While studying in Nijmegen, the girls and I decided to make a day trip to Utrecht – and it quickly became one of those places that felt like stepping into a postcard. With its canals, cobblestone streets, and rows of bikes leaning against century old buildings, Utrecht has a quieter, more intimate feel than Amsterdam with just as much charm.
The heart of the city is the canals and what makes Utrecht special is that many of them have wharves and little cellars at water level. Once used as warehouses, many of these old cellars are now transformed into cafés, restaurants, and little shops. Sitting by the water with a coffee, good conversation and watching boats drift lazily past, felt like the perfect way to slow down and soak in the city.
Of course, one of the sweetest surprises of the day was stumbling into the Lindt chocolate store. Rows upon rows of truffles in every flavor, and filling you could imagine! It felt a little like stepping into a chocolate treasure chest. We couldn’t resist filling a bag with different flavors – hazelnut ended up being my favorite!
We wandered through narrow streets, scarves wrapped tight, laughing as the wind carried golden autumn leaves past us… and if you know me… you know I love Autumn! At one point, we couldn’t resist stopping to kick up the piles of leaves gathered along the cobblestones — because sometimes, no matter how old you are, playing in the Autumn leaves is irresistible. It’s those little, silly moments that will stay with us long after our study abroad adventure is over.
We paused beneath the Dom Tower, Utrecht’s most famous landmark and the tallest church tower in the Netherlands. At 465 steps, it promises incredible views if you actually climb to the top. Even from the ground, though, it felt majestic — a reminder of the city’s long history, stretching back to Roman times.
What I loved most about Utrecht was the atmosphere. It’s a student city, full of life and energy, but it never felt overwhelming. Instead, it was cozy, warm, and welcoming — a place where people cycle by with flowers in their baskets, and where every corner seems to hold a hidden courtyard, a bookshop, or a café waiting to be discovered.
Here’s my Utrecht photo diary — little snapshots of canals and cobblestones, chocolate and history, and the kind of city that makes you want to linger just a little longer.
LIFE OF SHAL 