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Utrecht Winter guide 2025

  • The V-crew
  • 7 November 2025
  • 8 minutes read

Winter in Utrecht has a special kind of magic. The canals sparkle with lights, cafés fill with the smell of hot chocolate, and the city slows down just enough to make every walk feel like a scene from a postcard. From the buzzing Christmas markets at Janskerkhof to quiet strolls along the Oudegracht, Utrecht is one of those places that feels both festive and calm at the same time. The city’s mix of historic charm and creative energy makes it perfect for cozy winter days, whether you’re skating at Vechtsebanen, exploring museums, or just enjoying a glass of wine by the fire.

Our Utrecht Winter Guide gives you an insider’s look at the season. It’s filled with local tips, hidden spots, and hand-picked experiences to help you enjoy Utrecht like a true local. From vintage shopping and sustainable restaurants to winter concerts and countryside walks, every suggestion reflects the city’s conscious and creative spirit — the same one we celebrate at Conscious Hotels. 

 

🎄 Sfeermakers & Winter Events

(1) Huis van Sinterklaas — 15 Nov – 5 Dec 2025 (Museum Catharijneconvent)
 Visit Sinterklaas in his “home” in Utrecht. Kids can explore his study, stable, and gift room — pure festive magic.

(2) Intocht van Sinterklaas Utrecht — 16 Nov 2025
 Watch Sinterklaas arrive by boat at the Oudegracht, followed by a colourful parade through the city. A beloved Dutch holiday moment for families.

(3) Lumineuze Nachten bij Kasteel de Haar — 6 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026
 The gardens of Kasteel de Haar are transformed into a glowing winter wonderland with thousands of lights, art, and music.

(4) Wintermarkt Molen de Ster — 13 & 14 Dec 2025
 Crafts, local food, and live music at one of Utrecht’s most charming historic mills.

(5) Kerstmarkt Janskerkhof — Mid-December 2025 (dates TBA)
 A cosy Christmas market with mulled wine, handmade gifts, and live choirs in the heart of the city.

(6) Het Winterspektakel Utrecht — 18 Dec 2025 – 4 Jan 2026 (Jaarbeurs)
 Utrecht’s biggest winter event — a huge indoor wonderland with snow, lights, rides, food, and entertainment. Fun for all ages.

(7) TivoliVredenburg Winter Nights — Dec 2025 – Feb 2026

Seasonal concert series featuring jazz, indie, classical, and special Christmas shows under one roof.

(8) Nieuwjaarsduik Utrecht — 1 Jan 2026 (Haarrijnse Plas)
 Brave locals jump into the freezing water to kick off the new year with a splash.

(9) Utrecht International Comedy Festival — Early Feb 2026
 The Utrecht International Comedy Festival is back in late February 2026 (dates TBA) across multiple venues in Utrecht. With over 40 shows in around 11 days, the festival features top international and Dutch comedians. Many shows are performed in English and Dutch, catering to both local and international audiences. Tickets: utrechtinternationalcomedyfestival.nl

⛸️ Winter Activities

(10) Ice Skating at Vechtsebanen
 Experience Dutch winter fun on Utrecht’s famous indoor-outdoor ice rink. Rentals available on site.

(11) Winter Walks in the City & Beyond
 Visit routesinutrecht.nl for starting points and routes.

  • Domkwartier Walk – 4 km of Utrecht’s oldest streets and hidden courtyards.
  • Oudegracht Wharf Route – 3 km along canals, cellars, and bridges.
  • Amelisweerd & Rhijnauwen Trail – 8 km forest and river walk just outside the city.
  • Lunetten Fortenroute – 10 km walk past historic defence forts and open fields.
  • Utrechtse Heuvelrug Trail – 15 km forest route for the more adventurous walker.

🖼️ Culture & Museums

(12) Centraal Museum – The city’s main art museum, always featuring seasonal and modern Dutch art.
 (13) Museum Speelklok – Musical clocks and instruments that play themselves — fun and interactive.
 (14) DOMunder – Step beneath Domplein and uncover 2,000 years of Utrecht’s history.
 (15) Spoorwegmuseum (Railway Museum) – Ideal for families, with full-scale trains and winter decorations.

🛍️ Markets & Local Shopping

(16) Twijnstraat aan de Werf – The oldest shopping street in Utrecht, full of holiday lights and independent stores.
 (17) Vredenburg Market (Wed, Fri & Sat) – Fresh produce, cheese, flowers and seasonal snacks.

Vintage Shopping Day – Combine Utrecht’s best vintage stores for a perfect winter day:

(18) No Vintage Phobia — Willemstraat 57
A stylish and well-curated vintage shop with quality pieces from designer brands to rare finds. Expect leather jackets, retro denim, and timeless coats, all neatly organized in a bright, modern space.

(19) Roxy ’79 — Oudegracht 221, Utrecht
 Trendy retro boutique filled with vintage gems from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. Think colorful patterns, statement accessories, and unique streetwear.

(20) Appel & Ei
 A popular second-hand concept store where you can buy and sell pre-loved fashion. Expect neatly presented racks, current styles, and affordable prices in a cozy, local setting.

(21) Giensch
 Known for its carefully selected vintage clothing and accessories, Giensch offers everything from high-end designer items to everyday vintage chic.

