Oudegracht

The Oudegracht, or 'old canal', runs through the center of Utrecht in the Netherlands. It begins in the southeast of the city. Here, the Kromme Rijn (the original main bed of the Rhine) and the Vaartse Rijn (a medieval canal reconnecting Utrecht to the newer main stream of the Rhine, the Lek) meet the original moat of the fortified city, and the Oudegracht leads from there into the city center. The water level of the Rhine in Utrecht fell because of the new dam at Wijk bij Duurstede. Soil was excavated and used to raise the sides of the canal, reducing the risk of flooding. By the time the city's lock system was completed in 1275, the water level was constant, allowing the construction of permanently dry cellars and new quays at water level, hence the typical wharves below street level. Warehouses used to line the canal, but today many of these warehouses have been converted into restaurants and cafes.

A bit crowded, but generally a pleasant experience. The area boasts numerous pubs, pastry shops, and bars with prices for all budgets. For those interested in a water excursion, there are various options available, from tours on one of the many cruises to renting a smaller boat for a more intimate experience. While the area is dotted with historical buildings, it's unfortunate that some of them are inaccessible to visitors. Additionally, popular attractions like the Dom Tower of Utrecht tend to be heavily crowded and, if you don't purchase your tickets at least a day in advance, you have no chance of gaining entry.

Lovely walk along the main canal in Utrecht, lots of shops, especially local, and more restaurants closer to the Dome Church.

Always a joy to be here. Very serene.

A old town that I love very much! Highly recommended

Beautiful place to visit with lots of shopping and open air markets along the winding canals.

One of the most beautiful and attractive area in Utrecht , it's nearby in Utrecht Centrum.. canals are so beautiful and there are lots of food restaurants and cafes in this area..

Nice place to walk around. Super busy at summer time - better make reservations in advanced

Running through the heart of Utrecht, the Oude Gracht ('old canal') is the major artery of the city. It's lined with many shops at street level and bars and restaurants at the level below. It also hosts a weekly flower market on Saturday morning. Yes, it can get a tiny bit seedy at night with rowdy students ('bralapen') and it isn't always as clean as one would like, but this all adds to the charm. It's truly a wonderful place to hang out any time of day or year. The oude gracht was built in the 1100's by upgrading and taming a former branch of the River Rhine. The mooring level (accessible by steep steps from road level), where goods would be loaded and unloaded, gives access to deep tombs / caverns that extend below the road and under the shops above. In the old days used for storage, they have now mostly been transformed into bars and eateries. It's hard to miss the oude gracht when you're in Utrecht as many of the city's landmarks, including the Dom tower / church and various museums are located close by. Enjoy this place. It's awesome. But, be careful of bicyclists as you stroll around; you'll likely have your eyes on façades or the water below!