Groningen

Groningen is a lively student city in the Northern Netherlands, home to about 217,000 inhabitants and some 50,000 students. The youthful atmosphere, fine historic heritage, and abundant activities make it a vibrant destination. The city is known for its bike-friendly streets and the famous Martini Tower.

Groningen has a rich history dating back to 1040. It was an important trade centre in the 13th century, and its Martini Tower, built in the 15th century, was once the highest building in Europe. The city was part of the Spanish during the Eighty Years' War and later joined the Republic of the Seven United Netherlands. The University of Groningen was founded in 1614. During World War II, the Grote Markt was largely destroyed, but the Martinitoren survived. Today, 50% of citizens are under 30, making it the youngest city in the Netherlands. Bicycles account for 60% of all traffic.

Groningen has a temperate coastal climate without extremes. Winters are slightly colder than the rest of the Netherlands, with common snow and freezing temperatures that rarely last more than a few days. Summer highs average around 22°C, with occasional 30°C days. Daylight hours range from 05:15-22:00 in summer to 08:45-16:15 in winter.

The historic city centre is surrounded by a canal (diepenring), and most sights are within this area. Traffic is very restricted inside the diepenring; the centre is designed to be nearly traffic-free and is easily crossed on foot or by bicycle. Further out, a ring road of N-roads encircles the city. Bicycles are the main mode of transport.

Downtown Groningen is pleasant with cultural heritage and a laid-back atmosphere. Key sights include the Martini Tower and Church (€3 to climb), the Groninger Museum (€15 adults), the Forum Groningen with its free rooftop views, and historic buildings like the Gold Office and the Academiegebouw. The Noorderplantsoen park offers a peaceful escape.

Activities include canal cruises (€12.50), canoeing (€10-20 for 2 hours), pitch & putt golf (€12-16), and climbing at Klimcentrum Bjoeks (€10 day pass). For nightlife, check out Vera underground pop club or Simplon for live music. FC Groningen plays football in the Eredivisie at Euroborg stadium.

Groningen is the main shopping hub in the region, with a mix of international chains and small specialty shops. Major shopping areas include Winkelcentrum Paddepoel (80+ shops) and Sontplein square with big-box stores like Media Markt and IKEA. The city centre has many unique boutiques.

Groningen offers diverse dining, from cheap eats like FEBO automat (deep-fried snacks) to Dutch pancakes at 't Pannekoekschip (€12-25). Indian restaurant De Kleine Moghul is cash-only and has stunning food. For drinks, the Poelestraat area is the nightlife hub with many clubs and bars open 24/7 in theory. Traditional brown cafés like Der Witz serve many beers.

Accommodation ranges from budget hostels like Simplon Youth Hotel (bunk beds from €18.50) and RebelRebel Hostel (€17) to mid-range hotels like City Hotel Groningen (doubles from €60) and Martini Hotel (doubles from €64.50). Camping Stadspark offers tent spots for €18. Prinsenhof is a luxury option from €149 for a double.

As of July 2022, Groningen has 5G coverage from all Dutch carriers. Free Wi-Fi is available in many public areas, including at Camping Stadspark around the reception.

Day trips include the medieval town of Appingedam, the star fort of Bourtange, the seal rescue centre in Pieterburen, the island of Schiermonnikoog (via Lauwersoog ferry), and the Drentsche Aa National Park. The star fort of Bourtange is less than an hour by car.