Utrecht travel trade - The Heart Of Holland

Utrecht travel trade
The heart of Holland
theheartofholland.com
“One of the world’s most h­appiest
places to live. A compact city filled
with delightful cafes and restaurants,
thousands of students and many artists
and musicians. Along the Oudegracht,
the central canal, cellar-level bars
and pubs line the towpath,
which is a charming place to watch
the boats and birds go by.”
contents
BBC
“Utrecht in top 10 ‘Unsung’ places of the
world: “Perhaps it’s the lure of Amsterdam
that leads people to forget Utrecht.
Whatever the reason, this graceful city
is bizarrely under-visited. Its old town
is encircled by a medieval canal,
and you can hop on a boat tour to visit
the city’s bustling, vibrant wharves.”
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L o n e ly P la n e
t
“If you want canals,
gothic architecture and
waxy cheeses without
having to dodge British
bachelor parties yakking
regurgitated Heineken
onto your souvenir clogs,
Utrecht beats the old
Amsterdam hands-down.”
CNN
WELcome IN UTRECHT
TRAVEL TRADE
Facts and figures
UTRECHT HIGHLIGHTS
events
shopping
FOOD AND DRINKS
OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION
REGIOn
OPTIONS FOR EXCURSIONS
Gouda
woerden
BUNSCHOTEN-SPAKENBURG
heritage
SAMPLE ITINERARIES
ACCESSIBILITY
index
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WELCOME
TO UTRECHT
TRAVEL TRADE
The heart of Holland
If you are planning to spend some time
in the Netherlands with a group or
individually, you simply must include
Utrecht in your programme. Tourism Utrecht
supports tour operators, shipping
companies and bus companies without
any charge and in a professional manner.
Utrecht is the beating heart of the
Netherlands and a lively university
city with charming outdoor cafés,
trendy hotspots, friendly restaurants
and numerous cultural events.
Utrecht is a dynamic city and is the ideal
size to explore the centre by bike or on foot,
yet expansive enough to enjoy modern
architecture, trendy shops and interesting
museums for days on end.
Utrecht features Roman churches, medieval
wharves and naturally the magnificent
Gothic Dom, in addition to design by Rietveld,
royal trains and distinctive musical clocks.
Utrecht has a tremendously rich culture with
lively events scheduled throughout the year, from
light art, film, pioneering dance or classical music.
If all of this is too much for one day, simply
book your accommodation in a stylish hotel or
intimate B&B to relax; Utrecht will have even
more to offer tomorrow.
Support for group visits
OUR SERVICE
• Tourism Utrecht provides tourist and current
information about the city.
• Tourism Utrecht is happy to organise an
introductory visit to the city (including
overnight accommodation, excursions, etc.)
in accordance with your requirements.
• Tourism Utrecht provides proposals and
suggestions for exciting travel packages
and interesting information.
• Tourism Utrecht provides promotional texts.
• Tourism Utrecht can introduce you to interesting
partners, hotels, attractions and museums.
FREE IMAGES WITHOUT COPYRIGHT
TRAVEL TRADE CONTACT
For more information and the current traffic situation
in Utrecht, contact the Travel Trade department at:
Sander Griffioen, Account Manager
T +31 (0)30-2360024, traveltrade@toerisme-utrecht.nl
theheartofholland.com
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Tourism Utrecht also provides visual material you can
obtain by simply requesting a link to our database via
traveltrade@toerisme-utrecht.nl. The link provides access
to the Utrecht press agency media bank, a database
filled with photos that can be obtained from us without
any charge or copyrights. For the sake of convenience,
the photos have been subdivided into categories. The
databank is updated annually and includes photos taken
during the day, in the evening and in every season.
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FACTS AND FIGURES
FAMOUS UTRECHT PEOPLE
1459 – 1523
A summary of the rich history
FACTS AND FIGURES
driaan Floriszoon Boeyens
A
(the only Dutch Pope ever, from 1522
until his death in 1523 in Rome)
1495 – 1562Jan van Scorel (artist)
1558 – 1627Olivier van Noort (Dutch explorer;
the first Dutch person to sail around
the world)
1888 – 1964Gerrit Rietveld (Dutch architect,
famous for the Rietveld Schröderhuis
and the Rietveld chair)
ResidentsCirca 330,000
StudentsCirca 70,000
Number of nationalities
168
Surface area 99 km²
Hotels50
Restaurants 350
Cafés 150
Universities & Colleges
7
Museums13
Theatres/ Concert halls
14
Wharves4 km
1927 – TODAYDick Bruna (graphic designer, artist,
writer. Most famous creation: Miffy)
1934 – 2010Anton Geesink (1964 Olympic judo
champion in Tokyo)
1964 – TODAYMarco van Basten (footballer of Ajax,
AC Milan, the Dutch National team
and others)
1984 – TODAYWesley Sneijder (footballer of Ajax,
Real Madrid, Inter Milan, Galatasaray
and the Dutch National team)
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47 AD
695 AD
Around 47 AD, the
Romans constructed
the castellum (fortress),
or Traiectum, which heralded
the development of Utrecht,
at the current Dom Square.
Willibrord, a Roman
Catholic Archbishop and
missionary, redesigned
the former castellum as a
mission and converted the
Netherlands (from 695 AD).
1122 until the
16th century
Utrecht was granted
a charter from 1122. Utrecht
remained the largest and most
important city in the Netherlands
until the 16th century.
1579
1713
In 1579, the Union of
Utrecht was signed in
the city (the foundation
for Dutch Republic).
In 1713,
the Treaty of
Utrecht
was signed
in the city.
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DOM CHURCH
UTRECHT HIGHLIGHTS
This is a historic cathedral with
a rich history and a beautiful
venue for every visitor to Utrecht.
The church was once connected
to the tower, until a tornado
disconnected it. After that,
the Dom Square was a fact.
See and Do
domkerk.nl
1
ANALS AND
C
WHARVES
3
Due to Utrecht’s continuous
development into the trade centre of
the Netherlands, a canal system was
created in the twelfth century AD.
There is no other city in the world
with comparable wharves, which
were developed centuries ago to
provide access to storage cellars.
Today, many cellars have been
transformed into special restaurants
and friendly outdoor cafés have
been created on the wharves.
TRAJECTUM
LUMEN
Trajectum Lumen involves an
exploratory expedition through the
city in the dark, taking in artistically illuminated locations and the
magnificent Utrecht city centre.
After sunset, a guide shows groups
various projects by renowned national
and international light artists.
trajectumlumen.com
visit-utrecht.com
PANDHOF
The Pandhof, which dates from
1390-1400, is part of the Dom
Church and among the most magnificent courtyards in the Netherlands. This monastery garden with
medieval period features and where
ornamental plants and herbs flower
was renovated in the 19th century.
The Pandhof is just one of the many
courtyards in Utrecht.
STELLING VAN
UTRECHT
visit-utrecht.com
PAUSHUIZE
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DOM TOWER
With a height of 112 metres, the
Dom Tower is the highest church
tower in the Netherlands and can
be seen from far outside of the
city. It is the ultimate symbol of
Utrecht, with 465 steps and a welldeserved magnificent view of the
city once you make it to the top.
domtoren.nl
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With its rich history, the Paushuize
is among the most special listed
buildings in Utrecht. It owes its
name to the only Dutch Pope ever,
Adrianus VI, who had the house
built from 1517. With its selection
of magnificent period rooms
and beautifully decorated salons,
this is among the prettiest
locations in the Netherlands.
paushuize.nl
The 19th-century Stelling van
Utrecht consists of 16 fortresses
north, east and south of the city
and is part of the New Dutch
Water Defence Line, which was
to protect the larger cities in the
Netherlands from hostile attacks
from the east. In the event of
a threat of war, the area from
Muiden at the former Zuyder Zee
to the Biesbosch was flooded.
The largest fortress of the line,
Fort Rijnauwen, is open for
guided tours.
visit-utrecht.com
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FESTIVALS &
EVENTS
UTRECHT HIGHLIGHTS
Utrecht has a huge number of
cultural events that take place both
inside and around the city, from
Open Monumentendag (Open
Monuments Day) to the Dutch Film
Festival. Various events take
place all year round and Cultural
Sundays are held in addition;
days on which dance, theatre, music,
films, workshops and more
are provided throughout the city.
See and Do
1
ANAL BOAT
C
EXCURSION
3
DOM UNDER
visit-utrecht.com
DOMunder is an exploratory
expedition taking in visible and
invisible traces from the past. Young
and old learn about the history
of the Netherlands, Utrecht and
the Dom Square in particular,
in a fun and interesting manner.
