ Tusveld Bicycle Shop Jaarbeursplein 14, tel. (+31) 302 94 25 29.
Be careful where you park your bike after a pub crawl
Taxis
Utrecht taxis are safe, clean and generally reliable. Ordering a taxi by phone will get you better service and lower rates for longer distances. There are taxis waiting outside the station on the platform above the buses.
Utrechtse Taxi Centrale J-15, Californiedreef 35, tel. (+31) 302 30 04 00, www.utc.nl. 150 cabs are members of this taxi organisation. Members pay a maximum of 12.50 for a ride within the city.
Trams
There are two tram lines in Utrecht. One goes to IJsselstein and the other to Nieuwegein. The first part of the line is the same route: south through the Utrecht Kanaleneiland district. You can buy a ticket in the tram or but aticket at one of the yellow stamping machines. For more information about timetables check www.connexxion.nl.
Buses
In Utrecht there are various buses that can take you throughout the city and to surrounding towns such as Maarssen, Nieuwegein, Vianen, Vleuten, Wijk bij Duurstede and Zeist. Almost all buses depart from the Central Station. The main bus station is either an architectural icon or eyesore depending on ones taste, but either way, its centrally located and has a range of facilities from information and lockers to restaurants and a casino. The buses depart from three buss stations around the train station: Bus station Noord, Zuid and Jaarbeurszijde. Follow the signs or look at the map. At the bus station, each bus number has its own fixed departure point. With the local buses you should take care, because many numbers have two destinations. Above the buses there are signs with the bus number and its destination. When in doubt, feel free to ask the driver. Theres an information desk at the city bus station at the bottom of the escalator from the train station. You can buy tickets here (open 06:30 - 19:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:30, Sun 10:00 - 17:00). You can also check www.gvu.nl (city buses) and www.connexxion.nl (regional buses) or www.vooru.nl (all buses in the region Utrecht) for schedules.
How to buy a ticket

If you only want to take a bus within Utrecht, you can also buy an uurskaartje (hour card) from the driver. These cost, for the largest part of the city 1.60. If you wish to go to the north of the city or to the university campus (Uithof), a ticket costs 2.40. Try to pay with exact change. Strip cards are useful if you wish to travel by bus more frequently or if you wish to travel longer distances. A strip card with 15 strips costs 7.70, a card with 45 strips 22.80. They are available at the information desk at the bus station, in the train station, at supermarkets, bookshops and tobacconists.In Utrecht and surroundings it is also possible to travel with an OV-chipkaart. This card is an option if you stay longer in Holland. The card costs 7,50, you have to put saldo on the card to travel with it. There are several pick up-points in Utrecht and surroundings where you can top up your balance. These points are located in supermarkets, tobacconists, etc. (www.ov-chipkaart.nl/adresvinder) You can also top up your balance at NS vending machines and at the vending machines in the Information Kiosk at Bus station Noord in Utrecht Central Station. You can also find a yellow top-up machine on the green Connexxion buses, on which you can use your bank card to top up your OV chip card. You can also pay in cash at some of the NS vending machines and at the Information Kiosk by Bus station Noord in Utrecht Centraal.
Car rental
AutoRent Vitesse G-10, Koningsweg 2, tel. (+31) 302 51 06 06, info@autorentvitesse.nl, www.autorentvitesse.nl. Car and minibus rental. Also possible for just a couple of hours! Centrally located outlet. Flexible terms of cooperation from experts in professionalism, convenience and safety. Autorent Vitesse creates already for more then 70 (!) years flexible driving solutions to meet your individual mobility needs that are tailored to fulfil your specific requirements. Special summerrates. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 08:00 - 10:00. Closed Sun. PA utrecht.inyourpocket.com
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Shopping
Whatever your shopping needs, Utrecht has it covered. One of the great things about Utrecht is the fact that you can shop the old-fashioned way: strolling the city centres street, ducking in and out of any number of high street stores and cute little boutiques. True shopaholics should head over to the Oudegracht, the Neude and Vredeburg. If you arrive by train you can already start at Hoog Catharijne, the biggest shopping centre in the city with more than 160 venues. Please note thats its Netherlands most visited shopping area. Its bursting with exclusive gift shops, art galleries, trendy boutiques and delicatessens. In Utrecht every Thursday night is a shopping evening which means that most shops stay open until 21:00. Every first Sunday of the month Utrecht also hosts a shopping Sunday when most of the stores are open 12:00 - 17:00.
Piet Snot B-2, Vismarkt 3, tel. (+31) 302 31 84 72, info@pietsnot.nl, www.pietsnot.nl. Are comic books only for kids? Forget it. Piet Snot offers a whole new world to discover for all ages. Cool printed T-shirts also available. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. TJA Selexyz Broese B-2, Stadhuisbrug 5, tel. (+31) 302 33 52 00, www.selexyz.nl. This chain of large bookshops, (large by Dutch standards anyway) has a decent selection of foreign reading material. Literature is sorted by language with lots of titles available in English and some in German, French and Spanish. There are also plenty of foreign newspapers and magazines. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 11:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00. Closed Sun. PJA6UVG
Beer & Wine shops

13 39, www.bertsbierhuis.nl. Berts Beerhouse is heavenon-earth for brew lovers. All the usual Dutch beers are on sale here, as well as another 800 beers from Thai Shinga to American IPAs. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00. Closed Sun. J Gall & Gall Burg Reigerstraat 35/37, tel. (+31) 302 51 43 00, www.gall.nl. Famous Dutch liquor shop selling good whiskey and affordable wines. QOpen 09:00 - 19:00, Mon 11:00 - 19:00, Thu 09:00 - 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. Grapedistrict G-9, Burgemeester Reigerstraat 70, tel. (+31) 302 59 95 58, utrecht@grapedistrict.nl, www. grapedistrict.nl. Buying wine is fun in Grapedistrict. The wines here arent displayed by country, but according to taste. Thousands of wines are divided into nine easy to recognise categories ranging from full red to sparkling. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Mon 13:00 - 19:00, Sat 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. ALV
Cheese
88 27 06, winkel@kazerij.nl, www.kazerij.nl. Hidden behind an historic facade, Kazerij Stalenhoef sells cheese and other treats for genuine cheese heads. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 11:00 - 18:00, Sat 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. TJS Zuivelland Kaasspeciaalzaken A-3, Godebaldkwartier 65, tel. (+31) 302 31 67 20, www.zuivelland. nl. Discover cheese in all its flavours, types and varieties or buy fresh sandwiches and cheese souvenirs. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. TJUS
Berts Bierhuis B-4, Twijnstraat 41, tel. (+31) 302 34
Kazerij Stalenhoef B-4, Twijnstraat 67, tel. (+31) 302
Department stores
Tiger DK A-2, Oudegracht 118, tel. (+31) 302 31 02
01, info@tigerdk.nl, www.tiger-stores.nl. Forget Xenos or Ikea. This Danish retail chain sells original designs of pretty much everything. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:30. Closed Sun. TJ
Bookshops & Media

