Groningen city

In Groningen, each nook and cranny has its own story. You can feel the city's energy in the stunning views from the highest Martinitoren or when walking through the centuries-old streets. This is where oases of peace and quiet blend in seamlessy with lively student spots, hip shops and friendly market squares. Spend the day taking in the higlights of Groningen.

Almshouse courtyards

Groningen almshouses used to provide free accommodation to the poor, to widows and to the sick. Today, private persons live in these oases of quiet in the city centre. Some of them are open to the public for a moment of contemplation. Some trees in the flowery gardens are old enough to have witnessed the former inhabitants.

Groninger Museum

These walls exude creative energy. Do you like it? The Groninger Museum was established in 1994, and has been a talking point in modern architecture ever since. This alone may be sufficient reason for a visit. Enjoy the complete experience of the varied and interesting collection and the innovative and sometimes provocative temporary exhibitions.

Martinitoren

In the last 500 years, the Martinitoren tower has endured fire and lightning, and has nearly collapsed. Wars have been won and lost on its steps, but the tower has stood firm and, at 97 metres, it is still the highest building in the city. Climb the tower to experience some tangible history and a stunning view.

Forum Groningen

A new building has emerged in the very heart of Groningen centre: the Forum, a meeting place for everyone with a certain curiosity in today’s world and tomorrow’s opportunities. The Forum focuses on amazing and inspiring people through Storyworld, 5 cinemas, the Smartlab, cafés and restaurants, the city library and the highest terrace in Groningen with a phenomenal view and a rooftop cinema.

Hoofdstation concourse

People dash from a crowded train onto the platform. Others move on from the city centre to catch a train. Then all falls quiet and you might not hear anything other than the sound of a child laughing. The grand station hall ensures the Hoofdstation Groningen main railway station is one of the most magnificent passenger buildings in the Netherlands.

Vismarkt

Market workers shout out their wares while cyclists wind around pedestrians. People buy lunch in the Korenbeurs or enjoy some fries or cod parings. The shops, bars, cafés and restaurants in the historic buildings around the market are warm and welcoming. The Vismarkt is a hive of city activity.

Broerstraat

Groningen is young. But where can you really experience this energy? Find a place among the bicycles on the Academieplein square and look around. This square at the Broerstraat between the Oude Boteringestraat and the Oude Kijk in ’t Jatstraat forms the epicentre of the Groningen university city.

Noorderplantsoen

Whenever the weather is nice, the banks of the ponds in the Noorderplantsoen park are crowded. Would these people be aware of the fact that severe wars were fought here? That hills in the area originated from the ice cap being pushed along? But then again: why think about the history if you can spend some time chilling in the park?

Prinsentuin

Near the Martini Tower is a high wall, and behind it is what may be the most tranquil place in Groningen city centre. Surrounded by the walls of the leafy and flowery Prinsentuin, you can easily imagine yourself in an entirely different world. Wander among the plants, read a book on a bench or enjoy a cup of tea at the tearoom.

Hoge der A and Lage der A

The old warehouses by the canal tell the story of the industry of former days. Ships would enter and depart here and the sounds of rattling wheels and stamping horses could be heard all day long. Walking along the quays, you pass no fewer than 28 listed buildings and 11 municipal monuments, making you feel as if you have stepped right into a painting.