The Rederij Schuttevaer shipping
company provides interesting and
enjoyable boat excursions through
the Utrecht canals. During the
excursion, information is provided
about the hidden beauty of the city.
domunder.com
schuttevaer.com
UTRECHT FOR
GROUPS
2
GUIDED
CITY WALK
Explore the city from an entirely
different angle accompanied
by a Tourist Information Office
guide; the perfect way to learn
about Utrecht, from mystical
courtyards to the Dom Square
and from narrow alleyways to
canals and wharves.
Utrecht voor Groepen (Utrecht
for Groups) can take care of the
organisation of a day trip or
longer, allowing Tourism Utrecht
to serve clients even better.
The organisation provides an
inexhaustible source of information
for the most interesting activities.
utrechtvoorgroepen.nl
utrechtvoorgroepen.nl
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NEDERLANDS
VOLKSBUURTMUSEUM
UTRECHT HIGHLIGHTS
Museums
1
IETVELD
R
SCHRÖDER
HOUSE
3
DICK BRUNA
HUIS
There is just one Utrecht creation
more famous than the Rietveld
chair: Miffy, the little rabbit Utrecht
artist Dick Bruna designed in 1955.
In 50 years time, Miffy has risen to
international fame, not only as a
character in children’s book but also
as a design icon. The dick bruna huis
has Dick Bruna’s work permanently
on display but will be closed for
extensive renovation in July 2015.
It reopens in December 2015 under
a new name: Miffy Museum.
This is the masterpiece of Gerrit
Rietveld, the designer who built the
house in 1924, commissioned by the
wilful Truus Schröder. This was his
first complete dwelling and a lavish
experiment. The Rietveld Schröder
House is a UNESCO World Heritage
site and an icon of the city of Utrecht.
rietveldschroderhuis.nl
UNIVERSITY MUSEUM
Over one thousand years
of history of the most
famous Utrecht workingclass area, Wijk C,
is on display in the Dutch
museum of back streets
and popular neighbourhoods. Sounds, history and
experiences for all ages.
Have you ever seen a
cone roll upwards, or a
piece of aluminium float?
This is possible in the
University Museum,
the ultimate science
museum of the Central
Netherlands. Here,
amazement and admiration go hand in hand.
volksbuurtmuseum.nl
universiteitsmuseum.nl
MUSEUM
CATHARIJNE­
CONVENT
MUSEUM FOR
CONTEMPORARY
ABORIGINAL ART (AAMU)
The Catharijneconvent
Museum shows the
history of Christianity
in the Netherlands
over the centuries.
In addition, art from
the present and the past
is on display.
The AAMU in Utrecht is
the only museum in Europe
that has contemporary
Aboriginal visual art from
Australia on display. Like
the art inside, the museum is
also continuously changing.
Every year, there are two
new exhibitions that occupy
the entire museum.
catharijneconvent.nl
centraalmuseum.nl
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MUSEUM
SPEELKLOK
Museum Speelklok may be
referred to as the merriest
museum in the Netherlands,
with a collection of automatic
playing and renovated
instruments on display.
aamu.nl
RAILWAY MUSEUM
SONNENBORGH
The Railway Museum is
filled with adventure.
Venture out into an old
mine or exciting attraction,
visit the Orient Express
or enjoy the life-size
trains and locomotives.
The Railway Museum
is an experience in itself.
Discover the secrets
of the Sonnenborgh
observatory!
Climb the stairs of
this 19th century
observatory to watch
the stars come
out as the night falls.
sonnenborgh.nl
spoorwegmuseum.nl
museumspeelklok.nl
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EVENTS
200 YEARS “NIEUWE HOLLANDSE
WATERLINIE”
2015
CULTURAL SUNDAYS
culturelezondagen.nl
100 DAYS UNTIL
“LE TOUR 2015”
26 March through
to 4 July 2015
Utrecht is getting ready for the
Grand Départ. Many activities are on
the board for the city, 100 days before
the cyclists get on their way. The “Le
Tour Utrecht” programme revolves
around themes such as sports,
culture and knowledge & economy.
utrecht2015.com
GRAND DÉPART 2015
HOLLAND ANIMATION FILM
FESTIVAL
18 March through to 22 March 2015
This is an international festival
for animated cartoons in Utrecht
and a meeting place and source
of inspiration for animation professionals and new talents. The festival
focuses on the latest developments,
features thematic programmes
and retrospectives, in addition to
talk shows, master classes, lectures
and an educational programme.
haff.nl
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THE YEAR OF ST MARTIN
all of 2015
2015 marks the 200th anniversary of
the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie.
Events will be organised at several
forts to commemorate the construction
of the defence line. 2015 will also see
the opening of the Waterline Museum
Fort Vechten. Learn all about the water
line through interactive displays.
November 2015
The organisation of this magnificent event, which takes place every
year in Utrecht city centre, ensures
pioneering pop music. Mainly new
national and international artists are
presented to the public on various
stages. Le Guess Who? is an exploratory expedition in a breeding ground
of amazingly high-quality and mostly
unknown artists.
St Martin’s birthday, 1700 years ago,
will be celebrated all over Europe.
Many events will be organised
in honour of this patron saint of
the city of Utrecht.
forten.nl
leguesswho.nl
(New Dutch Water Defence Line)
From Tour to Miffy
8 March, 3 May, 20 /21 June,
6 September, 18 October 2015
Several times a year. Cultural
Sundays holds cultural programmes
with a specific theme. Since the
introduction in 2002, the Cultural
Sundays have developed into an
original and successful brand in
collaboration with Utrecht cultural
institutions and organisations.
LE GUESS WHO?
2 through to 5 July
From 2 through to 5 July the City of
Utrecht will all be about the start
of the Tour de France. After five years
of absence, the biggest annual sports
event will return to the Netherlands.
The Grand Départ is a bicycle festival
that fits in perfectly well in the
cycle city of Utrecht. An opportunity
not to be missed for locals and
out-of-towners to have a close-up
experience of the Tour de France.
Utrecht will be the host of this event
for four days. On the first day is the
team presentation at Park Lepelenburg. Planned on the third day is a
time trial through the city. On the
last day, a neutralised route through
the City centre is on the programme.
After that, the cyclists will carry
on to the province of Zeeland. On
that day, the cyclists will also pass
the Dom Tower, which is known
as the major landmark of the City.
tourdefranceutrecht.com
MIFFY’S 60TH
BIRTHDAY
21 June 2015
Miffy will turn
60 this year. No expense
will be spared for the
birthday celebration of one of
Utrecht’s most iconic figures.
On the programme are a Miffy
musical and a number of sculptures
of this world-famous creation in
the Utrecht inner city. Go to the
Central Museum website to read all
about “Miffy’s 60th birthday”.
stmaartenstadutrecht.nl
DOM TOWER EXHIBITION
centraalmuseum.nl
OPENING MIFFY MUSEUM
December 2015
Is there anyone who has not heard
of Miffy? From Amsterdam to Tokyo,
everyone knows about this creation
of the Utrecht illustrator, graphic
designer and writer Dick Bruna
(1927). Miffy picture books have
been translated into many languages
all over the world, and Miffy has
become an absolute iconic figure
among designers.
Since 2006, Miffy has a permanent
place straight across the Central
Museum. At present, the museum is
undergoing some restauration work
and is set to reopen under a new name
in December 2015: Miffy Museum.
2016
THE YEAR OF THE MIDDLE AGES
Mediaeval Utrecht will take centre
stage in 2016. Many museums
and events will contribute to the
theme year in which the Middle Ages
will be brought back to life in the
city of Utrecht.
bezoek-utrecht.nl
In 2016, a very special exhibition
will be held at the Central Museum
about the Dom Tower as the major
landmark of the city.
centraalmuseum.nl
35 YEARS FILM FESTIVAL
In 2016 this major Dutch film event
will celebrate its 35th anniversary.
This year, the “Golden Calf” awards
will be presented for the 35th time.
filmfestival.nl
centraalmuseum.nl
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SHOPPING
Tourism
Utrecht
provides an
overview of all
the shopping
areas upon
request.
Shopping heart of the Netherlands
SHOPPING AROUND
THE CANALS
Spend some wonderful
shopping time along the
Oudegracht, with its large
department stores and chain
stores selling clothing, shoes,
skincare products and much,
much more. If you need a
rest, simply take a break
on one of the sunny outdoor
cafés by the water. This
is the ultimate combination
of characteristic Utrecht
and extensive shopping.
visit-utrecht.com
visit-utrecht.com
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BEER IN UTRECHT
SHOPPING MALL
Hoog Catharijne is the very best shopping centre in
the Netherlands for endless indoor shopping, with
over 150 shops between the main railway station
and the Utrecht city centre. This is a must for every
shopaholic! The complex has a cinema, halls, offices
and houses.
VINTAGE SHOPPING
There are plenty of markets in Utrecht and Utrecht
market vendors offer their products on various
days at different locations in the city of Utrecht.