(+31) 302 31 14 61, strips@stripwinkelblunder.nl, www.stripwinkelblunder.nl. Since 1979 this has been the place to go for Utrechts comic book lovers. More than 12,500 books are available. QOpen 11:00 - 18:00, Mon 12:00 - 18:00, Thu 11:00 - 20:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. TJ Boekhandel Libris B-2, Servetstraat 3, tel. (+31) 302 34 05 80, info@boekhandellibrisutrecht.nl, www. boekhandellibrisutrecht.nl. Books, novels, literature, travel books and guides can all be found in this well-equipped shop. English, French and German speakers will also find books to suit their needs and its the right place to go if youre looking for discounts. Only bookshop in town open on Sunday. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00, Sun 13:00 - 17:00. J6U Bruna B-2, Choorstraat 13, tel. (+31) 302 40 05 91, fax (+31) 302 31 65 62, www.bruna.nl. Whatever your literature needs, Bruna has it including lots of English books and novels. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 12:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:00 - 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. JA6U Interglobe A-2, Vinkenburgstraat 7, tel. (+31) 302 34 04 01, interglobe@planet.nl, www.interglobetravel.nl. This book shop filled with maps, guides and atlases is without a doubt Utrechts most complete shop in the field of travel resources. Buy guides for exotic destinations and detailed route maps for Utrecht as well as the obligatory read about the incredible things that happened to me travel literature. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. JAG
Ethnic food & Delicatessens

F-8, Grif tstraat 1, tel. (+31) 302 65 80 20, info@ gastmaalendetafel.nl, www.gastmaalendetafel.nl. A brother and sister share a common passion and love for food by making traditional organic dishes in this wonderful delicatessen. QOpen 15:30 - 20:30, Sat 14:00 - 20:00. Closed Sun. S
Blunder Stripwinkel B-3, Oudegracht 203, tel.
Gastmaal en de Tafel (The Feast and the Table)
Fair Trade
Fair Trade Shop B-3, Lijnmarkt 21, tel. (+31) 302 31
77 31, www.fairtrade.nl. Since 1959 this organisation has helped people in Third World countries earn fair wages. QOpen 09:00 - 17:00, Mon 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
Smart shops
State of Mind B-3, Oudegracht 226, tel. (+31) 302
31 90 71, info@stateofmind.nl, www.stateofmind. nl. Since 1995, this smart shop has been pure paradise to anyone with a tolerant lifestyle. Whether youre looking for a hip shisha (water pipe), an unusual type of incense or a special Buddha statue, State of Mind has it covered. This is also the place for magic truffles, herbal sexual stimulants and cannabis utensils, although no weed is sold here! Sound a little overwhelming? Just have a chat with the experienced staff and theyll sort you out. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Thu 11:00 - 21:00. Closed Sun. J
shopping Shopping
Fashion
Be Suited B-1, Wittevrouwenstraat 32, tel. (+31) 246 63 56 58, utrecht@besuited.nl, www.besuited.nl. Style often comes at a cost, which the ladies dont seem to mind, but this high-end fashion shop is all about the men. The custom-tailor suits are handmade in Bulgaria, but all of the fabrics come from Italy. QOpen 10:30 - 18:00, Thu 10:30 20:00, Sat 10:30 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. Giensch B-1, Voorstraat 31, tel. (+31) 302 31 32 09, www.giensch.nl. The owner of this colourful clothing shop personally scours European clothing markets to find the best items from collections that have not been bought before or that are second hand. Apart from racks full of vintage clothes and accessories from the 1950s to the 1980s, you can also find new clothes from Nmph, Motel, Ato and many other designers. QOpen 11:00 - 19:00, Mon 13:00 - 19:00, Thu 11:00 - 21:00, Sat 11:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. JAG
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Gifts & Souvenirs

Holland Souvenir Giftshop B-2, Lichte Gaard 1, tel.
(+31) 302 23 18 31, www.hollandsouvenirgiftshop.nl/. The name may not be that original, but once inside the Holland Souvenir Giftshop youll find lots of great souvenirs to take home. Ideally situated, almost underneath the Dom Tower, the shop is housed in a beautiful historic building. Fans of Delfts blue, clogs, textile, key chains and chocolates can shop till they drop in this charming intimate place. Q TJU
Markets
Bloemenmarkt Oudegracht. The Dutch love flowers, especially in Utrecht where every Saturday no less than two flower markets take place. But buying flowers in Utrecht isnt as straightforward as it might seem. You have to know exactly what you want, otherwise youll be overwhelmed by all the scents and colours in no less than 50 stalls. The real flower market, where exclusively cut flowers are sold, is at the Oudegracht. The stalls are by the water and on two sides of the Bakkerbrug. The combination of the many colours, the fun terraces on the wharfs by the water and the various flower scents is marvellous. Oudegracht (between the Zakkendragerssteeg and the Bakkerstraat): Open Sat 08:00 - 17:00. The second flower market lies hidden behind the Janskerk on an attractive square. Surrounded by old buildings, all sorts of flowers, plants and shrubs are sold here. In the spring some stalls have over 700 different types of garden plants for sale including rare and exotic florae. Janskerhof: open Sat 07:00 - 16:00. Q De Streekmarkt E-8, Zijdebalenstraat 2, www.streekweken.nl. Many large cities have covered markets where local farmers, beekeepers, bakers, brewers, gardeners and passionate collectors sell their products directly to consumers and since the summer of 2010, Utrecht finally has its own too! The spacious 1832m2 Zijdebalenhal is open seven times each year hosting dozens of stalls with lots of edible products. One of its objectives is to familiarise consumers with locally produced food. In 2011 the market will take place on September 10 - 11, October 8 - 9, November 12 - 13 and December 10 - 11. QOpen , Sat, Sun 11:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri. Admission: 2. TJ6ULGKS Lapjesmarkt B-1, Breedstraat. The fabric market at the Breedstraat has been held here for more than 400 years and is thereby the oldest and biggest fabric market in the Netherlands. On 9 May 1597, the Utrecht city council gave the linen-weaving guild permission to hold a linen market two times each year, but today you can shop for fabric every Saturday from 8:00 - 13:00. More than 100 stalls are available. QOpen Sat 08:00 - 13:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun. TJ utrecht.inyourpocket.com Warenmarkt (Goods market) A-1, Vredenburg. The goods market on the Vredenburg is temporarily scaled-down because of the renovations surrounding the central station. Nevertheless, vendors are stationed here three times per week and they sell anything from fruit, vegetables, fish and flowers to nuts and other dried goods. There are also stalls with various cheeses, bread and biscuits as well as Greek and Turkish products. On Sunday shopping days theres also a market from 11:00 - 17:00. QOpen Wed, Fri 10:00 - 17:00, Sat 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun. TJ6
Sex shops
427, tel. (+31) 302 42 12 22, www.miranda.nl. The biggest erotic warehouse in Utrecht, with the latest toys from the Silver Heron to the Geisha Box. QOpen 10:00 - 23:00. U
Mirandas Seksshop A-2, Amsterdamsestraatweg
Sports & Outdoors

