Staying around Utrecht Centraal
The station's two sides lead into different parts of Utrecht. The eastern side connects with Hoog Catharijne and the old center; the western side opens toward Jaarbeursplein and the exhibition grounds. Check which side your hotel occupies before leaving the concourse. The station is large enough that a short distance on a map can still involve a substantial walk between your train, the exit and reception.
At a glance
- Best for
- Trains, lower prices
- At night
- Quiet and plain
- Getting around
- Utrecht Centraal: trains, buses, trams
- Price level
- €€
Direct trains to Schiphol, Amsterdam and The Hague at your door. Handy to arrive, plain after dark.
Good for
- Early or late trains, or day trips by rail
- A lower price than the old center
- A direct train to Schiphol
Think twice if
- You want a pretty street outside your window
- You'll be walking back late on quiet streets
What is near Around the station
Vredenburg
Allow around ten minutes from the station concourse through Hoog Catharijne to reach the square and its market area.
Jaarbeursplein
About five minutes from the main concourse on the western side, this square helps orient arrivals heading toward the exhibition grounds.
Oudegracht
The canal is roughly fifteen minutes from the station concourse, depending on your route through the shopping area.
Eating in Around the station
The station and Hoog Catharijne offer convenient takeaway food and quick meals. Walk toward Vredenburg and the old center for a broader choice of places to sit down. If you arrive late, check the kitchen hours of your intended stop rather than assuming shopping-center opening hours apply to every restaurant.
Getting around from Around the station
Utrecht Centraal is the main railway stop, with bus and tram connections around the station complex. Check departure displays for the correct stop and line rather than relying on your arrival route. Walking is usually straightforward for the old center; the western exit is more useful for Jaarbeursplein.
Hotels in Around the station
Search the area on the booking sites, where the prices are. We may earn a commission, at no cost to you.
Other areas of Utrecht
Staying around Utrecht Centraal
Which station exit leads toward the old center?
Follow signs toward Centrum and Hoog Catharijne. The western side leads toward Jaarbeursplein, so check signs before descending from the concourse.
How much time should I allow to catch a train?
Leave time to cross the station and find your platform, especially with luggage. Check live departure information before setting out from your accommodation.
Is a station hotel always close to my platform?
No. Hotels can stand on either side of the railway, and your platform may be some distance from the nearest entrance.