Areas
What areas do you have to know in Utrecht and how long does it take by bike or public transport. The university buildings are located in the city centre, the international campus and Science Park.
Our campuses
Travel time
- Bike
- Tram
- University Quarter
In the city center of Utrecht there is a campus area with many university buildings; the university quarter. VIEW ALL University Library City Centre
The white furnishings and natural light make this a perfect place to concentrate.- By Jamal + 6
- Fayruz : “They say struggling with other people is better than struggling alone so I come to the library to remind myself that it is not just me. It is everyone and if they can do it, I can also do it. ”
- Smaranda : “Despite always being full of students, this library is the only place I can be productive in peace and quiet. Book a seat in advance!”
- Jamal: “Persoonlijk vind ik deze bibliotheek veel huiselijker dan de universiteitsbibliotheek in het Utrecht Science Park. De inrichting van deze bibliotheek geeft mij rust.”
The AKT Office
Media and Culture: A second home- By Berne + 1
- Milan: “A super nice place, where I feel like Mario Kart or Just Dance is played 24/7. So to spend a few free hours competitively in the AKT office where you need to be”
- Berne: “The AKT office feels like my second living room where I can always go and have a chat with my fellow students.”
University Hall
The most iconic UU building in the city centre- By Berne + 2
- Studentlife Team: “It’s a historical place where the Union of Utrecht was signed in 1579, eventually leading to the formation of the Dutch Republic! Now this is where all academic ceremonies take place.”
- Derin: “Every time I walk through this location, it always motivates me.””
- Berne: “It is such a beautiful building to visit and to take a picture of. As it is located nicely in the centre of the city, I love taking a walk around the area, visiting the building and proudly saying that I'm a UU student :)”
Studio M
Media and Culture: Make it practical!- By Derin + 1
- Milan: “If you ever want to work out a project but just don't have the right material or knowledge/experience, the members of Studio M are always eager to lend you a hand.”
- Derin: “Our gorgeous temple! Or at least a meeting place for everyone! Not only home for Studio M but also the location for other student associations like AKT! ”
- Science Park
Our students will tell you what to do at the Science Park; the centre of the university. VIEW ALL - Food truck
Foodtruck Broodje Ben
Broodje Ben is a household name among Utrecht students- By Stephan + 2
- Studentlife Team: “No student can resist a sandwich from Broodje Ben. Due to their large selection and amazing quality, there are always long lines in front of their stand. But it’s worth the wait.”
- Derin: “Who doesn’t know Boodje Ben? Whether it be by the Science Park or at the Oudegracht, Boodje Ben offers unlimited choices of sandwiches so you’ll never be bored or run out of choice. 21 is my personal favourite, the pine nuts, mango and chicken just blend so well together.”
- Stephan: “During my breaks I like to get a delicious lunch at Broodje Ben together with a few fellow students. These sandwiches are highly recommended! ”
Sports centre Olympos
Whatever sport you do, you can do it at Olympos!- By Wiktoria + 2
- Leon: “I play football and go to the gym here.The team welcomed me in the most desirable way and the gym is very well equipped”
- Hau : “With a membership card, you can use the gym facilities, attend group classes/courses, and join clubs. My favorite part about Olympos is their 30-meter-high outdoor climbing wall!”
- Wiktoria: “Throughout September you can purchase an amazing student deal which is way cheaper than the standard fee. ”
- Date idea
Botanical Gardens
Great for a visit in between classes, as all UU students have free access to the gardens- By Annaflavia + 6
- Isa: “This place gives you the feeling of not being on campus for a moment, perfect for a break between studying”
- Sanne: “It's cool that your're so in the middle of the Botanical Gardens”
- 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.”
- Geosciences
Ruppert building
As a student you will have most of your classes here. It's also close to the Educatorium where you grab a coffee or lunch.- By Sanne + 2
- Studentlife Team: “Since its connected to Educatorium, you can have a delicious lunch after your lectures.”
- Annaflavia: “I frequently have classes in this building. It is wonderful to walk around its hall, especially because of the gigantic flower vases.”
- Sanne: “It has a nice studying area and a big lecture hall.”
University Library Science Park
The University Library is no longer only a building full of books, but also a centre where people meet and exchange knowledge.- By Hau + 4
- Wiktoria: “I will forever remember all the “all-nighters” that I’ve pulled in the Science Park Library. It’s my go-to during all the exam weeks.”
- Sanne: “The library is one of my favorite places to be at the campus, especially when on an exam period. I really enjoy the silence it offers. ”
- Hau : “This library is my favorite place to study. It's wonderfully quiet here, and I always enjoy my study session in an individual booth.”
