Welcome to Arnhem: Your New Student Home in the Netherlands
If you’re an international student settling into life in the Netherlands, Arnhem might just be your best-kept secret. It’s a city where creativity, nature, and student life all come together, and the good news is, most of the best experiences are affordable (or even free).
To help you feel more at home and make the most of your time here, we’ve rounded up 7 fun and essential things to do in Arnhem, all perfect for discovering your new city and meeting new people.
1. Get the Gelrepas for Local Discounts
Before you do anything else: apply for a Gelrepas. If you're a student on a low income (or receiving student finance), this local discount card can give you free or heavily discounted access to museums, cultural activities, sports clubs, and more in the Arnhem area.
You can use it for:
- Free entrance to the Arnhem Museum
- Discounted classes (like dance, painting, or workout sessions)
- Budget-friendly gym or swimming memberships
- Free or discounted entry to theatres and local events
👉 Check eligibility and apply here (Dutch website – use Chrome’s auto-translate feature if needed)
2. Grab Fries at ’t Taphuys
Head to ’t Taphuys, a local hotspot with a huge tap wall (great if you’re into craft beer), but even if you’re not, their loaded fries are worth the trip.
A perfect mix of comfort food and culture.
👉 reserve a table and check the menu here
3. Ride the Trolleybus at the Open-Air Museum
The Netherlands Open Air Museum (Nederlands Openluchtmuseum) is Arnhem’s crown jewel for history lovers and curious minds. Walk through traditional Dutch houses, windmills, and workshops, then hop on the historic trolleybus for a ride through time.
Student hack: the Gelrepas or Museumkaart makes entry either free or super affordable.
👉 Reserve a ticket here
