Information and tips for Erasmus students in Nijmegen
Erasmus in Nijmegen
| Private rooms Nijmegen | 11 | 662/month |
| Studios Nijmegen | 3 | 790/month |
| Apartments Nijmegen | 8 | 1606/month |
Could you imagine doing your Erasmus in Nijmegen? This city in the Netherlands, although less well known than Amsterdam or The Hague, is an excellent choice for international students and welcomes a large number of them every year. It’s the country’s oldest city and has a large university community thanks to Radboud University. Its student atmosphere, history and proximity to other cities such as Arnhem and Utrecht make it an attractive destination. Nijmegen’s also surrounded by nature and offers many outdoor activities.
The cost of living in Nijmegen is moderate compared to other Dutch cities such as Amsterdam or Rotterdam. However, with good planning it’s possible to live affordably. Transport is efficient, although bicycles are the most commonly used means of transport among students. Discover everything Nijmegen has to offer!
Cost of living in Nijmegen, the Netherlands
The cost of living in Nijmegen depends on several factors, but with good organisation it’s possible to stay within a reasonable budget. The biggest expense is usually accommodation. Rooms in shared flats cost between €450-600 per month, so estimate that this’ll be your minimum expense in this regard.
Transport is convenient and efficient. The most popular option among students is the bicycle, as the city’s perfectly suited to this mode of transport. It also saves time and money compared to public transport. Universities in Nijmegen often offer bicycle rentals, and there are also several companies that manage this service. In addition, there are many options for buying a second-hand bicycle. However, if you need to use public transport, a monthly pass costs around €72, although students can get discounts on certain routes.
Adding up food, transport and leisure expenses, a student can spend between €1,000 and €1,100 per month, depending on their lifestyle.
Student life, Erasmus parties and leisure in Nijmegen
Nijmegen’s a city with a very active student life. Although its nightlife is not as lively as in larger cities, there are many options to enjoy. The bars and clubs that are most popular with students are generally located in the city centre, such as Merleyn, The Shamrock Irish Pub, or Doornroosje.
If you prefer quieter activities, Nijmegen has plenty to offer. You can stroll through Kronenburgerpark, relax by the Waal River or have a picnic in Goffertpark. The city also hosts cultural events and festivals such as the Nijmegen Four Days Festival (Vierdaagsefeesten), which attracts thousands of visitors every year to enjoy days and nights of live music of various genres.
Culture and gastronomy in Nijmegen, the Netherlands
Nijmegen is a city with many cultural options. If you’re interested in history, you can visit the Het Valkhof Museum, which has collections of Roman and medieval art. Another interesting option is the National Liberation House (Vrijheidsmuseum), where you can learn about the Second World War and the importance of Nijmegen in the liberation of the Netherlands.
If you enjoy nature, don't miss the Hortus Nijmegen botanical gardens, where you can stroll among exotic plants and relax in peaceful surroundings. In addition, Goffertpark is an ideal place for picnics, sports or even outdoor concerts.
As for gastronomy, in Nijmegen you can try typical Dutch dishes such as "stroopwafel" (caramel biscuit), "bitterballen" (meat croquettes) or "haring" (raw herring with onion and gherkins).
Some affordable restaurants for students are Snackbar Corry, Cafetaria Family St. Anna or Smullers.
Advantages and Disadvantages of doing Erasmus in Nijmegen
Studying in Nijmegen has certain pros and cons that are worth considering when choosing it as an exchange destination.
Advantages
- The student atmosphere in Nijmegen is very lively thanks to Radboud University and its international community.
- The city’s compact, making it easy to get around by bicycle without the need for public transport.
- If you enjoy nature, Nijmegen offers many green areas and hiking trails nearby.
- Last but not least, its location is strategic, with good connections to cities such as Utrecht, Amsterdam, and Düsseldorf, allowing you to travel with ease.
Disadvantages
- The climate in Nijmegen can be challenging, as it rains frequently and winters are cold.
- The cost of living, although not as high as in other Dutch cities, can be high compared to other Erasmus destinations.
- Another disadvantage is that, although many people speak English, Dutch remains the main language in some environments, which can make integration difficult if you have no prior knowledge of the language.
Cheap student accommodation in Nijmegen, the Netherlands
Do you need accommodation in this Dutch city and don't know how to find it? At Erasmus Play, you can find the best flats, rooms and student residences in Nijmegen.
FAQ about doing Erasmus in Nijmegen
How much does it cost to live in Nijmegen as a student?
The cost of living is between €1,000-1,100 per month, depending on the type of accommodation and lifestyle.
What’s student life like in Nijmegen?
The city has a very lively atmosphere, with many international students. In addition, there are festivals, bars, and outdoor activities to enjoy throughout the year, such as the Nijmegen Four Days Festival (Vierdaagsefeesten), which attracts thousands of visitors every year.
How much does student accommodation cost in Nijmegen?
A room in a shared flat can cost between €450-600 per month, not including expenses such as electricity, water, or heating.
How much is the Erasmus scholarship to study in Nijmegen?
It depends on the country of origin and the university of each student. It’s recommended to consult with the relevant institution for accurate information.
What’s transport like in Nijmegen for students?
Bicycles are the most commonly used form of transport, and renting one usually costs around €20 per month. If you need to use public transport, a monthly pass costs around €72 (although there may be discounts for students).
