Pedal into spring: 5 cycling routes in Utrecht
Utrecht has been named the most cycle-friendly city in the world, and in spring it’s not hard to see why. The sun comes out, outdoor tables start to fill up and the first blossoms make the canals come to life. Hop on your bike and explore the city or venture out towards the leafy outskirts. We’ve handpicked five of the best rides, from short loops to longer routes—and a bonus tip to boot.
1. Architectural icons: De Stijl (9 km)
A hundred years ago, art movement De Stijl transformed the world of architecture. One of its leading figures was Utrecht-born furniture maker and architect Gerrit Rietveld. He rose to international fame with his Red and Blue Chair and the Rietveld Schröder House—but there’s much more to discover about this pioneering designer. Get on your bike and see his legacy for yourself!
2. Noorderpark Ruigenhoek Loop (16 km)
Leave the hustle and bustle behind as you cycle from the city into the countryside. Noorderpark Ruigenhoek is a nature and recreation area with plenty of space, peace and quiet. In spring, the landscape turns a vivid green, and it’s a joy to cycle past the waterways and open fields. Along the way, you’ll pass four historic forts as part of the New Dutch Water Defence Line: Fort aan de Klop, Fort de Gagel, Fort Ruigenhoek and Fort Blauwkapel. The route is straightforward and largely traffic-free—which makes it a good option if you’re cycling with children.
3. Sample plant-based bites on the Vegan Cycling Tour (18 km)
On the Vegan Cycling Tour, you’ll discover a different side of Utrecht. Running every Friday and Saturday, the route takes you on an 18–20-kilometre journey through some of the city’s most charming neighbourhoods. Along the way, there are seven carefully chosen spots where you’re treated to a range of exciting and delicious vegan dishes.
4. Cycle to the largest castle in the Netherlands (25 km)
It takes about half an hour to cycle from the city centre to the largest castle in the Netherlands— De Haar Castle. The route takes you through the Lombok and Leidsche Rijn districts before giving way to green fields and woodland en route to the picturesque village of Haarzuilens. Wander through landscaped gardens or step inside the castle to experience its monumental grandeur.
5. Escape the city: Utrecht Waterline South (44 km)
Leave the city behind and cycle past a remarkable part of Dutch history: the New Dutch Water Defence Lines, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll pass Fort bij Vechten—home to the Waterline Museum—the striking Plofsluis lock and Fort Honswijk. Cycle across the Eiland van Schalkwijk and take in this wide-open landscape of forts, waterways and dykes. Enjoy a break in the old village of Houten or the Laagravense Plassen before heading back.
Bonus tip: a private guided tour
Although Utrecht is easy to navigate on your own, a guide can show you just that little bit more. On this bike tour, an experienced guide brings the streets to life with stories and context—helping you pick up on details you might otherwise miss. Your guide knows the city and region inside out and can adapt the route to suit your interests: the historic heart of the city to contemporary architecture or the surrounding countryside.