Utrecht city game: canals, history and secret streets
Active
2h - 3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Curious about the lesser-known stories of Utrecht? Starting with the very first steps of this playful walk, you’ll experience the thrill and beauty of discovery. Location-based riddles will show you the way to our favourite local places, including quiet courtyards, forgotten stories and cute hidden spots we’ll keep secret... for now! Fun fact: this trail was created by our local creator.
- Explore the historic centre of Utrecht during this interactive and fun discovery walk
- Learn about the history and local stories of the city centre in a playful way
- Solve 11 location-based riddles to unlock directions to your next stop along the route
- See popular sights like the Paushuize and the impressive Dom tower from a different angle and discover hidden local spots
This discovery walk is an educational and fun activity for friends, couples, families with kids, curious locals, visitors, and team building.
Available options
Utrecht city game: canals, history and secret streets
What's included
Email with instructions and your link to the web-app
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Is this the highest tower in the Netherlands?
2
A lively square near the most important church of the city
3
A building construction by the only Dutch man that was a pope.
4
A lush green area with some nice cultural attractions
5
The smallest of the four parish churches in Utrecht
What's not included
Food and Drinks
Mobile data
Available languages
Written guide
EN
NL
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.0
1 reviews
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4★
1
3★
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2★
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0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Start in front of the statue of Jan van Nassau. When you arrive, click on the link you’ve received from Secret City Trails and start the self-guided discovery game. You can start and pause the trail anytime you want, and pick-up later to finish.
Important notes
- To play the trail, you click on the play link which you received by email from Secret City Trails
- If a trail is available in multiple languages, you will receive an English introduction mail, but you can select the language once you have started the game
- The play link is valid for 90 days starting at your activity date, so if you want to postpone your activity, you can do that without modifying your booking.
- Once you click on the play link, you can invite 4 other people to play along with you. - - Only the team captain can enter the answers.
- Once started, you have 15 days to finish the trail. So if you are tired or the weather changes, take a break and go ahead once ready to do so.
- We suggest playing the trails during daylight hours to make it easier to discover clues and directions, which often can be found in the details
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.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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