Our guide to the city of Groningen.

Voys

Hotel

Event

Food

Visit

Drinks

Music

Placed to work

Sports & sport matches

The Forum building is simply amazing. This prizewinning living room of the city is a tribute to open architecture. Forum houses the Comic Museum and several other <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="notion-link-token notion-enable-hover" href="https://forum.nl/en/explore-the-forum/exhibition">exhibitions</a>, a smartlab, a medialab, and the library with enough book genres to keep you busy over the cold winter days. For the kids, there is Wonderland which is part of the library. Many students go to Forum to study, and if you need a space to work it’s great if you need a break from home or the office. It also has a cinema with a wide variety of international-friendly films. If you looking for your Groningen souvenirs, they have you covered with an extensive Groningen shop on the ground floor. Do take a trip up to the rooftop, as you will get the best views of Groningen to plan your next stop! And don’t forget to take your picture at the free kiosk!

Forum

A dedicated bouldering facility, offering a variety of climbing problems suitable for beginners and advanced climbers alike. The gym regularly updates its routes, ensuring fresh challenges for regular visitors.

Bouldering: Gropo Bouldergym

A climbing center in Groningen, offering a variety of climbing walls for different skill levels and a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Bjoeks also provides climbing courses and workshops for both beginners and advanced climbers.

Climbing: Bjoeks

Visit the market on the ‘Vismarkt’ (Fishmarket).

Vismarkt

A popular independent bookstore in Groningen, offering a wide selection of books in different genres, including literature, history, philosophy, and children's books.

Boekhandel Riemer (Price range: €-€€ affordable to moderately priced)

A major annual music festival and conference held in Groningen, showcasing a variety of up-and-coming and established artists from across Europe. The festival takes place over four days and features performances across various venues throughout the city.

In Januari: Eurosonic (Price range: €€-€€€ moderately priced to somewhat expensive)

Set in a former monastery dating back to the 15th century, Hotel Prinsenhof offers a mix of history and luxury. The building's historical features are complemented by modern design elements, creating a unique and elegant atmosphere. With its central location near the Prinsentuin and the Martinikerk, this hotel provides easy access to Groningen's main attractions. Pricetag: high

Prinsenhof

Go up the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="http://toerisme.groningen.nl/zien-doen-beleven/attracties/martinitoren">‘Martinitoren’</a> or ‘Olle Grieze’, as the people in Groningen call it, and get a feel for where you are. Tickets can be bought at the ‘VVV’.

Martini Tower

A quirky, industrial-style cafe, Wadapartja focuses on using locally sourced and organic ingredients in its dishes. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering an array of creative dishes and a cozy atmosphere. They also have a location on the Zuiderdiep.

Wadapartja

Speed skating can be found in ‘Kardinge sportcentrum’ and we are among the top of the world here, so visit it for any great tournament, including juniors. It’s also a fun activity to go skating with your partner, friends or family.

Speed skating: Sportcentrum Kardinge

They won’t serve you coffee while you work, but it’s a wonderful livingroom for the city of Groningen and a great place to meet its different residents.

A unique and innovative architectural landmark located in Groningen, designed by the renowned American architect John Quentin Hejduk. The building features a distinctive geometric shape and is open to the public free of charge, allowing visitors to explore the interior and appreciate its architectural design. Image by Sebastiaan Rodenhuis

Wall House #2

Get rid of the Monday blues with live jazz at <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="notion-link-token notion-enable-hover" href="https://cafethecrown.com/events">Café the Crown</a>.

Cafe The Crown for Jazz on Mondays

Donna's Social Club is a vibrant and eclectic restaurant in Groningen, featuring a mixed cuisine. With its stylish and lively atmosphere, it’s a great place for lunch as well. The 3 courses dish to share is a great dining option, and you might want to reserve a spot for cocktails.

Donna’s Social Club

A well-known chain of independent bookstores in Groningen, offering a diverse selection of books in different genres, including literature, non-fiction, and children's books. The stores also host events and author signings, making it a great spot for book lovers. If you go down the stairs you'll find an international selection of books.

Van der Velde Boeken (Price range: €-€€ affordable to moderately priced)

Rent a sloop and discover Groningen from the water. Don't forget to sail along Reitdiephaven. A photogenic place with wooden-colored houses in a Scandinavian style. Both <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.grachtenbootgroningen.nl/">https://www.grachtenbootgroningen.nl/</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.jachthavenreitdiep.nl/">https://www.jachthavenreitdiep.nl/</a> are great options.

Grachten boot groningen

This trendy French bistro offers a menu filled with classic dishes, such as steak frites and coq au vin, along with daily specials. The stylish setting and delicious food make Bellamis an excellent choice for a memorable dinner.

Bellamis

Luxurious suites and apartments in the city centre; perfect for a short stay. Pricetag: high

Miss Blanche

Het Het Concerthuis is known for its all-you-can-eat hangover brunch on weekends. They offer a relaxing atmosphere and an eclectic menu. From brunch to dinner, they have a wide range of dishes that cater to different tastes

Het Concerthuis

A rooftop restaurant and bar in Groningen, offering stunning views of the city and a sophisticated atmosphere. The menu features a variety of international dishes. Great for Lunch and Diner. Do make reservations.

Rooftop Merckt

Price range: €€€€ expensive

Apex Adventure Arena is a versatile indoor climbing and bouldering facility. It offers a range of climbing walls and bouldering problems for climbers of all skill levels.