51, tel. (+31) 302 31 64 68, info@watersportwinkelutrecht.nl, www.hengelsportwinkel-utrecht.nl. If you like fishing, then this is the place to go to find all of the gear youll need to catch the really big ones! It sells everything you could ever want except skill and luck, an anglers finest tools. Q Opening times vary, so check its website. TJL
Hengelsportwinkel De Ster B-1, Weerdsingel W.Z.
Sweets
05, www.trickntreats.nl. This charming old town shop sells all kinds of sweets, cookies, cupcakes, truffles, fudge, macaroons and much more. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 12:30 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:30, Sun 12:00 - 17:30. TJL
Trick n Treats B-2, Steenweg 9, tel. (+31) 307 52 34
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sports & leisure

Adventure sports
De Weistaar Rottegatsteeg 6, Maarsbergen, tel. (+31)
332 86 19 43, fax (+31) 332 86 55 87, info@weistaar. nl, www.weistaar.nl. The latest fad in outdoor sports in the Netherlands is Farmer Golf. Pimp yourself out with some wooden clogs, straw hat and denim overalls and get ready for some action on the links - well, almost. Its like walking through an 18-hole golf course but without the plaid pants, manicured lawns, caddies and golf carts. Instead youll have plenty of pastureland and cows. Lots and lots of cows. If it rains you can also take advantage of an indoor miniature golf course. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun. (6.50). TLX
Bowling
Bison Bowling A-3, Mariaplaats 13, tel. (+31) 302 31 18 55, info@bowling.nl, www.bisonbowling.nl. Bowling and or dining is possible in this friendly place. Mitland Bowling E-3, Arienslaan 1 (Utrecht-City), tel. (+31) 302 71 20 13, www.mitland.nl. The oldest bowling alley in Utrecht has been renovated and now includes the coolest, most modern gadgets. QOpen 17:00 - 23:00, Thu, Fri 17:00 - 24:00, Sat 17:00 - 01:00, Sun 12:00 - 23:00.
Dance classes
Tango La Zapada B-3, Catharijnesteeg 6, tel. (+31) 302 23 89 27, zap@tangolazapada.nl, www.tangolazapada.nl. Utrechts favourite Tango school. Union Salsa Dansschool B-3, Oudegracht 254, tel. (+31) 653 61 66 66, info@unionsalsa.nl, www.unionsalsa.nl. This organisation promotes the South-American lifestyle and its culture with dance classes, parties and Portuguese and Spanish language courses. Q JG
Bike rental
Fietspunt B-2, Nobelstraat 293, tel. (+31) 302 30 08 49, info@fietspunt.net, www.fietspunt.net. For 8/day you can rent a bike here or, if youre planning on staying in Utrecht for a while, just buy a secondhand one for as low as 60. QOpen 08:00 - 18:00, Thu 08:00 - 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J
Boat rental
De Rijnstroom Kano- en Roeibootverhuur E-5, Weg naar Rhijnauwen 2 (Utrecht-City), tel. (+31) 302 52 13 11, info@rijnstroom.nl, www.rijnstroom.nl. Want to paddle through the canals with a canoe? In the summertime (April - October) you can even paddle by the light of a full moon. QOpen 09:00 - 22:00, Sun 09:30 - 20:00. Sloep Huren Utrecht B-3, Oudegracht 177, tel. (+31) 614 51 24 57, info@sloephurenutrecht.nl, www. sloephurenutrecht.nl. Three comfortable boats for hire. A minimum 1.5 hour is required. Q Prices from 165. TJ Utrecht Sloep Rondvaarten C-6, Abraham Keerstraat 12, tel. (+31) 610 40 30 16, info@utrechtsloeprondvaarten.nl, www.utrechtsloeprondvaarten.nl. Take a ride on sloop through the canals enjoying your own music with a sip of Prosecco. Q
Diving
Aaa Diving A-3, Reigerskamp 633, Maarssen (UtrechtArea), tel. (+31) 346 56 87 66. Get certified here so you can go diving on your next trip. Jos vd Hurk Duiksport shop Bekkerstraat 63, tel. (+31) 302 71 56 03.
Fitness & Gyms

David Lloyd, Utrecht B-3, Mississippidreef 161 (Utrecht-Area), tel. (+31) 302 64 40 00, www.davidlloyd.nl. This modern sports club and gym has all the latest fitness and sports facilities. A spa and swimming pool are also available. Q UFLGDCW
Golf
Golfclub Amelisweerd B-4, Mereveldseweg 7
(Utrecht-Area), tel. (+31) 302 54 66 48, w w w. amelisweerd.nl. This 18-hole golf course has been a local favourite since 1997.
Boat trips
Ahoy Rondvaarten B-4, Oudegracht 345/WERF, tel.
(+31) 302 36 78 55, info@ahoyrondvaarten.nl, www. ahoyrondvaarten.nl. Check out Utrecht with a fluisterboot (whisper boat) or a streeker boat on a boat trip on the canals. Schuttevaer A-1, Weerdsingel 4, tel. (+31) 302 72 01 11, info@schuttevaer.com, www.schuttevaer.com/ contact.php. Schuttevaer is the oldest canal boat company in town and has been ferrying tourists and locals around for 50 years. Q
Horseback riding
Groenesteyn Manege E-3, Biltsestraatweg 88 (Utrecht-City), tel. (+31) 302 71 96 75, manegegroenesteyn@hotmail.nl, www.manegegroenesteyn. nl. This riding school with 30 horses and ponies is available to people of all ages and skill levels. QOpen 09:00 - 22:00, Sat 08:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
Karting
Kartfabrique B-3, Westkanaaldijk 7 (Utrecht-Area), tel.
(+31) 302 40 40 40, fax (+31) 302 40 40 50, info@defabrique.nl, www.kartfabrique.nl. Speeds of up to 60km/ hour will keep the F1 driver in you satisfied! After the race, drinks can be had on the old benches of a Fokker aircraft. QOpen , Tue, Thu, Fri 16:00 - 24:00, Wed 13:30 - 24:00, Sat 13:00 - 24:00, Sun 13:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon. T
Paintball & Laser tag

Lasercombat C-4, Laan van Vollenhove 2235, Zeist,
Dont forget to pick up a souvenir! tel. (+31) 619 62 48 70www.lasercombat.nl. Want to know what its like to be Jack Bauer but with lasers? Pay these guys a visit. Q Admission: 15.
sports & leisure

