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 ↓Show on the map
Tips
6 places on the map
Rainy day
- 1
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
- 2
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
- 3
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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- 4
Maritime museum in medieval houses, covering northern shipping history.
3 tips
- Great ship models
- Includes a tobacco museum
- Allow an hour
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- 5
University museum with scientific instruments and curiosities.
3 tips
- Free or low-cost entry
- Limited hours, check ahead
- Interesting anatomical collection
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- 6
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.