Get to know your student city in advance

  • Studying
With these 5 tips you'll make the most of your start in Breda. Are you about to start your studies in Breda? Nice! Then this is the perfect moment to get into the vibe of this vibrant student city. Whether you'll be living in a dorm, commuting daily, or just curious about what there is to experience: with these tips you'll start your student life like a pro.

1. Check your route now (including coffee stop)

Are you moving into a dormitory or staying at home and commuting? Try out your bike or public transport route to your education now. This way, you won't be late on your first day and you'll also know where to grab a coffee along the way.

Tip: Most courses in Breda can be easily cycled to. So make sure your trusty steed is ready, or get one through Marktplaats, a swapfiets, or a second-hand shop.

2. Intro = everything

The introduction weeks are the perfect kick-off to your student life. You'll meet new people, discover Breda, and take part in activities that often end in a party well into the night.

Must-do: Don't miss the Introfestival on 4th September at Park Valkenberg. The party that truly kicks off your student years.

3. Discover the hotspots of Breda

Get to know your new student city like a true local! Start your exploration around Breda and visit these must-visits.

  • Park Valkenberg: the perfect place for a break, lunch or picnic between your lectures.
  • De Haven, Havermarkt and Vismarktstraat: The nightlife heart of Breda where you can enjoy gezellig drinks, atmospheric terraces and parties until late in the evening. Here, cool events are also regularly held, such as the Silent Music Bingo and Craft Beer Evening.
  • Grote Markt: The central square of the city where you'll always meet someone.
    Tip: Order a portion of nachos at ’t Hart. Or pop in at Café Vulling. Chances are this will become your new regular pub, because here you get the cheapest beer in Breda.
  • Climbing the Tower: a true Bredanaar has seen his city from the tower of the Grote Kerk at least once. The view from above is more than worth the climb. 

Tip: During your exploration, definitely visit the Explore Breda Store for cool merch, city tips and more. A perfect starting point!

4. Meet student associations

There are sports clubs, study associations, and student societies where you can meet a great group of people to share your student days with (and create plenty of memories).

During the intro week, many societies are very active in the city. You can encounter them everywhere: on the street, at events, or during gatherings. A perfect opportunity to get a feel for the atmosphere, have a chat, and see which society suits you best.

Tip: Keep your eyes open during the intro. The societies are always up for a chat and eager to get to know you.

5. Breda concepts you need to know

In Breda you quickly hear words and traditions that you need to get used to. With this list, you’ll know immediately what it’s about:

  • Spebi: Short for Speciaalbieravond. Every first Monday of the month, it's happening at Studio Dependance, and believe us: those evenings are legendary (and usually a bit blurry).
  • Houdoe: The quintessential Brabant way to say goodbye. Don’t say ‘bye’ or ‘hello’. Here, it’s houdoe.
  • Een Billy: Unique drink that you can only get at Dok19. What is it? A mix of beer and lemon jenever. Sounds strange, but tastes surprisingly good.
  • De Loempiakraam: When someone talks about “de loempiakraam”, they mean that iconic stall by the harbour. The perfect pitstop after a night out.
  • Frietje bij de Christ: Frituur Christ on Keizerstraat is the hotspot for late-night snacks or laying a good foundation before going out. Ask a local, and they will show you the way blindly.

Ready to start?

With these tips, you're fully prepared. Time for adventure! Hop on your bike, take a tour of the hotspots, and dive straight into the vibrant student life.

Want to stay updated on everything happening in Breda? Follow us on Instagram and Tiktok and check out all the tips!

Interested in stories & tips from students?

Read the stories of Lotte, Thomas, Tara, and Kingsley here. They welcome you and show you the way!