The city of Groningen, located in the northern Netherlands, has a long history stepped in culture and tradition. When visiting Groningen, things to do are a plenty and are a great balance between old and new. The city revolves around the Martinitoren, the tallest church steeple in the city, and one of the not-to-be-missed Groningen attractions.
The city of Groningen is also located in close proximity to the North Sea, and more in particular the beautiful West Frisian Islands. The islands of Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland, and Schiermonnikoog form a somewhat natural barrier between mainland Netherlands and the North Sea. The islands also house the Waddenzee – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a definite must-see when visiting Groningen.
In this guide you will discover more about Groningen, things to do in the city and surrounds, places to see, and much more. So, without further ado, immerse yourself in the ultimate Groningen tourist attractions guide.
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How to get to Groningen
In Groningen they say ‘Er gaat niets boven Groningen‘, or ‘There is nothing above Groningen’, and there’s a good reason for that. Groningen is the northernmost big city in the Netherlands, and as such it would take a while to reach it from other big cities in the country. Dutch people consider Groningen too far away to go there on a day trip and most of them have never been there. And this is such a pity, as Groningen has a lot to offer.
The best way to travel to Groningen is by train. The city is well connected with other major cities in the Netherlands. Besides, you will arrive in one of the most beautiful train stations in the Netherlands. Built in 1896 in Gothic Revival and Renaissance Revival style, the building is one of the must-sees in Groningen.
Pro tip: Buy your train tickets online with the Dutch Railways (NS) for hassle-free travel. On the website of NS you can also check for any discounts.
Tip: Read this post about using the public transport in the Netherlands. It’s packed with tips that only a local knows!
Here are some distances between other major cities in the Netherlands and Groningen and the time it takes to reach the city by train:
- Amsterdam – Groningen: 180 km; by train: 2 hrs 30 min
- Schiphol – Groningen: 200 km; by train: 2 hrs 30 min
- Eindhoven – Groningen: 250 km; by train: 3 hrs
- Utrecht – Groningen: 200 km; by train: 2 hrs
- The Hague – Groningen: 250 km; by train: 2 hrs 50 min
- Den Bosch – Groningen: 240 km; by train: 2 hrs 40 min
- Rotterdam – Groningen: 250 km; by train: 2 hrs 40 min
- Maastricht -Groningen: 350 km; by train: 4 hrs 40 min
Besides a train connection with the largest Dutch cities, Groningen is also well-connected by bus. Check out the website of FlixBus for more information. For international travel options, check out Omio, where you can also buy train and bus tickets.
Top Things to do in Groningen
Read further to find out which are the best things to do in Groningen. On the handy map below I’ve marked all attractions in Groningen. You can add the map to your Google Maps and use it even if you are offline.
1. Doe Zoo and Pieterburen Seal Centre
This is one of the most ideal things to do in Groningen for those young families with curious and inquisitive children. At the Pieterburen Seal Centre, the largest center for seal rehabilitation in Europe, you will get a glimpse into the daily lives of the staff at the center as they care for these fur babies. From tending to sick seals, all the way through to daily feeding and rehabilitation – you will get to see it all.
The Doe Zoo, located close to Pieterburen, is home to many animals, insects, and reptiles – snakes, spiders, butterflies, and even resident hedgehogs (I don’t know why they can’t just share the hedge). With the combo ticket, land and sea animals unite in an all-inclusive journey as you discover both the Doe Zoo and the Pieterburen Seal Centre for a day filled with adventure and discovery.
Buy here you combined ticket for Doe Zoo and Seal Rehabilitation Centre. Or buy a ticket only for the Seal Centre.
2. Martinitoren
In Groningen, things to do are centered on the Martinitoren, the tallest church steeple in the entire city. Located in the north-eastern corner of the Grote Markt, this iconic Groningen landmark has stood the test of time over the past 500 years. It has endured many a storm and even wars – a true testament of its resilience.
At an impressive height of 97m, the Martinitoren is one of the most famous Groningen attractions. If you’re brave enough to conquer the 260 steps to reach the top, you will be treated to unparalleled views of the city. With some 62 bells housed inside the Martinitoren, its chime can be heard throughout the city on any given day.
Buy here your combined ticket for the Martinitoren and the Martinikerk.
