Groningen, Northern trade city in Netherlands
Description
Groningen is a city in the north of the Netherlands marked by canals, old gabled houses and broad squares. The center blends medieval churches with modern glass facades, while tree-lined avenues and cafes make it easy to explore on foot.
History
The settlement emerged in the Middle Ages and joined the Hanseatic League in the 13th century, bringing wealth and trade links. Later centuries saw the foundation of a university and the building of fortifications that have now largely disappeared.
Culture
The city is shaped by a large student community filling many cafes and shops, giving the center a young feel. Residents rely on bicycles for almost all daily trips, keeping streets quiet and air clear.
Practical
Visitors find the center compact and walkable, with short distances between main sights. Renting a bicycle makes it easier to explore the outskirts and parks along the canals.
Did you know?
The Martini Tower, visible over rooftops across the city, was originally built in the 15th century and long served as a landmark for sailors approaching the town. The Forum, a modern cultural building at the edge of the center, houses a library, cinema and rooftop terrace with wide views.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Groningen).
The Netherlands show their best features outside the big cities. This collection takes you to the islands in the North Sea like Texel, Terschelling, or Ameland, where wind, dunes, and tides shape daily life. You will also see the 18th-century windmill rows in Kinderdijk, fishing villages like...
Martinitoren
12 m
Forum Groningen
156 m
Groninger Museum
809 m
Peerd van Ome Loeks
902 m
Martinikerk
72 m
Grote Markt
73 m
Academiegebouw
343 m
Van Mesdagkliniek
2 km
Prinsentuin
231 m
Der Aa-kerk
477 m
Stadion Esserberg
4 km
De Oosterpoort
803 m
City hall, Groningen
121 m
Wall House II
4.1 km
Stadspark Groningen
2.6 km
Kempkensberg
1.6 km
Korenbeurs
410 m
Goudkantoor
166 m
Praedinius Gymnasium
330 m
Noorderplantsoen
1 km
Sint Geertruidsgasthuis
295 m
City Theatre Groningen
310 m
Prinsenhof
171 m
St. Joseph Cathedral, Groningen
579 m
Gerrit Krol-brug
2 km
Nieuwe Kerk
626 m
Oude RKZ
2.6 km
Huize Tavenier
823 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes