A stone monument on a hilltop overlooking a Dundee and body of water, with a parking area and a few cars nearby, during sunset.

Dundee - The city of design, culture and sunshine

Dundee is an exciting city full of opportunities for students to explore, relax, and make lasting memories. From affordable hangouts to cultural hotspots, here’s a list of things to do that fit the student lifestyle.

Soak up the culture

V&A Dundee: Enjoy free entry to Scotland’s Museum of Design. Perfect for inspiring creativity or a chill day out with friends.

Dundee Contemporary Arts (DCA): A student favourite for budget-friendly cinema nights and free exhibitions. Don’t miss the DCA Café for affordable bites!

The Law: Gather your friends and hike up Dundee’s famous hill for amazing Instagram-worthy views – all for free

Exterior view of the Dundee Contemporary Arts building with large glass windows, white walls, and signage indicating galleries, cinema, print studio, create space, shop, and café bar, under a partly cloudy sky.
Dundee's V&A with a layered, angular design next to a docked tall ship with multiple masts under a blue sky.
Close-up of a DJ mixing music on a Pioneer DJ controller with colorful lights in the background.
A concert or nightclub scene with silhouettes of people in front of a stage illuminated by bright orange and yellow stage lights.

Student-friendly Hangouts

The Union: Whether you’re at Dundee or Abertay University, the student union at Dundee University is the go-to spot for events, cheap drinks, and meeting new people.

The Overgate: A central hub for students, offering a mix of shops, affordable eateries, and cosy spots to relax between classes or shopping trips.

Board Game Cafés: Chill with friends over games and snacks at spots like Netherworld or Abertay Union's gaming lounge.

It doesn’t end there…

Outdoor Adventures

Magdalen Green: Grab a takeaway coffee, hang out with friends, or revise under the sunshine at this beautiful park.

Broughty Ferry Beach: Perfect for a picnic or a break from city life, just a short bus ride away!

Tay River Walks: Take a break from your studies with relaxing riverside strolls or scenic runs.

Study Breaks & Day Trips

University of Dundee Botanic Garden: Free for students, it’s the perfect place to unwind during stressful times.

St Andrews: Hop on a bus for a day of exploring cobblestone streets, castles, and cosy cafés.

Tentsmuir Forest: Get some fresh air and take a peaceful walk along the beach and forest trails.

Budget-Friendly Nightlife

Student Nights: Venues like Aura host regular student nights with discounted entry and drinks.

Pub Quizzes: Test your knowledge at pubs like Dukes Corner, a great way to socialize on a budget.

Live Music: Fat Sam’s offers student discounts for gigs, while smaller venues like Clarks on Lindsay Street are great for local acts.

Get Involved

Join Clubs and Societies: From sports teams to gaming groups, both Dundee and Abertay Universities have a wide range of societies to suit every interest.

Volunteer: Get involved in local causes, meet people, and boost your CV with student-friendly organizations like Dundee Volunteer Life.