- Geosciences & Science
Koningsberger building
A wonderful place to study - alone or together.- By Hau + 3
- Isa: “This building provides a comfortable environment for studying, with a variety of study spaces to choose from.”
- Sarthak: “The building is very convenient for attending classes, and it also offers great spots for working on group projects. Additionally, there is a café called Minnaert that serves delicious coffee.”
- Hau : “A beautiful modern building where you can find study booths which are perfect for group work.”
- International Campus
Between the old town and Science Park there is a third university location. VIEW ALL
- Oudegracht
Best suggestions from our students on perhaps the most beautiful canal in the Netherlands. VIEW ALL Cinema Pathé Rembrandt
Cinema on the Oudegracht in the centre of Utrecht.- By Milan + 2
- Studentlife Team: “Pathe Rembrandt attracts a lot of movie lovers with its wide choice of movies as well as its brilliant location in the heart of Utrecht, along the canal.”
- Vito : “I enjoy going to this bios. Here, the well-known films are screened in a cozy cinema, right in the center.”
- Milan: “I try to go to the cinema at least once a month and I prefer going to Pathe Rembrandt. It is in the centre of the city, so it is easy to combine with a dinner or a drink.”
Book shop Broese
One of the biggest bookstores in Utrecht- By Wiktoria + 2
- Stephan: “The extensive collection of original books ensures that it is always hard not to come out with one or more!”
- Studentlife Team: “International students love visiting Broese due to its large collection of English books. It’s the biggest bookstore in Utrecht which also contains a coffee shop where you can enjoy your reading with a cup of coffee. ”
- Wiktoria: “I always spend hours in Broese, just walking and looking at books. As an international student, I appreciate the wide availability of English books. ”
Canoe rental Utrecht
Reserve a canoe in the center of Utrecht. Discover Utrecht from the canals, the ideal day out for everyone.- By Studentlife Team + 4
- Berne: “I especially enjoy canoeing on the Oudegracht where happy people are chilling out along the canals.”
- Smaranda : “Canoeing is a more exciting way to get to know the city while also creating fun memories with your friends and family. ”
- Studentlife Team: “There is no better way to discover Utrecht than through canoeing!”
- Food truck
Foodtruck Broodje Ben
Broodje Ben is a household name among Utrecht students- By Derin + 2
- Stephan: “During my breaks I like to get a delicious lunch at Broodje Ben together with a few fellow students. These sandwiches are highly recommended! ”
- Studentlife Team: “No student can resist a sandwich from Broodje Ben. Due to their large selection and amazing quality, there are always long lines in front of their stand. But it’s worth the wait.”
- Derin: “Who doesn’t know Boodje Ben? Whether it be by the Science Park or at the Oudegracht, Boodje Ben offers unlimited choices of sandwiches so you’ll never be bored or run out of choice. 21 is my personal favourite, the pine nuts, mango and chicken just blend so well together.”
- City Centre
The old town is the place to go out and do some shopping. You'll find there also two faculties. VIEW ALL - Bar dancing
Feestcafé De Vrienden
One of Utrecht's best-known student bars, right in the centre.- By Jamal + 1
- Berne: “In "De Vrienden" it is always busy, if you really want to dance well then you should not be here. But it's a good place to meet new people!”
- Jamal: “Maybe this is strange coming from a Med student, but life is more than studying. Sometimes your prefrontal cortex also deserves a night off. De Vrienden is perfect for that!”
Coffeebar Anne & Max
In the summer, the courtyard garden is a great place to be.- By Berne + 2
- Studentlife Team: “Anne&Max is one of the best breakfast places in Utrecht. They also offer delicious coffee which now you can enjoy in their beautiful outdoor patio!”
- Jiani : “Anne&Max is a popular café in the city center, serving a delicious brunch. You need to try their croissant with scrambled eggs and salmon. It’s amazing! ”
- Berne: “Also a good location if you are looking for a place to study!”
- Many cafés
De Neude square
Perfect place to have a drink, paced with bars and restaurants- By Studentlife Team + 1
- Berne: “Square De Neude is a meeting place for me and my friends, as it is located in the city centre.”
- Studentlife Team: “Neude is the place that pops into your mind when someone asks to go for drinks. Among students, it has become a popular meeting point, while going out with friends.”
It's a Present!
Struggling to find the perfect gift? Visit It's a Present!- By Sarthak + 1
- Vito : “Here you can buy nice gifts, gadgets and cards for your friends and family. It is a cozy and colorful shop where you see something new every time you are there.”