3. Groninger Museum
One of the most famous museums in Groningen is none other than the Groninger Museum. This art museum, located in the city center, has an array of both local and international artworks. Housing many different mediums ranging from photography to paintings, design, and even fashion, the museum houses both modern and contemporary forms of art.
Some of the artworks that cannot be missed include porcelain works of both Japanese and Chinese origin as well as the local De Ploeg pieces. The unique design means it cannot be missed – you are almost greeted by the building upon exiting the central station.
4. West Frisian Islands
When visiting Groningen, things to do just outside the city include a visit to the West Frisian Islands. The mudflats of the Wadden Sea are one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and definitely cannot be missed.
The ferries that depart to the islands are an easy train or bus ride from the city of Groningen and other nearby towns. These networks of beaches, mudflats, dunes, forests, and heath that await intertwine around the islands, with cycle paths and hiking trails that facilitate in the exploration and discovery thereof.
Read more: Learn more about the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site.
5. Noordelijk Scheepsvaartmuseum
The Noordelijk Scheepsvaartmuseum (Northern Maritime Museum) is one of the only maritime museums in the city and should definitely be on your list when deciding on what to see in Groningen. Since opening its doors in 1932, the museum has become one of the most visited in the province and tells the story of the sailors and their craft that once roamed the nearby seas.
There are many an interesting artefact to be seen and story to be heard when navigating through some 18 rooms that make up the museum – the once home of a 16th century distillery.
6. GRID Grafisch Museum
This is one of the more unique museums in Groningen as you take a walk through both the history and the future of graphic design, printing, and bookbinding. The tour is both informative and interactive, with several workshops that teach you the art of printing and bonding techniques used over the years.
7. Forum Groningen
When visiting Groningen, thing to do in the city center include a visit to the cultural center – Forum Groningen. It is one of the places to visit in Groningen where you can see a variety of sights at the same venue. There is a public library, an art house displaying various exhibitions, a movie theater, and a skylounge bar and restaurant. The views of the city are second-to-none from the rooftop terrace as you gaze upon the city you have been exploring.
8. Prinsentuin
If you’re still deciding on what to see in Groningen, Prinsentuin garden is a great choice. Located behind the Prinsenhof and close to Martinitoren, this tranquil corner of the city houses a rose garden, herb garden, and a network of foliage pathways – the ideal venue for relaxing and reading your book.
9. Grote Markt
When visiting the city center in Groningen, things to do on the old town square include a visit to the Martinitoren and the city hall – two of the most iconic buildings in the city.
There are also several wonderful cafes and terraces of the square to enjoy a beverage or a bite to eat. You are really able to soak up the bustling vibe of the city here and getting a better taste of this northern Netherlands gem.
Pro tip: Book a walking tour of Groningen to see all attractions and to learn more about the city.
10. Martinikerk
The final attraction on our list of things to see in Groningen is a visit to the Martinikerk. This Gothic-esque church is located in the heart of the city and nowadays, offers a venue for conferences, dinners, exhibitions, and meetings. There are a number of unique rooms available to hire that each boast their own attractions and atmosphere, with a variety of decoration from Gothic to Art Nouveau.
11. The Academy Building
When in Groningen you can’t miss this imposing building – the Academy Building of the University of Groningen, just a short walk from the Grote Markt Square. The University of Groningen is the second oldest in the Netherlands after the University of Leiden and was established in 1614. It is also one of the most notable Universities in Europe and in the top-100 Universities around the world.
The Academy Building was inaugurated in 1909 and is one of the most beautiful buildings in the city. Just across the block from the Academy is the University Museum, where you can learn about the museum and see the exhibitions.
Final Words
From this above list, it is evident that when visiting the northern city of Groningen, things to do are in no shortage and this lively city never disappoints. Its hip, fun, and happy vibe is infectious and there is a great variety of things to do in Groningen.
There are a lot of historical monuments and buildings within the city as well as many a modern bar and restaurant to visit. Open air markets that open weekly showcase some of the local artisanal products and other great shopping districts for the ultimate shopping spree. And not to forget – a trip to the picturesque West Frisian Islands and to sample some of the best cuisine inspired by the nearby Waddenzee. The city of Groningen really is your oyster and for those lucky shuckers willing to make the trip, the city awaits.
Do you need some extra help to plan your trip to the Netherlands? Join the dedicated Exploring the Netherlands Facebook Group, where you can get tips from other travellers and locals. Or perhaps you have questions or comments? Join the group and I’ll be happy to answer them.
