Siegen is a city full of charm and hidden gems, making it an ideal spot for students seeking inspiration. The city center is easily accessible on foot from the main train station, and it offers a unique blend of urban vibe and historical flair. Don’t worry about the steep hills—you can take the iconic Siegen “Hübbelbummler” bus to explore the sights with ease!

In the lower part of the city, you’ll find an abundance of shopping options. The City-Galerie, Sieg-Carré, and Bahnhofstraße are packed with everything from trendy boutiques to cozy cafés, perfect for grabbing a coffee or a snack between classes. Just at the end of Bahnhofstraße, the beautiful Siegufer invites you to take a break and enjoy the view of the impressive bronze statues of Henner and Frieder, representing the city’s rich history.

For food lovers, Siegen has plenty to offer! Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Flocke or Nonas Brunch, where you can try local specialties like Siegerländer Schwarzbrot. These welcoming spots are perfect for recharging before heading up to explore the upper city.

The historical significance of Siegen shines at Kölner Tor, once part of the city’s medieval fortifications. Here, you can marvel at the Martinikirche, the oldest church in Siegen, and the Untere Schloss, which now houses parts of the University of Siegen. If you're into art, don’t miss the Museum für Gegenwartskunst (MGK), known for its impressive collection of contemporary works.

As you head up to the upper city, be sure to check out the Alte Poststraße, lined with charming cafés and restaurants where you can unwind. The Old Market Square, with its historic town hall, is a great place to learn more about Siegen’s history and maybe even join a city tour.

Another highlight is the Kornmarkt, a popular meeting spot with shady benches and a large outdoor chess game. From here, it’s just a short walk to the Oberes Schloss and its lovely garden, perfect for a relaxing stroll among colorful flowers.

Siegen offers not just an excellent study environment, but also a vibrant community and rich history. It’s the perfect place for students looking to grow both academically and personally. Discover the diverse offerings of Siegen and let this charming city inspire you!

And for the latest happenings, don't forget to check out the Instagram channel Siegen geht Steil—the cultural hub of Siegen from the Siegener Zeitung! 🙌🏼 Get weekly event tips in and around Siegen, and follow the page for all the must-see activities!

We´ve got 10 good reasons for you!

The University of Siegen offers international students an excellent education, and the surrounding region, South Westphalia, provides a unique environment where innovation meets craftsmanship and technology meets tradition. This combination makes Siegen a fantastic place to build your future after graduation. Here are the key reasons why staying in Siegen could be the best decision for your career and personal development.

1. High Demand for Skilled Graduates South Westphalia is an industrial powerhouse with a strong demand for skilled professionals, particularly in engineering, technology, and manufacturing. As a graduate of the University of Siegen, you’ll be well-positioned to take advantage of the local job market, which is constantly seeking international talent.
2. Affordable Cost of Living Compared to larger German cities, Siegen offers a much lower cost of living, allowing you to manage your finances more effectively. Affordable rent, transportation, and everyday expenses make it easier to focus on your career while enjoying a good quality of life.
3. Strong Industry Connections The University of Siegen has strong partnerships with local companies, providing excellent opportunities for internships, projects, and job placements. These connections help you gain practical experience and increase your chances of securing a job in the region after graduation.
4. Excellent Work-Life Balance South Westphalia offers a balanced lifestyle, with access to nature, outdoor activities, and a peaceful environment. The region’s culture values both hard work and time for personal well-being, which is ideal for graduates seeking a healthy work-life balance.
5. Innovative Job Market South Westphalia is where innovation meets craftsmanship. The region is known for being home to “hidden champions” — medium-sized, often family-owned companies that are global leaders in their fields. These companies provide opportunities to work in forward-thinking environments where technology and tradition merge.
6. Visa Opportunities for International Graduates Germany offers an 18-month job-seeking visa for international graduates, allowing you to stay in the country and search for employment after completing your studies. Siegen is an ideal place to take advantage of this, with a strong job market and local initiatives that support international professionals.
7. Rich Cultural and Historical Background Siegen is a city with deep historical roots and a vibrant cultural scene. As the birthplace of Peter Paul Rubens, the city has a rich artistic heritage, with plenty of cultural experiences to enjoy, from galleries to local festivals. This makes Siegen an inspiring place to live and explore, offering a sense of belonging and cultural enrichment.
8. Supportive Environment for Career Development Programs like FIT in Siegen provide international students with valuable resources to prepare for the job market. These initiatives offer career coaching, language courses, and networking opportunities to help you build the skills needed to succeed in Germany, ensuring a smooth transition from university to professional life.
9. Close Proximity to Major Cities While Siegen offers a quieter, more affordable lifestyle, it’s well-connected to larger cities like Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Frankfurt. This means you can enjoy the benefits of living in a smaller, community-oriented city while still having easy access to the business and cultural opportunities of major urban centers.
10. Welcoming and Inclusive Community Siegen is known for its "Macher-Mentalität"—a hardworking, innovative mindset that embraces newcomers. The city’s inclusive environment, combined with its rich traditions, ensures that international graduates feel welcome and supported as they integrate into the local community. This creates a sense of belonging and fosters long-lasting professional and personal relationships.

In Siegen, you will find a community that respects the past but looks forward to the future, where personal independence and collective collaboration are highly valued. By staying in here after graduation, you’re investing in a region that values talent, provides strong professional opportunities, and offers a high quality of life—all in an environment where tradition and innovation work hand in hand.

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