- Sarthak: “Imagine a store that's just like the Room of Requirement from Harry Potter. You never know what you might find inside, but one thing's for sure: it has something for everyone. ”
Plantjesmarkt
The place for plants!- By Fayruz + 1
- Milan: “Although I first ridiculed a friend of mine for her amount of plants, I now have eleven in my room…”
- Fayruz : “Flowers always remind me of my mom, hopping from one blossom to another like a little girl finding her happy place. There are so many beautiful flowers and plants on this market. Simply strolling amidst them makes my day better. ”
Studio M
Media and Culture: Make it practical!- By Derin + 1
- Milan: “If you ever want to work out a project but just don't have the right material or knowledge/experience, the members of Studio M are always eager to lend you a hand.”
- Derin: “Our gorgeous temple! Or at least a meeting place for everyone! Not only home for Studio M but also the location for other student associations like AKT! ”
University Hall
The most iconic UU building in the city centre- By Studentlife Team + 2
- Berne: “It is such a beautiful building to visit and to take a picture of. As it is located nicely in the centre of the city, I love taking a walk around the area, visiting the building and proudly saying that I'm a UU student :)”
- Derin: “Every time I walk through this location, it always motivates me.””
- Studentlife Team: “It’s a historical place where the Union of Utrecht was signed in 1579, eventually leading to the formation of the Dutch Republic! Now this is where all academic ceremonies take place.”
Wilhelminapark
This 122-year-old park is Utrecht's most favourite spot for a summer BBQ.- By Jiani + 3
- 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.”
- Kees: “I have a very sweet dog who I love to walk and play with. When we go to the Wilhelmina Park together, she is as happy as a pup and runs/swims after everything.”
- 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.”
Griftpark
This park is a few minutes away from the the City Center University library and is a popular meeting spots for students.- By Thomas + 2
- Studentlife Team: “Griftpark has so much to offer, from a basketball court to skate park and a “city petting zoo”!”
- 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.”
Restaurant Vapiano
Not just a nice restaurant, but also a great place to study!- By Stephan + 1
- Studentlife Team: “Come and taste Vapiano’s Italian food! In spring you can also dine on their roof terrace”
- Stephan: “If you don't know where you will make a reservation to eat out, Vapiano Hoog Catharijne is always a good choice! They have friendly service and the food is always good.”
Shopping centre Hoog Catharijne
The one-stop shop for everything you need in life.- By Berne + 3
- Fayruz : “This is easily my favorite place in Utrecht. I can get lost here for hours and always find something to do. I love that it has everything from Amazing Oriental, Bruna bookstore, and Action to clothing stores, Lush, and countless other shops, as well as great restaurants.”
- Jamal: “Ever since I was young, every time I visit the city centre, I always make a tour through the mediamarkt. Window shopping, I can enjoy that.”
- Berne: “Shopping mall Hoog Catharije is a meeting place for me and my friends, as we have the chance to do some shopping and then enjoy a coffee.”
The AKT Office
Media and Culture: A second home- By Berne + 1
- Milan: “A super nice place, where I feel like Mario Kart or Just Dance is played 24/7. So to spend a few free hours competitively in the AKT office where you need to be”
- Berne: “The AKT office feels like my second living room where I can always go and have a chat with my fellow students.”
- Live music
Music complex Tivoli Vredenburg
Tivoli is a hotspot for students and music lovers who meet there for concerts and events of any kind.- By Stephan + 4
- Fayruz : “Lemongrass Chai Latte at Tivoli’s café is to die for! Also, I’ll never forget when my mom ordered a ginger tea there and they brought her a huge chunk of ginger in a hot water… We then realized that in the Netherlands a mint tea, for example, is just hot water with mint leaves. Don’t you just love learning new things about different countries? ”
- Smaranda : “By far, my favorite place to enjoy music in a concert hall or a restaurant during the day and their many club-events during the night. ”
- Stephan: “The concert of British singer Jess Glynne was a very nice experience that will stay with me forever!”
University Library City Centre
The white furnishings and natural light make this a perfect place to concentrate.- By Jamal + 6
- Smaranda : “Despite always being full of students, this library is the only place I can be productive in peace and quiet. Book a seat in advance!”
- Sarthak: “This place can be quite a maze, but there are study rooms located in Drifts 21 and 25 that many people are not aware of. These rooms are typically less busy than the main parts of the library, making them a convenient option to keep in mind.”
- Jamal: “Persoonlijk vind ik deze bibliotheek veel huiselijker dan de universiteitsbibliotheek in het Utrecht Science Park. De inrichting van deze bibliotheek geeft mij rust.”
