Best winter days out in Utrecht
Everywhere you look there are lights, lights and more lights. This winter, make the most of everything Utrecht has to offer. Show off your skating skills on one of the ice rinks, pick up a handmade stocking filler or hop aboard a Roman ship for a cruise along the illuminated canals. We’ve handpicked the best winter days out, so all you have to do is wrap up warm and enjoy!
U on Ice Utrecht
Each December, Jaarbeursplein is transformed into a charming winter village full of icy fun. From 8 to 26 December, visitors can drop into U on Ice every day to enjoy this seasonal highlight. Admission is free and there’s a real ice rink, curling lanes and lots of wintry activities for all ages.
Winter Station at the Railway Museum
From 13 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, the Railway Museum turns into Winter Station: a romantic winter setting full of Christmas trees, hundreds of twinkle lights and lots of festive touches
The Utrecht Winter Festival
From 18 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, Royal Jaarbeurs turns into a sparkling winter wonderland where visitors of all ages can enjoy the most wonderful time of the year.
Utrecht Lumen Tour
Discover Utrecht after dark with Utrecht Lumen, a tour that leads you past impressive light installations in unexpected corners of the city. Let each piece of art tell you a story as you dive into the city’s history and wander through an illuminated Utrecht.
Every Friday and Saturday night.
Christmas Lights Canal Cruise on a Roman ship
In the run-up to Christmas, Utrecht offers a magical experience on the water. The Christmas Lights Canal Cruise on Roman ship De Meern 1 takes you on a 1.5-to-two-hour trip. Glide along the twinkling canals and the Oudegracht while listening to live music and tucking into a warming hot chocolate or mulled wine.
The Netherlands’ most beautiful nativity scene
It’s become a much-loved tradition. From 12 December 2025 to 11 January 2026, Museum Catharijneconvent once again unveils the country’s most beautiful nativity scene. More than 600 eighteenth-century nativity figures will be on display for a full four weeks in St Catherine’s Cathedral. Admission is free and everyone is welcome.
Winter Market at Molen de Ster
Discover Utrecht’s ultimate winter experience at Molen de Ster. On 13 and 14 December, this former sawmill opens its doors to host a cosy winter market full of local unusual gifts. With more than 45 stalls packed with handmade, one-of-a-kind pieces, you’re sure to find something lovely for that special someone.
Winter Glow at Steck
Winter Glow returns to Steck. Take a spin on the indoor ice rink, tuck into a heartwarming lunch at garden café Noordertuin and don’t forget to leave a message in the Tree of Wishes.
Christmas at the Castle
In December, Slot Zuylen is transformed into an enchanting Christmas setting. An impressive Christmas tree sparkles in the courtyard, and inside the castle you can admire beautifully decorated rooms, festive fireplaces, and elegantly trimmed Christmas trees.
