A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht's Charming City Centre

Utrecht , Netherlands

A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht's Charming City Centre

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(3 reviews)

1h - 1h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this self-guided walking tour, you'll wander among medieval canals and soaring church towers in the university town of Utrecht.

Utrecht’s scenic canal views, rich cultural heritage and striking architecture make wandering its storied streets an unforgettable experience. It’s also home to over 100 churches, some dating back to the medieval era. On this walking tour, I’ll show you the city’s main sights and a few off the well-trodden tourist path. You’ll also hear about the city’s origins, which date back to the Roman Empire.

You'll delve into the enchanting history of the Oude Gracht, Utrecht’s former canal, and learn about the architecture of Utrecht’s library, Bibliotheek Neude. Alongside the Oude Gracht, you’ll stroll past the remnants of the city crane and hear how it was used to load and unload ships’ cargo from the Middle Ages onwards.

By the end of this tour, you’ll have a greater appreciation for the city, its rich cultural heritage, and lesser-known stories.

Available options

A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Utrecht's Charming City Centre

What's included

Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it

The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere

Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour

Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Detailed itinerary

Begin your journey circling St Martin’s Cathedral, also known as Dom's Cathedral, immersing yourself in the rich history and architectural splendor of this iconic landmark.

Marvel at the serene beauty of Pandhof Dom, the cloister of Dom's Cathedral, as you explore its tranquil gardens and learn about its significance in Utrecht's cultural heritage.

Stop 3 Pass by

Delve into the enchanting history of the Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, as you gaze up at its impressive stature and hear tales of its construction and legacy.

Wander along the historic Oude Gracht, Utrecht’s former canal, admiring its picturesque stone buildings and learning about its medieval origins and significance in the city's development.

Pass by the Buurkerk, a historic church where the remarkable story of the Non Berkten, a nun who lived in voluntary seclusion for 57 years, unfolds, offering insight into Utrecht's religious history.

Discover Huis Zoudenbalch, a historic building with ties to Utrecht's noble past, as you learn about its architectural features and role in the city's cultural landscape.

Explore Pandhof Sinte Marie, a hidden gem nestled within the city, and admire its stunning architecture and serene ambiance as you learn about its historical significance.

Pass by Belgisch Biercafé Olivier Utrecht, a former secret Catholic church during the Reformation, now a popular watering hole where you can immerse yourself in Utrecht's vibrant nightlife scene.

Admire the architecture of Bibliotheek Neude, Utrecht's library, showcasing the distinctive style of the Amsterdam School, as you appreciate its cultural significance and contribution to the city's intellectual life.

Conclude your tour in front of Utrecht City Hall, where you'll reflect on the rich cultural heritage and lesser-known stories of Utrecht, gaining a deeper appreciation for this enchanting city and its fascinating history.

What's not included

Smartphone and headphones

Available languages

Audio guide

Written guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Please bring your own smartphone and headphones

Meeting point

The tour starts on a small square behind the Dom's cathedral. The exact spot is in front of a doorway of the Dom's cathedral picturing a scene of the patron saint of Utrecht: Sint Maarten.

Important notes

VOICEMAP CODE 
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Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS
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1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:
2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app
3. Create an account
4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes
5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE 
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You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT 
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For technical support and other queries, please email support@voicemap.me

About Utrecht

Utrecht is a vibrant and historic city in the Netherlands, known for its beautiful canals, rich cultural heritage, and lively atmosphere. The city's unique charm lies in its well-preserved medieval architecture, modern art scene, and bustling student population.

Top Attractions

Dom Tower

The Dom Tower is the tallest church tower in the Netherlands and a symbol of Utrecht. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of the city.

Historical 1-2 hours €12

Canals of Utrecht

Utrecht's canals are a unique feature of the city, with wharf cellars and picturesque bridges. Boat tours offer a different perspective of the city.

Architecture 1-2 hours €12-€15

Centraal Museum

The Centraal Museum showcases Utrecht's rich history and cultural heritage, including fashion, design, and art collections.

Museum 2-3 hours €12.50

De Haar Castle

De Haar Castle is the largest castle in the Netherlands, featuring stunning architecture and beautiful gardens.

Historical 3-4 hours €15

Rietveld Schröder House

A UNESCO World Heritage site, this iconic house is a masterpiece of modern architecture designed by Gerrit Rietveld.

Architecture 1 hour €14

Must-Try Local Dishes

Stroopwafel

A thin, crispy waffle made from two layers of dough joined by a caramel-like syrup filling.

Dessert Contains wheat and sugar

Utrechtse Koffietafel

A traditional Utrecht breakfast consisting of a variety of sweet and savory pastries, cold cuts, and cheeses.

Breakfast Can be customized to dietary preferences

Haring

Raw herring, typically served with onions and pickles, a Dutch delicacy.

Snack Contains fish

Bitterballen

Deep-fried, crispy meatballs filled with a rich, savory ragout.

Snack Contains meat and gluten

Popular Activities

Cycling Hiking Boat tours Canal-side dining Café hopping Park picnics Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The summer months offer warm weather and long days, perfect for exploring the city's outdoor attractions and festivals. Expect crowded tourist spots and higher prices.

15-25°C 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Dutch
Widely spoken: English, German
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Utrecht is generally safe, with low crime rates. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious with strangers offering help

Getting there

By air

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol • 45 km

By train

Utrecht Centraal

By bus

Utrecht Centraal Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The tram system is efficient and user-friendly, with multiple lines connecting major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taxi Utrecht

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Wittevrouwen Lombok Oog in Al

Day trips

Amsterdam

50 km • Half day to full day

The capital city of the Netherlands, known for its museums, canals, and vibrant nightlife.

Rotterdam

70 km • Full day

A modern city with innovative architecture, museums, and a bustling harbor.

Haarzuilens

15 km • Half day

A scenic area with beautiful nature reserves and walking trails.

Festivals

Utrecht Festival • August King's Day • 27th April Utrecht Light Festival • December to January

Pro tips

Use the OV-chipkaart for seamless public transport.
Explore the wharf cellars for unique dining and shopping experiences.
Visit the Centraal Museum for a comprehensive overview of Utrecht's history and culture.
Take a boat tour to see the city from a different perspective.
Combine a visit to De Haar Castle with a trip to nearby nature reserves.