Football: FC Utrecht
If youre into football, dont miss a chance to watch a match in Utrecht. Utrechts most well-known football player, Wesley Sneijder, never actually defended FC Utrechts beautiful red-and-white. For years, however, Inter Milans star player did wear the cursed red-and-white of Utrechts arch-enemy Ajax from Amsterdam. With its 25,000 seat capacity FC Utrechts stadium may be half the size of the Ajax Arena, but fanatical supporters still manage to make a lot more noise at their home games at the cosy Galgenwaard. FC Utrecht was founded in 1970 after a fusion of three professional football clubs in Utrecht: DOS (founded in 1901 and national champion in 1958), Velox (founded in 1902) and Elinkwijk (founded in 1919). Home games are usually held on Sunday afternoons at 14:30. Although they had bags of money, FC Utrecht was one of the least fortunate teams in the transfer period this season. Its best players were sold Dries Mertens and Kevin Strootman to PSV, attacker Ricky van Wolfswinkel to Sporting Lisbon, keeper Michel Vorm to English Premiership newcomers Swansea City while relatively few players were bought. The best acquisition could well be Rodney Sneijder (20), who is, you guessed it, the younger brother of Wesley Sneijder.
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Rent a boat or a kayak and cruise the canals
Skating
USP A-3, info@u-skateparade.nl, www.u-skateparade.
nl. Skate fanatics gather in the streets of Utrecht and glide through the city en masse. Check out their website for times and locations. Q
Sports complexes
Snowsport Center Utrecht A-3, Fermiweg 91, tel. (+31) 303 03 00 13, info@snowsportcenter.nl, www. snowsportcenter.nl. Believe it or not, if youve never skied before but dont want to make a blunder on the powdered slopes of Austria or France, you can prepare yourself right here in the rather flat expanse of the Netherlands. Snowsport Center Utrecht is the biggest indoor ski and snowboard school in Europe. Beginners as well as advanced skiers and snowboarders are welcome. Professional instructors will teach you that six to 10-hour lessons on the indoor slopes are comparable to six days of lessons on the mountain, so youll have a head start when you actually get there, which you can use for an extra round at the aprs-ski. QOpen 09:00 - 23:00. PTALG
Water parks
De Kwakel Zwembad Paranadreef 10, tel. (+31) 302 Den Hommel Aquacenter Kennedylaan 5, tel. (+31)
86 27 00. A suburban swimming pool. 302 86 24 00, DenHommel@Utrecht.nl. The Bumblebee
(+31) 302 87 77 77, info@downunderrecreatie.nl, www. downunderrecreatie.nl. Youll find all kinds of water activities at this self-proclaimed fun park. Q Admission: adults 4, children 3 - 11 years 3.
swimming pool is ideal for children. Q TFDC Down Under Ravensewetering 1, Nieuwegein, tel.
Maarssenveense plassen (Lakes of Maarsseveen) J-15, Herenweg 53, Maarssen, tel. (+31) 302 61
01 86, info@recreatiemiddennederland.nl, www.recreatiemiddennederland.nl. On sunny days most Utrechters head out to the Maarsseveense Plassen, which is about half an hours bicycle ride from the city centre (or take bus Nr. 35 to Maarssen). Here youll find everything youd find by the sea: loud teenagers, beer-chugging construction workers and flirtatious students on the prowl. Theres a beach with real sand, showers and a playground for which youll have to pay a small fee, but most people choose the free grassy patches along the lake. Snack and ice-cream vendors drive around non-stop, but bear in mind that some remote areas serve as assembly points for naturists, so dont be surprised if you suddenly feel overdressed. QOpen 09:00 - 18:00. Admission: 4. T6BS
This keen Ajax player is on loan for a year, but shows all the signs of possibly becoming one of the best players in the league, if only to prove himself to the fanatical supporters in his home town of Utrecht. Now with the end of the season approaching, we can already predict that FC Utrecht will be unable to reach the goal which it set for itself this year: qualification for European Football. And things can geteven worse for the team, because the 16th position is only a few points away which means that theyll have to fight tough battles with other teams in the Dutch Eredivisie to avoid relegation. The Galgenwaard Statium is located at the edge of the city at Herculesplein 24 and is easily accessible by motorway. Tickets are sold at 400 TicketBox sales points across the Netherlands or at one of 28 official football club websites. For a reservation call the ticket office: tel. (+31) 308 88 55 55 or send an email to: ticketing@fcutrecht.nl. Tickets range in price from 21 - 34. Spring 2012
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health & lifestyle

Youll find everything here from dentists and spas to pharmacies and real estate agents.
Currency exchange
GWK Travelex B-4, Stationshal 11, tel. (+31) 900 05 66, www.travelex.com. If you plan on exchanging money, banks offer the best exchange rates and a smaller commission, but the GWK is the most convenient if youre heading to the train station. The exchange rate is reasonable but the commission is 0.75% with a minimum charge of 3.25 and a maximum of 7.50. Buy or sell foreign currency, cash travellers checks, debit your credit or bank card or send and receive money with Western Union. International calling cards, credit for cell phones and travel insurance also available. QOpen 08:00 - 21:00, Sat 08:00 - 19:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00. JA
36 75 08, www.haarhoek.nl. You can even make an appointment for a stylish new haircut at one of two locations online. QOpen 09:30 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00. Also at Donkerstraat 10. J Kinki Kappers B-3, Oudegracht 198, tel. (+31) 302 32 14 66, info@kinki.nl, www.kinki.nl. Kinky is a celebrity hairdresser known throughout the Netherlands. Tabou Haar en Jazz B-3, Oudegracht 211, tel. (+31) 302 30 45 01, www.tabouhaarenjazz.nl. While you receive a haircut in the back you can listen to the newest jazz from the shop in the front. This is also one of the best places in the Netherlands for jazz CDs or old fashioned vinyl albums. QOpen 11:00 - 19:15, Sat 10:00 - 18:15. Closed Sun. J
Haarhoek Coiffures Voorstraat 37, tel. (+31) 302
Dentists
arijnesingel 77, tel. (+31) 302 31 96 25, fax (+31) 302 30 09 69, praktijkoelp@hotmail.com, www.oelp.nl. This multilingual dentist can fix your cavities or whiten your teeth. QOpen 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
Hospitals
Medisch Centrum Biltstraat D-3, Biltstraat 397/423 (Utrecht-City), tel. (+31) 302 33 35 42, medischcentrumbiltstraat@uni-online.nl, www.medischcentrumbiltstraat.nl. Many medical specialties are brought together in this multifunctional practice.
Oelp Hoogh Bollandt Tandartspraktijk A-4, Cath-
Doctors
302 31 68 59, www.huisartsen.nl. Online information about GPs in Utrecht.
Catharijne Singel mw Drs A Kruishoop & Mw Dr M D S Becker B-5, Catharijnesingel 106, tel. (+31)
Utrecht) B-4, Heidelberglaan 100 (Utrecht-Area), tel. (+31) 887 55 55 55, www.umcutrecht.nl. This hospital combines health care with education and research. Its also a well-known childrens hospital.
Universitair Medisch Centrum Utrecht (UMC
Laundrettes
Cyberwash Selfservice wassalon A-3, Amsterdamsestraatweg 237/A, tel. (+31) 302 45 90 77, fax (+31) 847 18 52 04, info@cyberwash.nl, www.cyberwash.nl. The cosiest and cheapest launderette in Utrecht. Apart from doing your laundry, you can also work on your tan and check your email. QOpen 07:00 - 21:00. JW Wasserette Kolman B-3, Oudegracht 177, tel. (+31) 302 31 82 62, fax (+31) 302 31 82 86. Q J
DVD rental
36 98 80, vragen@edgarhooverfilm.nl, www.edgarhooverfilm.nl. Specialies in arthouse or cult fims. QOpen 14:00 - 22:00, Mon 16:00 - 22:00. Movie MAX Moviestores C-2, Nachtegaalstraat 67, tel. (+31) 302 31 93 67, www.moviemax.eu. Rent the latest movies here. QOpen 14:00 - 22:00.
Edgar Hoover Film B-4, Twijnstraat 7, tel. (+31) 302
Massage
Mercurius Salon Mercuriusburg 2, Nieuwegein, tel. (+31) 308 79 27 98. Permanent make-up, foot massages and facials are just a few of the treatments owner Ellen offers in her salon. Monique Kolfschoten C-3, Van Brakelstraat 18/ BIS (Utrecht-City), tel. (+31) 302 71 83 98, qimono@ hetnet.nl, www.moniquekolfschoten.nl. Besides giving massages, Monique Kolfschoten is also a speech therapist, voice coach for professional speakers and actors and a body-oriented therapist.
Hairdressers & Barbers

