5 Best Hotels in Utrecht, The Randstad

Contemporary-styled rooms that are tastefully decorated in blue, gray, and gold, with comfortable beds and chic modern bathrooms, have breathed life back into the Utrecht's former High Court building. Superior rooms are larger and quieter (they're at the back away from the street). An arch-roofed suite is tucked into the cellars next to a canal.

This former military hospital has been transformed into Utrecht's most luxurious hotel, with comfortably large guest rooms fitted out with terra-cotta and gold furnishings (a bit overdone) and enormously heavy curtains roped back to reveal almost floor-to-ceiling sash windows. Rooms in the newer Roman Wing are more modern in style, slightly larger, and no less luxurious. The sumptuous dining room glitters with opulent metallic murals and designer oversize vases—a regal setting for the excellent fare. Lighter items are served in the gardens or courtyard if the weather is fine.

The attractive exterior of the 1870 building in the shadow of Sint Janskerk and opposite a leafy square has Art Nouveau leanings, while the interior is very 21st-century, with airy and stylishly understated guest rooms. In the center of town, the hotel is ideally situated within easy walking distance of the canals, as well as plenty of shopping and dining choices.

If you want to stay close to the action, but away from the city's noisier bars, this option just walk west of Centraal station offers modern, simply furnished rooms with large, super-comfortable beds. Although it's literally the other side of the tracks, you are still little more than a five-minute walk from the restaurants and shops of the Oudegracht. 

Backpackers and travelers on a tight budget can find a bargain at this bright, modern hostel right in the center of Utrecht. The 5th café on the fifth floor is a good spot to chill out in the evening.