
Oude Hortus
Utrecht's historic botanical garden, featuring stunning greenhouses, medicinal plants, and an ancient Ginkgo tree.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Oude Hortus
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Utrecht's historic botanical garden, featuring stunning greenhouses, medicinal plants, and an ancient Ginkgo tree.
"A small but lovely botanical garden in the city, with very nice trees and spectacular glass houses."

💳 Card Payment Only
Remember to bring a card, as Oude Hortus only accepts card payments for entry. :credit_card:
📸 Wedding Photo Spot
The greenhouses are a popular and beautiful spot for wedding photos, even in winter! :camerawithflash:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Greenhouses
Greenhouses
Spectacular floating plants and flowers in a warm, colorful environment. Perfect for photos!

Ancient Ginkgo Tree
Main Garden
A magnificent, old Ginkgo tree stands as a testament to the garden's rich history.

Medicinal Plant Collection
Designated Garden Areas
Explore a fascinating array of medicinal plants, each with its own history and uses.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Plan Your Visit to Oude Hortus
Best Time for Photos & Relaxation
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💳 Card Payment Only
Remember to bring a card, as Oude Hortus only accepts card payments for entry. :credit_card:
📸 Wedding Photo Spot
The greenhouses are a popular and beautiful spot for wedding photos, even in winter! :camerawithflash:
Botanical garden recs?
Cool things to do for free or very cheap in Utrecht?
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy good snacks at the cafe, though some find it a bit pricey. :coffee:
🚶♀️ Peaceful Stroll
Take your time to wander through the gardens and enjoy the quiet, historical ambiance. :walking:
3 Days in Utrecht - What are the must Do's?
Tips
from all over the internet
💳 Card Payment Only
Remember to bring a card, as Oude Hortus only accepts card payments for entry. :credit_card:
📸 Wedding Photo Spot
The greenhouses are a popular and beautiful spot for wedding photos, even in winter! :camerawithflash:
☕ Cafe Delights
Enjoy good snacks at the cafe, though some find it a bit pricey. :coffee:
🚶♀️ Peaceful Stroll
Take your time to wander through the gardens and enjoy the quiet, historical ambiance. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Oude Hortus a charming and peaceful botanical garden in Utrecht, praised for its beautiful greenhouses filled with exotic plants and its historical significance. The entry fee is reasonable, and the on-site cafe offers good refreshments, though some find it a bit pricey. It's a tranquil escape perfect for a leisurely stroll and photography.
"Small gardens accessed in a quiet area of Utrecht. It was very pleasant to stroll, sit, delight in the plants, trees and flowers, as well as the history of the place. There is also a museum which we did not go into. Only €5. Card payment only."
At Home With Rutu
"If you’re a botanical girly you would absolutely love it here! The garden is free! So beautiful and plenty of informative signs. They also have a cafe with good snacks!"
Raelsha Kirana
"A fairly small but lovely botanical garden, located in the city. The cafe is also excellent. €5 euro for the garden, cafe is open to everyone."
Tom (Bozz)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Oude Hortus is located in the Museumkwartier of Utrecht. It's easily accessible by public transport, with several bus routes stopping nearby. If you're coming from the train station, it's a pleasant walk or a short bus ride. Many visitors find it a convenient spot within the city.
While the main paths are generally accessible, some areas might have uneven terrain. It's advisable to check with the venue directly for specific accessibility information regarding the greenhouses and museum.
Yes, cycling is a popular way to get around Utrecht. There are usually bike racks available near the entrance, allowing you to secure your bicycle before exploring the gardens.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for the garden is €5. It's important to note that only card payments are accepted.
Advance booking is generally not required for the garden itself, but it's always a good idea to check their official website for any updates or special event ticketing information.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but it's worth checking their website or contacting them directly if you are a student, senior, or part of a group.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Oude Hortus website for the most current opening times before your visit.
The museum is a separate attraction within the Oude Hortus complex. While the garden entry is €5, there might be an additional fee for the museum, or it could be included in a combined ticket. Inquire upon arrival or check their website.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the botanical gardens, admire the historic Ginkgo tree, explore the diverse medicinal plants, and marvel at the stunning greenhouses filled with exotic flora. There's also a museum on-site.
Absolutely! The greenhouses are a highlight, featuring spectacular floating plants and flowers with great light, making them ideal for photography, especially on cooler or rainy days.
Yes, children can enjoy the gardens, especially the museum which is noted as being fun for kids. The greenhouses with their vibrant colors and unique plants can also be captivating.
Photography is generally allowed and encouraged, especially in the beautiful greenhouses. For wedding photos or professional shoots, it's recommended to contact the museum in advance.
A leisurely visit to the gardens and greenhouses can take anywhere from 1 to 2 hours. If you plan to visit the museum as well, allow for an additional hour.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe located within the Oude Hortus complex that offers good snacks and refreshments. It's open to everyone, not just garden visitors.
Reviews suggest the cafe has good snacks and food. Some visitors mention it can be a bit pricey, but the quality is generally well-regarded.
Picnicking is generally not permitted within the main garden areas to preserve the delicate plant life. It's best to enjoy your meals at the designated cafe.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
🌿 Plant Enthusiasts & Garden Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Botanical Journey Through Time
The greenhouses are a standout feature, offering a glimpse into tropical and subtropical ecosystems. These glass structures are meticulously maintained, showcasing a vibrant array of flora, from delicate orchids to dramatic water lilies. The warm, humid environment within the greenhouses provides a stark contrast to the outside weather, making them a year-round attraction. Visitors often praise the stunning colors and light within these spaces, making them a photographer's dream.
Beyond the plants, the Oude Hortus also houses a museum that delves deeper into the history of botany and the garden itself. This adds an educational layer to the visit, providing context for the collections and the scientific endeavors that have taken place here. It's a place where nature's beauty meets historical significance, offering a tranquil and enriching experience for all who visit.
Photography Opportunities at Oude Hortus
The historic Ginkgo tree is another iconic subject, its unique fan-shaped leaves providing a striking visual, especially during autumn. The carefully curated medicinal plant sections also offer interesting textures and colors for macro photography. Even the tranquil ponds and winding paths contribute to the garden's photographic appeal, offering serene landscapes and leading the eye through the meticulously designed space.
For those planning a photoshoot, especially for events like weddings, the Oude Hortus is a popular choice. The museum staff are reportedly happy to accommodate photographers with advance notice, often without extra fees beyond the standard entrance costs, making it a fantastic option for capturing memorable moments in a beautiful setting.



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