Campus Life

More than a workplace -
a place to thrive

Innovation District Zuidas is where world-class research meets Amsterdam's vibrant quality of life. A campus community of 70+ nationalities, outstanding transport links, and everything you need to live, work, and grow - all in one place.

Attracting Talent

Why the best minds choose Zuidas

Talented professionals and researchers from around the world are drawn to Innovation District Zuidas for its unique combination of academic excellence, industry proximity, and one of Europe's most liveable cities right outside your door.

International environment

Over 70 nationalities work and study on campus, creating a truly global community where English is the lingua franca.

Amsterdam quality of life

Consistently ranked among the world's most liveable cities, with a rich cultural scene, green spaces, and work-life balance.

Dual career pathways

Unique opportunities to move between academia and industry, with research institutes, startups, and corporates all on one campus.

Vibrant campus culture

Regular networking events, sports, social gatherings, and 30,000+ people on campus every day create a buzzing atmosphere.

70+

nationalities on campus

30k+

people daily on campus

12

faculties & research areas

150+

companies & startups

A community, not just a campus

From the postdoc who joins the lunchtime run club to the startup founder who meets their co-founder at a mixer event - this is where professional and personal life come together.

Living in Amsterdam

A city that feels like home

Amsterdam is consistently ranked among the most liveable cities in the world. Here is what makes it especially attractive for international professionals and researchers.

Cycling culture

Amsterdam is the cycling capital of the world. Dedicated bike lanes, bike-sharing systems, and flat terrain make it the easiest way to get around. Most campus residents commute by bike.

English widely spoken

The Netherlands ranks #1 in English proficiency among non-native countries. You can live, work, and socialise fully in English from day one.

Excellent public transit

Trams, metro, buses, and trains form a seamless network. Amsterdam Zuid station sits directly at the campus, connecting you to the entire country and Europe.

Top quality of life

Amsterdam consistently features in global top-10 liveability rankings. Clean air, green parks, world-class healthcare, and a strong sense of community.

International schools

Multiple international and bilingual schools in the Amsterdam area, including several near Zuidas, make it easy for families with children to settle in.

Diverse expat community

Amsterdam is home to one of Europe's largest international communities. Expat centres, social groups, and cultural events make integration smooth and welcoming.

Getting Around

The best-connected campus in The Netherlands

Amsterdam Zuid station sits right at the edge of campus, putting the entire country and Europe within easy reach. The district is designed for sustainable mobility.

Innovation District Zuidas

Amsterdam Zuid Station - direct campus access

Schiphol Airport

8 min

Direct train, every 10 minutes

Rotterdam Centraal

35 min

Intercity direct, high-speed rail

Utrecht Centraal

25 min

Intercity, frequent service

Tram, metro & bus

Multiple tram and bus lines stop at Zuidas. The North/South metro line connects you to Amsterdam Centraal in 10 minutes and Amsterdam Noord in 15.

Cycling infrastructure

Dedicated bike lanes connect Zuidas to all Amsterdam neighbourhoods. Bike parking garages at the station. OV-fiets (public bikes) available for the last mile.

On Campus

Everything you need, within walking distance

The Innovation District is designed for convenience. Whether you need a quick lunch, a workout, or a quiet spot in the park, it is all here.

Restaurants & cafes

From campus canteens and specialty coffee spots to international restaurants. The Zuidas area offers dozens of dining options for every taste and budget.

Sports facilities

The VU Sports Centre offers a full gym, swimming pool, and group classes. Multiple sports clubs on campus for everything from running to football to yoga.

Green spaces

The Zuidas area includes green park corridors, the VU campus gardens, and the nearby Amsterdamse Bos - one of Europe's largest urban forests - just a bike ride away.

Shops & services

Supermarkets, pharmacies, banks, hairdressers, and more. The Gelderlandplein shopping centre is a short walk away, and Zuidas itself continues to expand its retail offering.

Interested in joining our campus community?

Whether you are a researcher exploring collaboration opportunities, a company looking for lab or office space, or a professional considering a move to Amsterdam - we would love to hear from you.