The Saturday markets are by far the best and most
popular; the Janskerkhof is the venue for a flower
market and the Breedstraat is famous for the fabric
market. There is also fresh fish, fruit, and stamps,
second-hand goods and even cars available.
Something for everyone
Naturally beer is served in
a university city such as
Utrecht, and the Utrecht
beer of De Leckere is
available at many locations.
The brewery in Stadskasteel
Oudaen is unmatched
and there are the lovely
beer cafés such as Olivier
(in a former conventicle)
and Café België, known
for its huge selection.
hoogcatharijne.nl
MARKETS
FOOD AND DRINKS
Utrecht is characterized
by the many unique design
and vintage shops.
At the Voorstraat and the
Zadelstraat are for example
shops and cafés that are
specialized in fashion,
design, coffee, art, presents,
food, beer and film. Here
you can find goods like
nowhere else in the world.
puhashop.nl
visit-utrecht.com
ENJOYING A MEAL ALONG THE CANALS
Everyone is sure to have a wonderful time as
they eat lunch or dinner along the Oudegracht,
where dishes from all corners of the world are served
while boats sail by. From an Argentinean steak
to a Dutch pancake, dishes from all over the world
are served up beside the water of Utrecht’s most
beautiful and attractive canal.
visit-utrecht.com
WINE IN UTRECHT
Utrecht is also perfect for
enjoying a good glass of
wine. Popular wine bars
are Lefebvre (Neude 2),
Rubens Proeflokaal
(Nieuwegracht 197) and
VinVin (Predikherenstraat
19). And then there is Dom
Tower wine: a delicious
wine with a Utrecht touch.
UTRECHT COFFEE
It is a fact that Douwe
Egberts is real Utrecht
coffee, but a delicious
cup of coffee is available
everywhere in Utrecht,
such as at the coffee bars
at the Korte Jansstraat,
Vinkenburgstraat,
Vismarkt, Voorstraat,
Vredenburg, Oudegracht
and at the station.
visit-utrecht.com
visit-utrecht.com
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ETEN EN DRINKEN
RESTAURANT/
CAFÉ WINKEL
VAN SINKEL
do you
want an
overview of
restaurants
for groups?
see index on
page 50!
Restaurants for groups
Utrecht also has plenty to offer for groups,
with restaurants at every square where groups
can have an extensive meal. And then there
is the Oudegracht. In short, there are plenty
of options in Utrecht. Following are some
examples of special restaurants in Utrecht.
The Winkel van
Sinkel is located in
a singular historic
building and has
a varied French/
International
cuisine with fresh
dishes daily.
dewinkelvansinkel.nl
RESTAURANT
LE CONNAISSEUR
In a cosy ambiance
Le Connaisseur
welcomes groups for
a tasteful diner for a
give-away. The kitchen
has an international
style but prepares
classical Dutch and
French dishes as well.
Le Connaisseur is
located in the centre
of Utrecht
leconnaisseur.nl
BELGIAN BEER CAFÉ OLIVIER
HET VECHTHUIS
Het Vechthuis has wonderful options for groups, with
plenty of room for parties at a charming and stylish
location, for a tasty lunch, meal or dinner buffet. It is
also a perfect location for parties and congresses.
For forty years, the Het Vechthuis family business has
enthusiastically focused on ensuring an exploration
of Utrecht and its environs to be an unforgettable
experience. Options are endless; consider departing
from the Vechthuis for a wonderful cruise on the
river Vecht and conclude it in one of the rooms with
a coffee table, dinner, buffet or BBQ!
Het Vechthuis has no fewer than nine rooms to choose
from, each with their very own atmosphere and
capacity. Naturally, every room at Het Vechthuis
has amenities such as a private entrance, separate
wardrobe, private bathroom and a charming bar.
CITY CASTLE OUDAEN
The historic City Castle Oudaen provides high-quality
catering, in addition to a guided tour of the brewery
in the vaults of the castle. Located in Utrecht city centre,
it is easily accessible.
oudaen.nl
18
Belgian Beer Café Olivier is established in an ancient
conventicle, where guests can enjoy a Belgian beer with
their dinner in a wonderful ambiance. In 2013 and 2014
Olivier was proclaimed the best café in the Netherlands.
cafe-olivier.be
PANCAKE RESTAURANT
In a historical wharf cellar is an ultra-Dutch restaurant:
the Oude Muntkelder. Until 1911, a stamp maker of
Rijks Munt was established on the spot where now the
very best pancakes are prepared.
deoudemuntkelder.nl
HAGENOUW ETEN & DRINKEN
The Vechthuis is easily accessible by car, coach,
and public transport and is located near the Utrecht
city centre. The party and congress centre has
a spacious and free car park (250 parking spaces).
A restaurant at a very practical location, close to
the railway station. Hagenouw Eten & Drinken has
something to suit everyone’s taste for lunch and
dinner, in a very attractive atmosphere. Hagenouw is
always good to consider for a meal.
vechthuis.nl
hagenouw.net
19
OVERNIGHT
ACCOMMODATION
Tomorrow is another day
If you really intend to take the time to explore
Utrecht, simply stay overnight in the city.
There are all kinds of overnight accommodation
in Utrecht, with hotels in various price ranges,
from budget to deluxe. Those looking for a
low-budget stay can consider a hostel in the centre,
or a friendly guesthouse, bed and breakfast,
or rent an apartment. Utrecht has various group
accommodations. Following is a selection
of the options for overnight accommodation in
Utrecht. After all, tomorrow is another day!
GRAND HOTEL KAREL V
do you want
an overview of
hotels, incl.
the number of
t
rooms, in Utrech
and its vicinity?
see index on
page 48!
20
Grand Hotel and Restaurant Karel V is an exceptional
5-star hotel in the historic Utrecht city centre,
where medieval charm and modern luxury are combined.
The magnificent building complex with beautiful
courtyards dates from the 14th century and was reopened
in 1999 after a drastic renovation. Where the knights
of the Teutonic Order were once seated with Charles V
and his sister Mary of Hungary as important guests,
these walls now hold:
• 121 special hotel rooms and suites,
• the gastronomic Grand Restaurant,
• the friendly Brasserie Goeie Louisa with authentic
regional dishes,
• the medieval Caves Caroli pub cellars,
• a wellness centre with indoor swimming pool,
• 13 historical and stylish rooms where a meeting,
congress, conference, product presentation,
dinner, wedding or family celebration is a
guaranteed special and prestigious experience,
• 10,000 m2 courtyard with a lovely outdoor café –
the best-kept secret of Utrecht.
The enthusiastic employees do their utmost to ensure an
unforgettable yet relaxing stay, with everything catered for.
Grand Hotel and Restaurant Karel V is centrally located
in the historical Utrecht city centre and within walking
distance of all of the places of interest and entertainment
venues with a view of the Dom, near the main railway
station, arterial roads and private parking facilities.
karelv.nl
21
VAN DER VALK HOTEL DE BILT – UTRECHT
Van der Valk Hotel De Bilt – Utrecht has been a popular
hotel for many visitors from home and abroad for many
years. Located just outside the city of Utrecht in a
woody area on the outskirts of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug
ridge, the hotel provides guests with an attractive and
tranquil location that is unequalled for a hotel of
this calibre. It has a spacious private car park that is
also suitable for coaches and is located near motorways
which ensures good accessibility.
Van der Valk Hotel De Bilt - Utrecht has 102 stylishly
decorated hotel rooms with a bath, shower, lavatory,
radio, TV, telephone, locker and Internet. The rooms
on the ground floor have a patio and the rooms on the
first floor a balcony.
The restaurant has a large and very stylish à la carte
restaurant divided among various rooms, each with its
very distinctive atmosphere. The kitchen is perfectly
equipped to prepare dishes for groups and is open for
lunch and dinner.
biltschehoek.com
CARLTON PRESIDENT
Located on the outskirts of the city of Utrecht is the
Carlton President; a stylish 4-star hotel near the
A2 in the direction of Amsterdam. The hotel is a perfect
starting point for an exploratory expedition of
the historic and cultural attractions in the environs.
Utrecht city centre is accessible within 15 minutes.
Relax after a busy day in one of the 164 spacious
rooms with everything supplied for a lovely stay,
such as air-conditioning and free WiFi, a spacious
bathroom with a separate bath and shower.
In addition, the hotel has an attractive and
multifunctional Garden Brasserie where breakfast,
22
lunch and dinner are served. Guests can enjoy a
delicious cappuccino, a freshly drawn beer or a good
glass of wine in the Lounge.
Guests avail of the Leisure Centre free of charge for
some relaxation or exercise, with a whirlpool, sauna,
steam bath, solarium, health club and relaxation room.
