Likely there for a week in early March on a course, anything that’s worth making sure I see/ do?

I can ask. Never been myself but my missus, who is Dutch, was a student and lived there for seven years!

Went over to visit some friends a few years ago, ended up spending most of the time indoors wasted so not really sure what the place is likely – didn’t seem great on the way to the supermarket for more supplies though…

Nice city, centre is a small version of Amsterdam canal distinct, big university town so is lively, where are you staying? If you want a change of scene, Amsterdam is just over 30 mins by train.

as soon as someone says ‘well X is only a short distance away’ you know that where you are has nothing of interest for the traveller.

Got friends who live in Utrecht, but to fair, most of the time i have spent there was in the pub, or as suggested, a quick train hop to the Dam. Utrecht does have its own red light district though! A trip round the canals on a barge is worth it.

No idea where I’ll be staying yet, but the course is at the university.

Yeah, used to live close by. To me it lacks a indentity. Amsterdam is close. I highly recommmend a (road) bike along the Vecht, a canal that goes through Utrecht, and then out towards some unbelievably pretty villages…..everyone speaks English better than us so make some friends and enjoy!