Netherlands · City Guide
Groningen
Groningen is the vibrant capital of the northern Netherlands, a beautiful canal city with one of the country's youngest populations due to its large university, combining the iconic Martinitoren bell tower, the striking Groninger Museum with its bold contemporary architecture, an exceptional cycling culture, lively student nightlife and easy access to the beautiful Wadden Sea coastline. Often overlooked by visitors focused on Amsterdam, Groningen provides an authentic and energetic Dutch city experience.
Elect's take
"Groningen has a youthful energy that comes from having one of the highest student populations per capita in Europe, and the combination of the striking Groninger Museum, the historic Martinitoren and the extraordinary cycling culture creates a destination I find genuinely enjoyable."
The Martinitoren, a 97-metre Gothic bell tower nicknamed d'Olle Grieze (the Old Grey One), dominates the city skyline and can be climbed for panoramic views across the flat northern Dutch landscape. The Groninger Museum is one of the Netherlands' most architecturally bold museums, its colourful and unconventional building housing outstanding contemporary art, design and archaeology collections. The university population, one of the largest relative to city size in Europe, creates a vibrant café, bar and nightlife scene throughout the historic centre. Groningen's cycling infrastructure is among the most advanced in the world, with the highest bicycle usage of any Dutch city. The Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage tidal flat ecosystem, is accessible to the north.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Martinitoren
A 97-metre Gothic bell tower offering panoramic views across the northern Netherlands.
Groninger Museum
One of the Netherlands' most architecturally bold museums with outstanding contemporary collections.
University City
One of Europe's youngest cities by population, creating a vibrant nightlife scene.
Cycling Culture
The highest bicycle usage of any Dutch city with world class infrastructure.
Wadden Sea
A UNESCO World Heritage tidal flat ecosystem accessible to the north.
Historic Canals
A beautiful canal-lined historic centre with lively squares and cafés.
