Utrecht is one of the Netherlands' most vibrant cities, known for its historic canals, cultural attractions, and central location. Whether you're traveling by air, train, car, or bus, getting to Utrecht is easy and convenient. Especially for the IEEE IUS meeting, since the conference venue is located next to Utrecht Central Station. The train station is the biggest in the Netherlands and is really the heart of the Dutch railway system. Here’s how you can reach this beautiful city:
 

By Plane

The nearest major airport is Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), located about 35 km from Utrecht.

  • From Schiphol Airport, take a direct NS (Dutch Railways) train to Utrecht Centraal Station. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
  • During day time there are 6 direct trains per hour (each 10 minutes) whereas at night 4 services per hour are offered (each 15 minutes).
  • Tickets can be purchased at ticket machines or online via NS International.
    • First class ticket one way €17.34 per person
    • Second class ticket one way € 10,22 per person
    • You can also check in by credit or debit card for the same price by tapping it to the “incheck pillar” (see left picture below) and wait till you see “Incheck OK”. At Utrecht you have to pass the gates to leave the station by holding your card in front of the oval window (see right picture below).
  • Upon arrival at Utrecht Central Station, follow the signs for 'Jaarbeursplein' and you'll be there in no time. Within a few minutes walk you will reach the Beatrix Building (plenary location) and via the Jaarbeursboulevard you will reach our exhibition and conference location.
  • Europeans may find it easier to fly to Eindhoven Airport which is 50 min to Utrecht by train.
By Train

Utrecht is a major railway hub, making it easily accessible by train.

  • Domestic Travel: Dutch Railways (NS) provides fast and frequent connections from major Dutch cities like Amsterdam (25 min), Rotterdam (40 min), and The Hague (45 min).
  • International Travel: Utrecht is well connected via Thalys by Eurostar, ICE, and Intercity trains from major European cities:
    • From Brussels: ~2 hours via Thalys or Intercity train.
    • From Paris: ~3.5 hours via Thalys and NS Intercity.
    • From Berlin: ~6 hours via ICE trains.
    • From London: ~4.5 hours via Thalys by Eurostar and NS trains.
  • Trains arrive at Utrecht Centraal, the city’s main railway station, conveniently located in the city center.
  • To get to the event venue (Jaarbeurs) from the Utrecht Central Station, follow the signs for 'Jaarbeursplein'. Within a few minutes walk you will reach the Beatrix Building (Opening ceremony location)  and via the Jaarbeursboulevard you will reach our exhibition and conference location.
By Car

Utrecht is well connected to the Dutch highway network:

  • From Amsterdam: Take the A2 highway (~40 km, ~40 min drive).
  • From Rotterdam: Take the A12 highway (~60 km, ~50 min drive).
  • From Brussels: Take the E19 and A27 (~180 km, ~2-hour drive).
  • Parking: The city center has limited parking, but there are P+R (Park & Ride) locations around the city where you can park and take public transport.
By Bus

Several international and domestic bus services operate routes to Utrecht:

  • FlixBus offers affordable connections from European cities such as Brussels, Paris, and Berlin.
  • Buses arrive at Utrecht Centraal Station, which is a few minutes walking from the Beatrix Theatre (Opening Ceremony location) and Jaarbeurs (exhibition and conference location) and from where you can easily access the city center.
  • Tickets can be booked online via FlixBus.
  • To get to the event venue (Jaarbeurs), take a bus to the bus stop CS Jaarbeurszijde. Within a few minutes walk you will reach the Beatrix Building (plenary location) and via the Jaarbeursboulevard you will reach our exhibition and conference location.
Local Transport in Utrecht

Once you arrive in Utrecht, the city is easy to explore:

  • Public Transport: The local bus and tram network is operated by U-OV.
    • In order to find the best route for your check out the website 9292 travels: https://9292.nl/en/ 
    • You can pay with just a simple tap of your credit card to board the busses, trams and trains. Instead of purchasing a traditional ticket, all you need to do is tap your contactless debit card on the reader located at the entrance of the vehicle or station. When you use an OVpay card, remember to always check-in and check-out.
  • Cycling: Utrecht is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world, with extensive cycling paths and bike rentals available.
  • Walking: Many attractions are within walking distance in the city center.

For more information on travel options, visit NS International or U-OV.

Safe travels and enjoy your visit to Utrecht!