2 cities beyond Amsterdam
Craving an alternative to the packed city-break that Amsterdam offers? The tiny country of the Netherlands often gets reduced to its biggest city. However there are plenty of charming towns and cities just a bit further afield- which may suit your itinerary a bit better for something off the beaten path.
The Netherlands is home to almost 18 million people. It neighbours Germany and Belgium, while also boasting a long coast along the North Sea. Of course the most popular city to visit is Amsterdam. A famed city full of art, good food and of course the iconic canals and bike paths. While most often the rest of the country gets passed over, the rich history and culture of the Dutch is on full display in a number of other cities. Two that I have had the pleasure of spending time in are Utrecht and Maastricht.
After spending some time in both cities here are some recommendations on how to expand your Dutch horizons.
Utrecht
Canals and thrifting galore
Utrecht is the student city neighbouring Amsterdam. It is filled with people from around the country and world, home to bike paths and canals and a bustling food scene. I may be a bit biased but this small city is my favourite corner of the Netherlands…. It also helps that my closest friend lives there. Through a locals eyes’ I have curated a list to enjoy a getaway to this lesser visited city… even just on a day trip from Amsterdam.
Getting there:
- Train is by far the most efficient way to traverse the Netherlands and the national railway has an easy to use site including e tickets.
- Getting from Amsterdam to Utrecht is a quick 30 minute train ride and makes it a perfect stop for a daytrip.
What to do:
- Get a coffee near the Dom Tower.
Situated in the heart of the city the Dom tower is an iconic part of utrecht’s skyline. It is also the tallest church tower in the Netherlands at 112m . If you want a challenge head up the 400+ steps to see the city from above or opt for a cafe nearby to enjoy some people watching.
- Walk around the Canals
The inner city of historic Utrecht is cozily enclosed by a network of canals. There is a path that goes along the main canal : Oudegracht. In the day it is full of cute shops and the wharf cellars are home to bars and restaurants that come alive at night. Stroll along any number of these canals to spot sights like the Miffy Traffic light and the Goose Market Tunnel.
- Go thrifting
Much like every other city in Europe, thrifting and vintage shopping has become quite a big thing. Here in Utrecht is no exception. Thrifting exists in small lil storefronts like Stuk Voor Stuk. Or on bigger scales like the Kilo Kilo store located in the big mall just outside the old city. Wandering around and finding great used pieces is one of the highlights of Utrecht.
- Eat and eat some more.
Utrecht is home to a huge student population and as such has great bars but it also has some excellent restaurants with dishes from all over the world. Anan is a great spot for authentic Vietnamese food near the city center. A little farther away is Cupp, a nice cafe offering breakfast, great coffee and barista training classes.
* Utrecht street food tours is a company that can take the brainwork out of your culinary tourism. Check them out here
However much time you choose to spend in Utrecht there is plenty to do. For those on the hunt for history, food or something a little off the beaten path, this city has it all…. Without half the hordes of tourists that Amsterdam attracts.
Maastricht
Remote and full of life
The city of Maastricht is far flung to the southern tip of the Netherlands. Often unknown to foreigners it is home to just over 100,000 people and is well known for its lively cultural scene. Following the recommendation of a friend from Aachen, the German neighbour of Maastricht, here are the highlights from my trip to the Dutch southern hub of culture.
Getting there:
- Train is by far the most efficient way to traverse the Netherlands and the national railway has an easy to use site including e tickets.
- Getting from Amsterdam to Maastricht is a 2 and half hour train journey… dropping you about 15 minute walk from the city center but right near a great cafe: Charlie’s Coffee Wyck
- You can also access the city from nearby Brussels in 1 and half hours. Using Rail Europe is a great place to start looking and pricing out train routes.
What to do:
- Visit a Market:
The Market square of Maastricht is the stage for an extensive and surprising array of markets throughout the week.
For antiques and flea markets go on Saturday and Sunday. Filled with everything from knick knacks to sofas, the market is home to tourists and locals alike. Grab a coffee and wander through the stalls to unearth the perfect souvenir.
For food, veg and more of a local feel, aim for the Wednesday market, a bright and colourful arrangement of stalls selling seasonal bits and food bites galore.
For everything in between the Friday general market is a large sprawling market full of everything from clothes to flowers.
- Dominicanen book shop
You may at some point in a Euro trip tire of cathedrals. However there is one not to miss for those looking for a unique cathedral experience. Whether you’re a book-reader or not this vast cathedral turned bookshop is a must see. The nearly 700 year old church lost its sacred status about 200 years ago. Since then it has been home to different businesses and event holdings but has been a bookshop since 2006. In the market for a new book, there is a wide selection of languages and subject matter. Or want a coffee? Try the cafe located in the choir section of the vast cathedral.
- Take a walking tour:
The city of Maastricht is compact and ancient. I could easily doddle on about the Roman era and the cold war histories but being on the streets and enjoying that contextual history is far better. A walking tour with a local is a great way to see any city but especially Maastricht. A company like Free Walking Tours Maastricht offers tip based tours that cover the highlights: The Basilica of Our Lady, the Maas river and local Dutch culture.
Maastricht is in an oft-forgotten corner of the Netherlands but packs a punch even for a day trip from a neighbouring city. It has deep history, great cultural events and excellent shopping opportunities. Be sure to add this city into any Central European itinerary.
Final Notes
The Netherlands is home to a rich and beautiful culture, food and people from all over populate medieval and historic cities. It is a country much broader than just Amsterdam, despite it’s small size there are two other cities that are just as full and interesting that you may consider adding onto your Dutch itinerary. Don’t miss Maastricht and Utrecht, cities beyond Amsterdam.
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