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 Manu + 8
- Jamal: “Persoonlijk vind ik deze bibliotheek veel huiselijker dan de universiteitsbibliotheek in het Utrecht Science Park. De inrichting van deze bibliotheek geeft mij rust.”
- 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.”
- Manu : “Though it’s always busy, the study spots are great. The café downstairs is nice, and I like to take study breaks in the courtyard when the sun is out.”
The AKT Office
Media and Culture: A second home- By Milan + 1
- Berne: “The AKT office feels like my second living room where I can always go and have a chat with my fellow students.”
- 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”
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.”
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 Sports centre Olympos
Whatever sport you do, you can do it at Olympos!- By Ingmar + 4
- Laura : “I don't personally engage in sports, but I do visit Olympos for the sports bar to enjoy affordable beer with friends.”
- Wiktoria: “Throughout September you can purchase an amazing student deal which is way cheaper than the standard fee. ”
- Ingmar: “I love Olympos because it’s not limited to just one type of sport, opening up a whole world of activities to all the university’s students. Ballroom dancing is one of my favorite activities that Olympos caters to.”
Botanical Gardens
Great for a visit in between classes, as all UU students have free access to the gardens- By Annaflavia + 7
- 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.”
Foodtruck Broodje Ben
Broodje Ben is a household name among Utrecht students- By Studentlife Team + 2
- 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! ”
- 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.”
Koningsberger building
A wonderful place to study - alone or together.- By Daphne + 4
- Hau : “A beautiful modern building where you can find study booths which are perfect for group work.”
- 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.”
- Daphne : “The KBG is connected to both the BBG and the Minnaert building, where many classes take place. There's also a SPAR for small purchases.”
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 Studentlife Team + 5
- 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.”
- Jiani : “The library at Science Park has a stylish design, featuring large windows and good lighting. In my opinion, the 6th floor is the best area to study due to its topmost location, which offers an amazing view. The library has individual study spaces, a separate room for groups, and easy access to printing facilities. Additionally, there are food trucks located downstairs. It is an ideal place to study!”
- Studentlife Team: “Don’t forget to book your seat during the exam period! Science Park library is students’ favorite place to study so make sure to save your spot.”
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 Annaflavia + 2
- Sanne: “It has a nice studying area and a big lecture hall.”
- 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.”
- 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 Studentlife Team + 2
- Stephan: “The extensive collection of original books ensures that it is always hard not to come out with one or more!”
- 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. ”
- 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. ”
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!”
Board games shop Subcultures
One of the board game shops of Utrecht- By Studentlife Team + 2
- Laura : “In addition to the extensive range of games and the expertise of the staff, they also have a fun escape room.”
- Hau : “At Subcultures, you can find fun games to play with your friends. They have a wide selection, so there's something for everyone!”
- Studentlife Team: “Are you in need of a new board game? Subcultures has something for you!”
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! ”
- City Centre
The old town is the place to go out and do some shopping. You'll find there also two faculties. VIEW ALL Feestcafé De Vrienden
One of Utrecht's best-known student bars, right in the centre.- By Berne + 1
- 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!”
- 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!”
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!”
It's a Present!
Struggling to find the perfect gift? Visit It's a Present!- By Vito + 2
- 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. ”
- Valerie : “This is where I always come when I need a card because they have 2 entire walls filled with funny cards! There are also many other little things to discover!”
- 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.”
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! ”
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.”
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.”
- 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.”
Griftpark
This park is a few minutes away from the the City Center University library and is a popular meeting spots for students.- By Daphne + 5
- Laura : “The ideal place to have a BBQ with your friends in Utrecht, and you certainly won't be the only one!”
- 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.”
- Daphne : “Together with my group of friends, I have the tradition of having a barbecue every spring/summer in Griftpark, where we can sit by the water and enjoy ourselves.”
Plantjesmarkt
The place for plants!- By Milan + 1
- 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. ”
- Milan: “Although I first ridiculed a friend of mine for her amount of plants, I now have eleven in my room…”
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 :)”
De Ontdekking
The Discovery you need to make!- By Panagiota + 1
- Milan: “When I moved to Utrecht a year and a half ago, I immediately started looking for nice coffee shops. Although places like Onz and Gys were well received, De Ontdekking takes the cake as far as I'm concerned”
- Panagiota: “A very cozy café right across the University Library in the city center. It offers a variety of beverages as well as sweet and savoury snacks to get reenergised.”
Bar Lebowski
Lebowski is one of the “must” places for students due to its funky atmosphere and its frequent events like pub-quiz nights.- By Studentlife Team + 2
- Berne: “I think that Lebowski is one of the “must” places for students since it has a great atmosphere and organizes many events, e.g pub-quiz.”
- Manu : “Great ambience and great vibes. They also have really nice events every so often, so keep an eye out for that. ”
- Studentlife Team: “Its unique design, great music and lovely staff make it one of the coolest places in Utrecht. ”
The AKT Office
Media and Culture: A second home- By Milan + 1
- Berne: “The AKT office feels like my second living room where I can always go and have a chat with my fellow students.”
- 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”
University Library City Centre
The white furnishings and natural light make this a perfect place to concentrate.- By Lobke + 8
- 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.”
