Groningen: Lively, laid-back and wide awake

Cozy yet in tune with the rhythm of a vibrant city. Groningen is rich in cultural and endearing encounters and impressively underlines its slogan: "There's nothing above Groningen."

The train arrives at the station exactly on time. Dutch railways Groningen train station. The station forecourt has been welcoming visitors since 1959.Peerd van Ome Loeks"The newcomers." The sculpture is based on a popular old folk song and is part of the identity of the people of Groningen. Before continuing our exploration, let's quickly grab a small snack in the Prinsenhof, one of the oldest brick buildings in this location. The first bite into the crispy breading of a typical "kroket" evokes a pleasant and authentic Dutch feeling.

300 steps to the top of the tower

In the building's courtyard lies the Prinsentuin. This Renaissance garden was laid out in 1626. The quiet, green oasis offered the then governor, the Prince of Nassau, a place of tranquility right in the heart of the city. Even locals hardly know this cozy little corner. For the tour guide Gerda von Gidesenteam It's the ideal starting point for a stroll through the city. But first, a beginner's course for city tourists: "Groningen is pronounced Chro-ning-en like the German Bach, only short and guttural".

With their newly acquired knowledge of phonetics, the path leads only a few steps further, directly to the landmark: the Martini Tower. For over 500 years, the 97-meter-high tower has withstood wars and natural disasters. The people of Groningen are proud of their "d'Olle Grieze" (the old grey one), as it symbolizes perseverance and a centuries-old city history. "No matter where you are, the Martini Tower is there," the locals explain. Approximately 300 steps lead up to the tower. From there, there is said to be a magnificent panoramic view.

A city with flair

Those who don't really enjoy climbing stairs will find something to their liking in the one just a few meters away. Forum A convenient alternative. The modern cultural center may only reach a height of 45 meters, but the futuristic building features an escalator that gently whisks visitors upwards. The view from the open terrace reveals a scene of idyllic canals and well-maintained brick buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries.In between are modern, architecturally remarkable buildings. Like the Art museum, which stands out solely because of the bright colors of its facade.

The heart of the place and a good meeting point is the Grote MarktEvents take place throughout the year. Since the city center is car-free, another vehicle always has priority here: the bicycle. This becomes particularly clear in front of the University campusA sea of ​​bicycles stands densely packed in front of the red, neoclassical building. The university town offers its approximately 60.000 students a special deal: they can rent Swapfiets bikes for a small monthly fee through a subscription.

Marina Bakker is proud that since 2019 more than 100 shop owners have joined the organization. Photo: © DHB

Even though cycling is the main mode of transport, sights, restaurants and shops are within walking distance. For example, the "Lutje LokaalFounded in 2019 as a counterpoint to Black Friday, the movement now unites more than 100 small shops. The offerings include sustainable fashion, local, delicious food, and simply everything your heart desires beyond mass-produced goods. Marina Bakker Koko Toko She is one of the founding members. She is looking forward to the fact that an overview of all "Lutje Lokaale" will soon be available in German as well.

Strolling until late into the night

Cor Dijkstra enjoys sharing his extensive knowledge of cheeses and their flavors with visitors. Photo: © DHB

A visit to the Netherlands is incomplete without popping into a cheese shop. Eleven years ago, Cor Dijkstra and Gea Oeling with zero knowledge"De Kaaskopp"Opened at Zwanestraat 24. They offer everything you need for a delicious day out. The honey-yellow cheese loaves They are stacked up to the ceiling on shelves. And there is also... regional products such as nuts or beerProducts only have a right to a place in the store if they are produced fairly and organically.

At John Meijer's café. Photo: © DHB

Legs and eyes need a little break now. Time for a coffee. The museum café is just a short walk away.Folkinge 14" from John Meijer At Folkinge 14, on the street of the same name, John not only makes really good coffee. The passionate collector always has an insider tip ready for his guests.

John is in his element when he talks about his collection of cans, posters and boxesThe memorabilia dates back to the time when Polka semolina pudding was produced in Groningen. Everyone would love to linger, reliving the cozy feeling of being back in Grandma's kitchen. But time flies, and there's still so much to see.

John waves it off with a satisfied smile on his face. The relaxed attitude to life of the community is reflected in the fact that restaurants, pubs or chip shops are allowed to remain open without restrictions until late into the night.

Especially during the summer months, the terraces around the canals are packed until the early hours of the morning. This leaves plenty of time to stroll through the city. True to the motto: "There's nothing like Groningen."

Gronigen informationThe center of Groningen developed around the Martini Tower from the Middle Ages onwards. Picturesque streets, market squares, and trading houses grew up around it. The city is located in the northeast of the Netherlands, near the German border. It is about 40 kilometers to the coast.

Restaurant Prinsenhof
In one of the oldest buildings, alongside hotel rooms, you'll find the fine dining restaurant Nassau, overlooking the Prinsentuin garden. The brasserie offers breakfast, casual lunches, afternoon tea, formal dinners, or simply a few drinks. 
Martini cemetery 23
9712 JH Groningen
prinsenhof.nl

Such
Guests should allow plenty of time for the meal at "Tales." The unique aspect: each course and each drink is accompanied by an imaginative story. The kitchen team lovingly creates a new menu and new stories for every season.
barge depth 33
9711 Groningen
talesgroningen.nl

Restaurant Pronk
Pronk is a city café in a characterful, historic building in the heart of Groningen. Guests can enjoy good coffee, fresh food, and a relaxed atmosphere in the lively ambiance.
Fischmarkt 56
9711 KV Groningen
stadscafepronk.nl/

The Better Times
During "better times," guests can watch the chefs preparing delicious dishes in the open kitchen. Sometimes the chefs themselves come to the table to present a dish and passionately discuss the idea behind it. 
Gelkingestraat 52
9711 NE Groningen
debeteretijden.nl/

Restaurant Wijck
Overlooking the Grote Markt, the restaurant offers a fine selection of international dishes. 
Grand Place 33
9712 HS Groningen
wijckgroningen.nl

City tour
The local guides from Gidsenteam know Groningen like the back of their hand. Explore the city on foot, by bike, bus, or boat. 
groningergidsenteam.nl/de/

Bar
thehappytraveler.nl/de/

Lutje Lokaal
Founded in 2019, the shop owners decided to offer their local, sustainable, and unique products in small shops in Groningen as a counter-movement to Black Friday. There are now over one hundred "Lutje Lokaale" (Local Shops), inviting customers on an exciting journey of discovery.
lutjelokaal.nl/DHB now also digital!Simply click here and register for the digital German Crafts Journal (DHB)!