Utrecht
is often described as a smaller version of Amsterdam, as it shares all of the
benefits of the Dutch capital but with fewer tourists and a more compact
environment. As it's not considered an enormous city, it's effortless to get
around via any transportation method. It's located in the middle of the
Netherlands and perfectly connected with the rest of the country via highways
and railroads. Within half an hour, you can quickly get to major cities like Amsterdam,
Rotterdam, or Hague.
The city has an international character and is considered one of the best
locations for expats in the Netherlands, due to its welcoming culture, job opportunities, great climate, large
expat communities, historical buildings, and museums. You can find basically
everything in this breathtaking city.
Another
thing that makes Utrecht so unique is that it's an excellent place for
students. With numerous exchange programs and studying opportunities, Utrecht
became extremely student-friendly over the years. That resulted in more than 70,000,
or 20% of Utrecht's population being students.
One
of the things that attract students the most when choosing a city to study in
is its nightlife. In that case, you'll be delighted to hear that Utrecht is
packed with clubs, cafes, and pubs, making its nightlife one of the best in the
Netherlands.
If
you prefer a more calm lifestyle and pay more attention to cultural content,
this city also has that covered. In Utrecht, there are more than 20 museums,
dozens of theaters, and cinemas, including various concerts, comedy clubs, and
other events held throughout the year.
In
addition, Utrecht is packed with parks, gyms, and bike-only roads and is one of
the greenest cities in the country, making it a perfect environment for
recreation enthusiasts.
Each
part of town offers benefits, and you can't go wrong when picking a
neighborhood in this city. However, for students in particular, these will be
your best choices.
Utrecht
Oost (or East) is one of the best districts for students due to its proximity
to the Utrecht Science Park. That gives it a special atmosphere and a very
lively character. There are a lot of bars, cafes, and nightclubs in this area,
especially when you get closer to the city center.
The
Utrecht Oost is very close to the city center, making it only a 10-15 minute
drive. Furthermore, there are some exceptional locations you can visit in this
district, such as the Van Ravesteyn museum, Wilhelminapark, or the Galgenwaard
stadium, the home ground of FC Utrecht.
However,
as its location is excellent, you can expect higher rent prices here, with
prices reaching up to 1,200 euros.
Binnenstad
Utrecht is the city center and, naturally, the city's most advanced, luxurious,
and content-packed area. As such, it may be difficult to find housing here, but
options are still available.
The
Utrecht university is close to the city center, and you can get there in about
15 minutes via car. Of course, other transportation methods are available in
case you don't drive. Bars, restaurants, pubs, and nightclubs, to name a few.
You can find anything you wish for in this area.
Of
course, there are countless cultural and historic locations you can find in the
Binnenstad, such as:
- St.
Martin's Cathedral;
- St.
Catherine's Convent Museum;
- The
Utrecht Old Canal;
- Centraal
Museum, and so much more.
With
many expats living and working there, beautiful cultural and historical sights,
and various places to go out, the central part of Utrecht is truly its heart
and soul.
Living
in this district has countless benefits, so the prices are on the more
expensive side. The prices of a one-bedroom apartment in Binnenstad Utrecht can
reach up to 1,500 euros per month.
This
part of town is considered the university area, making it ideal for those who
want to live as close to the university as possible. Lower prices, cafes, and
bars are only a few things you can expect in this area. And with thousands of
students living here, you'll definitely enjoy the lively atmosphere and
opportunity to communicate with other students and internationals.
Everything
about this area is made for students; here, you can find the Olympos sports
complex, Utrecht Botanic Gardens, and vintage shops.
Regarding
the rent, this is the most affordable district in the town, with the prices
being well under 1,000 euros.
Utrecht
Zuid is the southern part of the town, just below the city center. This part of
town is very popular among expats and students as it's very well-located and
affordable. It's best suited for people that enjoy an outgoing lifestyle, as
it's packed with cafes, pubs, and clubs.
But
you can also enjoy other content - the huge Beatrixpark is located in Utrecht
Zuid, where you can take a walk, relax, and enjoy the river view and the green
scene. The Sporthal Hoograven, a sports complex, is also located here, as well
as the Consequenz theater.
Finally,
the rent prices in this area are very affordable, and you can easily find a one-bedroom
apartment for under 1,000 euros.
Utrecht
is a stunning city that offers everything you expect from a huge city but
remains compact and modern. So regardless if you like a more vibrant or calm
lifestyle, you'll always be able to find places to visit and things to do. And
with so many expats and students living there, you'll fit right in.
On
the other hand, as many people discovered the perks of moving to Utrecht,
finding an apartment became more difficult. If you'd like assistance with
finding an apartment in Utrecht that fits your needs, feel free to reach out to us
to make the entire process effortless. With an extensive database, we'll ensure
that you find an apartment or house that fits your exact criteria regarding
location, price, utility subscriptions, and anything else you might need.
Devoting
yourself to education is one of the best investments you can make, and doing so
in Utrecht will surely make it more enjoyable.
