Parks Nature
Utrecht has a diversity of parks in and around the city.
Griftpark
This park is a few minutes away from the the City Center University library and is a popular meeting spots for students.- By Ingmar + 5
- Fayruz : “As I wander aimlessly around Griftpark, I forget about my stress. I just focus on the green scenery, the ducks leisurely swimming in the pond, and the trees. If you take a break from studying, I highly recommend taking a stroll in the park, as it can be a rejuvenating experience for the soul.”
- Thomas : “A beautiful park, perfect for a picnic with friends. It also has an interesting history. Until 1960, it was the most polluted place in Utrecht due to the gas factory that was built there.”
- Ingmar: “Contrary to other parks in Utrecht, Griftpark entertains all walks of life from your casual dog walker to skater and basketball enthusiast. ”
Botanical Gardens
Great for a visit in between classes, as all UU students have free access to the gardens- By Smaranda + 7
- Laura : “You can truly relax in the botanical gardens. It comes highly recommended whether you take a short stroll or stay there for hours.”
- Annaflavia: “Whenever I am here, I feel a sense of peace. Seeing all the colorful flowers, streams, and bright green trees reminds me of how complex and beautiful our Earth is.”
- Smaranda : “The botanic gardens are great for unwinding with nature walks, but also for studying outdoors in one of their comfy bean bags”
Juliana Park
Park, playground and zoo all in one!- By Panagiota + 2
- Berne: “In every season the juliana park is a nice place to walk. And in the summer you can have a picnic among the chickens”
- Studentlife Team: “Visiting this park is the best way to reconnect with nature and boost your well-being by surrounding yourself with animals like chickens, sheep, and ducks.”
- Panagiota: “This is a park that you can enjoy all year round. The park has also several fenced areas that are home to a diverse fauna, including deers, llamas, pigs, and different kinds of birds!”
Wilhelminapark
This 122-year-old park is Utrecht's most favourite spot for a summer BBQ.- By Studentlife Team + 3
- Wiktoria: “I have a soft spot for this place since a lot of social events took place there during my first year of studying in Utrecht. ”
- Jiani : “We held our Welcome Week at this park, and there was plenty of space for a variety of outdoor activities. You can bring a blanket for a picnic, and there is also a beautiful view of the pond and trees, making it an exceptional place to enjoy a good time with friends in good weather! I met my classmates here, enjoyed some beer, and soaked up the sun on a lovely afternoon.”
- Studentlife Team: “It is a perfect spot for a date or quality time with friends. Located between the International Campus and the city centre, Wilhelminapark is always full of students having picnics or going for walks. In the summer you should definitely try ice cream from Vorst, which is just around the corner.”