Welcome to Groningen, a hidden gem in the Netherlands that offers a refreshing alternative to the tourist-packed streets of Amsterdam. Located on the other side of the country, this charming city is often overlooked by visitors, but it’s packed with attractions that make it a must-visit destination.
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This comprehensive guide will take you through the best things to do in both Groningen city and the surrounding province, perfect for travelers looking to experience authentic Dutch culture. With its rich history dating back to medieval times and a youthful energy thanks to its large student population, Groningen is an ideal destination for those seeking a unique experience.
From historic buildings and museums to picturesque canals and vibrant cultural spots, this list of top picks will help you make the most of your visit to this charming Dutch destination.
Discovering Groningen: A Hidden Gem in the Netherlands
Tucked away in the north of the Netherlands, Groningen is a treasure waiting to be discovered by visitors from around the world. This charming city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment that makes it an ideal destination for travelers.
Why Groningen Should Be on Your Travel Radar
Groningen is strategically located, making it easily accessible from major cities like Amsterdam and Hamburg. You’re just a couple of hours away from Amsterdam and only three hours from Hamburg, Germany, making it a perfect stop on your European itinerary. With its rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and friendly locals, Groningen is a city that will captivate you with its charm.
The city’s compact center is filled with historic landmarks, picturesque canals, and modern attractions, ensuring that there’s something for every kind of traveler.
Getting to and Around Groningen
Reaching Groningen is straightforward, with direct train connections from Amsterdam taking approximately 2-2.5 hours. The city is also well-connected to Germany, with Hamburg just three hours away by car or train, making it accessible for international visitors.
| Mode of Transport | From Amsterdam | From Hamburg |
|---|---|---|
| Train | 2-2.5 hours | 3 hours |
| Car | 2-3 hours | 3 hours |
Once in Groningen, the city center is best explored on foot or by bicycle, which is the preferred mode of transportation for locals. Public transportation within the city is efficient, with buses connecting all major attractions. For those wanting to explore the surrounding countryside and villages, renting a bicycle or joining an organized tour provides the most authentic Dutch experience.
Exploring Groningen City’s Historic Center
The heart of Groningen beats strongest in its historic center, where ancient buildings tell tales of the past. As you explore this vibrant area, you’ll discover a mix of medieval architecture, charming streets, and picturesque canals that make Groningen a unique and fascinating destination.
Martini Tower: Climb for Panoramic Views
The Martini Tower, also known as the Martinitoren, is a striking landmark in Groningen’s historic center. Climbing to the top rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings.
Grote Markt and Historic Buildings
The Grote Markt is the bustling heart of Groningen’s historic center, surrounded by impressive historic buildings that showcase the city’s rich history. Take a stroll around the market and admire the beautiful architecture, including the iconic Martini Tower.
Picturesque Canals: Hoge and Lage der A
The picturesque canals of Hoge der A and Lage der A are a highlight of Groningen’s historic center. These charming waterways are lined with beautifully preserved merchant houses dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, many of which are now listed buildings.
- The picturesque canals offer some of Groningen’s most photogenic views, rivaling those found in Amsterdam but without the crowds.
- The A-Canal divides the two charming streets, creating perfect photo opportunities from the bridges that cross it.
- Morning is the best time to visit when the light is soft and the water is calm, reflecting the colorful historic buildings.
Must-Visit Museums in Groningen
Discover the cultural and historical significance of Groningen by visiting its must-see museums. Groningen is a city that seamlessly blends its rich history with a vibrant cultural scene, and its museums are a testament to this blend.
Groninger Museum: Contemporary Art in a Stunning Building
The Groninger Museum is a must-visit for art enthusiasts, housed in a striking building that is a work of art in itself. The museum features an impressive collection of contemporary art from around the world.
University Museum: Science and Curiosities
The University Museum Groningen is a treasure trove of scientific curiosities and historical artifacts. With a collection that spans centuries, the museum offers a unique glimpse into the world of science and academia.
Northern Maritime Museum (Museum aan de A)
The Northern Maritime Museum, located along the A River, tells the story of Groningen’s maritime history and its significance as a trading hub. The museum is housed in two of Groningen’s oldest buildings, which themselves are a testament to the city’s rich history.