(22) ThriftTale
 Bright and youthful thrift shop featuring upcycled items, quirky prints, and streetwear. Great for budget fashion finds.

(23) Nuts Vintage
 A true hidden gem for vintage denim, workwear, and outerwear. The store feels like a treasure cave of durable, high-quality clothing.

(24) Sussies Vintage
 One of Utrecht’s oldest and most beloved vintage shops, famous for its colorful, eclectic collection of clothing, shoes, and accessories from every decade.

🥘 Cosy Winter Restaurants

(25) Kaasbar Utrecht – Dutch cheeses and wine pairings with a modern twist.
 (26) Restaurant Hemel & Aarde – Fine dining inspired by nature and the seasons.
 (27) De Bakkerswinkel – Cheese fondue, soups, and warm pastries.
 (28) Papi’s Comfort Kitchen – Comfort food that hits just right after a cold day.
 (29) Toetje – Small dessert restaurant for sweet endings.

🎭 Entertainment & Nightlife

(30) Kinepolis Jaarbeurs – The city’s main cinema for blockbuster nights.
 (31) Louis Hartlooper Complex – Art-house films in a cosy old building.
 (32) Springhaver Theater – A local classic for indie and Dutch films.
 (33) De Helling – Live music and DJ sets, especially active in winter.
 (34) Café Tilt – Drinks and small bites in trendy winter atmospheres.

🎨 Day Trips & Local Experiences

(35) DOMtoren Climb – 465 steps up, but the view over winter Utrecht is worth it. domtoren.nl
 (36) Canal Cruise Winter Edition – Heated boats and light-decorated canals. Ask your hotel for recommendations.
 (37) Explore the Utrecht Botanic Gardens 37 – Peaceful even in winter, with tropical greenhouses open. uu.nl/botanischetuinen

We’ve got answers

Any questions?

Getting Here

In which part of the city are your hotels located?

Depends which V you’re crashing at.

Fizeaustraat : Tucked away in East Amsterdam (Amsteldorp, if you want to sound local). Leafy streets, hidden gems, zero tourist traps.

Nesplein: In the heart of the city, right in the old theatre district. Steps from Dam Square, wrapped in canals. The real stage is outside your window.

Frederiksplein: Central but lowkey. Next to the canals, near the Albert Cuyp market, walking distance to Museumplein. Classic Amsterdam, minus the clichés.

Oosterpark: Right in the middle of the park. Wake up to birdsong. Green outside, laid-back buzz inside. East Amsterdam at its most alive.

What is the address of each Hotel V location?

No mysteries here, just three spots to drop your bags

Fizeaustraat: Fizeaustraat 2, right behind Amstel Station. Easy come, easy go. 
Nesplein: Nes 49, just a heartbeat from Dam Square and Rokin.
Frederiksplein: Weteringschans 136, 1017 XV Amsterdam. Or V-Lofts are located in another building just around the corner!
Oosterpark: Linnaeusstraat 2C, 1092 CK Amsterdam. Inside the park

Easy to find, impossible to forget.

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Your Stay

What time is check-in at each location, and can I leave my bags if I arrive early?

Check-in starts at 3 PM at all locations. If you arrive early you can leave your bags with us and go explore the city.

If you are at Frederiksplein or Nesplein you can also grab a drink or a bite at The Lobby while you wait.

What time is check-out, and can I store my bags after check-out at each hotel?

You can book a late check-out for 20 euros until 1 PM or for 40 euros until 2 PM. Just do it on our website when you book or send an email to stay@hotelv.nl.

No stress if you just want to drop your bags. Leave them at reception and keep roaming the city after check-out.

 time is check-out, and can I store my bags after check-out at each hotel?

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In Your Room

Do all rooms come with shampoo, conditioner, a hairdryer, etc.?

We provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash and body lotion of our own brand ETIKA. There is also a hairdryer in your room, so you can leave some room in your bags for souvenirs!

Are all rooms at Hotel V air-conditioned?

We keep things cool in different ways.

At Fizeaustraat the building has climate control and you can set the temperature in your room. Fans and heaters are available on request.

At Nesplein there’s central climate control to keep the vibe steady. Every room comes with a fan and we can bring a heater if you need one.

At Frederiksplein only the Loft has air-conditioning. During the warmer months our housekeeping team takes extra steps to keep rooms comfortable. Fans are placed in the rooms and blinds are lowered to block out the heat and keep things cool.

At Oosterpark, Each room has a fancoil unit that lets you lower or raise the temperature. No full AC, but enough to keep things comfy year-round.

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Extras

Can I rent bikes at all Hotel V locations?

Yes, you can. Just swing by reception and we’ll fill you in. Bikes can’t be reserved, so it’s first come first served.

Do all hotels have a gym?

No gyms on site, but we’ve got your workout covered.

At Frederiksplein there’s a sweet deal with TrainMore next door. As a Fred guest you get 25 percent off a day pass—just 15 euros instead of 20. Mention you’re staying with us at their front desk.

At Fizeaustraat we team up with Sportcity Wibautstraat. A day pass is 15 euros and you can borrow one of our bikes for free to get there.

At Nesplein there’s no gym, but we’re always happy to help you find your fit elsewhere.

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