Groningen
Groningen is a bustling student city with a rich history, vibrant culture and modern flair. Discover the historic city center with iconic sights such as the Martinitoren, cozy courtyards and the Groninger Museum this just 37 minutes by car from our campsite. Enjoy the vibrant hospitality industry on the Grote Markt and the atmospheric Noorderplantsoen. For shopaholics, the city offers unique boutiques and large chains. Thanks to its bicycle-friendly infrastructure and welcoming atmosphere, Groningen is a perfect destination for a day out.
the history of Groningen
The city of Groningen has a rich history with some striking highlights:
The Martini Tower: Built in the 15th century, the iconic symbol of the city and one of the tallest church towers in the Netherlands.
The Gold Office: A beautiful Renaissance building from 1635, originally built as a tax office.
The University City: Groningen became a center of knowledge in 1614 with the establishment of the Rijksuniversiteit.
The Battle of Groningen (1945): During the liberation at the end of World War II, Groningen played a crucial role, permanently shaping the city.
The Prinsenhof: This historic building with a medieval garden once served as a residence for the Nassau's.
De Aa-Kerk: An imposing medieval church that reflects the city's rich past.
Groningen effortlessly combines its historic charm with modern dynamism.
Tourist activities
Groninger Museum, located at Museum Island 1, is an iconic art museum notable for its colorful and modern architecture. It offers a diverse collection ranging from contemporary art and design to historical artworks and exhibits of regional significance. The museum is a must-visit for art lovers thanks to its mix of permanent collections and high-profile temporary exhibitions.Exhibition: How Van Gogh came to Groningen (until May 4, 2025).
Martinitoren, also known as d'Olle Grieze, is the iconic symbol of Groningen. Located on the Grote Markt, this imposing church bell tower was built in the 15th century and, at 97 meters, is one of the tallest towers in the Netherlands. The tower offers panoramic views of the city and houses centuries-old bells and impressive medieval architecture. It is a must-see for visitors who want to experience Groningen's rich past.
Canal tour, In Groningen, you can explore the city from the water with Rondvaartbedrijf Kool, located at Stationsweg 1012 They offer various tours through the canals and surrounding waters, where you can admire historical sights and modern architecture from a unique perspective. Another option is Boat Groningen, which offers various canal tours ranging from one hour to three hours, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
Forum, located at Nieuwe Markt 1, Groningen, is a modern cultural center and architectural masterpiece. It offers a wide range of activities, including exhibitions, a library, cinemas, restaurants and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city. The Forum is a vibrant meeting place for knowledge, culture and relaxation.
Hofjes, Groningen's hofjes are attractive, historic housing complexes with quiet courtyards, originally built for the elderly and poor. These hidden gems offer a glimpse into the city's past. Well-known hofjes are the Pelstergasthuis on Pelsterstraat, the Pepergasthuis on Peperstraat and Jacobusplein in the Oosterpoort neighborhood. Usually located in the inner city, hidden behind discreet gates, they are an oasis of peace amid city life.
The Prinsenhof, located at 23 Martinikerkhof, Groningen, is a historic building with a rich history as a residence for the Nassau's. Today it houses a luxury hotel, restaurant and a beautiful medieval herb garden, the Prinsenhof, with roses, a teahouse and a foliage corridor. It is a serene place full of charm and a must-see in the heart of the city.
Gronings ontzet: also called Bommen Berend, commemorates the victory over the bishop of Münster, Bernard van Galen, on August 28, 1672. During the Year of Disaster 1672, he besieged Groningen with his troops, but thanks to clever military tactics led by Carl von Rabenhaupt and the strong city walls, the city remained standing. The successful defense marked an important turning point in Dutch history. Groningens Ontzet is celebrated annually on Aug. 28 with festivities including music, markets and a fireworks show.
Bicycle route around Groningen
Tour of Groningen: start and end: Van Hallbrug, Groningen, 40.2 km
Bicycle junctions: 85, 84, 01, 09, 10, 04, 26, 25, 23, 28, 78, 81, 87, 57, 59, 86, 77, 75, 81, 86
Places you pass: Groningen - Eelderwolde - Haren - Paterswolde - Eelde - Glimmen - Noordlaren - Onnen
Walking near the Hoornseplas
Round trip near the Hoornseplas, Start and end at walking junction 28. Easily accessible if you park at Restaurant Kaap Hoorn, Kaapse Baan 1 in Haren. 6,7 km
Walking junctions: 28, 31, 17, 18, 24, 20, 23, 28
Shops and markets
Shopping in Groningen is fun because of the cozy atmosphere, the mix of large chain stores and unique boutiques. The city has a compact, car-free city center, making it easy to stroll from store to store. In addition, there are many historic buildings and nice cafes to relax. Pleasant shopping streets: Herestraat, Vismarkt, Folkingestraat, Zwanestraat and the Waagstraat.
Nice shops:
Hoekje Groningen, extended Visserstraat 1, In a beautiful authentic building that used to serve as a forge you will now find Hoekje Groningen. A vintage store specialized in design furniture, vintage and lighting where you can browse around.
Droppie, A-straat 7: Since 1972, Old Dutch Candy Store Droppie has been a household name, not only in Groningen but also beyond.
Wirwar, Oude Kijk in 't Jatstraat 40 Games lovers pay attention! At Wirwar they have thousands of games, puzzles and brain teasers.
De Kaaskop, Zwanestraat 24, Looking for a tasty snack. Kaaskop is the perfect place to go if you love the good life
Le Souk, Folkingestraat 21, If you ever walk through the Folkingestraat, you can hardly have missed it: the colorful and fragrant grocery store Le Souk. The blue crates filled with fruit and vegetables have been a classic in the street scene since 1982.
Weekly market:
| Tuesday, Friday en Saturday | 09:00 - 17:00 | Vismarkt en A-Kerkhof | Market |
| Wednesday | 09:00 - 17:00 | Vismarkt en A-Kerkhof | Market |
| Thursday | 10:00 - 18:00 | Vismarkt en Grote Markt | Market |
| First Sunday of the month | 12:00 - 17:00 | Vismarkt | Market |
| Sunday | 12:00 - 17:00 | Grote Markt | Food and Snacks |
Eating out of picking up food
- Eetcafé Ugly Duck, Zwanestraat 28
- Restaurant Graansilo Eten & Drinken, Griffeweg 4
- De Kleine Heerlijkheid, Schuitendiep 42
- Newscafe, Waagplein 5
- Wereldburgers, A- kerkhof 39
- Tapasrestaurant La Cubanita, Oosterstraat 30
- Yasumi Sushi & Grill, Vismarkt 54
- Cantina Mexiana, Vismarkt 50
