Neude Library Utrecht
Calm haven on Neude square
On one of the main squares of the city, you can find Utrecht’s main public library, which has recently (2020) been opened in the old Post office. It serves as a good place to escape from the busy city center and browse around the library, watch one of the events that are regularly hosted here, or just have a break and a coffee before going back to exploring the city. Also, if you are looking for a place to get some work done where you are not obliged to keep ordering coffee, this is your spot.
The best aspect of this building is the fantastic architecture, making it a must-visit for everyone. The former post office showcases the beauty of the Amsterdam School style, which is characterized by the use of organic forms, sculptures and intricate brickwork.
As you enter the main hall, the impressive arches might remind you more of a church than a library. The Amsterdam School took a socialist perspective that aimed to improve the lives of the working class. These architects usually designed social housing estates, schools or public institutions and wanted to make them as beautiful as possible to build ‘palaces for the working man’.
When you walk around the main hall, you will see five statues around the walls, representing the five continents, as well as the beautiful clock in typical Amsterdam School style. On the right-hand side is a little cafe where you can grab coffee.
Find your way with 43 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Utrecht
Héron
Free-range fine dining
Hércon, Utrecht's Green Michelin Star restaurant pioneers sustainability with hyperlocal, seasonal ingredients, wild-picked produce, and legendary dishes!
by
Lévi
Smulders
BAM Keramiek
Vibrant ceramic (work)shop
BAM Keramiek crafts unique, locally themed ceramics in Utrecht! Visit their workshop, shop for personal souvenirs, or join a pottery class!
by
Lévi
Smulders
Boot 122
Red light boat turned brewpub
Boot 122, a hidden brewpub in Utrecht, specializes in classic German beers. Enjoy unique brews in a former houseboat at the lively Werkspoorkwartier!
by
Lévi
Smulders
Café Lombok
Best spot sundowners
Café Lombok’s spacious terrace on Vleutenseweg is perfect for a sunset drink: great vibes, good drinks, and unforgettable afternoons turning into nights!
by
Lévi
Smulders
Zocherpark
City wall turned into a circular park
Walk around the city in Zocherpark! One of the most beautiful, quiet, lush and green parts of the city, with hundreds of trees and remains of the city wall.
by
Lévi
Smulders
Inktpot
Landmark with flying saucer on top
The Inktpot, Utrecht's iconic brick giant, features a flying saucer atop its tower and once housed the Dutch Railways headquarters.
by
Lévi
Smulders
KEEK
Best bakery in town?
KEEK offers amazing sourdough and more at fair prices in Utrecht. Great bread, local art, and coffee make it a cornerstone of daily life!
by
Lévi
Smulders
Café Averechts
Neighborhood pub by volunteers
Café Averechts' music nights on Friday evenings are the best. All events are free. Here, it's completely normal to start a conversation with people of all ages.
by
Rienje
Veenhof
Le Clochard
50+ year-old bistro
Le Clochard, a cozy gem in Utrecht’s Museum Quarter, offers bistro classics, comfort food, and Belgian beers at unbeatable prices. Book ahead!
by
Lévi
Smulders
The Little Nail Room
A go-to nail salon!
The Little Nail Room in Utrecht is a cozy nail salon with top-notch service & thoughtful details. Here you can also buy all kinds of beauty products!
by
Nes
Bounou
Weerdsluis
Sunbathing spot with historic view
Weerdsluis is great place to catch the last rays of afternoon sun & see the water level rise and fall. Grab a few drinks and enjoy them on the duckboard!
by
Rienje
Veenhof
Rhijnauwen en Amelisweerd
Escape the city
Escape the buzzing center of Utrecht with a calm walk in the forests of Rhijnauwen and Amelisweerd. Then enjoy a warm drink or Dutch pancakes nearby!
by
Rienje
Veenhof
Heading to Utrecht?
43 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 43 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Art & culture
Our team loves Utrecht
Get to know our other Spotters from Utrecht
As featured on:
