There’s more to the Netherlands than Amsterdam – although the capital definitely deserves a visit. This spring, my travels took me to Groningen, to visit one of my best friends who’s living there. I visited the Netherlands back in March 2014, during my year-long study abroad in Nottingham, but haven’t been back and have actually never written about the country on the blog! For me, I really enjoyed getting to see a side of a city where people actually live – that isn’t a huge tourist destination.

Overall, I had a great long weekend getaway and loved exploring a new Dutch city. Groningen is a big student city, which gives it a fun and vibrant atmosphere. Here’s my city guide to Groningen!

What to Do in Groningen

Forum

One of the top things to do in Groningen is head to the rooftop at Forum. This is a 10-story space with a library, exhibitions, cinema, café/bar, and more! But the main reason to visit has to be the rooftop viewing terrace. The views over the city are stunning – if it’s open late enough, I recommend timing it for sunset! Best of yet, it’s completely free to visit.

Martinitoren

For another great view of the city, take one of the tours up the Martinitoren church steeple, to the very top of the tower. It’s 97 meters high, and the tallest building in the city. I learned so much on this tour, not just about the history of the tower but about Groningen itself! It’s also cool seeing the bells inside (some of which are huge). It costs €6 per person for a tour.

Martinikerk

The Martinikerk church is attached to the tower, but has different opening times and the entrance is actually through the restaurant on the ground floor. It also has different opening times, so check in advance. It’s a beautiful space, and if you like architecture and history I recommend popping in here – it’s the oldest church in Groningen. It’s €2 per person entry, which you pay at the restaurant.

Prinsentuin Gardens

Around the corner from Forum and the Martinitoren, you’ll find Prinsentuin Gardens (Prinserhof). These pretty gardens are perfect for a stroll on a sunny day – I wish I had been there a few months later to see more of the flowers in bloom. There’s no cost to walk around the gardens.

St. Anthony Gasthuis

Throughout Groningen you’ll find these almshouses – pretty courtyards, many of which have been renovated to be modern guesthouse accommodation. St. Anthony Gasthuis was originally founded in 1517 to take care of the poor and the sick, but today it has bed and breakfast accommodation in the heart of the city. As long as you’re quiet and respectful of the guests staying there, you can probably poke your head in and take a look in the courtyard.

Vismarkt

The Vismarkt, or Fish Market, is the main farmer’s market in Groningen. It’s a great place to pick up all sorts of local produce, cheese, fish (of course), and more! The market is currently on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. At one end you’ll find the Korenbeurs, a corn exchange where grain was traded.

Grote Markt

The other big market in Groningen, and the main square, is the Grote Markt. This is one of the top sights to see in Groningen, and there are lots of pretty buildings around the square, plus cafes with outdoor seating. The Martinitoren and Martinikerk are in one corner of the square.

Groningen Museum

The main museum in the city is the Groningen Museum, which focuses on modern and contemporary art. I really liked the JR exhibition when I was there, plus the building is funky inside and out. There is also an exhibition on the city’s history, with important artifacts relating to Groningen on display. Entry costs €15 for adults.

Groningen Train Station

The main train station in Groningen is housed in a beautiful building, dating back to 1896. The façade is impressive, and the interior has both Neo-Gothic and Neo-Renaissance elements – make sure to check out the ceiling in the entrance hall.

Canals

It wouldn’t be a getaway to a Dutch city if you didn’t spend some time strolling along a canal, would it? I definitely recommend spending some time doing a lap of the main canal that runs around the city center – it should about an hour to walk around the whole way. You can also take a boat tour on the canals if you’re interested.

Enjoy the Dutch architecture

I love seeing different types of architecture when I travel, and I loved all the pretty Dutch buildings in Groningen! These are a few of my favorite snaps.

Where to Eat in Groningen

Dogs Bollocks

If you’re looking for the best burgers in town, look no further than the Dogs Bollocks. This is a fun Irish pub, with a huge variety of beers on tap. Book a table in the evenings, especially on weekends.

‘t Feithhuis

For good food in a pretty setting, check out ‘t Feithhuis, in the center of Groningen close to Forum and Martinitoren. They serve lunch, dinner, and drinks – and have a terrace with heated seating so you can sit outside! If you’re feeling fancy, you can also book in for High Tea here. It’s also available to rent out for private dining and events.

Café Soestdijk

Café Soestdijk is laid-back bar/café with a regal twist, and outdoor seating close to the university. They serve lighter sandwiches and sharing platters, but also burgers and steaks, so you’ll find options. It’s also a nice place for drinks.

Toscana IJssalon

I stopped by Toscana for ice cream and was blown away. They have lots of great flavors, plus they also do shakes. I went to the one on Folkingestraat, which is a really pretty street I’d recommend stopping by as well.

Where to Drink in Groningen

Mr. Mofongo

This pretty bar does excellent cocktails, and is one of my top picks for places to drink in Groningen. Besides the ground floor, there are several areas upstairs for drinks as well. Don’t miss it!

Dogs Bollocks

Across the street from Mr. Mofongo, you’ll find the Dogs Bollocks. While it’s great for food, it’s also a good choice if you’re just out for drinks – especially as they’ve got such a big selection of beer on tap. They have an event room that can host live music downstairs.

De Drie Gezusters

This bar, “the three sisters” in Dutch, is apparently the biggest pub in the Netherlands – so it’s definitely worth a visit! The location right on the Grote Markt is unbeatable, and it’s especially nice if you want to sit outside and people watch.

Stockroom

This speakeasy might be difficult to get in – I only got in because someone in my group knew one of the bartenders. Decorated in 1920s style and with amazing cocktails, this was one of my favorite places for drinks in Groningen. I would book a table in advance.

Hotel Prinsenhof

While this boutique hotel is a classy place to stay during your visit, it’s also a wonderful place to come for drinks. Located behind the Martinitoren, the hotel has two restaurants. The Grand Café is open to the public, and housed in a beautiful historic building that was once a church. I found prices very reasonable here for such an atmospheric venue!

Planning Your Trip

Groningen is 3 hours northeast of Amsterdam, with frequent train connections throughout the day. A single ticket costs €30.14, or €29.14 if you book an e-ticket online. You can also take the train direct from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, which costs €29.80 (or €28.80 for an e-ticket). I always book my train tickets in advance on Trainline. Technically the closest airport is actually Bremen Airport, but you’ll probably find more connections through Amsterdam Schiphol. I use Skyscanner for booking flights. Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

I stayed with my friend, so unfortunately I can’t give any first-hand recommendations for accommodation. You can search for hostels here, or for hotels/B&Bs here.

Booking.com

Interested in a tour of Groningen? Check out your options on Get Your Guide!

I visited Groningen to spend time with my friend, but I really enjoyed my time here. It doesn’t see as many tourists as Amsterdam or other Dutch cities in the south, so I found it a bit more authentic and less geared towards tourists. I hope this travel guide helps planning a city break to Groningen!

Have you been to Groningen before? What were your favorite things?

You might also like my posts about city breaks in Europe:

8 Unique Things to Do in Brussels

25 Places You Can’t Miss in London

How to Spend a Weekend in Lisbon

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