Top 5 student cities in the Netherlands

Discover the favourite cities for university students in the Netherlands and what makes them unique.

If you’re thinking about doing a university exchange in Europe, discovering the top 5 student cities in the Netherlands will help you choose the ideal destination according to your lifestyle and budget. This country is a favourite among international students thanks to its quality education, multicultural environment and practical approach to teaching, which makes the experience dynamic and very comprehensive.

In this article, you’ll find key information about each city: the pros and cons of studying there, the most prominent universities, and rental prices for students. With this information, you’ll be able to quickly compare and choose the destination that best suits your needs.

In addition, through our online student accommodation platform, you can search, compare and book your room securely in major Dutch cities. We recommend that you do so as soon as possible, because there’s a shortage of accommodation in the Netherlands, which makes the market very competitive.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a city that surprises you from day one: dynamic, creative and with an international atmosphere that can be felt in every neighbourhood. Studying here means living alongside students from all over the world, cycling between canals and enjoying a huge cultural offering, but also adapting to a fast-paced lifestyle and one of the most competitive rental markets in the country. It’s also one of the most popular destinations for Erasmus students in the Netherlands, thanks to the variety of programmes taught in English and its international atmosphere.

Pros and cons of studying in Amsterdam

Being a student in Amsterdam has many favourable aspects, but there are also factors that may be less appealing.

Pros of studying in Amsterdam

Broad international community.
Cultural and social life is active throughout the year.
High-level academic programmes in various fields.
Very good connections by public transport and bicycle.

Cons of studying in Amsterdam

The shortage of student accommodation is a problem affecting this city and the rest of the country.
It’s one of the most expensive cities in the country, especially in terms of rents.
Large crowds of tourists in the city centre, which can be overwhelming.

Top Universities in Amsterdam

This Dutch city is home to several of the country's renowned institutions.

Universiteit van Amsterdam (University of Amsterdam)

The University of Amsterdam is one of the most prestigious institutions in Europe, with a strong focus on social sciences, humanities, economics, and communication. It has several campuses spread across different parts of the city, such as City Centre Campus, Science Park Campus, Roeterseiland Campus and Academic Medical Centre.

Find out everything you need to know about the university and its surroundings in our guide to accommodation near the University of Amsterdam.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (Free University of Amsterdam)

The Free University of Amsterdam stands out for its international approach (with more than 175 programmes in English) and quality in fields such as science, business and health. Its unique campus is located in the Amsterdam-Zuid district of the city.

Find the best areas to live in in our article on housing close to Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam.

Student housing in Amsterdam

Rent in Amsterdam is among the highest in the country, with prices typically higher than in other student cities such as Groningen, Leiden, or Utrecht. The cost depends greatly on the location within the city, but it’s estimated that a room in a shared flat in a central location can cost between €700 and €1,200 per month.

Are you looking for accommodation in the Netherlands? Read our guide to student accommodation in Amsterdam, with the best neighbourhoods and approximate prices.

Groningen

Groningen is known as the university city par excellence in the Netherlands. In fact, its youthful atmosphere is evident in every street: most of its population are students, which makes for an active social life that’s accessible and welcoming to foreign students. It’s also a safe, manageable city with its own identity that sets it apart from the country's large urban centres. It’s often considered one of the best options for international students seeking an accessible and authentically university environment.

Pros and cons of studying in Groningen

Choosing Groningen to study brings with it great advantages, although certain disadvantages may affect the experience.

Pros of studying in Groningen

A totally student-oriented environment, ideal for making friends and settling in quickly.
A compact city that is easy to get around by bicycle.
Wide range of cultural offerings, events, and activities designed for young people.
More affordable cost of living than in larger cities such as Amsterdam or Utrecht.

Cons of studying in Groningen

Being in the north of the country, its climate tends to be colder and windier.
Fewer job opportunities than in larger cities.
Travelling to other cities in the country usually takes longer, as they’re further away.

Top Universities in Groningen

There are several prestigious universities that accept foreign students every year.

Rijksuniversiteit Groningen (University of Groningen)

The University of Groningen is the second oldest institution in the Netherlands and one of the most prestigious in the country. It has campuses in different parts of the city, as well as buildings in the city centre where some faculties hold classes.

Explore locations, neighbourhoods and tips in the guide to housing close to the University of Groningen.

Hanzehogeschool Groningen (Hanze UAS)

Hanze University of Applied Sciences is one of the largest institutions of its kind in the Netherlands. It has a main campus in Zernike, in the north of the city, and other buildings in various neighbourhoods throughout Groningen.

Find out more details in the guide to accommodation near Hanze University of Applied Sciences.

Student housing in Groningen

Groningen has a rental market with prices that are slightly more affordable than larger cities, but it also has high demand from students, so you need to start your search as soon as possible. Generally, a room in a shared flat starts at €270, but the average is usually between €450 and €650 per month.

To learn more about student accommodation in Groningen, check out our article where we tell you about the different types available, convenient areas to live in, and other information you need to know.

Leiden

This city has a more historic and peaceful atmosphere, so it’s chosen by university students looking for a more relaxed pace of life but with good academic quality. Its canals, museums and narrow streets create a very welcoming environment, while its university provides an international and multicultural atmosphere. In addition, its location makes it a good starting point for travelling around the country.

Pros and cons of studying in Leiden

Leiden stands out for its benefits for students, but it also has some weaknesses.

Pros of studying in Leiden

Excellent academic quality.
International atmosphere with a diverse student community, but in a safe and peaceful environment.
Easy to get around by bicycle and to travel around the Netherlands thanks to its good transport connections.
It has many cultural and leisure activities throughout the year for students.

