Saarbrücken
CENTRE OF COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY WITH A FRENCH WAY OF LIFE

Panorama of Saarbrücken © Wolfgang Staudt Fotografie/flickr
Panorama of Saarbrücken© Wolfgang Staudt Fotografie/flickr

Saarbrücken is situated next to the French border. You'll notice the French influence in the culture and way of life. The higher education institutions, research institutes and companies attract people to the town from all over the world. This is where the small-town charm blends a big city flair.

Facts

180,374 Inhabitants ¹

31,397 Students ²

5 Higher education institutions ²

WELCOME TO SAARBRÜCKEN

Saarbrücken is the capital of the federal state of Saarland and the heart of a flourishing economic region. The town is a centre of future-oriented research, especially in the field of computer technology. Institutions such as the (DFKI), the and the (LZI) at Schloss Dagstuhl are leaders in information science. Additionally, the (IZES), which conducts research into renewable energies, is located in Saarbrücken.

For many years, the Saarbrücken region was a centre of heavy industry. Today, the rusty remains of the abandoned are a reminder of Europe’s industrial landscape in the 20th century. This impressive complex is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.

Saarland once belonged to France, and Saarbrücken’s inhabitants have always maintained close cultural and economic ties with their French neighbours. This openness and high level of cooperation are reflected in numerous business ventures and academic links between local higher education institutions, such as in Strasbourg and Metz.

Tip

The Saarland offers beautiful views. In this federal state, you can admire the „curvaceous“ river Saar. The „Saarschleife“, a narrow bend of the river near Mettlach, is a Saarland emblem and a unique motif.

When you’re in the Saarland, you should make a point of watching the locals prepare a „Schwenkbraten“. This is a local speciality: marinated neck of pork barbecued over coals on a grid suspended by a three-legged tripod. The procedure is referred to as „Schwenken“, because the joint swings to and fro over the fire. This form of barbecue is a local custom: as soon as the first warm days arrive, everyone gets out their „Schwenker“ (or barbecue). An invitation to a „Schwenk“ session is the ultimate gesture of hospitality!

SAMANDAR FROM UZBEKISTAN

LIVING IN SAARBRÜCKEN

The best way to get around in Saarbrücken is by bike. The different parts of town are relatively far apart and buses run only rarely in the evenings and at night. There is a well-developed network of cycle paths. The more you cycle, the quicker you’ll get used to the region’s hilly terrain. The student dormitories are inexpensive and, depending on their exact location, are close to the higher education institutions or town centre.

Links

The old part of town around St. Johanner Markt and Mainzer Strasse are popular both among students and locals. There are lots of cafés, bars and restaurants here.

How to find a room in Saarbrücken

Many university and college towns have dormitories or student halls, and a room there is often the most affordable accommodation. To obtain a room in a dormitory or student hall, you have to apply to your college or university’s student union (). Our ‘Find Student Hall’ function can be of practical help. You only need to make a few mouse clicks to get to the online application form. Find a room and more information about dormitories and student halls in Saarbrücken.

Sources
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