Blitzz Hairstyling D-5, Adriaen van Ostadelaan 23 (Utrecht City, tel. (+31) 302 54 00 57, www.hairstylingblitzz.nl. Miranda is the friendly owner of this stylish shop. De Kappers B-4, Nobelstraat 153, Zeist (Utrecht-Area), tel. (+31) 302 31 70 14, www.dekappers.nl. Students get a discount and the queues are never long. Specialises in trendy haircuts. QOpen 09:00 - 21:00, Mon 12:30 - 18:00, Tue 09:00 - 18:00, Wed 09:00 - 19:30, Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
Notaries
32 18, www.attentnotaris.nl. Van Grafhorst Notarissen A-1, Bemuurde Weerd 28, tel. (+31) 302 71 92 27, www.vangrafhorst.nl.
Attent Notaris Robert Stolzlaan 4, tel. (+31)306 70
Pharmacies
Kring-Apotheek Wilhelmina Burg Reigerstraat 47, tel. (+31) 302 51 37 12, fax (+31) 302 51 60 12, www.wilhelminaapotheek.nl, www.wilhelminaapotheek.nl. Q Open 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 15:00. Closed Sun. Liefdes Centraal Apotheek A-2, Voorstraat 6, tel. (+31) 302 31 01 13. The so-called Love Pharmacy is located in Utrechts most famous Art Nouveau building. utrecht.inyourpocket.com
Get some ice cream from the magic bus
health & lifestyle

Utrecht for kids
Kids have plenty of options in Utrecht and remember that travelling from any train station in the Netherlands to Utrecht is very cheap for children aged 4 - 11. For only 2.50 they can travel on a Railrunnerkaartje (rail runner card). Here are some fun options for both kids and parents.
53
Real estate
Rots Vast Groep Utrecht A-1, Oudegracht 2, tel. (+31)
302 31 94 00, utrecht@rotsvast.nl, www.rotsvast.nl. If you want to spend some (or a lot of) time in the beautiful Utrecht, but if you dont feel like an impersonal hotel room, Rots Vast can help. This is the expert in the field of renting (out) and managing houses, apartments and rooms. Ideal for finding a good place to live in the old city centre or in one of the suburbs or surrounding villages. The right address for expats, too. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Spas & Beauty

23 06 53, www.evita-laserontharing.nl. Evita is a great option if youre through with temporary hair removal techniques such as shaving or waxing, and prefer a permanent solution once and for all. Your wallet will be considerably lighter after a treatment, but itchiness and other irritations of the skin will belong to the past. QOpen 10:00 - 17:30. Closed Sun. UL Sauna Descansa C-1, Biltstraat 6-8, tel. (+31) 302 71 18 08, www.descansa.nl. A completely different world is hidden behind a gate on the Biltstraat: a dreamy place that smells of eucalyptus and incense. The stylish, attractively furnished rooms each have their own design so you can imagine that youre in Greece, Morocco or even India. The rooftop terrace is equipped with large bean-bags, bamboo and even apples and raspberries to snack on. Two Finnish saunas, a steam bath, an infrared cabin and swimming pool are all available for only 19.50. Ladies only on Tuesdays. QOpen 13:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (19.50). JAGBKDC Sauna Lamar B-7, Jutfaseweg 223, tel. (+31) 302 89 83 59, info@saunalamar.nl, www.saunalamar.nl. Lamars three saunas, Turkish bath and infrared cabin will keep you warm and relaxed to say the least. Its somewhat kitsch murals wont win any design contests, but it does offer friendly service. The lounge with magazines and comfortable sink-in sofas is especially cosy. Ladies only on Wednesday. QOpen 11:00 - 23:00, Sun 11:00 - 22:00. PTGBKDC
Evita A-3, Amsterdamsestraatweg 277, tel. (+31) 302
Tattoos
(+31) 302 31 00 96, www.skinart.nl. Bring your own drawing or choose one from the many examples in the books. Studio Remi Piercing & Tattoo Art B-4, Twijnstraat 22, tel. (+31) 302 31 21 80, info@studioremi.nl, www. studioremi.nl. Clean needles, beautiful images and talented artists make this place a good choice to get some ink.
Skin Art Tattoos Amsterdamsestraatweg 28, tel.
Vets & Pets