Cons of studying in Leiden

The nightlife is quieter than in cities such as Utrecht or Groningen.
Accommodation prices are often higher than expected for their size, and it’s often very difficult to find accommodation due to scarcity.
Fewer job opportunities compared to larger cities.

Top Universities in Leiden

One of the country's most renowned institutions is located in this Dutch city.

Universiteit Leiden (Leiden University)

Leiden University is the oldest university in the Netherlands and one of the most prestigious in Europe. It’s also one of the leading international research institutions on the continent. It has campuses in two cities, Leiden and The Hague, but the main campus is in Leiden.

If you’re thinking of studying there, we recommend reading our guide to accommodation near Leiden University.

Student housing in Leiden

Although rental prices in Leiden are moderate, they tend to rise significantly due to high student demand. Book as far in advance as possible! As a reference, the most economical option is usually a room in a shared flat, with an average price of around €550-750 per month.

Are you planning to study in the Netherlands? Don't miss our guide to student housing in Leiden, with up-to-date neighbourhoods and prices.

Rotterdam

Rotterdam is known as the most modern and innovative city in the country. Its contemporary architecture, port (one of the most important in the world) and multicultural atmosphere make it an ideal city for students who prefer an urban environment with lots going on. Unlike other Dutch cities with a more traditional feel, Rotterdam stands out for its creative energy and diverse social life, which attracts both locals and international students.

Pros and cons of studying in Rotterdam

Studying in Rotterdam can be a great experience because of its advantages, although it also involves some challenges.

Pros of studying in Rotterdam

Wide range of cultural activities, events, festivals and lively nightlife.
A modern, multicultural city with many international students.
The job opportunities are varied and plentiful, especially in fields such as business, finance, and technology.
Excellent public transport and good connections to other cities in the country.

Cons of studying in Rotterdam

It’s a modern city and less "traditional" than others, which means that it isn’t possible to get to know that side of the local culture as well.
Its climate is windier due to its proximity to the sea.
The cost of living in central areas can be very high.

Top Universities in Rotterdam

For foreign students, one institution in this city stands out in particular.

Erasmus Universiteit Rotterdam (Erasmus University Rotterdam)

Erasmus University Rotterdam is internationally recognised and regularly features in the rankings of the world's top 100 universities. It has campuses in both Rotterdam and The Hague, the main one being the Woudestein Campus, located in the Kralingen-Oost district of Rotterdam.

See the complete guide to accommodation near Erasmus University Rotterdam.

Student housing in Rotterdam

Rental prices in Rotterdam are generally more affordable than in Amsterdam, although they vary greatly depending on the area. A room in a shared flat usually costs between €550 and €700 per month, which is similar to Leiden or Utrecht but with greater availability. For many international students, it’s an attractive option due to its balance between cost, professional opportunities and quality of life.

If you’re going to study in this port city, check out our guide to student housing in Rotterdam with information on prices and recommended neighbourhoods.

Utrecht

Utrecht is one of the most attractive university cities for foreign students thanks to its youthful atmosphere, lively historic centre and location in the heart of the country. In fact, it’s said to offer the perfect balance between the cultural and leisure options of large cities, but with a more relaxed and less intense atmosphere. In other words, it’s a welcoming but fun city.

Pros and cons of studying in Utrecht

The academic experience in Utrecht has many advantages, but certain disadvantages could influence your stay.

Pros of studying in Utrecht

It's less than 20 minutes by train from Amsterdam! And it has good connections to other cities.
It’s ideal for immersing yourself in the local culture and history.
Very lively student atmosphere, with bars, cafés and pretty canals.
A safe, manageable city that’s easy to get around by bicycle.

Cons of studying in Utrecht

The rental market is one of the most complicated in the country, with high demand and high prices.
The centre can feel crowded at times.
The nightlife is more limited than in cities such as Rotterdam or Groningen, with fewer venues open late.

Top Universities in Utrecht

The fourth largest city in the Netherlands is home to a highly prestigious institution.

Universiteit Utrecht (Utrecht University)

Utrecht University is one of the most important universities in Europe, as well as one of the oldest and largest in the Netherlands. It has several campuses and buildings located in different parts of the city.

Find more practical information about the university and its faculties in the guide to accommodation near Utrecht University.

Student housing in Utrecht

The availability of rental options for students in Utrecht is often very limited, and therefore prices tend to rise considerably. It’s advisable to start your search well in advance and keep an eye out for options in nearby neighbourhoods or those well connected by train or bicycle. As a reference, a single room usually costs between €500-800 per month.

If you’re considering studying here, find out everything you need to know about student accommodation in Utrecht in our guide to accommodation and convenient areas to live.

Find accommodation in the Netherlands with Erasmus Play

Choosing between the top 5 student cities in the Netherlands depends on your personal preferences, your budget and the type of experience you’re looking for during your university years. Each destination offers something different: Amsterdam stands out for its diversity, Groningen for its student atmosphere, Leiden for its tradition, Rotterdam for its modernity, and Utrecht for its balance between urban life and a youthful atmosphere.

With a clear comparison of pros and cons, top universities and rental prices, you’ll be able to assess which city best suits your needs. All of these cities welcome thousands of international students every year, including those who arrive through Erasmus or other exchange programmes. And, once you’ve decided on your destination, you can easily find verified options on our student accommodation platform, to make your arrival in the Netherlands as comfortable as possible. Don't wait any longer and start your search as soon as possible! The shortage of accommodation in this country means that finding a place to live can be very difficult.

Other guides on studying and living in the Netherlands

If you’d like more information to help you make your decision, please refer to our specialised guides to these Dutch cities: