Moving to a new city for university? Between navigating your timetable, sorting out life admin, and—most importantly—finding your new go-to coffee spot, there’s a lot to figure out. Luckily, student life in South Africa’s top university hubs is buzzing, and CampusKey is here to make your transition as smooth (and social) as possible. Let’s dive into what a “day in the life” could look like in one of these vibrant student cities.
Vibes & Views in Cape Town
Mornings by the Mountain
Start your day at the CK mini, where the coffee is strong, and the aesthetic is unmatched. Fuel up before tackling the day ahead—whether it’s lectures, study sessions, or a spontaneous sunrise hike up Lion’s Head.
Afternoon Adventures
If you’ve wrapped up your workload, take a beach break at Clifton 2nd or go for a coffee run at Origin in De Waterkant. CampusKey’s Mini Café also has your back with grab-and-go snacks before a late-night study session.
Evening Energy
Cape Town’s nightlife is next-level. Hit up The Village Idiot for a chilled-out pub vibe or dance the night away at Fiction on Long Street. Then, return to your cosy CampusKey room for a well-earned rest.
Social & Study Spots in Stellenbosch
Wake Up Right
Kick off the morning with a caffeine boost from the CK mini at Bordeux before heading to campus. Stellenbosch is a walkable student town, so you’ll get your daily steps in between lectures.
Post-Lecture Plans
After class, grab a smoothie at Meraki or join a CampusKey study session in the communal lounge. If the sun’s out, a picnic at the Jan Marais Nature Reserve is always a good idea.
Stellies After Dark
From wine tastings to student-friendly bars like Balboa or Bohemia, there’s never a dull moment. And if rugby’s on, head to the CK Mini Café to catch the game on the big screen.
Buzzing Student Life in Pretoria
Morning Moves
Hit up Hinterland or Tribeca Coffee for your first cup of the day before diving into lectures. If you’re feeling extra productive, CampusKey’s study spaces are the perfect spot to smash through assignments.
Daytime Explorations
Take a mental break at Hazelwood, where you can grab a bite or chill in the green spaces. If you’re into fitness, the CampusKey gym is open 24/7 for a quick workout.
Pretoria Nights
When the sun sets, head to Eastwoods or The Social Club for a proper student night out. Or, keep it chill with a CK movie night—popcorn included.
Small-Town Charm in Potchefstroom
Rise & Grind
Start the day with a CK mini coffee at CampusKey or a brekkie at the Bult before heading to NWU. Potch is student central, and you’ll always bump into someone you know between classes.
Afternoon Chill
After your academic hustle, unwind at Die Akker, one of the oldest student hangouts in town. If you’re looking for something more active, a jog along the Mooirivier is a great way to reset.
Evening Fun
From karaoke at Texas Saloon to quiz nights at Bourbon Street, Potch keeps things lively. And of course, CK hosts its own social events, so you’ll never be short on weekend plans.
City Meets Coast in Gqeberha
Beachy Mornings
Start your day with an ocean view at Rocomamas Kings Beach or grab a coffee at Mastertons, a local favourite. With CampusKey Qheberha’s rooftop penthouses, you can enjoy the sea breeze from home too.
Seaside Studies
Need a study break? Take a walk along Shark Rock Pier, or grab a surfboard and hit Hobie Beach. If you’re feeling social, CK’s weekly events are a great way to meet fellow students.
Nightlife by the Bay
End the day with a braai at CK or explore Beer Yard for a chilled hangout with friends. If you’re in the mood for a party, Balizza is the go-to spot for students.
Student Stronghold in Bloemfontein
Morning Fuel
Start your day at the on-site CK mini or Royal Roastery, the ultimate spots for a pre-class caffeine fix. With everything in close proximity, Bloem is the definition of a student-friendly city.
Midday Breaks
Take a breather at Naval Hill, where you’ll get the best views of the city (and maybe even spot a giraffe). Or, catch up on work at the CampusKey study lounge with high-speed WiFi.
Bloem at Night
When the day is done, head to Reizis Square for food and live music, or grab your friends and experience Bloem’s famous boereraat nightlife at Mystic Boer.
Why CampusKey?
Moving to a new city is a big deal—but with CampusKey, you get a home, a community, and an unforgettable student experience. Here’s why CK is the best place to live:
- Premium Living – Fully furnished rooms, high-tech security, and uncapped WiFi.
- On-Site Perks – Gyms, communal kitchens, study areas, and a 24/7 on-site team.
- Social Scene – Weekly events, braais, networking nights, and live sports screenings.
- Prime Locations – Close to campus, nightlife, and everything in between.
- Mini Café & More – From quick coffee runs to late-night snacks, we’ve got you.
So, wherever your degree takes you, CampusKey makes sure you experience student life to the fullest. Ready to start your next chapter? See what’s waiting for you at CK!