Biltstraat Dierenkliniek C/1, Biltstraat 455, tel. Vossegat Dierenkliniek D-5, Adriaen van Ostadelaan
(+31) 302 31 09 86, www.dierenkliniekbiltstraat.nl. This vet clinic is located just a few minutes out of town.
44 (Utrecht City), tel. (+31) 302 25 07 07, www.dierenkliniekvossegat.nl. Every sick animal is treated like a king in this friendly veterinary clinic.
Ballorig Houten J-16, Tuibrug 3, Houten, tel. (+31) 306 36 56 20, www.ballorig.nl/houten. Indoor paradise for kids. QOpen 10:00 - 19:00. Children under 13 years 7, parents free. T Childtours Dom B-2, Domplein 9 - 10, tel. (+31) 302 36 00 10, www.rondom.nl. Every first and third Sunday of the month at 12:45 Willem de Torenwachter (William the Towerwatcher) takes hordes of young children up to the top of the Domchurch. On the way they learn about the bells, the ringing of the bells and they can play the Carillon. The guides are top entertainers and keep the kiddies happy in an exciting and informative exploration of the famous Dom tower. Reservation required. Q Admission: children up to 12 years 6, adults 8.50. TJA De Haar Castle (Kasteel De Haar) Kasteellaan 1, Haarzuilens, tel. (+31) 306 77 85 15, www.kasteeldehaar.nl. Just outside the boundaries of Utrecht, youll find this magnificent, centuries-old building, which is the ultimate fairytale castle. All children will experience the magic of knights and princesses at De Haar Castle. After a tour, the kids can watch the deer in the park or take advantage of the exciting maze or even a treasure hunt through the park. QOpen Sun 14:45. Admission: adults 9.50, children 6 (under 3 free). TA KidzCity Vlampijjpstraat 79, tel. (+31) 302 42 00 42, www.kidzcity.nl. For many parents KidzCity is a godsend. Dozens of gigantic, colourful playground structures scattered across 5,000m2 of a large factory hall on the edge of the city are at your kids disposal all day long. Young children can retreat to their own corner away from somewhat older, less careful children. The little ones can enjoy slides, bumper cars, a mega ball pool with 18,000 balls and the most modern laser games. This futuristic playground fulfills all of the wishes of todays youth and the layout of the hall is designed so parents can keep an eye on their offspring from comfortable sitting corners where they can make use of the wireless internet. QOpen 10:00 - 18:00, Tue, Thu 10:00 - 19:00. Closed Mon. Admission: 10 from 4 years. PTULGBKXW Lage Vuursche Karnemelksweg 3, tel. (+31) 356 66 82 12, www.midgetgolftuinen.nl. If you cycle just outside the city of Utrecht, past the woody Bilt, youll quickly reach Lage Vuursche. This village consists of but a single street where kilos of pancakes are baked. If this isnt enough to make parents and children overjoyed, the miniature golf will. QOpen 10:00 - 22:00. TNBK Speeltuin De Kleine Dom B-3, Lange Nieuwstraat 79, tel. (+31) 302 31 37 53. This playground has an outdoor area with a climbing fort, football cage, swings, a sandpit and a climbing wall. The playground is also bursting with tricycles and go-karts. Children can also pet rabbits, Aag je and Gismo, in their pen. QOpen 10:00 17:00, Sat, Sun 13:00 - 17:00. TJB University Museum Utrecht B-4, Lange Nieuwstraat 106, tel. (+31) 302 53 80 08, www.uu.nl. Sitting on a bed of nails, discovering scents; its all possible in the Youth Lab of the University Museum. Not exactly the place for toddlers, but its a good time for children over the age of 10. QOpen 11:00 - 17:00. TJ Spring 2012
54
venue index
Get In Your Pocket before you go

The full In Your Pocket range is available to purchase online at:
www.inyourpocket.com/clickandbuy
TIRANA
2006 - 2007
WARSAW
August - September 2006
PRAGUE
BERLIN
TALLINN
April - May 2006
Going to the chapel

Shopping fever
Tiranas first malls
Karltejns renovated jewel
Wilanw
Facade art
N4 - 400 lek www.inyourpocket.com
Explore the Polish Versailles
Lets rock
Visiting the Bohemian Paradise
Museum night
100 museums in one night
N23 - 1.75 www.inyourpocket.com
Touring Narva
Painting the city pink

N34 - 5z (w tym 7% VAT) www.inyourpocket.com
ISSN 1641-5264
Out of town
Cool sights at the EUs eastern border
Polands top spa town: Naczw
N34 - 100 K www.inyourpocket.com
Floating the boat

Spree river tours
N47 - 35kr www.inyourpocket.com
IYP gets a new look
The inside scoop on the new look inside
BUCHAREST
April - May 2006
BELFAST
RIGA
April - May 2006
COLOGNE
June - July 2006
HAMBURG
June - July 2006
KRAKW
Football events
Win or lose, this is where to party
River tours A New Look

Weve never looked better: In Your Pocket gets a makeover
Wine and dine on the Rhine
Blogging Bucharest
The Great Outdoors
Our guide to the best politically incorrect comment online
Cycling, skydiving and country pursuits
Gastro Tourism
Seafood, whiskey and St. Georges Market
Hockey Fever
Harbour tours
Down in the docks
Everything you need to know about IIHF World Championship in Riga
Tarnw
Football events
Win or lose, this is where to party
N41 - 5z (w tym 7% VAT) www.inyourpocket.com
ISSN 1508-2334
Explore the Pearl of the Renaissance
Explore Latvia
N40 - 8.00 lei www.inyourpocket.com N60 - 1.20Ls www.inyourpocket.com
Leisure
Take a day trip to the seaside towns of Jrmala and Liepja
Getting active in Krakw
N7 - Free copy www.inyourpocket.com
N1 Complimentary copy www.inyourpocket.com
N1 Complimentary copy www.inyourpocket.com
Hotel, restaurant and nightlife index

