
What to Do in Groningen, Netherlands
Right up in the northern part of the Netherlands is the student-favourite city of Groningen. Groningen is buzzing with life and culture, packed with students and canals as well as some museums and of course, eateries and bars. Visiting Groningen is a nice choice when travelling through the Netherlands, particularly to show the vast difference amongst Dutchies and the culture from the South to the North. Groningen is one of our favourite places in the Netherlands!

If you're staying in Groningen for any number of nights, we think that it is best to do so the night after your day in Groningen. That way, you can get the train or drive up to Groningen in the morning, spend the rest of the day there, stay the night, and then head to your next destination. If you're a slow traveller, then a two night stay is likely ideal before you head to your next stop. We personally didn't stop as it was quite expensive to do so - so book well in advance!
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Where should I travel to next from Groningen?
Within the Netherlands: It usually makes sense to head to Groningen from Amsterdam and so your next move should be working your way south. Apeldoorn, Utrecht or Arnhem/Nijmegen make for a solid next choice. Check out our Utrecht city guide.
Outside of the Netherlands: If you have seen what you want to see in the Netherlands or have worked from the south upwards, then logically your next step would be to move across into Northern Germany. Brenhem or Hamburg are great choices, such that you can then move by land into Denmark. Or if your trip is going to take you south, then back to Amsterdam is a wise choice for train connections.
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When you arrive in Groningen, firstly we urge you to do a little bit of people watching. The northern part of the Netherlands has an entirely different aura and feel to it than the other major cities, particularly the southern parts. The northern Dutchies are, on the whole, more relaxed and easy-going, which really adds to the experience of Groningen. ​
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Late morning/Lunch
​It is likely that you have arrived by train or car in the late morning or early afternoon. If you're stomach is calling for it, it is probably a good time to stop for some lunch. The Dutch are particularly early eaters - with lunch at 11:30/midday and dinner between 5-6, and so earlier the better. From the train station, head in the direction of the city centre, stopping at Herebrug bridge on your way.
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Afternoon
After lunch, head to the Groninger Museum to see the art produced by local artists modern and older. For tickets, click here.
Allow an hour or two here and bare in mind it closes early.
We didn't make it in time as our Groningen trip didn't begin until 4pm! However, we aren't sure we would have visited regardless as each ticket is €16.50 and as not particularly ecstatic art-fans, we didn't see the value.
If walking through some gardens is more your jam, then head to Prinsentuin, a beautiful well-kept garden a mere five minutes walk from the city centre.
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​Late afternoon
In the later afternoon, head to Akerk, a distinct yellow prominent church in the middle of the city. Check to see if there is not a service going on, you might be able to enter.
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​Early evening
Walk through the main streets of the city centre to Grote Markt Groningen. Here you can see the St Joris church spire and the Gemeente (local authority) on the left - both marvellous buildings. The main square in Groningen makes for an awesome evening out. Enjoy some Dutch beers al-fresco style and a snack. See if any Groningers are eager to chat! They're a great bunch.
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Gemeente building​
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St Joris Church





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