The museum’s collection includes a variety of maritime artifacts, maps, and trade goods that highlight Groningen’s role in the shipping industry. Interactive exhibits make it an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
Unique Cultural Experiences in Groningen
Immerse yourself in Groningen’s vibrant cultural scene, where history meets innovation. The city offers a diverse range of cultural experiences that cater to all interests.
Forum Groningen: Modern Cultural Hub
Forum Groningen is a dynamic cultural center that hosts a variety of events, exhibitions, and performances. It’s a place where you can explore contemporary art, history, and culture in an interactive and engaging environment.
Storyworld: Comics and Animation Museum
Step into the colorful world of comics and animation at Storyworld. This museum is dedicated to the art of storytelling through illustrations and animations, offering a unique experience for fans of all ages.
GRID Graphic Museum
The GRID Graphic Museum celebrates the rich history of printing and graphic design. Although it’s currently in transition, the museum still offers special exhibitions and workshops where you can learn about traditional printing techniques and see rare printed materials.
Groningen, Netherlands: Best Things to Do Outdoors
From green oases to lakeside recreation, Groningen has something for everyone outdoors. The city and its surroundings offer a diverse range of activities that cater to different interests and preferences.
Noorderplantsoen: The City’s Green Oasis
Noorderplantsoen is a beautiful park in the heart of Groningen, offering a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle. This green oasis features walking paths, picnic areas, and a variety of flora. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying nature. You can take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or simply sit back and enjoy the surroundings.
Paterswoldsemeer: Lake Activities and Recreation
Paterswoldsemeer is a large lake near Groningen, offering a range of water activities and recreational opportunities. You can enjoy sailing, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the lake. The surrounding area also features walking and cycling paths, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing day out, Paterswoldsemeer has something for you.
City Beach at DOT: Urban Relaxation
The City Beach at DOT is a unique urban oasis in Groningen, offering a beach experience in the heart of the city. You can relax on the sand, enjoy a drink or meal at the beach bar, or take in a 3D planetarium show at the DOT building. During the summer, the venue hosts outdoor cinema nights and live music performances, making it a vibrant spot for both locals and visitors.
| Outdoor Activity | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Relaxation | Noorderplantsoen | Peaceful park with walking paths and picnic areas |
| Water Activities | Paterswoldsemeer | Sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding on the lake |
| Urban Beach Experience | City Beach at DOT | Relax on the sand, enjoy food and drinks, and 3D planetarium shows |
Food and Drink Experiences in Groningen
Groningen is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of local delicacies and vibrant café culture. The city offers a range of culinary experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Try Local Delicacies: Eierbal and Groninger Poffert
When in Groningen, be sure to try some of the local specialties like Eierbal and Groninger Poffert. Eierbal is a deep-fried ball filled with egg, a unique treat you won’t want to miss. Groninger Poffert, on the other hand, is a type of mini pancake that is both delicious and fun to eat.
De Drie Gezusters: Europe’s Largest Pub
De Drie Gezusters is a must-visit when in Groningen, known as Europe’s largest pub. This iconic establishment offers a vast selection of beers and a lively atmosphere that is perfect for socializing.
Groningen’s Vibrant Café Culture
Groningen’s café culture is a central part of the city’s social life, with numerous establishments ranging from traditional Dutch brown cafés to trendy specialty coffee shops. The area around Grote Markt and Poelestraat is the heart of the café district, where you can enjoy a koffie verkeerd paired with a slice of traditional Dutch apple pie.
Day Trips to Picturesque Villages
Beyond Groningen’s city limits lies a treasure trove of picturesque villages waiting to be explored. The Netherlands is renowned for its charming rural landscapes, and Groningen serves as an ideal base for discovering these hidden gems.
Bourtange: Star-Shaped Fortress Village
Bourtange is a unique village known for its star-shaped fortress, a testament to the region’s rich military history. Visitors can explore the fortress, walk along its walls, and experience what life was like in a 16th-century fortified village.
Appingedam: Home of the Hanging Kitchens
Appingedam is famous for its hanging kitchens, a series of historic cooking facilities that protrude over the Damsterdiep canal. This quaint village offers a glimpse into traditional Dutch life and is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and culture.