Aal 26 ACU 36 Algarve 28 Always Good 17 American Steakhouse Broadway 22 Amor 29 Andersom 38 Apokalyps - In de Vecht 19 Apollo Hotel Utrecht City Centre 16 Asia de Cuba 24 Asli 26 Aus der Reihe Derrick 33 Avond 37 Badhu 22 Bagels and Beans 30 Bamboo 22 Bar Walden 24 Bastion Hotel 17 B&B De Vossenpoort 17 B&B Utrecht 20 Beurshotel 19 Black and White 38 Blauw 26 Bodytalk 34 Bond & Smolders 30 Boothill Saloon 35 Bordeaux Rood 38 Brandmeesters 30 Brass 27 Bresson 25 Broers stadscafe 31 Brothers 34 Buurboot La Luna 19 Cafe Kalff 34 Carla's Smaak 17 Carlton President 16 Chambres en Ville 18 Charlie Chiu's 22 Chez Marianne 18 Coffee Company 30 Cosy Corner 18 Court Hotel City Centre Utrecht 16 Cruise Control 34 Culinair Podium 25 Culture Boat 39 Dales Gast-en-Verblijf 18 D & D Shortstay 20 De Admiraal 19 De Bakkerswinkel 30 De Bastaard theatercaf 32 De Boomgaard 20 De Burgemeester 30 Deeg 28 De Garde 24 Delphi's 28 De Maan 36 De Markt 24 De Moestuin 30 Den Draeck 26 Den Ulch 18 De Oude Muntkelder 28 De Poort 36 Derat 32 De Rechtbank 27 De Vipshop 39 De Wietstok 39 De Zaak 36 Dinner66 22 Domkerk 30 Domplein 24 Doner66 25 Douwe Egberts 30 Ekko 33 El Club Brillante 33 enSuite 35 Equipe 18 Figi 21 Filemon en Baucis 33 Fishes 29 Flater 32 Flitz 36 Florin 36 Fort aan de Klop 20 Four 27 Freak Shop 39 Gastenkamer Gaardbrug 18 Goeie Louisa 25 Grand Hotel Karel V 16 Harbour 29 Hasekura 27 Havaa Apartments 20 Havana 33 Het College 35 Het Hart 36 Hofman Caf 32 Holland Casino Utrecht 24, 34 Hoog Brabant 23 Hooi 31 Hostel Strowis 20 Hotel Badhu 17 Hotel Houten 21 Hotel Oorsprongpark 19 Ibis Utrecht 17 Il Mulino 26 Jaap 27 Jasmijn & ik 22 Kafe Belgi 32 KEEK 31 KFC 25 Keuken 27 King Arthur 36 Kitchen Punx Acu 29 Kosten Koper 34 La Perle 18 Ledig Erf 32 Le Journal 31 Lemonia 26 Lisboa 26 Lofen 24 Manneken Pis 25 Marktzicht 32 Mercure Utrecht Nieuwegein 21 Mick O'Connells 37 Midi 25 Mitland Hotel 16 Namaskar 26 NH Centre Utrecht Hotel 17 NH Utrecht De Luxe 16 Nourish 28 O'Leary's 37 Olivier 36 Oost 27 Opium 22 Orkide 29 Orloff 32 Ouwe Dikke Dries 37 Ouzeri To Steki 26 Pann 35 Paradijs 23 Park Plaza Utrecht 16 Pizzakraam Mario 29 Poema 34 Popocatepetl 28 Pronto Pronto! 27 Puur Eten & Drinken 31 Rits 35 Saigon 29 Salaam 28 Sandton Malie Hotel 17 Sappies en Happies 31 Sector 3 31 Selamat Makan 26 Shabab 39 Springhaver 36 Stadskasteel Oudaen 35 Stairway to Heaven 35 Stayokay Hostel Bunnik 20 Stayokay Hostel Soest 21 Stichtse Taveerne 32 Stockholm 34 Stone Hotel & Hostel 20 Straks 24 Strand Oog in Al 33 Studio Zaagmolen 20 Sunshine 25 Sushi Today 27 Te Koop 24 't Grasje 39 t Gras van de buren 36 Theehuis Rhijnauwen 28 The Food Shop 29 The Village Coffee & Music 23 't Hoogt 32 Tilt 37 't Neutje 37 Toque Toque 24 't Oude Pothuys 35 't Pakhuis 37 't Singelhuis 18 Umami 22 U Rock! 35 Van Haver tot Gracht 18 Van Velsen 33 Villa Cornelia B&B 18 Voortuin 33 Vroeg 28 Walden 37 Wenzen 23, 28 Winkel van Sinkel 34, 35 Yumca 23 Yum Saap 23 Zara 19 Zeyn 31 Zussen 34
utrecht centre map
55
56
utrecht city map
greater utrecht area map
57
58
netherlands map
utrecht centre street register