- Manu : “Though it’s always busy, the study spots are great. The café downstairs is nice, and I like to take study breaks in the courtyard when the sun is out.”
- Lobke: “I've had quite a few meetings, study sessions, and all-nighters here. I find the University Library to be a great place to truly focus. Additionally, it's such a beautiful building!”
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.”
Board games shop Subcultures
One of the board game shops of Utrecht- By Hau + 2
- Laura : “In addition to the extensive range of games and the expertise of the staff, they also have a fun escape room.”
- Studentlife Team: “Are you in need of a new board game? Subcultures has something for you!”
- Hau : “At Subcultures, you can find fun games to play with your friends. They have a wide selection, so there's something for everyone!”
Music complex Tivoli Vredenburg
Tivoli is a hotspot for students and music lovers who meet there for concerts and events of any kind.- By Fayruz + 4
- Stephan: “The concert of British singer Jess Glynne was a very nice experience that will stay with me forever!”
- Studentlife Team: “Tivoli not only hosts amazing concerts. It’s also a great place to go out dancing with your friends.”
- 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? ”
Louis Hartlooper Complex
Former police station, now one of the coolest movie theatres in the city!- By Valerie + 2
- Studentlife Team: “Louis Hartlooper is a must-see for art cinema lovers!”
- Derin: “As a cinephile, I could not ignore this location! You could watch different works from Hollywood auteurs (not Marvel and Spiderman) to European Art House films in this awesome place! ”
- Valerie : “This cinema always gives me a warm feeling. It's so cozy! Grabbing a beer first and then watching a movie is fantastic here :)”
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”
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.”
Shopping centre Hoog Catharijne
The one-stop shop for everything you need in life.- By Jamal + 4
- 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.”
- Studentlife Team: “Apart from a myriad of stores, Hong Catharijne offers a lot of food options together with its convenient location just few minutes’ walk from Utrecht Centraal.”
- 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.”
Canoe rental Utrecht
Reserve a canoe in the center of Utrecht. Discover Utrecht from the canals, the ideal day out for everyone.- By Smaranda + 4
- Sarthak: “Canoeing through the canals in Oudegracht gives you different perspective of the city altogether.”
- Studentlife Team: “There is no better way to discover Utrecht than through canoeing!”
- Smaranda : “Canoeing is a more exciting way to get to know the city while also creating fun memories with your friends and family. ”
- City of Utrecht
The city of Utrecht has a lot to offer; bars, restaurants, many shopping options and 3 campuses. VIEW ALL Teds Utrecht Oudegracht
Utrecht's ultimate brunch spot, where every day feels like a weekend getaway.- By Laura + 2
- Daphne : “Teds is a cozy restaurant where you can have breakfast, lunch, and enjoy a high tea. When the weather is nice, you can sit here by the Oudegracht.”
- Hau : “A perfect spot along the canal to have brunch with your friends. They offer delicious hot and cold dishes. (The breakfast burrito comes highly recommended!)”
- Laura : “A delightful place for lunch or to enjoy a cozy high tea with friends. Make a reservation by the canal in advance!”
Parnassos Cultural Center
Cultural heart of the UU community.- By Ingmar + 1
- Lobke: “This is where I always rehearse for theater. After these rehearsals, we often end up at the Parnassos Bar, a cozy café with a piano. Before joining Stuk, I frequently took courses or workshops at Parnassos. There's a wide variety available. Check it out 😊.”
- Ingmar: “Great place to express yourself and let your creative juices flow. Parnassos offers all things creative from acapella and photography to singing and theatre.”
Ping pong club
Are you the Ping Pong King?- By Lobke + 1
- Milan: “To be honest, I've only been there once, just before all the catering industry closed again, but it was certainly worth repeating.”
- 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.”
Griftpark
This park is a few minutes away from the the City Center University library and is a popular meeting spots for students.- By Studentlife Team + 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.”
- Laura : “The ideal place to have a BBQ with your friends in Utrecht, and you certainly won't be the only one!”
- Studentlife Team: “Griftpark has so much to offer, from a basketball court to skate park and a “city petting zoo”!”
Wilhelminapark
This 122-year-old park is Utrecht's most favourite spot for a summer BBQ.- By Studentlife Team + 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.”
- 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.”
- Around Utrecht
Our students will give you the best recommendations for the surrounding suburbs. VIEW ALL Juliana Park
Park, playground and zoo all in one!- By Panagiota + 2
- 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.”
- 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”
- 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!”
Nature Reserve Amelisweerd
Tip! Explore Amelisweerd with a canoe!- By Vito + 3
- 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.”
- Valerie : “It's delightful to swim here in the summer! Besides, it's always nice to escape the city and take a walk to see adorable goats.”
- 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!”
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 Leon + 3
- Ingmar: “A classic and quaint little place outside of the city centre, the Theehuis is an absolute must when coming to Utrecht. Their pancakes are to die-for and will only make you want to come back for more. TIP - My favorite is the Super Sem ;-)”
- 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.”
- Leon: “Don't forget to get your biological milk at one of the farms. Also, the pancakes here are amazing.”
Fortress bij Rijnauwen
Together with Amelisweerd, this is Utrecht's most popular outdoor area.- By Stephan + 2
- Manu : “The fort itself is really nice, and I also like the woods around it. There are often playful sheep around the fort!”
- 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.”