Physical activity (PA) is a cornerstone of health and well-being for all age groups. However, young adults aged from 18 to 24 are particularly vulnerable to dropping out of physical activity and becoming inactive. This study, conducted as part of the "How Young People in Europe Move?" project, aims to explore the complex phe- nomenon of PA preferences among 2,165 university students (65.3% female) across sixteen universities spanning thirteen European countries. Through an online ques- tionnaire anchored in the bio-ecological model of PA promotion and derived from scientifically validated tests, participants were surveyed between April 2021 and January 2022. A factorial analysis of mixed data was used to examine relationship between PA preferences, individual characteristics and socio-cultural factors. PA preferences have been presented in terms of spatial, temporal, social, cultural, in- tensity, and equipment dimensions. Results highlight that spatial considerations, temporal aspects, and the availability of equipment are key variables in defining students' PA profiles. Cluster analysis revealed three distinctive typologies of un- dergraduate sport and PA participation: cluster 1 (Named "autonomous", 42.6% of participants) characterized by autonomous physical activity, whereas cluster 2 (Named "networked supervised", 28.7% of participants) and cluster 3 (Named "reg- ular supervised", 28.8% of participants) characterized by structured physical activity in clubs in outdoor locations throughout the year for the first mentioned and in enclosed spaces and at specific times for the second. These typologies challenge traditional paradigms prioritizing PA behaviors in terms of intensity and quantity. Furthermore, the study emphasizes that the format of PA, encompassing where, when, and how it is undertaken, is equally important significance. The emergence of autonomous PA practices including exercising at home, with pets, and using digital technology, suggests evolving trends among students. This shift reflects a desire for flexibility and self-organized sessions in PA. Sex plays a role in these preferences, with females being more engaged toward autonomous PA practices and outdoor activities. While cultural differences were not found to be a determinant factor, ge- ographical disparities influenced students' PA preferences. Eastern European students preferred self-organized PA, while southern European students were more involved in organized activities during the academic year. In general, the research underscores the multifaceted nature of PA, design by individual characteristics, liv- ing and global environments and these results suggest that young people's prefer- ences for PA should be taken into account when proposing the most attractive pro- grams. Variables such as gender and European regions seem to be factors that should be further investigated in order to optimize PA programs.