Best study spots in Amsterdam

Let's be honest, we all experience days when studying on campus just isn't enough. Maybe it’s too crowded, or maybe you’re simply craving a change of scenery and a little inspiration. As a master’s student, I’ve definitely had days when neither campus nor home felt like the right place to write my thesis.

On days like that, I’ve discovered that the city is full of hidden gems and cozy spots perfect for studying, no matter your mood or preference.

OBA's: Oosterdok, De Hallen, and CC Amstel.

Oosterdork (Central Library).

First up are the city’s public libraries, better known as the OBA (Openbare Bibliotheek Amsterdam). The Amsterdam Public Library has 29 branches throughout the city, providing welcoming spaces for studying alone or with friends, and serving as a refuge during Amsterdam’s famous rain. My personal favorites are OBA Oosterdok near Centraal Station, OBA De Hallen in West, and CC Amstel in de Pijp area.

OBA Oosterdok is the biggest library in the city and the second largest public library in Europe, with an amazing rooftop viewpoint, perfect for a study break with a view. OBA De Hallen is located in a beautiful old tram depot, which has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and culture. The entrance is through Café Belcampo, the branch’s welcoming reading café where you can enjoy a good cup of coffee and a sweet treat while you work. For a smaller, more intimate vibe, CC Amstel is ideal, with friendly staff that make it easy to settle in. And for those living near campus, the recently renovated OBA Buitenveldert offers a fresh, promising new atmosphere that’s definitely worth checking out.

Sportcafé VU Amsterdam

If you are near the VU Amsterdam campus, the Sportcentrum in Uilenstede is a great option if you want to stay close to university life while getting some studying done or study after a workout. They have comfortable workspaces and tasty snacks. It’s also a lively spot with plenty of events. They host monthly pub quizzes, broadcast all major sports matches, and even have a selection of board games to play when you need a break from the books.

Hotel Casa & Volkshotel: Social Spaces Ideal for Laptop Use

Volkshotel

If you’re looking for a different vibe, there are a couple of hotel lobbies in Amsterdam that are surprisingly perfect for getting work done. One of my favorites is Hotel Casa in the Oost area, which also hosts students, so you really feel a university atmosphere mixed with the energy of remote workers and freelancers. It’s spacious, bright, and has a relaxed buzz that makes it easy to focus for a few hours.

Another great spot is the Volkshotel in Wibautstraat (also in Oost). Its lobby is thoughtfully divided: one side is laptop-friendly, ideal for focused work, while the other has a more relaxed restaurant or lobby vibe (you’ll even see yellow “no laptop” signs on some tables to keep the atmosphere calm). The dedicated laptop zone is surprisingly quiet, perfect if you need concentration.

Both of these locations won’t rush you to buy a drink to stay, but I highly recommend treating yourself while you’re there.

Final Recommendations

Tolbar. Image from Verity Seward

Amsterdam offers tons of great coffee spots that are perfect for working on your laptop. Some of my personal favorites include Tolbar, The School of Life in Frederiksplein, and Screaming Beans near Waterlooplein. Each has a unique vibe and reliable Wi-Fi, making them ideal for focused work sessions.

Other great spots that have been recommended to me and are definitely worth trying are Midwest and Kanarie Club, both located in West Amsterdam and known for their cozy atmospheres and great coffee.

I hope this list provides you with inspiration to study even when outside of campus, and let me know in the comments which spots are missing. Happy studying!