Shared apartments, spare rooms and roommates in Amsterdam

Young people, especially those staying for a short period, often prefer living in shared apartments. Because of this, competition for well-located and nicely featured flats is high, so it's best to start your search early.

Advantages and disadvantages of sharing a flat in Amsterdam

Here below are some pros and cons of living in the capital of the Netherlands:

Advantages of sharing a flat in Amsterdam

• Sharing an apartment makes rent and expenses more affordable, which is great for a student budget. Amsterdam's housing prices are generally high since it's a popular tourist city.
• Many flatshares are in lively areas filled with young people and students, such as Amsterdam-Oost and Amsterdam-Zuid.
• You’ll have the opportunity to live in a multicultural environment, learning to respect different schedules and lifestyles.

Disadvantages of sharing a flat in Amsterdam

• Many apartments are old and not in the best condition, often being small. Generally, the further you are from the city centre, the better the apartment conditions tend to be.
• Some rooms or apartments may not be furnished, so you might need to spend extra on furniture when you move in.

Erasmus Apps for your exchange programme in Amsterdam

There are different apps for Erasmus+ students that you can use before, during, and after your exchange. One of the most useful is the European Commission’s app, which allows students to validate subjects, apply for new mobility programmes, and read experiences and advice from other students. In these apps, you’ll also find instructions for paperwork and other useful features. A handy tip for nightlife: students often pre-drink before heading to clubs since prices can be high.

How to meet people in Amsterdam?

Your flatmates will be the first people you meet upon arriving in Amsterdam, but you can also connect with others through the following ways:

Student associations in Amsterdam

The Erasmus Student Network (ESN) helps international students at the University of Amsterdam and the University of Applied Sciences in Amsterdam integrate into their new environment. They organise events, language exchanges, and affordable trips. Their Buddy program connects you with a student who has lived in the city for several years and can help you with various needs.

Facebook groups for Erasmus students in Amsterdam

ESN Amsterdam has a Facebook group where they post different events and plans. There are also other groups for international students, both general and specific to academic years, where you can ask questions and connect with fellow students in Amsterdam.

Whatsapp groups for Erasmus students in Amsterdam

Many Facebook groups and online communities create WhatsApp groups for students in Amsterdam. These groups are great for meeting other young people with similar interests and making plans together.

Tips for living in a shared apartment in Amsterdam

Here are some tips to consider:

• Get a bike as soon as you arrive in the city. It's the most used means of transport in Amsterdam, being both healthy and economical.
• Amsterdam's weather is often grey and rainy. Don't be afraid to ride a bike with a raincoat—everyone does it, and you'll quickly get used to it.
• Amsterdam is a very touristic city, so many students and locals opt for neighbourhoods further from the city centre. Public transport is excellent, and you can also bike everywhere.
• The use of curtains is not very common, so be aware that people can often see into the lower floors of apartments.

Frequently Asked Questions about sharing a flat in Amsterdam