Utrecht is my secret tip, if you want to feel local, and less a tourist: it could be even a better experience than Amsterdam…
Situated in the centre of Holland, Utrecht has a very local atmosphere, with lots of students it has a young and creative energy.
Take a seat on one of the terraces on the wharves, from where you can sit and take a drink, enjoying the views around the canals and the old historic buildings.
Make a romantic boat tour through the canals, climb the tower “De Dom” to have a magnificent view over the town center, walk trough all the interesting streets.
Try out all the local brewed beers in traditional pubs like Olivier (great pub in an old Church) or Oudaen (restaurant and pub), better rent a bike to make a tour around town.
Nightlife is a great; just visit Tivoli Vredenburg (concert hall with 8 stages), meet new people at “Het Gegeven Paard”: a big lively pub where you can drink, even without going to a show.
Meeting people is easy in Utrecht, because we are open minded, and often speak English.
Please keep this secret tip confidential, so Utrecht will be a hidden spot.
Picture from: https://indebuurt.nl/utrecht/doen/9-x-bootje-varen-utrecht~28619/
