Free time

In the city of optics, sports are a top priority. You can find the ideal balance to your studies and meet new people on the Saale river, in the heights of the Kernberge hills, in Paradies Park, or at one of the countless University sports courses.

Zumba

Image: Christoph Worsch (University of Jena)

Jena also has a rich cultural life, too. One of the highlights among Jena’s festivals is the University’s »Sommerfest« de. At the end of June, the area around the botanical garden de becomes a place to walk and dance, to experience various musicians, and a fascinating laser show.

An overview of Jena’s art and culture scene can be found hereExternal link.

Feuerwerk zum Sommerfest

Image: Jan-Peter Kasper (University of Jena)

It is not just about culture. Jena’s scenery and surroundings have a lot to offer. You can relax in Paradies Park after a long day at the university. In summer, it is ideal for jogging and barbecuing—in the middle of Jena. If you like beautiful, but very close trips, you might also visit the Botanical Garden de and Schiller’s Garden House.

Jena is surrounded by nature. All around there are limestone rocks, perfect for hiking and climbing. A stone’s throw away and you can be in a kayak on the Saale river, standing in the middle of the forest, or on a mountain biking at one of the Jena’s hills.

Boat trip on the Saale

Image: Anne Günther (University of Jena)

Jena offers bars, pubs and clubsExternal link throughout the city for night revellers. A good place to go is Wagnergasse with a number of bars, restaurants, and venues. But there are also other places in the city where you can spend the late hours. Why not go take a discovery tour?

Jentower by night

Image: Anne Günther (University of Jena)

Being part of the initial support, you can be a mentor for international students and help them, for example, during their enrolment, while opening a bank account, or registering at the University Computer Centre. You will also accompany them to the registration office and student services organization. Mentors of the International Office also help with the time table and provide an insight into student life in Jena.

International students

Image: Daniel Hofmann