Study in Dundee

Dundee at a glance

Dundee is a vibrant coastal city in eastern Scotland, celebrated for its compact size, strong creative industries, and welcoming atmosphere. Home to the University of Dundee and Abertay University, the city punches above its weight when it comes to innovation—especially in life sciences, gaming, and digital design. Often called Scotland’s ‘Sunniest City’, Dundee offers a relaxed pace of life with easy access to scenic views, beaches, and green spaces. Its affordability, safety, and student-first attitude make it a fantastic option for international students looking for quality education and quality of life.

Dundee is small enough that mostly everything is within walking or biking distance, but it still has a decent-sized city centre with plenty of shops and the Overgate Shopping Centre. It's on the water, which I like both for the views and the climate, although it does get quite windy. The city is old enough to have plenty of history, but is making a huge effort to modernise, and is definitely an up-and-coming city with huge developments along the waterfront [like] the V&A [Victoria and Albert Museum]. (Second year student, University of Dundee)

City highlights

The stunning V&A Dundee, Scotland’s first design museum, sits on the city’s redeveloped waterfront and draws visitors from across the UK. The nearby Discovery Point showcases the RRS Discovery, the Antarctic exploration ship built in Dundee. Students can explore the Dundee Contemporary Arts (DCA) centre for exhibitions, indie films, and events. The city centre combines Victorian buildings with bold modern developments, and you’ll find plenty of green spaces like Magdalen Green and Slessor Gardens for socialising or relaxing outdoors.

Design: From jewellery, to video games, as well as the only V&A Museum of Design outside London, Dundee might be the UK's hidden gem for design. 

Transport tips

Dundee is a compact city, so most students walk or cycle to get around. The bus network, operated by Xplore Dundee, offers frequent services across the city and suburbs. Students can save with a Ridacard or Young Scot card, which gives discounts on travel. 

The main train station connects Dundee to major cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen. 

The city also has a small airport with flights to London and Belfast. 

For cyclists, the city is bike-friendly with dedicated paths and scenic riverside routes.

Accommodation

Dundee is one of the most affordable university cities in the UK, with low average rent prices and a cost of living that suits student budgets. Most student housing is within walking distance of campus, especially in areas like West End, City Centre, and Hilltown. Both universities offer support for accommodation and host dedicated teams for international student services. 

Dundee is generally very safe, but it’s good practice to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Most student housing is in well-lit, busy areas.

Accommodation advice

Where to eat

Tailored to its student population, in Dundee you’ll find everything from traditional Scottish dishes to global street food and classic local takeaways. Check out Tahini for affordable Middle Eastern cuisine, Mas on Perth Road for Mexican bites, or The Bach for brunch and good coffee. The Overgate and Wellgate shopping centres have plenty of takeaway options, while the monthly Dundee Farmers' Market offers fresh, local ingredients and international flavours. Vegan and halal options are widely available throughout the city.

What to visit

Dundee is packed with things to explore between classes. The McManus Galleries offer free access to art, history, and natural sciences. Verdant Works tells the story of Dundee’s jute industry and is a must-visit for history fans. For a peaceful walk or study break, head to Balgay Hill and Observatory, or enjoy the riverside paths along the Tay. The DCA (Dundee Contemporary Arts) is a cultural hub offering cinema, workshops, and exhibitions year-round.

On your doorstep

Just over an hour from Edinburgh and Glasgow by train, Dundee is a great base for weekend trips. The Highlands, Cairngorms National Park, and scenic coastal villages like Broughty Ferry are within easy reach for hiking, wildlife watching, or beach days. Closer to home, Camperdown Country Park is perfect for a weekend picnic or wildlife spotting. Whether you want urban buzz or rural calm, Dundee has it all nearby.

Broughty Ferry Castle: Getting ready for dolphin-spotting in front of Broughty Ferry Castle. (University of Dundee student)

Basic safety

It’s important to adhere to basic safety practices when studying and living in any city. Being aware of your surroundings is always wise, especially in busy and populated areas.

Some basic advice from the Metropolitan Police will help to ensure you stay as free from crime as possible:

• Keep your valuables hidden and don’t carry large amount of cash.
• Beware of scams, such as street hustlers, unlicensed taxis, and non-official sellers.
• Keep your belongings, shopping, and luggage close to you at all times.
• Don’t leave your drinks unattended or accept them from strangers.
• Travel as a group and always make sure you tell your friends you got home safely, and vice versa.
• Double check all taxis have a visible and valid licence before using them. Street art