The hotel has over 200 parking places and free parking
for coaches.
carlton.nl/president
23
NH UTRECHT
The NH Utrecht is located at a quiet yet central location
in Utrecht, with the city centre just 5 minutes away
on foot. The magnificent Dom Tower, historic canals
and picturesque streets characterise medieval Utrecht.
In addition to 276 hotel rooms, NH Utrecht has
plenty of meeting options, a health club and a solarium.
NH Utrecht is the proud owner of the Green Key
certificate, a confirmation of the effort for corporate
social responsibility.
The hotel wishes to make every visitor’s stay as
pleasant as possible. NH Utrecht provides street maps
of Utrecht city centre, in addition to many other
locations in the Netherlands. They also make rental
bicycles available to visitors to explore the city.
For attractive rates or bookings, contact the booking
department of NH Utrecht.
The hotel is centrally located in the Netherlands with
well-known tourist attractions easily accessible by car
or public transport. The main railway station is less
than 5 minutes on foot from the hotel, and every typical
Dutch attraction is within reach by train, coach or car.
nh-hotels.com
POSTILLION HOTEL UTRECHT BUNNIK
Postillion Hotel Utrecht Bunnik is the perfect hotel
for groups to relax after an exciting visit to Utrecht.
The hotel has the highest status in the area of corporate
social responsibility; the golden Green Key certificate.
All 84 hotel rooms have been adapted to meet environmentally conscious guidelines, and this also applies to
the extensive restaurant and the eighteen multifunctional
rooms for meetings, gatherings or parties.
Postillion Hotel Utrecht Bunnik is centrally located
at the A12 and easily accessible by public transport:
Utrecht city centre can be reached within 15 minutes by
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car or bus. Various attractions are nearby, such as
Fort Rijnauwen and Fort Vechten, and Postillion Hotel
Utrecht Bunnik is the perfect operating base for a
bicycle ride or walking tour on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug
ridge. In short, this is a multifunctional hotel which is
perfect for a group visit by coach.
postillionhotels.com
25
PARK PLAZA UTRECHT
Park Plaza Utrecht is a comfortable
4-star in the heart of Utrecht
and easily accessible for coaches.
It has 120 modern rooms in
addition to Restaurant Plein 50,
Plein 50 Bar & Brasserie,
and a health club.
parkplaza.nl/utrecht
HOTEL IBIS UTRECHT
A magnificent hotel near the Utrecht
arterial roads with 84 modern
rooms, a splendid restaurant and
lively bar. There are plenty of options
to park the coach and thus perfect
for a visit to ‘The Heart of Holland’.
ibishotel.com
APOLLO HOTEL UTRECHT
CITY CENTRE
LOGIS HOTEL HET WAPEN VAN HARMELEN
Located at the old Rhine and just under ten kilometres
from Utrecht city centre, Logis Hotel Het Wapen
van Harmelen has splendid accommodation, parking
facilities for coaches and has every amenity required
for a wonderful stay.
Thanks to its central location (along the A12), the Wapen
van Harmelen is a perfect operating base for excursions
throughout the Netherlands. In addition, the hotel is
near the largest castle in the Netherlands: De Haar Castle.
During the year, many activities are held at De Haar
Castle, such as concerts, large fairs, children’s activities
and theatre. Logis Hotel Het Wapen van Harmelen is
26
the perfect operating base for this, and in addition has
plenty of experience with groups.
The hotel has 42 rooms, most of which have a view
over the tranquil pastures, while others look out on the
old village church square. In the restaurant, breakfast,
lunch and dinner are served, and there is also a bar.
Apollo Hotel Utrecht City Centre
is located right in the heart of
the Utrecht city centre. At the back
of the hotel is the old inner city
with its well-known canals,
vaulted cellars, museums,
countless restaurants and the
Dom Tower, of course.
apollohotelsresorts.com
hotelharmelen.nl
27
REGION
OPTIONS FOR EXCURSIONS
Dutch icons around the corner
Holland within the hour
Utrecht is the ultimate city from which
you can explore the Netherlands, with
everything that’s typically Dutch within
an hour’s drive: clogs, cheese, fish, flowers,
castles and mills. Another advantage
is that fact that, as regards prices for
overnight accommodation, Utrecht is far less
expensive than Amsterdam, for instance.
AMSTERDAM
The central location, compact city centre with
an intimate and historic backdrop and a varied
selection of events ensure that Utrecht is the
perfect operating base from which to explore
the Netherlands.
Cheese city Gouda, fishing village BunschotenSpakenburg, silver city Schoonhoven, the rural
city of Woerden and the Kinderdijk windmills are
all within an hour’s drive from Utrecht. But the
rich cultural heritage of the Province of Utrecht
is also within arm’s length. For instance, you can
easily combine a visit to the beautiful country
houses at the Utrecht Ridge or the National
Military Museum in Soesterberg with a visit to the
city as part of a daytrip excursion. A good reason
to discover the province from your base in the city.
30 minutes
KEUKENHOF
BUNSCHOTENSPAKENBURG
60 minutes
1
5
30 minutes
9
2
WOERDEN
utrecht
15 minutes
6
30 minutes
10
7
8
4
GOUDA
3
30 minutes
Heritage
28
1
De Haar Castle 2
Slot Zuylen Castle 15 min
5 min
3
Amerongen Castle 45 min
4
Huis Doorn 30 min
5
Soestdijk Palace 20 min
6
Museum Oud Amelisweerd 15 min
7
Waterline Museum Fort Vechten
15 min
8
De Grebbeberg 45 min
9
National Military Museum
30 min
10
Pyramid of Austerlitz 30 min
SCHOONHOVEN
45 minutes
KINDERDIJK
29
Gouda
A real Dutch Classic
PLACES OF INTEREST
ACCESSIBILITY
• The city hall from 1450.
• The Sint-Jans church with 72 beautiful
stained glass windows from the 16th century.
• The Gouda Museum with an extensive art
collection and a scale-model of the city as
it was back in 1562, among other things.
Through to 6 December 2015 with paintings by Georges Michel and Isaac Israëls.
The exhibition “From Michel to Israëls”
gives an impression about the developing
art of painting in the 19th Century.
• Goudse Waag, Cheese and handicraft
museum.
• Cruise with Reederij de IJsel.
• City walk with the Goudse Gidsen Gilde.
• Resistance Museum.
• Workshop treacle waffle biscuit baking at
the Van den Berg bakery and lunchroom.
• Guided tour of the Punselie biscuit factory.
• and much more!
Gouda is centrally located in the Randstad,
directly by the motorway and a mere 35 km
from Utrecht, so why not combine Gouda
with Utrecht! Gouda is also located near the
cities of Rotterdam, The Hague and Leiden.
Gouda is very well suited for coach tours,
with special coach parking spaces at the Klein
Amerika and Schouwburgplein car parks. The
Gouda Tourist Information Office can provide
information and advice about access and the
best place for guests with mobility problems
to get off as close to their destination as possible. Extra services include:
• A cup of coffee for the bus driver.
• An exit card for the bus.
Contact with the Gouda Tourist Information Office is required for this additional
service. Go to welkomingouda.nl for more
information for tour operators.
EVENTS 2015
Gouda is among the most characteristic
old Dutch cities and a real ‘Dutch classic’,
famous for its cheese, treacle waffle biscuits,
candles, pipes and pottery.
Historic Gouda is certainly worth checking out! Everything worth seeing in the city centre is within walking
distance: the fairytale-like freestanding Gothic city
hall from 1450 on the market square, the various
museums and the Sint-Jans church with its singular
Goudse Glazen (stained glass windows). Walk through
the friendly streets and along the canals and you can
easily imagine yourself in the Middle Ages, the period
in which the famous humanist Erasmus lived and
worked in Gouda. ‘Gouda is such a magnificent city’,
tourists keep telling us.
30
• Gouda cheese market every Thursday
morning from 2 April through to
27 August 2015 (not on Ascension Day).
• Gouda ceramic days
Ascension Day and the day after.
• Gouda by candlelight, 60th edition Friday
11 December 2015.
Go to welkomingouda.nl for more information.
2016: MUCH ATTENTION
FOR ERASMUS
Without a doubt, Erasmus was the most
famous Dutchman born in the city of Gouda.
From 5 February to 27 June 2016, the
Gouda Museum will organise a fabulous
exhibition called ‘Erasmus in Europe’ about
Erasmus’ travels and the development of
his views. In 2016, a large range of activities
will be organised in the Church of St John
and on many other Gouda locations.
TRAVEL TRADE SERVICES
VVV Gouda is happy to help compile packages and provides the following information:
• Photo material and texts for your guides
and websites.
• Complete overview of restaurants with
their facilities and capacity for groups.
• Information about hotels: BEST WESTERN
PLUS City Hotel Gouda, Campanile Hotel
Gouda, Hotel De Keizerskroon,
Hotel De Utrechtsche Dom and a large
number of bed & breakfasts.
