Rotterdam to Utrecht and Amersfoort: Private day trip

Though settled since the Bronze Age, Utrecht’s founding is generally credited to the Romans in 50 BC. An important trading post throughout the Middle Ages, Utrecht developed an ingenious canal system, where goods could be unloaded and stored at water level, while elevated pedestrian walkways were left unimpeded. Today, the store-houses are now shops and cafes, giving visitors a quiet and secluded place to relax while walking along the canals. Utrecht is also home to the tallest belfry in the Netherlands.The 14th century Dom Tower was part of a long-gone cathedral, and now offers visitors a hand reference point for exploring the old town, and amazing views over the city for those who scale its 465 steps.

First mentioned in the 11th century, Amersfoort held the regional court of the Bishops of Utrecht, flourishing under their patronage. The city’s first, 14th century wall was demolished to make room for new houses - its original location is still marked by Muurhuizen (Wallhouses) Street. The 15th century replacement gave birth to Amersfoort’s most iconic monument: the Koppelpoort, a combined land and water gate. From here, a network of cobbled streets and serene canals work their way to the city’s market square, which is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. Watching over the Hof is the 98 meter tall Onze-Lieve Vrouwetoren, the late-Gothic tower of a 14th century church that was accidentally destroyed in the 1900s. Art lovers won’t want to miss the house where Piet Mondrian was born, which is now a museum about the artist’s life and work, and even has an exhibition of artists he influenced.