Utrecht

Utrecht is the Netherlands' fourth-largest city and arguably its most liveable — a medieval university city of extraordinary charm with a canal system unique in the world: the canals here sit below street level, with wharf cellars converted into some of the finest terrace restaurants and bars in the country. The city centre, dominated by the Dom Tower (the tallest church tower in the Netherlands), is compact, walkable and beautiful. The Dom Tower at 112 metres offers panoramic views over the city and the flat Dutch landscape extending to the horizon. The Centraal Museum has strong Dutch art including the world's largest Rietveld collection (Utrecht-born designer Gerrit Rietveld designed the UNESCO-listed Rietveld Schröder House here — a must-visit for design lovers). The Museum Speelklok, dedicated to self-playing musical instruments, is joyful and unique. The Utrecht Kasteel de Haar, 15 minutes from the city, is the Netherlands' largest and most dramatic castle. The canal wharves (Oudegracht) lined with café terraces are the city's social heart — this is among the finest outdoor dining environments in Northern Europe on a warm day. The Neude square, the Wittevrouwen neighbourhood and the area around the Twijnstraat are excellent for independent shops and cafés. Utrecht is 25 minutes from Amsterdam by train and significantly more affordable.