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Travel & Accommodation

Coming to the Freedom City 10 Festival from abroad or another city? We got you. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your stay in Utrecht for the festival weekend!

travelling to utrecht the netherlands

The closest airport is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), just 30 minutes away from Utrecht by direct train. You can also fly into Eindhoven or Rotterdam The Hague Airport, which are both around 1.5 hours from the city.

Utrecht is easy to reach by train from all major cities in the Netherlands and neighboring countries. You can get your train tickets at the station or on NS.nl. 

  • From Amsterdam: ~30 min
  • From Rotterdam: ~40 min
  • From Brussels: ~2 hours
  • From Paris: ~3.5 hours with the Eurostar

Plan your trip using NS International for trains from abroad, or NS.nl for Dutch train travel.

For a detailed planning of your public transport journey – including other public transport such as buses, trams and metro – use 9292.nl or the 9292 app.

Once you’re in Utrecht, everything is close by. Most festival locations are within walking distance from Utrecht Central Station or a short bus ride away. You can use public transport with an “OV-chipkaart” or check in and out of the bus with your contactless debit/credit card. It is not possible to pay cash in the bus or tram. You could also rent a bike for the real Dutch Experience! You can find bikes for rent in the city centre, or take an electric Lime bike for short trips.

Parking is becoming more and more expensive in the city, especially in the centre. There are various parking garages throughout the city where you can park safely. See the map on prettigparkeren.nl for the most up-to-date overview of where you can park your car for the cheapest price. 

 

We encourage everyone to come by bike or public transport, for convenience and the environment.

YOUR STAY IN UTRECHT

🛏️ Where to stay

Utrecht has plenty of options for every budget—from hotels and hostels to apartments and group stays.

Here are a few suggestions near the venues:

explore utrecht what to see & do

  • Dom Tower (De Domtoren) – The classic Utrecht landmark. Climb it for the best view of the city! 
  • Museum Speelklok – Musical instruments with a twist
  • Central Museum – Local art, fashion & history
  • Domkerk – Gothic vibes and peaceful gardens
  • Trajectum Lumen – Light art route after dark

  • Griftpark – Nice green park close to the city center
  • Canal Walks – Stroll along Utrecht’s wharves
  • Botanical Gardens – Hidden green paradise at the university

  • Wharf Cellars – Cafés, vintage shops, and galleries along the city canals
  • Nijntje (Miffy) Museum – Utrecht’s world-famous bunny!
  • Ledig Erf – Cafés & bars with more relaxed, indie vibes

  • TivoliVredenburg – From club nights to concerts. This is where the Freedom City Championships on Sunday take place.
  • EKKO – Eclectic DJs and alternative vibes.
  • De Helling – Different sounds, always fun!