Tourist Information Office
Markt 35, 2801 JK Gouda
(in de Goudse Waag)
T +31 (0)182-589110, info@welcometogouda.com
VVVgouda
@VVVgouda
More information? welcometogouda.com
31
woerden
The capital of the green heart
Woerden is the capital city of the Green Heart.
The beating heart, where city and country come
together. With green pastures and homecraft
cheese making. A place where a unique
and open landscape goes hand-in-hand with
a contemporary and historic town centre.
Stroll through historic Woerden and relive the Roman
history, visit the 16th Century ‘Stedehuys’ with the
last remaining pillory on the wall. Roam around the
old ramparts and descend into the castle vaults.
Enjoy a canal cruise on board one of the Roman ships.
Sample the best cheeses in one of the original cheese
warehouses, climb the windmill and the Petrustoren
for a panoramic view and enjoy a drink in one of
the numerous sidewalk cafes. Experience Woerden!
32
WHAT TO SEE AND WHERE TO GO
ACCESSIBILITY
• The Municipal Museum: with
archaeological treasures and many
exhibitions changing all the time.
• The Drive-in museum: a parking garage
that also exhibits the Roman past.
• Woerden Castle: the most impressive
600-year-old monument with changing
photo exhibitions in the vaults.
• Cheese warehouse: the more than
100-year-old Reypenaer cheese
warehouse. Visitors can see and sample
the still ripening cheeses.
• Petrustoren: climb the 120 steps and enjoy
the beautiful view of the Green Heart.
• “De Windhond” windmill: an historic
flourmill built in 1755 and still in
operation today.
• The “Boerinn” farmhouse: a very special
farm to experience rural life and
farming first-hand during informal,
relaxing and hospitable activities.
• Kameryck: pitching and putting on
an 18-hole golf course in a beautiful,
natural environment.
• “De Blauwe Meije”: gallery, knowledge
and art centre on a splendid location
amid a scenic and pastural landscape.
• City walk: with a tour guide who shows
you all the special historic places.
• Staying the night: why not stay the
night in one of the many attractive
places offering accommodation. From
a boutique hotel in the city centre
to a rural bed & breakfast environment.
• Food and Beverages: Woerden is
known for its superb regional products.
Country life is reflected in the dishes
served in many restaurants. That is why
the many attractive, local and quirky
restaurants are places of choice for a
delicious lunch, drink or dinner. For both
individual visitors and larger groups.
• Events: night culture, street theatre festival, spring cheese day, cattle sale,
the historic cheese market and the weekly
farmers’ market. More than 60 events
from March right through to October.
Woerden is at a central location in the
Netherlands, bordering Motorway A12 and
right in the middle of the Green Heart
of Holland. Woerden is an interchange
for public transport. For that reason,
Woerden has excellent connections with
the major cities. Bus companies
find themselves at home in Woerden.
INFORMATION AND RESERVATIONS
Woerden Marketing will be pleased to put
together travel arrangements. The organisation offers a full range of all facilities
operating in Woerden. Photo materials and
contents for brochures and websites
are also available.
Tourist Information Office
Meulmansweg 27, 3441 AT Woerden
T +31 (0)348-745492
info@woerdenmarketing.nl
Beleefwoerden
@beleefwoerden
More information? beleefwoerden.com
33
BUNSCHOTENSPAKENBURG
Authentic fishing village
EVENTS
ACCESSIBILITY
• Zuidwal competitions
On the Friday and Saturday following
Ascension Thursday.
• Bunschoter Boeren- en Beestenboel
On one of the last Saturdays of May in the
Dorpsstraat of Bunschoten.
• Spakenburg Days
The last two Wednesdays of July and the
first two of August.
• Eel smoking contest
On the fourth Wednesday in August.
• Fishery days
Every first Saturday of September.
Bunschoten-Spakenburg is centrally
located in the Netherlands, 10 kilometres
from Amersfoort and 20 kilometres
from Utrecht. The village is 5 kilometres
from the A1 and thus easily accessible.
In addition, it has plenty of (free)
parking, for coaches also. The car parks
of the IJsselmeervogels and Spakenburg
football clubs are located 100 metres
from the centre of Spakenburg.
Tourist Information Office (VVV)
PACKAGES
Bunschoten-Spakenburg is a wonderful
destination for a visit at any time of the year.
The Tourist Information Office is selling tickets for excursions by tour operators to suit
the travelling public. For specific requests,
the Tourist Information Office will be happy
to help out by putting together a package deal.
Bunschoten-Spakenburg is a beautiful village with
wonderful authentic features, hospitable people
and modern shops and catering establishments.
There is still plenty of attention for history and culture,
but one cannot put back the clock. Plenty of activities and
wonderful events are held in this village, in addition to
women in traditional costume and ‘old men’ telling their
stories in Spakenburg dialect on a bench at the harbour.
In short, this is the best of both worlds!
Oude Schans 90
3752 AH Bunschoten-Spakenburg
T +31 (0)33-2982156, info@vvvspakenburg.nl
VVVBunschotenSpakenburg
@VVVSpakenburg
More information?
vvvbunschoten-spakenburg.nl
For instance
10.00 a.m. Morning tea.
10.45 a.m. Fish Auction.
12 noon Lunch and traditional
costumes presentation.
1.30 p.m. Guided tour Spakenburg Museum.
2.30 p.m. Time spent at your leisure.
3.30 p.m. End of the tour.
Tickets: € 28,00 p.p.
Read all available excursions on
vvvbunschoten-spakenburg.nl.
The centre of Spakenburg is located around the old
museum harbour with an active wharf. The lovely shops,
the Saturday market, the historical buildings, the museums and friendly cafés and restaurants with their outdoor
cafés ensure a wonderful time in an authentic village.
34
35
HERITAGE
AMERONGEN CASTLE
The history of Amerongen Castle dates back
to the year 1286. After that, the castle has been
the stage of turbulent blue-blooded characters
for many centuries. In the 19th Century, architect
Pierre Cuypers completely renovated the place.
For a brief period of time it became the home
of Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany before
he found permanent residence in Huis Doorn.
Cultural province heritage
Utrecht is the ideal base for exploring the region. The region is
chock-a-block with cultural heritage within a stone’s throw.
Many treasures are hidden in the Utrecht region, in
castles and country estates, such as the Amerongen Castle
and Slot Zuylen Castle. But also in military heritage,
such as the Pyramid of Austerlitz and the Grebbeberg.
All that within a 30-minute drive from Utrecht. It is
not hard to combine a number of heritage locations,
and these have common themes in many cases.
For instance, Huis Doorn is closely related to Amerongen
Castle and likewise are the Museum Oud Amelisweerd
and the Pyramid of Austerlitz. What are the stories
behind it? Disclose the secrets in the extensive collections
of the various heritage locations.
kasteelamerongen.nl
HUIS DOORN
DE HAAR CASTLE
From 1920 until 1941, Huis Doorn
was the residence of Wilhelm II,
the last Emperor of Germany,
who lived in exile. After Germany
was defeated in World War I in 1918,
he was given political asylum
in the Netherlands as a neutral
nation. The home paints an authentic
picture of the princely style of
living that marks the transition
from the 19th to the 20th Century.
De Haar Castle is the largest and most luxury castle
in the Netherlands and among the international
top of historic country houses. Visitors to De Haar
Castle can relive the heydays of the castle, its
residents and the enormous wealth of the jet set at
the beginning of the 20th century.
kasteeldehaar.com
huisdoorn.nl
SOESTDIJK PALACE
SLOT ZUYLEN CASTLE
Slot Zuylen Castle is on the river Vecht in Oud-Zuilen,
just outside the city of Utrecht. In the 18th Century, this
mediaeval castle was rebuilt and turned into a country
house. Its best-known occupant was a female author by
the name of Belle van Zuylen. Slot Zuylen Castle has been
open to the public as a museum for the last 60 years. Concerts, events and guided tours bring the past back to life.
slotzuylen.nl
36
Soestdijk Palace is a unique
experience. On display are the
representative period interiors and
some of the private living quarters
of the most recent occupants.
Soestdijk Palace also shows the
way Prince Bernhard and Princess
Juliana have been living for many
years. The original atmosphere
of the building has been retained
as much as possible.
paleissoestdijk.nl
37
De Grebbeberg
German troops invaded the Netherlands in the early
morning of the 10th of May, 1940. The next morning
marked the beginning of the attack on the Grebbeberg.
