5 Reasons To Visit Groningen

The Netherlands might be famous for its beautiful and freewheeling capital city, but there is more to the country than Amsterdam. Located around 90 miles (a 2.5-hour train ride) outside of Amsterdam is Groningen, a university city with a smalltown feel and a buzzing nightlife. 

If you are in the Netherlands and want to take a day trip, weekend adventure, or path less traveled, here are five reasons why Groningen is the city for you. 

1. It's Traditional 

Early morning walk to the Martinikirkhof

Established more than 950 years ago, Groningen is older than Amsterdam and a great place to admire traditional Dutch architecture. One of the most famous architectural sights in Groningen is the Martinitoren, the tallest church steeple in the city.  

If you don't feel like paying an entrance fee to go to the top of the church, you can go to the top of the Forum building and get a view from their rooftop terrace instead. After seeing a view of the whole city, enjoy a coffee amidst students studying in the Forum's cafe.

Address for the Forum building: Nieuwe Markt 1, 9712 KN Groningen, Netherlands

2. It's Full Of Young People


Taking a look at the sea of student bikes in the city center

Housing one of the top universities in the country, Groningen is always bustling with young students (many of whom you'll find trying to ride their bikes home after a drunken night out). 

For a slice of pizza and a DJ set, head to Der Uurwerker, a hip eatery tucked between bars and other nightlife spots that'll surely keep the party going. 

Address for Der Uurwerker: Uurwerkersplein 1, 9712 EJ Groningen, Netherlands

3. It'll Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth


Red velvet and carrot cake served with complimentary gumdrop treats at Bij Britta

Who doesn't love cake? If you find yourself tired and wet from the rainy Netherlandish weather, head to Bij Britta for a coffee break. 

Located in the middle of quirky concept stores and the university campus, this cafe offers delicious homemade cakes and if your lucky, a visit from the owner's adorable dachshund. 

Address for Bij Britta: 9712 EB Groningen, Netherlands

4. It's Easy To See In A Day 


My Dutch friend Anne gearing up for a scooter ride

Like most cities in the Netherlands, Groningen is pretty small. If you're feeling adventurous and want to see a lot of the city in a day, consider renting a scooter. 

Just download the felyx app on your phone to find the nearest scooter dropoff station and buzz between the city's canals and cobblestone streets.


5. It Has Good Snacks 


Fried snack stand closing up for the evening 

The Netherlands is famous for its fried snacks, and the Grote Markt (open Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays) in the city center of the city is a great place for a tasting spree. 

The Antoon Meijer stand makes wonderful Poffertjes (dutch pancakes), but you can find fried Dutch snacks all over the market and in almost every bar. 




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