Garnwerd: The Narrowest Street in the Netherlands
Garnwerd is a picturesque village with a claim to fame: the narrowest street in the Netherlands that cars can drive on. While it’s not the absolute narrowest, it’s a charming alleyway lined with miniature brick houses, creating a postcard-perfect scene. Visitors can also explore the village’s 13th-century church and enjoy the surrounding countryside.
Natural Wonders Around Groningen
Beyond Groningen’s city limits, you’ll discover breathtaking natural landscapes that are perfect for a variety of outdoor activities. The region is home to numerous natural wonders that attract visitors from all over.
Lauwersmeer National Park: Birdwatching Paradise
Lauwersmeer National Park is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike. The park’s diverse habitats, including lakes, wetlands, and forests, support a wide range of bird species.
Visitors can enjoy guided tours to explore the park’s natural beauty and spot some of the rare birds that call this place home. With its rich biodiversity, Lauwersmeer National Park offers an unforgettable experience for those interested in exploring the great outdoors.
Wadden Sea: UNESCO World Heritage Site
The Wadden Sea is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its vast intertidal sand and mud flats. It’s a unique ecosystem that undergoes dramatic changes with each tide cycle.
Visitors can explore this natural wonder through guided “wadlopen” tours, walking on the seabed and observing marine life up close. The area is home to numerous species of birds, fish, and marine mammals, including harbor seals. Beyond wadlopen tours, visitors can enjoy boat excursions and seal-watching trips, offering different perspectives on this extraordinary natural wonder.
Unique Attractions for Animal Lovers
Animal lovers will find Groningen to be a treasure trove of exciting attractions. The region is home to several unique spots that offer unforgettable experiences for those who are passionate about wildlife.
Seal Centre Pieterburen: Rescue and Rehabilitation
The Seal Centre Pieterburen is a must-visit attraction for anyone who loves seals. Located near Groningen, this center is dedicated to the rescue and rehabilitation of seals. Visitors can observe these amazing creatures up close and learn about the center’s conservation efforts.
To plan your visit, you can check for Seal Centre Pieterburen tickets in advance.
DoeZoo Insektenwereld: Interactive Insect Zoo
For a more unconventional animal experience, head to DoeZoo Insektenwereld, an interactive insect zoo located in Leens, about 30 minutes from Groningen city. This fascinating attraction allows visitors to get up close and personal with a wide variety of insects and other invertebrates.
You can explore the Insectenwereld, which offers a hands-on experience, making it an excellent activity for families. Don’t forget to check for DoeZoo Insektenwereld tickets to plan your visit.
A great tip for visitors is to take advantage of the Combiticket, which offers a discount when visiting both the Seal Centre Pieterburen and DoeZoo Insektenwereld. This combination ticket is available for €14.50, making it an economical and fun way to experience two unique attractions in one day.
Historical Estates and Gardens
Beyond the bustling streets of Groningen, you’ll discover serene historical estates and beautifully maintained gardens. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into the region’s rich history and natural beauty.
Menkemaborg: Step Back in Time
Menkemaborg is a historical estate that transports you back in time. This 14th-century borg, or fortified house, showcases the life and times of the Menkemaborg family. With its authentic furnishings and beautiful gardens, Menkemaborg provides a unique historical experience.
Fraeylemaborg: Historic Estate
Fraeylemaborg is another significant historical estate in the region, boasting an impressive collection of art and historical artifacts. The estate’s beautiful gardens and tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal visit for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Hortus Botanicus Haren: Botanical Gardens
The Hortus Botanicus in Haren is one of the Netherlands’ oldest and most diverse botanical gardens, covering 20 hectares. It features themed gardens like the Chinese garden, complete with authentic pavilions, and a Celtic garden inspired by ancient traditions. The garden’s Hondsrugtuin showcases native flora of the Hondsrug geological formation.
The garden is also home to a variety of greenhouses with tropical and subtropical collections, allowing visitors to experience diverse plant environments. The Chinese Tea House offers a tranquil spot to enjoy traditional teas.