For three days, the Grebbeberg and surrounding areas
were the stage of heavy fighting that took the lives of
more than 400 Dutch soldiers. That made the battle of
the Grebbeberg the biggest and best known military
operation on Dutch territory.
grebbeberg.nl
MUSEUM OUD AMELISWEERD
Museum Oud Amelisweerd (MOA) is a home of art
in a scenic setting for three collections: the Armando
Collection, the historic country estate and the Chinese
Wallpaper Collection. These collections are linked
through the central theme of MOA: how are men and
nature related to one another?
moa.nl
NATIONAL MILITARY MUSEUM
In the National Military Museum at the former
Soesterberg airbase, the past, the present time and the
future of the Dutch armed forces come to life. The history
of the Netherlands and its armed forces is shown
in an impressive manner in this interactive museum.
nmm.nl
PYRAMID OF AUSTERLITZ
Waterline Museum Fort Vechten
A spectacular and unique museum is being built on
Fort near Vechten. Visitors learn about the water line
through interaction, about the force of the water and
about the meaning of the water line. A miniature copy
of the New Dutch Water Defence Line can be submerged.
The new museum will be open to the public in 2015.
waterliniemuseum.nl
38
The only pyramid on European soil is situated in
the village of Woudenberg. The Pyramid of Austerlitz
is a relic from a time when the Netherlands,
under French rule, was subject to massive changes,
which still echo through in the present time.
Matters such as surnames, the tax system and
a registry of births, deaths and marriages have all
been introduced by Napoleon Bonaparte.
defransetijd.nl
39
SAMPLE ITINERARIES
Dutch attractions within the hour
Some of the typical Dutch attractions are within
a short distance from Utrecht. It is the ideal
gateway for trips to the Gouda cheese market,
the picturesque village of Schoonhoven or the
mediaeval village of Woerden, to name but a few.
Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site,
is also around the corner. In short, Utrecht is
the heart of Holland.
Sample 1 Typically Utrecht
Utrecht has so much to offer that a one day visit is not sufficient. Why not staying for more days to indulge
yourself in the abundance of this historic place? Experience the typical Utrecht atmosphere and live like the locals!
DAy 1
DAy 2
10:30 a.m. Arrival
Arrival by coach in Utrecht.
9:30 – 11 a.m. City walk
Discover the rich history through unique stories
about the Dom Square, the alleyways, courtyards,
canals and wharfs.
11 a.m. – 12 noon Climbing the Dom Tower
The Dom Tower is at the centre
of historic Utrecht. A “must see”
during a visit to the city.
12:15 – 1:15 p.m. Lunch
A delicious lunch at City Castle Oudaen.
1:45 – 3:15 p.m. Centraal Museum
The Centraal Museum has a rich and varied collection
of old, modern and applied art and fashion and city
history collections.
12:15 – 1:15 p.m. Lunch
Lunch on the wharf. A good choice is
the Oude Muntkelder restaurant.
1:30 – 2:30 p.m. DOMunder
Stepping back in time under the Dom Square.
2:45 – 5:45 p.m. Shop till you drop
From shopping malls to niche
boutiques along the canals.
5 – 6 p.m. Canal cruise
Nominated for a UNESCO World Heritage Site
and best to be explored from the water.
6 – 8 p.m. Dinner
Belgian Beer Café Olivier, judged
the best café of the Netherlands
for the second year in a row.
10 p.m. Overnight stay
Put your head to rest in one of the many
Utrecht hotels.
40
11 a.m. – 12 noon Museum Speelklok
A guided tour through the most cheerful
museum in the Netherlands.
3:30 – 4:45 p.m. Drinks on the wharf
Experience the real Utrecht with a drink at an
outdoor café on the wharf.
6 – 9 p.m. Dinner
A 3-course dinner in Het Vechthuis. Perfect in combination with a canal cruise and free parking for coaches.
Sample 2 The heart of Holland
8:30 – 9 a.m. Utrecht – Gouda
By coach to the “Cheese City” of Gouda.
9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Gouda
Visit the well-known Gouda cheese market and the
historic city centre.
1 – 1:30 p.m. Gouda – Schoonhoven
The group travels by coach through beautiful
green pastures to the Silver City of Schoonhoven.
1:45 – 4 p.m. Schoonhoven
A “silver discovery tour” in the picturesque
Schoonhoven city centre.
4 – 4:30 p.m. Schoonhoven – Woerden
By coach right through the Green Heart to Woerden.
4:30 – 6 p.m. Woerden
Woerden, where the city and the country come
together. With green pastures and homecraft
cheese making.
6:15 – 7:00 p.m. Woerden – Utrecht
By coach back to the Dom City.
8:30 – 10 p.m.
Trajectum Lumen guided tour
With a map or a tour guide
along the renowned light art
works of the city.
41
Sample 4 Castle route
Sample 3 Holland within the hour
Looking for typical Dutch icons? Castles,
traditional costumes and Soestdijk Palace, for
instance? These and other gems are all within
a short distance from the city of Utrecht.
As a hub of the Dutch road network, all these
places are within one hour’s drive by coach from
the Dom City. Come and discover it yourself!
9 – 9:30 a.m. Utrecht – De Haar Castle
By coach to De Haar Castle.
9:45 – 11:15 a.m. De Haar Castle
A trip to the biggest and most enchanting
castle of the Netherlands.
11:30 a.m. – 12 noon De Haar Castle –
Bunschoten-Spakenburg
By coach to the traditional fishing village of
Bunschoten-Spakenburg.
12 noon – 3 p.m. Bunschoten-Spakenburg
Traditional costumes and the ancient
Spakenburg harbour. Discover this gem within
a stone’s throw from the city of Utrecht!
3 – 3:30 p.m. Bunschoten-Spakenburg –
Soestdijk Palace
By coach to Soestdijk Palace.
3:45 – 5 p.m. Soestdijk Palace
A guided tour through the private quarters
of the Royal family.
5:15 – 5:45 p.m. Soestdijk Palace – Utrecht
By coach returning to Utrecht.
6 – 6 p.m. Dinner
The former Court House has been transformed
into a restaurant aptly called “De Rechtbank”
(The Court House).
42
The province of Utrecht can be regarded as
the Loire Region of the Netherlands, with castles
and country estates all around. For example:
the Utrecht Ridge and Amelisweerd just further
down the road. Not only worth considering
a guided tour in one of the castles, but also an
ideal spot for a scenic walk.
9 – 9:45 a.m. Utrecht – Amerongen Castle
By coach to Amerongen Castle.
10 – 11:30 a.m. Amerongen Castle
Discover the place where the last
Emperor of Germany first lived in exile in
the Netherlands for 18 months.
11:30 a.m. – 12 noon Amerongen Castle –
Huis Doorn
Travelling by coach, the group takes the same
route Emperor Wilhelm II took to Huis Doorn.
12 noon – 2:30 p.m. Huis Doorn
After lunch, visit the place where
Emperor Wilhelm II lived until his death.
2:30 – 3 p.m. Huis Doorn – Slot Zuylen Castle
By coach to Slot Zuylen Castle.
3 – 5 p.m. Slot Zuylen Castle
Follow in the footsteps of the best known
resident and revolutionary, Belle van Zuylen.
5 – 5:30 p.m. Slot Zuylen Castle – De Haar Castle
By coach to the biggest castle in the Netherlands.
5:30 – 8:30 p.m. De Haar Castle
After walking in the beautiful gardens follows
dinner in restaurant Koetshuis de Haar.
8:30 – 9 p.m. De Haar Castle – Utrecht
By coach returning to Utrecht.
43
Sample 5 Military Heritage
POUW TRAVEL
Utrecht has been a strategic location in numerous battles for many centuries. The forts on the east
side of the city are silent witnesses of those bygone years. But just a little further down the road are the
Grebbeberg and the Pyramid of Austerlitz. From the time of the French occupation to the Second World War.
History is written in the Province of Utrecht.
When it comes to group transport and excursions
in ‘The Heart of Holland’, Pouw Travel is the
ultimate partner for incoming tourism. Due to its
extensive experience in group transport, events and
trips, Pouw Travel has been approached by Tourism
Utrecht to realise a collaboration. The organisation
is happy to function as an executive partner
for creative group travels or as an architect of a
fully organised congress, conference or incentive.
As part of Pouw Vervoer, a renowned coach
operator from the Central Netherlands, Pouw Travel
is the reliable partner in and around Utrecht.
OPTION 1
OPTION 2
9 – 9:30 a.m. Utrecht – Museum Oud Amelisweerd
By coach to Museum Oud Amelisweerd.
9 – 10 a.m. Utrecht – National Military Museum
By coach to the National Military Museum.
9:30 – 11 a.m. Museum Oud Amelisweerd
A visit to a characteristic house in the middle
of nature and once the residence of Louis Napoleon.
10 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. National Military Museum
The past, the present time and the future of
the Dutch armed forces.
11 – 11:30 a.m. Museum Oud Amelisweerd –
Pyramid of Austerlitz
By coach to Europe’s one and only pyramid and
a piece of French history in the Netherlands.
