Groningen
Save23 hand-picked places in 9 lists. Tick the categories you want to see on the map.
Only have a day? See 2 ready-made day plans ↓10 places on the map
Top 10
- 1
The city's 97-metre landmark church tower with sweeping views.
3 tips
- Climb about 260 steps to the top
- Tickets at the tower entrance
- Clear days show the Wadden coast
📷 Photos
- 2
Main square framed by the Martinitoren, town hall and cafes.
3 tips
- Market days are Tuesday, Friday and Saturday
- Terraces fill up on sunny days
- Heart of the city's nightlife
📷 Photos
- 3
Bold postmodern museum on the canal with art, design and fashion.
3 tips
- Building itself is a work of art
- Right opposite the main station
- Check temporary exhibitions
📷 Photos
- 4
Striking cultural centre with library, cinema and free rooftop terrace.
3 tips
- Free entry to the building
- Take the escalators to the roof
- Cafe with views on top
📷 Photos
- 5
Hidden 17th-century rose and herb garden with a sundial gate.
3 tips
- Free entry, open spring to autumn
- Tea house inside the garden
- Best in June for roses
📷 Photos
- 6
Popular landscaped park along the old city moat.
3 tips
- Noorderzon festival every August
- Great for a picnic
- Free and open all day
📷 Photos
- 7
Gothic church with medieval frescoes and a famous historic organ.
3 tips
- Check opening times
- Organ concerts in summer
- Small entrance fee
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- 8
Canal lined with old warehouses and moored barges, the city's prettiest view.
- Tip: Sunset
3 tips
- Best at golden hour
- Cafes along the water
- Walk along to Lage der A
📷 Photos
- 9
Lively square hosting the city's main open-air market.
3 tips
- Biggest market on Saturday
- Grab fresh herring or kibbeling
- Corn Exchange building on the square
📷 Photos
- 10
Medieval church with a slender tower, now used for events.
3 tips
- Open on some days for visits
- Hosts concerts and fairs
- Next to the Vismarkt
📷 Photos
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Before you go: Groningen tips
Transportation
- Cycle everywhere: Groningen is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world; rent a bike and use the extensive bike lanes.
- Tap in with OVpay: Use your contactless bank card or an OV-chipkaart on Qbuzz buses and Arriva trains.
- Take regional trains: Arriva trains connect Groningen to the Wadden coast and northern villages.
Security
- Lock your bike twice: Bike theft is common; use two locks and park in guarded bike storage.
- Watch bike lanes: Pedestrians should stay off red bike lanes; cyclists move fast and expect clear paths.
- Stay alert at night: Groningen is safe but lively with students; keep valuables secure in busy bars.
Saving
- Enjoy the Forum rooftop: Forum Groningen has a rooftop terrace with city views and free entry to the building.
- Shop at the markets: Grote Markt and Vismarkt host markets with fresh produce and snacks.
- Visit Prinsenhof garden: This historic garden is free and peaceful.
Weather/Clothing
- Pack for wind and rain: Groningen is often windy and wet; bring a waterproof jacket and layers.
- Prepare for cold winters: Winters can be cold and frosty; bring gloves and a warm hat.
- Enjoy summer festivals: Summer is mild; bring light layers for evening events.
Cultural
- Climb the Martinitoren: The tower offers views over Groningen and is a city landmark.
- Visit the Groninger Museum: Known for its striking architecture and modern art collections.
- Try local food: Taste Groninger mustard soup, Groninger koek and metworst.
Local Hacks
- Join Noorderzon festival: This August festival brings theatre and music to Noorderplantsoen park.
- Go mudflat walking: Wadlopen trips from Pieterburen let you walk across the Wadden Sea at low tide.
- Catch Eurosonic Noorderslag: In January the music festival fills venues with new European bands.
1-day itineraries in Groningen
Only have a day? Each one keeps you in one area, from morning to late afternoon, with lunch nearby.