Things To Do
in Groningen
Groningen is a vibrant city in the northern part of the Netherlands known for its youthful atmosphere, thanks to its large student population. The city is characterized by its picturesque canals, historic buildings, and charming cobblestone streets. Groningen is also famous for its cycling culture, with many residents and visitors opting to explore the city by bike.
The city offers a mix of cultural attractions, lively nightlife, and a welcoming community spirit.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $75 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Groninger Museum, known for its modern architecture and contemporary art. Afterward, stroll through the beautiful Noorderplantsoen park to enjoy the fresh air.
Head to the historic city center and explore the Hoge and Lage der A canals. Stop for lunch at a local café and savor traditional Dutch pancakes.
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant along the canal. Afterward, take a leisurely walk to admire the city’s stunning illuminated buildings.
Rent a bike and explore the scenic outskirts of Groningen. Cycle through the picturesque countryside and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Visit the charming village of Winsum, just a short ride away, and have lunch at a quaint local eatery. Wander the streets and admire the beautiful historic houses.
Return to Groningen and unwind at a local brewery to taste some local craft beers. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the town as night falls.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Home to a vibrant student population and a strong university presence.
- Rich cultural scene with numerous festivals, museums, and theaters.
- Excellent public transportation and cycling infrastructure.
- Affordable living costs compared to other major Dutch cities.
- A beautiful mix of historic architecture and modern facilities.
- Relatively small city may lack some amenities found in larger cities.
- Weather can be rainy and windy, which may not appeal to everyone.
- Limited nightlife options compared to bigger urban areas.
- Some locals may be less proficient in English outside of university settings.
- Isolation from larger cities may require longer travel times for certain activities.
Best Activities in Groningen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful countryside and coastal areas of Groningen by bike.
Enjoy walking trails in the natural parks and along the Wadden Sea coast.
Paddle through the picturesque canals and waterways of Groningen.
Observe diverse bird species in the nature reserves and wetlands of the region.
Tours
Uncover the best of Groningen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Groningen
Visit one of these nice places.
The Martinitoren tower offers panoramic views of Groningen and is a great spot for photos.
Prinsentuin is a beautiful garden that provides picturesque views of the city and can be a great location for photos.
The area around the Onze Lieve Vrouwe church offers scenic views and great photo opportunities in Groningen.
Food in Groningen
Groningen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional spiced cake, often containing honey, and a specialty of the region. It can be found in local bakeries like De lekkerste koek in Groningen.
Must-Try!
A popular local snack consisting of a hard-boiled egg coated in a seasoned meat mixture and deep-fried. Try it at the food stalls in the Grote Markt area.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Groningen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Groningen's oldest and most renowned market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food vendors offering diverse treats like Dutch pancakes and herring sandwiches.
On Saturdays, this park hosts a vibrant organic farmer's market with a variety of local and international food stands, offering everything from freshly baked bread to falafel wraps.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Groningen, it is important to be mindful of bicycle lanes and to yield to cyclists. Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation, so it's important to be aware of their presence and to avoid walking or standing in bike lanes.
Dutch people highly value their personal space, so it's important to respect physical boundaries and avoid standing too close or initiating physical contact without permission.
In Groningen, being punctual is highly valued. Arriving on time for appointments, meetings, and social gatherings is considered a sign of respect and courtesy.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Groningen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Groningen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Groningen, it is not common to tip in restaurants, cafes, or taxis. Service charges are usually included in the bill, and tipping is not expected. However, if you are particularly satisfied with the service, you can round up the bill or leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation.
Payment in Groningen is predominantly cashless, with credit and debit cards widely accepted in most establishments. Contactless payment methods are also prevalent, and mobile payment apps are becoming increasingly popular. It is advisable to carry a small amount of cash for places that do not accept cards, such as some smaller shops or market stalls.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Groningen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Groningen is during the spring season (March to May) when the tulips are in full bloom and the weather is mild. Visitors can expect to enjoy outdoor activities and explore the city's parks and gardens.
Summertime (June to August) is another popular season to visit Groningen. The city comes alive with outdoor festivals, street markets, and cultural events. The weather is pleasant, and visitors can also enjoy the nearby beaches and waterfront areas.
In the autumn season (September to November), Groningen experiences a colorful transformation as the leaves change to hues of red, orange, and gold. The city's cozy cafes and cultural attractions offer a warm retreat for visitors during this time.
Winter (December to February) in Groningen brings a festive atmosphere with holiday markets, ice skating, and cozy winter activities. Although the weather is colder, the city's charm continues to shine through its seasonal events and indoor attractions.
Groningen at Night
Hiking in Groningen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area featuring beautiful walking trails through forests and along waterways, perfect for hiking and enjoying nature.
A picturesque lake area with surrounding trails that are great for hiking, bird watching, and enjoying the tranquil scenery.
Offers several trails that wind through forests and past historical sites, providing a peaceful hiking experience.
A large wetland area with diverse wildlife, providing numerous hiking routes that allow for exploration of its unique landscape.
This small village area features walking paths along the river and picturesque countryside, ideal for a pleasant day hike.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Groningen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Groningen by plane.
The largest international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 170 km from Groningen.
An international airport serving the Rotterdam and The Hague area, located about 190 km from Groningen.
A key international airport in the southern Netherlands, approximately 200 km from Groningen.
An international airport located in Germany, roughly 230 km east of Groningen.
One of the main airports in Germany, located about 360 km southeast of Groningen.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Groningen, representing a significant portion of the population.
A notable immigrant community, contributing to the cultural diversity of Groningen.
Another key immigrant group in Groningen, also adding to the city's cultural landscape.
A large demographic due to the presence of the University of Groningen and Hanze University of Applied Sciences.
A growing demographic in Groningen, seeking new opportunities and integration into Dutch society.
An important demographic group, representing a significant part of the aging population in the region.
Individuals in their early career stages contributing to the local economy and culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Groningen, with many local clubs and a passionate following in the region.
Ice hockey has a significant following in Groningen, with teams competing in national leagues and a strong community of fans.
Field hockey is widely played in Groningen, with several clubs catering to different age groups and skill levels.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in Groningen, with various clubs and recreational leagues for both competitive and casual play.
Cycling is not only a popular sport but also a common mode of transportation in Groningen, supported by extensive bike paths and facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Groningen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Groningen is quite accommodating with numerous cafes and restaurants offering creative vegetarian and vegan dishes, such as De Uurwerker and Het Concerthuis.
Many establishments in Groningen provide gluten-free alternatives, including Het Concerthuis, which offers a dedicated gluten-free menu.