12 noon – 1:45 p.m. National Military Museum –
De Grebbeberg
By coach to the Grebbeberg. Lunch in between.
11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Pyramid of Austerlitz
Guided tour on and around one of the
most unique monuments in the Netherlands.
Discover the Dutch-French connection!
1 – 4 p.m. Walk / bike ride
After lunch, visitors may go for a walk or a bike ride
in the splendid scenic setting of the Utrecht Ridge.
2 – 4 p.m. De Grebbeberg
Visiting the historic battleground of the Grebbeberg.
A guided tour around parts of the Grebbe Line.
4 – 4:45 p.m. De Grebbeberg – Utrecht
By coach back to Utrecht.
The organisation prefers making use of local
knowledge about Utrecht and its environs to
provide clients with an unforgettable excursion.
In consultation with the client, Pouw is
happy to compile a varied programme that
suits the target group.
‘Customised work is the basic starting point’.
Pouw Travel is happy to provide more
information about excursions and collaborations,
and to discuss options.
pouwtravel.nl
4 – 4:45 p.m. Pyramid of Austerlitz – Utrecht
By coach back to Utrecht.
The above sample itineraries simply give you an
idea of possible outings from the city of Utrecht.
Many different variations are possible, of course.
Go to theheartofholland.com for more itineraries
to choose from. The Travel Trade account manager
may also assist in the realisation of excursions.
44
45
ACCESSIBILITY
Public transport
Utrecht has a modern and efficient public transport network,
with the main railway station functioning as a national junction. Trains arrive and depart almost every minute to every
corner of the country.
Utrecht is also a European junction and various international
connections run via Utrecht. From Brussels, you can be
in Utrecht in two hours, and from Cologne within 2.5 hours.
For more information, go to nshighspeed.nl and ns.nl.
The area around the main railway station is currently under
construction in order to improve the connection between the
station and the old city centre. Other infrastructure users will
experience little inconvenience as a result of these activities.
Central in the Netherlands
Utrecht is centrally located in the Netherlands and thus easily accessible by
coach from any direction, ensuring this city is the perfect operating base for a
visit to every Dutch place of interest.
By coach
Utrecht is located near all of the main
tourist magnets in the Netherlands.
Amsterdam is at a mere thirty minutes’
drive, the windmills of Kinderdijk
(UNESCO World Heritage site) an hour
away and the cheese city of Gouda
45 minutes away. In short, Utrecht is
the perfect operating base when visiting
the Netherlands. Surrounded by three
main arterial roads, the A2, A12 and A27,
Utrecht is the ultimate junction in
the Netherlands.
30 min.
Across the water
wijk c
Universiteitskwartier
15 min.
By plane
Stadhuiskwartier
Utrecht has many places to park the coach.
The map shows the coach parking facilities
near the Utrecht city centre.
Vredenburgkwartier
Museum
Speelklok
Available free parking outside
the Utrecht canals:
• Jaarbeursplein
(on request via parkeren@jaarbeurs.nl)
• Galgenwaard Stadium
(no official parking lot, but free access)
Because of ongoing renovation works
around the Utrecht Central Railway
Station, tour operators are advised to
contact the Travel Trade department
of Utrecht Tourism on +31 (0)30-2360024
(Sander Griffioen) for the most
up-to-date information.
Utrecht is also easily accessible by water.
The Amsterdam-Rijnkanaal channel is the transit route
with various options for mooring:
• Km 37.515 - 37.650: East bank (length 135 m)
• Km 37.650 - 37.785: East bank (length 135 m)
• Km 37.785 - 38.280: East bank (length 500 m)
• Km 38.540 - 39.490: East bank (length 950 m)
• Km 39.490 - 39.625: East bank (length 135 m)
domkwartier
Domtoren
RIETVELD
SCHRöderhuis
15 min.
parking
AAMU
By bike or on foot
Het Utrechts
Archief
parking
Het Spoorwegmuseum
Museum
Catharijneconvent
Sonnenborgh museum &
sterrenwacht
Universiteitsmuseum
Utrecht
Zuidelijk
Museumkwartier
DICK BRUNA
HUIS
Centraal
Museum
46
There is a direct connection between
Schiphol airport and Utrecht, and it will
take a group 30 minutes to come from
Schiphol airport to the heart of
the Netherlands; Utrecht.
Utrecht is large enough to
spend several days and small
enough to explore on foot.
Cycling is by far the easiest
way to leave the canals of
the city behind. The city
has various locations
where bicycles can be hired,
and many hotels and the
Tourist Information Centre
VVV Utrecht Informatie
Centrum have bicycles for hire.
amsterdam
(schiphol)
35 km
utrecht
rotterdam
TRAVEL TRADE CONTACT
Sander Griffioen,
Account Manager
T +31 (0)30-2360024,
traveltrade@toerisme-utrecht.nl
theheartofholland.com
47
Index
Hotels
48
Rooms
Location
Bus p
Contact
Grand Hotel Karel V *****
karelV.nl
121
Centre
No
Geertebolwerk 1, 3511 XA Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2347832
info@karelV.nl
Amrâth Hotel Maarsbergen ****
amrathhotels.nl
80
Region
Yes
Woudenbergseweg 44,
3953 MH Maarsbergen
T + 31 (0)343-475525
sales@hotelmaarsbergen.nl
Apollo Hotel Utrecht City Centre ****
apollohotelsresorts.com
90
Centre
No
Vredenburg 14, 3511 BA Utrecht
T + 31 (0)30-2331232
info.utrecht@apollohotelsresorts.com
Bilderberg Kasteel ‘t Kerckebosch ****
bilderberg.nl
30
Region
Yes
Arnhemse Bovenweg 31, 3708 AA Zeist
T +31 (0)30-6926666
kerckebosch@bilderberg.nl
Carlton President ****
carlton.nl/president
164
City
Yes
Floraweg 25, 3542 DX Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2414182
reservations@president.carlton.nl
Court Hotel City Centre Utrecht ****
courthotel.nl
30
Centre
No
Korte Nieuwstraat 14, 3512 NM Utrecht
T + 31 (0)30- 2330030
reservations@courthotel.nl
Mercure Hotel Utrecht-Nieuwegein ****
mercure.com
81
Region
Yes
Buizerdlaan 10, 3435 SB Nieuwegein
T + 31 (0)30-6084117
H1164-re@accor.com
Hotel Mitland Utrecht ****
mitland.nl
141
City
Yes
Ariënslaan 1, 3573 PT Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2715824
info@mitland.nl
Hotel Restaurant Oud London ****
oudlondon.nl
88
Region
Yes
Woudenbergseweg 52, 3707 HX Zeist
T +31 (0)343-491245
info@oudlondon.nl
Hotel Theater Figi ****
figi.nl
97
Region
No
Het Rond 2, 3701 HS Zeist
T + 31 (0)30-6927400
info@figi.nl
Malie Hotel Utrecht –
Hampshire Classic ****
maliehotel.nl
45
City
No
Maliestraat 2, 3581 SL Utrecht
T + 31 (0)30-2316424
info.maliehotel@hampshire-hotels.com
NH Utrecht ****
nh-hotels.com
276
Centre
No*
Jaarbeursplein 24, 3521 AR Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2977977
nhutrecht@nh-hotels.com
Rooms
Location
Bus p
Contact
Park Plaza Utrecht ****
parkplaza.nl/utrecht
120
Centre
No*
Westplein 50, 3531 BL Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2925160
sbroers@pphe.com
Van der Valk Hotel De Bilt - Utrecht ****
biltschehoek.com
102
Region
Yes
De Holte Bilt 1, 3732 HM De Bilt
T +31 (0)30-2205811
revenue@biltschehoek.valk.com
Logis Hotel Het Wapen van Harmelen *** 42
hotelharmelen.nl
Region
Yes
Dorpsstraat 14, 3481 EK Harmelen
T +31 (0)348-441203
info@hotelharmelen.nl
Holiday Inn Express Utrecht Papendorp ***
ihg.com
118
City
Yes
Van Deventerlaan 10, 3528 AE Utrecht
T + 31 (0)30-8201060
info.amsut@hiex.nl
Hotel Epping ***
hotelepping.com
31
Region
No
Utrechtsestraat 44, 3401 CW IJsselstein
T + 31 (0)30- 6883114
nights@hotelepping.nl
Hotel Ibis Utrecht***
ibishotel.com
84
City
Yes**
Bizetlaan 1, 3533 KC Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2910366
H0880-GM@accor.com
Mary K Hotel ***
marykhotel.com
9
Centre
No
Oudegracht 25, 3511 AB Utrecht
T + 31 (0)30-2304888
info@marykhotel.com
NH Centre Utrecht ***
nh-hotels.com
47
Centre
No
Janskerkhof 10, 3512 BL Utrecht
T + 31 (0)30-2313169
nhcentreutrecht@nh-hotel.com
Postillion Hotel Utrecht Bunnik **
postillionhotels.com
88
Region
Yes
Kosterijland 8, 3981 AJ Bunnik
T + 31 (0)30-6569222
hotel.bunnik@postillionhotels.com
* The group can get off by the door.
