Leeuwarden ranks among the top 10 ‘hidden gem student cities’ in Europe in 2026. Once you start your studies, there are plenty things to do in your free time. During the week you can join one of the many Sports Associations, explore the city with friends, or attend the Wetsus Borrel held every other week. The Borrel is a nice activity for all people at Wetsus to come together for a drink and some snacks.
Weekends can look very different depending on the time of the period. When exam week is coming up, many students meet up in one of the libraries to study together. Otherwise, Leeuwarden is in the perfect location for a day trip to one of the bigger cities in the Netherlands like Amsterdam or Utrecht, which are only 2 hours away by train.
Discover Leeuwarden on the map of Leeuwarden Student City, where hotspots, events and associations are highlighted!
Leeuwarden Student City also organizes a city wide introduction week for first year students with games, markets and even its own festival. Check out their website for more info.
Water Technology has it’s very own, student-run association in Pontus. Pontus organises a mix of fun and educational activities, connecting first-year and second-year students and making everyone feel at home within the city of Leeuwarden. By studying Water Technology, you automatically become a member, which means you can join the organized guest lectures, pooling activities, drinks and many other activities throughout the year.
Read more about how (former) Wetsus Academy students experience(d) our Master programme. Learn about their personal motivations, struggles, what they think about Leeuwarden and much more…
It’s also possible to ask a student a question! Caren is happy to answer all your questions regarding the Wetsus Academy, Leeuwarden, the Master programme etc. You can ask them your questions here.
“The Wetsus Academy gave me the opportunity to get personalized education: teachers that take the time for you and fellow-students that challenge and collaborate with you at the same time.
Watertechnology is going to be huge in the future; I already experienced that from severall companies when I searched for an internship. Although it is sometimes hard work I’ve never regretted my choice to start this Master!”
“My knowledge and confidence grew so much the past 2 years!”
“I think i will miss the unique environment at Wetsus and the Wetsus Academy when i’m gone. The community we have here is really special. My colleagues & fellow students are more friends I’m really going to miss those people and that atmosphere.”
Hello! I am Caren, and I am a first-year student of Master Water Technology. If you are looking for an unique environment with cutting-edge scientific developments, a strong cluster of researchers, companies, and students, and a small-scale education to learn everything about water, than Wetsus is the place to be.
The programme is challenging, but it will mold you into the leader of the water sector of tomorrow! If you have any questions on how the program works or about the student life in Leeuwarden, don’t hesitate to send us a message!