1e Korte Baanstraat C3 1e Spechtstraat B1 2e Buurkerksteeg A3 2e Korte Baanstraat C3 Abc Straat B3 Abraham Bloemaertstraat B1 Abraham Dolehof B3 Abraham Dolesteeg B3 Achter ClarenburgA2 Achter De Dom B3 Achter Sint Pieter B2 Agnietenstraat B4 Albert Verweystraat B4 Albrachthof C3 Alendorpstraat B3 Ambachtstraat B2 Andreashof B3 Andreasstraat B4 Annastraat B2 Bakkerbrug A2 Bartholomeibrug B4 Begijnehof B1 Begijnekade B1 Bellamystraat B1 Bergstraat A2 Beukstraat C3 Blindesteeg B3 Bloemstraat C3 Bloesemstraat C3 Bolstraat C3 Boogstraat B4 Boothstraat B2 Boterstraat B3 Boven Vredenburg A2 Brandstraat B3 Breedstraat B1 Brigittenstraat B3 Brouwerstraat B4 Bruntenhof C3 Bruntensteeg C3 Buurkerkhof B3 Catharijnebaan A3 Catharijnekade A2 Catharijnesteeg B3 Choorstraat B2 Clarenburg A2 Daalsesingel A2 Diaconessenstraat B4 Dirck Van Zuylenstraat A2 Doelenstraat B4 Domplein B3 Domstraat B2 Donkere Gaard B3 Donkerstraat A3 Dopplerhof B1 Dorstige Harthof B3 Dorstige Hartsteeg B3 Drakenburgstraat A2 Drieharingstraat A2 Drift B2 Driftbrug B2 Duifstraat B1 Eikstraat C3 Eligenhof B4 Eligenstraat B4 Fockstraat B4 Gaardbrug B3 Ganzenmarkt B2 Geertebolwerk A3 Geertekerkhof B4 Geertestraat B4 Godebaldkwartier A3 Grietbrug B1 Grietstraat B1 Groenestraat B4 Hamburgerbrug B3 Hamburgerstraat B3 Hamsteeg A2 Hardebollenstraat B2 Hartsteeg A2 Haverstraat B3 Havikbrug B1 Havikstraat B1 Hekelsteeg A2 Hemdsmouwsteeg A2 Henritte Roland Holststraat B4 Herenbrug C3 Herenstraat B3 Hof Van Sint Jan B2 Hofpoort B3 Hooghiemstraplein B1 Hoogt B2 Hugo De Grootstraat C3 Iepstraat C3 Jacobijnenstraat A2 Jacobskerksteeg A2 Jan Van Der Heijdenstraat B1 Jansdam B2 Janskerkhof B2 Jansveld B2 Jeruzalemstraat B3 Jodenrijtje A2 Johan De Wittstraat C3 Johan Van Oldenbarneveltlaan C3 Kalverstraat B2 Karmelietenhof B4 Keistraat B2 Keizerstraat B2 Keukenstraat C3 Kievitdwarsstraat B1 Kievitstraat B1 Kleine Slachtstraat B2 Kloksteeg B2 Koekoekstraat B1 Korte Elisabethstraat A2 Korte Jansstraat B2 Korte Jufferstraat B2 Korte Koestraat A2 Korte Lauwerstraat B1 Korte Minrebroederstraat B2 Korte Nieuwstraat B3 Korte Rozendaal B4 Korte Smeestraat B3 Kromme Nieuwegracht B3 Kwartelstraat B1 Laan Van Puntenburg A3 Lange Elisabethstraat A2 Lange Jansstraat B2 Lange Jufferstraat B2 Lange Koestraat A2 Lange Nieuwstraat B4 Lange Rozendaal B4 Lange Smeestraat B4 Lange Viestraat A2 Lauwersteeg A2 Leidseveer A2 Lepelenburg C3 Lichte Gaard B3 Lijnmarkt B3 Lindestraat C3 Lucasbolwerk B2 Maartensbrug B3 Magdalenastraat C3 Maliebaanstation C3 Maliebrug C3 Manenburg B4 Mariahoek A3 Mariaplaats A3 Mariastraat A3 Martinusbrug B4 Massegast B2 Menno Van Coehoornstraat B1 Minervaplein C3 Mineurslaan A3 Minrebroederstraat B2 Molenstraat B1 Moreelsepark A3 Moreelseviaduct A3 Moutstraat B4 Muntstraat B2 Nathanalspoort B3 Nauwe Watersteeg B4 Neude B2 Nicolaasdwarsstraat B4 Nicolaaskerkhof B4 Nicolaasstraat B4 Nieuwe Keizersgracht B1 Nieuwegracht B3 Nieuwegracht Aan De Werf B3 Nieuwekamp B3 Nobeldwarsstraat B2 Nobelstraat B2 Noorderstraat B1 Oudegracht Aan De Werf A2 OudegrachtTolsteegzijde B3 OudegrachtWeerdzijde A2 Oudekamp B3 Oudkerkhof B2 Oudwijkerdwarsstraat C3 Paardenveld A2 Pasteurstraat B4 Pastoor Van Nuenenstraat A2 Pausdam B3 Pauwhof A2 Pauwstraat A2 Pelmolenplantsoen B4 Pelmolenweg B4 Pieterskerkhof B2 Pieterstraat B2 Plompetorengracht B1 Potterstraat A2 Predikherenstraat A2 Quintijnsbrug B3 Reguliersteeg B3 Ridderhofstad B3 Ridderschapstraat B1 Rijnkade A3 Rondpoort B4 Rozenstraat A2 Schalkwijkstraat B3 Schoutenstraat B2 Schroeder Van Der Kolkstraat B4 Schutterstraat B4 Servaasbolwerk C3 Servetstraat B3 Simon Stevinstraat B1 Slachtstraat B2 Smakkelaarsveld A2 Smeebrug B3 Snelliuskade B1 Spoorstraat A3 Springweg B3 Stadhuisbrug B2 Stammetsbrug B2 Stationsdwarsstraat A2 Stationsplateau A3 Stationsplein A3 Stationsstraat A2 Stationstraverse A3 Steenweg A2 Sterrenbos A3 Sterrenburg B4 Sterrenhof A3 Stieltjesstraat B1 Strosteeg B3 Telingstraat B2 Teugelhof B3 Tolsteegbarrisre B4 Trans B3 Tuinstraat B3 Twijnstraat B4 Twijnstraat Aan De Werf B4 Vaaltbrug B1 Vaaltwegbrug B1 Van Humboldtstraat B1 Van Leeuwenhoeckstraat B1 Van Musschenbroekstraat B1 Van s-Gravesandestraat B1 Viebrug* A2 Vinkenburgstraat A2 Vismarkt B2 Visschersplein B3 Visscherssteeg A3 Voetiusstraat B2 Vollersbrug B4 Voorstraat B2 Vredenburg A2 Vrouwjuttenhof B4 Vrouwjuttenstraat B4 Wagendwarsstraat C3 Wagenstraat C3 Walsteeg A3 Waterpoort A2 Waterstraat A2 Wed B3 Weerdsingel Oostzijde B1 Weesbrug B3 Westerstraat A3 Wijde Begijnestraat B1 Wijde Doelen B4 Wijde WatersteegB4 Willemsplantsoen A3 Willemstraat A2 Willemsviaduct A3 Wittevrouwenbrug B2 Wittevrouwenkade B1 Wittevrouwenstraat B2 Wolvenplein B1 Wolvenstraat B1 Zacharias Jansenstraat B1 Zadelstraat A3 Zakkendragershof A2 Zakkendragerssteeg A2 Zeedijk A1 Zilverberghof B3 Zilverbergspoort B3 Zilverstraat B3 Zonnenburg C3 Zuilenstraat B3 Zwaansteeg B3
59
Spring 2012

Utrecht: Boat Trips

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Hotels Restaurants Cafs Nightlife Sightseeing Events Maps

The best way to see the city is from the water

The most ancient part of the city beckons

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Essential city guides to the Netherlands

Keep an eye out for new cities in 2012! www.inyourpocket.com

Culture & Events

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The World of In Your Pocket

Utrecht In Your Pocket

Message from the Mayor

Health & Safety

Student in search of inspiration

Utrecht In Your Pocket

1122 - Holy Roman Emperor Henry V grants Utrecht a charter

695 AD - Willibrord arrives in Utrecht

1254 - Building of the Dom Church

857 AD - Vikings attack Utrecht

1529 - Construction of Vredenburg

Utrecht In Your Pocket

1945 - Utrecht Liberation

1636 - Founding of the University

1973 - Opening of the Hoog Catharijne Shopping Centre

1713 - The Treaty of Utrecht

1807 - Palace of Louis Bonaparte

Culture & events

Rock, pop, jazz & More

Classical music venues

Dom church (Domkerk) B-2, Domplein, www.dom-

St. Nicholas Church (Nicolaikerk) B-4, Nico-

EK TDH WS TOG TOG

Utrecht In Your Pocket

Culture & events

Rock, pop, jazz & More

RS WS EK TOG DB RS EK RS TDH RS EK TOG TOG

Culture & events

Classical music & Opera

Utrecht In Your Pocket

Culture & events

Culture & events

Utrecht In Your Pocket

Culture & events

Huis aan de Werf A-3, Boorstraat 107, tel. (+31) 302

Ballet, dance & Theatre

Cream of the crop

Court Hotel City Centre Utrecht B-3, Korte Nieu-

Park Plaza Utrecht B-4, Westplein 50 (Utrecht-

More hotels at utrecht.inyourpocket.com

Where to stay Where to stay

Bastion Hotel A-12, Mauritiuslaan 1, tel. (+31) 302

Bed & Breakfast

Always Good B-4, Tolsteegsingel 33, tel. (+31) 614 55

NH Centre Utrecht Hotel B-2, Janskerkhof 10, tel.

Gastenkamer Gaardbrug B-3, Oudegracht 186bis,

La Perle B-4, Twijnstraat 69, tel. (+31) 243 77 35 68,

t Singelhuis B-4, Tolsteegsingel 44, tel. (+31)

Van Haver tot Gracht B-3, Haverstraat 35, tel. (+31)

Dales Gast-en-Verblijf B-3, Lange Nieuwstraat 22,

Villa Cornelia Bed & Breakfast MH Trompstraat 7,

Even goddesses enjoy Utrechts parks