Ananda
Embrace your spiritual journey at this very unique store in the city centre of Utrecht.- By Thomas + 1
- Lobke: “This is the ultimate store for everyone who loves spiritual matters, but actually also for everyone who doesn't. There is always so much to see, hear, and smell (lots of different types of incense). I always find great gifts here; lucky charms are my favorite.”
- Thomas : “Personally, I don't care for the spiritual items in the store, but I visit Ananda regularly to buy beautiful stones. As gifts for friends and, of course, to expand my own collection of minerals and fossils.”
Pool cafe Hart van Utrecht
A cozy cafe where you can play pool with your friends, in the middle of the city centre.- By Berne + 1
- Studentlife Team: “Grab your friends and enjoy your evening playing pool!”
- Berne: “If you want some good nachos and pitchers of beers to share with your friends over a game of pool, this is the place to go. Plus, it’s a great way to prove to your friends how good you are at pool, especially if they did not believe you at first”
Canoe rental Utrecht
Reserve a canoe in the center of Utrecht. Discover Utrecht from the canals, the ideal day out for everyone.- By Sarthak + 4
- Smaranda : “Canoeing is a more exciting way to get to know the city while also creating fun memories with your friends and family. ”
- Berne: “I especially enjoy canoeing on the Oudegracht where happy people are chilling out along the canals.”
- Sarthak: “Canoeing through the canals in Oudegracht gives you different perspective of the city altogether.”
- City of Utrecht
The city of Utrecht has a lot to offer; bars, restaurants, many shopping options and 3 campuses. VIEW ALL Ping pong club
Are you the Ping Pong King?- By Milan + 1
- Lobke: “As far as I'm concerned, Ping Pong is also a sport. It can get quite competitive. The Ping Pong Club is super fun to go to with friends and have a great time hitting the ball with a paddle.”
- Milan: “To be honest, I've only been there once, just before all the catering industry closed again, but it was certainly worth repeating.”
Griftpark
This park is a few minutes away from the the City Center University library and is a popular meeting spots for students.- By Fayruz + 2
- 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.”
- Studentlife Team: “Griftpark has so much to offer, from a basketball court to skate park and a “city petting zoo”!”
- 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.”
Wilhelminapark
This 122-year-old park is Utrecht's most favourite spot for a summer BBQ.- By Jiani + 3
- Kees: “I have a very sweet dog who I love to walk and play with. When we go to the Wilhelmina Park together, she is as happy as a pup and runs/swims after everything.”
- 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.”
- 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.”
- Around Utrecht
Our students will give you the best recommendations for the surrounding suburbs. VIEW ALL Fortress bij Rijnauwen
Together with Amelisweerd, this is Utrecht's most popular outdoor area.- By Stephan + 1
- Berne: “It’s hard to miss Fort Rijnauwen if you go on your morning runs around the forest in Amelisweerd. The history behind the walls adds a bit of character to the forest and its beautiful flora and fauna. The sunset walks there are amazing too, definitely check it out in the early months of May, when it’s the perfect weather”
- Stephan: “I love to take a walk in the countryside and enjoy the beautiful weather.”
Juliana Park
Park, playground and zoo all in one!- By Studentlife Team + 1
- 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.”
Nature Reserve Amelisweerd
Tip! Explore Amelisweerd with a canoe!- By Vito + 2
- Annaflavia: “After a long walk through Amelisweerd, I feel refreshed and re-energized. Being in the midst of such rich flora and fauna is a unique feeling.”
- Jamal: “It gives me the space to empty my head once in a while.”
- Vito : “In the summer it is really great to picnic here and swim in the Kromme Rijn. Bring a swimming ring and go with the flow!”
- Rooftop cinema
Cinema Pathé Leidsche Rijn
This cinema has 7 screens and is located on the roof of the Leidsche Rijntunnel on the A2 high way- By Stephan + 1
- Studentlife Team: “For all cinemaholics out there, you should definitely check out Pathé membership! It gives you unlimited access to regular screenings for 21 EUR per month”
- Stephan: “I always like going here with some friends to see a good action movie. Especially the films in 4DX are highly recommended!”
Tea room Rhijnauwen
Theehuis Rhijnauwen is a household name in Utrecht and undoubtedly the best place to eat pancakes.- By Studentlife Team + 2
- Stephan: “You can eat delicious pancakes here! I especially like coming here in the summer, because Theehuis Rhijnauwen has a beautiful and large terrace.”
- Leon: “Don't forget to get your biological milk at one of the farms. Also, the pancakes here are amazing.”
- Studentlife Team: “Theehuis Rhijnauwen is a charming restaurant in Bunnik and ideal spot for a cup of tea and a piece of cake. Surrounded by nature, it stands out for its unique atmosphere.”