** Available upon request.
49
50
Index
Index
Restaurants
Museums
max.
Capacity
groups
Speciality
Contact
Bar Restaurant Aperitivo
aperitivo-utrecht.nl
45
International
Vinkenburgstraat 20, 3512 AB Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2331989, info@aperitivo-utrecht.nl
Brasserie Bresson
brasseriebresson.nl
80
French, Brasserie
Oudegracht 214, 3511 NS Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2322623, info@brasseriebresson.nl
Broers Stadscafé-Restaurant
broers.eu
200
De Rechtbank
de-rechtbank.nl
80
International and
very hearty
Janskerkhof 9, 3512 BK Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2343406, reserveren@broers.eu
International,
Deluxe
Korte Nieuwstraat 14, 3512 NM Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2330030,
reserveren@derechtbank.com
Luden
ludenutrecht.nl
45
French
Janskerkhof 10, 3512 BL Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2322344, info@ludenutrecht.nl
Belgisch Bier Café Olivier
cafe-olivier.be
30
Belgian
Achter Clarenburg 6a, 3511 JJ Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2367876, utrecht@cafe-olivier.be
De Oude Muntkelder
deoudemuntkelder.nl
100
Pancakes
Oude Gracht a/d Werf 112, 3511 AW Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2316773, info@deoudemuntkelder.nl
Hagenouw Eten & Drinken
hagenouw.net
100
International
Godebaldkwartier 255, 3511 DR Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2369511, info@hagenouw.net
Stan & Co
stan-co.nl
40
International
Ganzenmarkt 16a, 3512 GD Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2334535, utrecht@stan-co.nl
Zussen
zussen.com
80
International
Korte Jansstraat 23, 3512 GM Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2333633, reserveren@zussen.com
Het Vechthuis
vechthuis.nl
500
International
Jagerskade 13, 3552 TL Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2613543, info@vechthuis.nl
Polman’s Huis
polmanshuis.nl
120
International,
French,
Vegetarian
Hoek Jansdam & Keistraat 2, 3512 HV Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2313368, info@polmanshuis.nl
Stadskasteel Oudaen
oudaen.nl
200
French, Grand Café
Oudegracht 99, 3511 AE Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2311864, info@oudaen.nl
Winkel van Sinkel
dewinkelvansinkel.nl
120
International
Oudegracht 158, 3511 AZ Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2303030, info@dewinkelvansinkel.nl
Restaurant Le Connaisseur
leconnaisseur.nl
100
French, Dutch,
International
Oudegracht 59, 3511 AD Utrecht
T +31 (0)30 2310456, utrecht@leconnaisseur.nl
location
Contact
Rietveld Schröderhuis
rietveldschroderhuis.nl
Prins Hendriklaan 50
3583 EP Utrecht
via Centraal Museum
T +31 (0)30-2362393
RHReserveringen@centraalmuseum.nl
Museum Catharijne Convent
catharijneconvent.nl
Lange Nieuwstraat 38
3512 PH Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2313835
info@catharijneconvent.nl
Centraal Museum
centraalmuseum.nl
Nicolaaskerkhof 10
3512 XC Utrecht
via Centraal Museum
T +31 (0)30-2362393
info@centraalmuseum.nl
dick bruna huis
centraalmuseum.nl
Agnietenstraat 2
3512 XB Utrecht
via Centraal Museum
T +31 (0)30-2362393
info@centraalmuseum.nl
Museum Speelklok
museumspeelklok.nl
Steenweg 6
3511 KC Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2312789
info@museumspeelklok.nl
Railway Museum
spoorwegmuseum.nl
Maliebaanstation
3581 XW Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2306283,
reserveringen@spoorwegmuseum.nl
AAMU (Museum for
Contemporary Aboriginal Art)
aamu.nl
Oudegracht 176
3511 NP Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2380100
info@aamu.nl
University Museum
universiteitsmuseum.nl
Lange Nieuwstraat 106
3512 PN Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2538028
info.museum@uu.nl
Sonnenborgh observatory
sonnenborgh.nl
Zonnenburg 2
3512 NL Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-8201420
info@sonnenborgh.nl
Het Utrechts Archief
hetutrechtsarchief.nl
Hamburgerstraat 28
3512 NS Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2866611
inlichtingen@hetutrechtsarchief.nl
Nederlands Volksbuurtmuseum
(National Working-Class Museum)
volksbuurtmuseum.nl
Waterstraat 27 - 29
3511 BW Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2318292
info@volksbuurtmuseum.nl
51
Index
Index
Attractions
Heritage
Location
Contact
Location
Contact
Dom Tower
domtoren.nl
Domplein 21
3512 JE Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2360010
infodomtoren@toerisme-utrecht.nl
De Haar Castle
kasteeldehaar.nl
Kasteellaan 1
3455 RR Haarzuilens
T +31 (0)30-6778510
informatie@kasteeldehaar.nl
Dom Church
domkerk.nl
Achter de Dom 1
3512 JN Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-6778515
secretariaat@domkerk.nl
Slot Zuylen Castle
slotzuylen.nl
Tournooiveld 1
3611 AS Oud Zuilen
T +31 (0)30-2440255
directeur@slotzuylen.nl
DOM under
domunder.nl
Domplein 4
3512 JC Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2339999
info@domunder.nl
Amerongen Castle
kasteelamerongen.nl
Drostestraat 20
3958 BK Amerongen
T +31 (0)343-563766
info@kasteel-amerongen.nl
Pandhof
domkerk.nl
Achter de Dom 1
3512 JN Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-6778515
secretariaat@domkerk.nl
Huis Doorn
huisdoorn.nl
Langbroekerweg 10
3941 MT Doorn
T +31 (0)343-421010
info@huisdoorn.nl
Canal boat excursions
schuttevaer.com
Rederij Schuttevaer
Weerdsingel O.Z. 4
3514 AA Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2720111
info@schuttevaer.com
Soestdijk Palace
paleissoestdijk.nl
Amsterdamsestraatweg 1
3744 AA Baarn
T +31 (0)35-5412841
info@paleissoestdijk.nl
City walks
utrechtvoorgroepen.nl
Tourism Utrecht
Domplein 9
3512 JC Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2360020
groepen@toerisme-utrecht.nl
Museum Oud Amelisweerd
moa.nl
Koningslaan 9
3981 HD Bunnik
T +31 (0)30-8905460
info@moa.nl
Trajectum Lumen
trajectumlumen.com
Waterline Museum Fort Vechten
waterliniemuseum.nl
Marsdijk 2
3981 HE Bunnik
T +31 (0)30-6565285
info@waterliniemuseum.nl
Tourism Utrecht
Domplein 9
3512 JC Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2360020
info@trajectumlumen.com
De Grebbeberg
grebbeberg.nl
Beatrixlaan 2
6706 AX Wageningen
T +31 (0)317-420608
info@grebbeberg.nl
Paushuize
paushuize.nl
Kromme Nieuwegracht 49
3512 HE Utrecht
T +31 (0)30-2360020
groepen@toerisme-utrecht.nl
National Military Museum
nmm.nl
Verlengde Paltzerweg 1
3768 MX Soest
T +31 (0)85-0036000
info@nmm.nl
Fort Rijnauwen
utrechtvoorgroepen.nl
Vossegatsedijk 3
3981 HS Bunnik
T +31 (0)30-2360020
groepen@toerisme-utrecht.nl
Pyramid of Austerlitz
defransetijd.nl
Zeisterweg 98
3931 MG Woudenberg
T +31 (0)30-2205534
info@landschaperfgoedutrecht.nl
Partner city’s
52
Visitors adress
Contact
Gouda
welcometogouda.com
Tourist Information Office Gouda
(Kaas- en ambachtenmuseum)
Markt 35, 2801 JK Gouda
T +31 (0)182-589110,
info@welkomingouda.nl
Woerden
beleefwoerden.nl
Tourist Information Point
Meulmansweg 27, 3441 AT Woerden
Via Kitty Kusters: T +31 (0)348-745492,
info@woerdenmarketing.nl
BunschotenSpakenburg
vvvbunschoten-spakenburg.nl
Tourist Information Office (VVV)
Oude Schans 90,
3752 AH Bunschoten-Spakenburg
Via Marianne Korlaar:
T +31 (0)33-2982156,
info@vvvspakenburg.nl
53
54
55
Tourism Utrecht
Domplein 9-10, 3512 JC Utrecht
T +31 (0) 30 236 00 24
traveltrade@toerisme-utrecht.nl
theheartofholland.com