Groningen, Netherlands
Groningen, Netherlands is a vibrant university town in the north of the country, known for its lively atmosphere, historic architecture, and picturesque canals.
Day 1: Arrival and City Tour
Upon arrival at Groningen Airport, you can take a taxi to your hotel for check-in. After settling into your hotel, start your trip by taking a city tour. Groningen is a student city with a vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and charming canals. You can start at the Grote Markt, which is the city’s main square and home to the Martinitoren, the largest church tower in the city. Walk around the square and visit the Groninger Museum, which houses modern and contemporary art exhibitions. Later, explore the Noorderhaven, which is a beautiful canal that runs through the heart of the city. You can end your day with a dinner at one of the city’s famous restaurants, such as De Pijp Winebar & Restaurant.
Day 2: Biking and Picnic in Noorderplantsoen
Get a taste of the Dutch biking culture and rent a bike from one of the many rental shops in the city. Head out to the Noorderplantsoen, which is the largest public park in Groningen. The park is perfect for a relaxing picnic and a stroll through the botanical garden. Later, you can stop by the University of Groningen, which is one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands. It’s a beautiful building with an impressive campus, and it’s worth a visit even if you don’t plan on studying there.
Day 3: Explore the Countryside
Take a day trip to explore the countryside near Groningen. There are a few options, but one of the best is to head to the Waddenzee, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is home to the largest unbroken system of intertidal sand and mud flats in the world. Across the Waddenzee lies the island of Schiermonnikoog, which is home to beautiful beaches, sand dunes, and a picturesque village. Plan to take the early ferry and enjoy the day on the island. You can rent a bicycle and explore the island or simply relax on the beach.
Day 4: Shopping and the Historic Village of Zuidlaren
Spend the day exploring the historic village of Zuidlaren, which is located about 13 miles south of Groningen. The village is most famous for its ancient horse market but has recently become a shopping haven. You can explore the traditional Dutch clothing stores, antique shops, and local markets. The village’s sweet-tasting honey cake is a must-try delicacy. You can find it at the bakery at the market square.
Day 5: Bourtange Fortress and Dinner at De Poffertjessalon
Visit Bourtange Fortress, which is a Dutch military fortification built in 1593. The fortress is located about 50 miles east of Groningen and has been restored to its original state. You can walk along the fortress walls and check out the museum inside. After the tour, head back to Groningen to have dinner at De Poffertjessalon. They serve traditional Dutch dishes, but their specialty is sweet and savory poffertjes, which are mini Dutch pancakes.
Day 6: Groninger Archieven and Nightlife
Spend the day diving into Groningen’s history by visiting the Groninger Archieven, which is the city’s archive and heritage center. It showcases paintings, archives, and information about the city’s history. Next, head out to the bars and clubs in the city. Groningen has an excellent nightlife with numerous bars, coffee shops, and clubs where you can dance the night away. Some of the popular nightlife spots are Simplon, Vera, and OOST.
Day 7: Departure
On your final day, take some time to explore the city one more time before departing. Have a leisurely breakfast at one of the local cafes and maybe pick up some souvenirs such as Dutch cheese, stroopwafels, and Delftware. After check-out from your hotel, take a taxi to the airport and depart from Groningen with unforgettable memories of your trip to the Netherlands.