Unique Museums Off the Beaten Path
If you’re looking for a more unusual museum experience in Groningen, you’re in luck. The region is home to several museums that offer something different from the usual art and history exhibitions.
The Tea Factory: World’s Most Extensive Tea Menu
The Tea Factory in Houwerzijl boasts an impressive tea menu. With a vast selection, it’s a paradise for tea enthusiasts.
National Bus Museum: Vintage Transportation
The National Bus Museum in Hoogezand is a must-visit for transportation enthusiasts. It showcases a wide range of vintage buses, offering a glimpse into the history of public transportation.
Bell Foundry Museum: Craftsmanship Heritage
The Bell Foundry Museum (Klokkengieterijmuseum) in Heiligerlee preserves the art and craft of bell making. The museum is located in the original factory building that operated from 1862 until 1980. Here, you can learn about the bell-making process, from creating intricate clay molds to achieving perfect tonal quality.
Visitors can view original equipment, including enormous bell molds and furnaces. Interactive elements include the opportunity to play a carillon and participate in demonstrations where you can cast a small tin bell as a souvenir.
Outdoor Activities and Adventures
Beyond its historic center, Groningen unfolds into a landscape of exciting outdoor adventures waiting to be explored. The city and its surroundings offer a variety of activities that cater to different interests and preferences, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.
Cycling Routes Through the Countryside
Groningen is surrounded by picturesque countryside, making it an ideal location for cycling enthusiasts. The region offers numerous cycling routes that vary in difficulty and scenery, allowing visitors to explore the area’s natural beauty at their own pace.
Barefoot Path in Opende: Sensory Experience
The Barefoot Path in Opende is a unique outdoor experience that invites visitors to engage their senses by walking barefoot along a specially designed path. This sensory journey stimulates the feet and encourages a deeper connection with nature.
Canal Tours: See Groningen from the Water
Groningen’s picturesque canals offer a different perspective on the city, with boat tours providing a relaxing way to explore its historic architecture and learn about its history. Visitors can choose from various tour options, including guided tours and self-guided kayak or stand-up paddleboard rentals.
Colorful Photo Spots in Groningen
From vibrant street art to architectural marvels, Groningen is a photographer’s paradise, offering a wealth of colorful photo opportunities. As you explore this charming Dutch city, you’ll discover a variety of unique and Instagram-worthy spots to capture its beauty.
Reitdiephaven: Rainbow-Colored Houses
One of the most colorful spots in Groningen is the Reitdiephaven neighborhood, known for its rainbow-colored houses. This vibrant housing complex is a photographer’s dream, offering a kaleidoscope of colors that are sure to brighten up any photo album. The unique architecture and picturesque surroundings make Reitdiephaven a must-visit spot for anyone looking to capture the essence of Groningen’s creativity and charm.
Wall House #2: Architectural Marvel
Wall House #2, designed by the renowned American architect John Hejduk, is an architectural masterpiece that is not to be missed. This striking building is a symbol of Groningen’s role in international postmodern architecture and a testament to the city’s commitment to innovative design. The structure’s unique concept, featuring a central wall that separates different living functions with colorful geometric volumes projecting from both sides, makes it a fascinating subject for photographers. Today, Wall House #2 serves as a cultural venue, hosting exhibitions, artist residencies, and special events that celebrate creative expression.
The building’s bold colors and unusual form are beautifully complemented by its picturesque natural surroundings, making it an ideal spot for capturing stunning photos. Visitors can explore the building’s unique architecture, attend one of its many cultural events, or simply enjoy the views of the surrounding landscape.
Planning Your Visit to Groningen
To experience Groningen at its best, timing and planning are key. You can visit the city year-round, but the period from May to September is particularly pleasant, with outdoor cafés open and cultural festivals in full swing.
Consider purchasing a Groningen City Card for discounts on admission tickets to multiple museums and attractions, making your tour more enjoyable and cost-effective. For families traveling with children, many attractions, like the Seal Centre Pieterburen, offer reduced prices or special family tickets.
Plan your day trips to surrounding villages and natural areas to experience the full charm of Groningen, making your visit to this vibrant city a memorable one.
The above is subject to change.
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