A lively Dutch city with a large university, narrow streets, and gabled houses. Home to the Groningen Museum and Martini Tower, with a vibrant market square and active nightlife.
Groningen, the capital of the northernmost Dutch province, blends medieval buildings with modern museums. Home to over 50,000 university students, the city has a youthful energy. You can cycle through the car-free center, ascend the 15th-century Martinitoren for city views, or visit the uniquely designed Groninger Museum. The surrounding countryside, with its open fields and small villages, provides opportunities for day trips.
University Life in Groningen
The University of Groningen, founded in 1614, and Hanze University of Applied Sciences contribute significantly to the city's demographics. Students make up about 25% of Groningen's population. You'll see them in cafes, on bicycles, and participating in various festivals throughout the year.
Cycling in Groningen
In Groningen, 57% of all journeys within the city are made by bicycle. The city center restricts car access, and bike lanes cover much of the urban area. You can rent a bicycle from many shops around the city. As you pedal through Groningen's streets, you'll understand why locals prefer this mode of transportation.
Martinitoren: Groningen's Gothic Tower
The Martinitoren, or Martini Tower, stands as Groningen's most recognizable landmark. This 97-meter Gothic bell tower has been part of the city since the 15th century. You can climb 260 steps to the top for views of Groningen and the surrounding area. The tower connects to the Martinikerk, a church with historical significance dating back to the 13th century.
Groninger Museum: Contemporary Art on the Canal
The Groninger Museum, with its bold, colorful architecture, sits on a canal near the train station. Alessandro Mendini designed the museum's unconventional exterior. Inside, you'll find a collection of modern and contemporary art, design, and fashion. Temporary exhibitions often feature innovative artworks, making the Groninger Museum an intriguing stop for those interested in current art trends.
Markets and Local Food
Groningen's markets play a significant role in daily life. The Vismarkt (Fish Market) hosts the city's main market on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Stalls sell fresh produce, flowers, cheese, and fish. You can try kibbeling (battered and fried fish) or a warm stroopwafel for a taste of local cuisine. The nearby Folkingestraat has specialty food shops and cafes where you can sample Dutch and international dishes.
Nightlife in Groningen
Groningen's nightlife benefits from a "no closing time" policy. Many bars and clubs remain open until the last customer leaves. The Grote Markt and surrounding streets have numerous pubs and bars. For live music, visit Vera, a venue that has hosted many bands since the 1970s. If you're in Groningen in January, you can attend the Eurosonic Noorderslag festival, featuring hundreds of European bands performing across the city.
Day Trips from Groningen
The area around Groningen provides several day trip possibilities. You can cycle to Bourtange, about 60 kilometers east of Groningen. This star-shaped fort, built in the 16th century, now functions as an open-air museum. For nature experiences, visit the Lauwersmeer National Park, about 30 kilometers northwest of the city. The park has hiking trails, bird watching spots, and facilities for water sports. On clear nights, the park's dark sky status makes it suitable for stargazing.
