By Augusta Arron, Universiteit van Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Being a student in Amsterdam is all about exploring its rich cultural opportunities and entertainment, and it goes far beyond its well-known bar and nightlife scene. For students looking for unique experiences that won’t break the bank, I am offering a guide to discover activities which can be just as fun, including jazz, cinema, storytelling, and food.

The Sound of Amsterdam

Jazz Cafe Alto

This is a gem for jazz enthusiasts and newbies alike. Located in Leidseplein, this bar’s notable intimate size brings a unique ‘gezellig’ (cozy) atmosphere and makes you really appreciate its skilled performances. With a focus on creating a welcoming environment, Cafe Alto holds a variety of jazz gigs daily from solo piano acts to full bands with brass, strings, vocals- the lot. It’s a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the local jazz scene and discover skilled musicians or even new talent. It’s great for sitting back and relaxing, as loud talking is discouraged. Make sure to get there before 8pm when entrance is free!

Skek

For a more eclectic mix of musical performances, Skek is a must visit. Situated in the old centre of Amsterdam, it offers a similar vibe with a small, but inclusive feel where you can enjoy live jazz along with a beverage or bite to eat from its student-led bar (which is very affordable). I’ve been on a Sunday which is its jazz night, and have to say it’s a lot more relaxed with a younger crowd and sometimes more ammeter acts. I also love this place for its old interior, with a tiny balcony area which fills with locals and students dangling their legs over the stage during busy hours.

Cinema

Kriterion

Kriterion is a UvA student favourite at the Roeterseiland Campus where you can come in the day for studying or evening for a hot chocolate. It boasts some stunning Art Deco architecture and student-led atmosphere. Every day it has showings inside its beautiful theatres from mainstream to indie, at budget-friendly prices.

Studio/K

Led by the same group, this venue is located further in Amsterdam East. Studio/K is a creative space that doubles as a cinema and event venue, again, run by a dedicated team of locals and students.

Plekk

North of the centre- you’ll need to get a free ferry rise to NDSM- but is a must-visit, right on the IJ River with its own small beach! In the summer it has outdoor screenings on Tuesdays perfect for a unique movie night experience.

Storytelling at Mezrab

The people’s storytelling evening at Mezrab is an experience like no other. It offers a weekly open-mic storytelling night on Wednesdays which is completely free, where you can also enjoy a hearty but cheap bowl of soup. Here you can listen to an array of funny, emotional, poignant, and impactful stories. Anyone can participate, as names are drawn from a hat, creating an unpredictable yet entertaining lineup (be ready in case your name was added in by your mates!). It’s a great way to get out of the house and feel truly part of the community. Plus you never know what kind of night your’e going to have.

De Sering: For Community Events and Budget-Friendly Meals

If your’e looking to spend a nice evening in a restaurant setting without feeling like you’ve taken out a loan for a small house, De Sering is a voluntary kitchen and experimental restaurant which allows locals to bond over cheap, yet restaurant-grade meals. Located in West Amsterdam, it aims to create a space for the public to connect and engage in event-planning and activism, or even just to socialise and save money with meals starting from €2.50. Whether your’e there for the natural wine, food or queer techno parties, it’s a perfect spot for engaging with the community.