What is now a brand new shopping centre, the busiest train station in the country and a canal restored to its former glory used to be one of the grimiest areas in Europe: Hoog Catharijne.
When Hoog Catharijne was built in the 70s (for which a big part of the old city was demolished and even part of the Catharijnesingel was filled in), it was the biggest shopping mall on the continent.
Soon after its opening, it was also one of the biggest homeless shelters. Homeless people and drug abusers used the mall and its surroundings (especially the notorious expedition tunnel underneath the mall) as a place to sleep, shoot up and just reside. This not only made the mall itself a gruesome place, but also made Utrecht as a city somewhat macabre from time to time. I remember the scenes I saw as a kid very vividly.
These times are very much behind us, but the important history and the lessons it teaches us are kept alive by the Utrecht Underground walking tours. On these tours, former homeless people share their experiences living on the street, taking their guests to the exact places they used to call their 'home'. The area around Hoog Catharijne might have unrecognizably changed, but the history remains the same.
Explore Utrecht like a local with Spotted by Locals - discover hidden gems and all our locals’ favourites! Get full access to our Utrecht guide.
The Inktpot, Utrecht's iconic brick giant, features a flying saucer atop its tower and once housed the Dutch Railways headquarters.
By
KEEK offers amazing sourdough and more at fair prices in Utrecht. Great bread, local art, and coffee make it a cornerstone of daily life!
By
Café Averechts' music nights on Friday evenings are the best. All events are free. Here, it's completely normal to start a conversation with people of all ages.
By
Le Clochard, a cozy gem in Utrecht’s Museum Quarter, offers bistro classics, comfort food, and Belgian beers at unbeatable prices. Book ahead!
By
The Little Nail Room in Utrecht is a cozy nail salon with top-notch service & thoughtful details. Here you can also buy all kinds of beauty products!
By
Weerdsluis is great place to catch the last rays of afternoon sun & see the water level rise and fall. Grab a few drinks and enjoy them on the duckboard!
By
Escape the buzzing center of Utrecht with a calm walk in the forests of Rhijnauwen and Amelisweerd. Then enjoy a warm drink or Dutch pancakes nearby!
By
At O'Panuozzo the pizzas are absolutely delicious and reasonably priced. At Voorstraat they have a cat, a terrace & a wide open window along the street!
By
Enjoy some of the best music while devouring one of their small platters & drinking the best wines of our city. Ready to immerse in Nomono's laidback vibe?
By
De Helling in Utrecht has a low profile underground vibe, high-quality sound systems, and a love for bass-heavy music. Hosting big names and local talents!
By
Cafe DeRat is a great place to grab some beers with a friend and enjoy the brown tavern ambience. They have a huge selection of beers, also gluten-free!
By
38 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 38 Insider Tips from our local Spotters