Utrecht Underground Utrecht
The dark past of the city
What is now a brand new shopping centre, the busiest train station in the country and a canal restored to its former glory used to be one of the grimiest areas in Europe: Hoog Catharijne.
When Hoog Catharijne was built in the 70s (for which a big part of the old city was demolished and even part of the Catharijnesingel was filled in), it was the biggest shopping mall on the continent.
Soon after its opening, it was also one of the biggest homeless shelters. Homeless people and drug abusers used the mall and its surroundings (especially the notorious expedition tunnel underneath the mall) as a place to sleep, shoot up and just reside. This not only made the mall itself a gruesome place, but also made Utrecht as a city somewhat macabre from time to time. I remember the scenes I saw as a kid very vividly.
These times are very much behind us, but the important history and the lessons it teaches us are kept alive by the Utrecht Underground walking tours. On these tours, former homeless people share their experiences living on the street, taking their guests to the exact places they used to call their 'home'. The area around Hoog Catharijne might have unrecognizably changed, but the history remains the same.
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Héron
Free-range fine dining
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by
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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!
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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!
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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
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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.
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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
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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!
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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.
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Rienje
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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!
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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!
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Nes
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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
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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!
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