Bouldering: Apex Boulders

A fine-dining restaurant in Groningen, serving a refined menu featuring classic French dishes with a modern twist. With an elegant and intimate atmosphere and attentive service.

Restaurant de Haan (Price range: €€€€ expensive)

A really nice bistro restaurant at the Noorderhaven, with a great 5-course menu, or you can enjoy some of the best spareribs in Groningen. And try their beers, they brew them themselves.

Dokjard

health-focused café in Groningen, known for their delicious smoothies, fresh juices, and nutritious bowls. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular spot for a healthy treat.

The Smooth Brothers

Price range: € affordable

This fine dining restaurant offers a unique culinary experience, focusing on fresh, local ingredients and creative flavor combinations. The intimate setting and attentive service make it perfect for a special evening.

Restaurant Naud

Bellen via het internet voor de slimste bedrijven van NL.

A health-focused café and restaurant in Groningen, offering a variety of nutritious and delicious dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options. The menu features smoothie bowls, salads, wraps, and more

Feel Good

Price range: €€ moderately priced

Pernikkel is a charming and laid-back eatery in Groningen that focuses on creating dishes using locally-sourced and seasonal ingredients. The menu changes regularly to highlight the best of what's in season, offering a mix of traditional Dutch dishes and international cuisine. With its casual atmosphere and reasonably-priced menu, Pernikkel is an excellent choice for a relaxed meal with friends or family. You can do all day breakfast like eggs, or wentelteefjes or try their amazing cheese fondue.

Pernikkel

Stylish cafe-restaurant serving pizza, burgers, international dishes and terrace. Nice for food and drinks.

De Uurwerker (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

A craft brewery in Groningen, known for producing a diverse range of creative and flavorful beers. They often host tours and tastings, making it a popular spot for beer enthusiasts.

Baxbier  Brewery (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

Starting at around 16:30 you’ll find some live music in café <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="notion-link-token notion-enable-hover" href="http://www.buckshotcafe.nl/">Buckshot</a> on Sundays.

Sundays bring live music to Buckshot

A vegan restaurant in Groningen, offering a variety of delicious and creative plant-based dishes. The menu features a range of options, including burgers, wraps, salads, and desserts, all made with fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

OMNI - all around food

Pacific is a trendy and cozy restaurant located in Groningen, offering a unique fusion of Asian and South American cuisines. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes inspired by countries like Japan, Peru, and Mexico, with a focus on fresh ingredients and bold flavors. The stylish interior and friendly staff create a welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot for a casual meal or a special occasion.

Pacific

For a simple sandwich and fresh orange juice, visit the French bakery Pigalle. And when you’re feeling a little crazy, go try their famous brownie.

Croissanterie Pigalle

Vegan fine dining in the Oosterstraat. A great dining experience with a full vegan menu in a relaxed, informal atmosphere.

Achterwerk

A trendy restaurant and cocktail bar in Groningen, offering a fusion menu of Asian and European cuisine with a modern twist. The menu features a range of dishes made with high-quality and locally sourced ingredients, as well as a variety of creative cocktails and drinks. With a sleek and stylish ambiance and attentive service, it's a great spot for a special occasion or a night out with friends.

Price range: €€€ somewhat expensive

A local fast-food eatery in Groningen known for its tasty snacks and friendly service. Perfect for grabbing a quick bite on the go, like fries, burgers, or Dutch snacks: Eierbal or Bitterballen.

Cafeteria Koning

€ affordable

Blue Bananas Pancake Cafe is a cozy and inviting cafe in Groningen, specializing in mouthwatering pancakes and waffles. Your kids will love you for this one. Known for its extensive menu and generous portions, guests can choose from a wide variety of sweet and savory options, including classic Dutch pancakes, American-style fluffy pancakes, and delicious toppings. The relaxed atmosphere and friendly service make it a popular spot for breakfast, brunch, or a casual dessert.

Blue bananas pancake cafe

For the best Thai dishes in Groningen. At Cho Fah, you will encounter a surprising Thailand. In surroundings that transport you to exotic atmospheres, you will experience a fascinating mix of classic Eastern elements and contemporary design. Beautiful, delicious dishes from the culinarily famous Isaan region are lovingly prepared by ladychef Jen Meksoongnern and her all-Thai kitchen team.

Cho Fah eathai

‘FC Groningen’ is the local football. It plays in a stadium which is near to the city center (and to Voys HQ). Do you live in Barcelona or in the UK? Skip the football 😉 Soccer is often played on Sundays.

Soccer: FC Groningen

Situated in a historic grain silo, De Graansilo is a unique spot for lunch and diner. The menu offers a variety of nice dishes, including combined lunch menus, making it a great place to recharge during your day in Groningen.

De Graansilo

A high-end restaurant offering an exquisite, multi-course dining experience. With an emphasis on local and seasonal ingredients, the menu is carefully crafted to delight the senses. The elegant ambiance and attentive service make it a perfect spot for a special occasion or a romantic dinner.

Restaurant M

A charming hotel set in a historic building, Hotel Schimmelpenninck Huys offers comfortable rooms and a beautiful courtyard, creating a peaceful retreat in the city center. Pricetag: medium

Schimmelpenninck Huys

A lively, modern eatery with a focus on shared plates and communal dining, offering a fusion of international flavours and a vibrant atmosphere for socialising. Try their cocktail of the week and enjoy some nice snacks while you are sipping away. You’ll often find live music in the evening.

Donna’s Social Club (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

Just the outside is lovely already and if you like modern arts, visit the museum

Groninger museum

A traditional, cozy Dutch pub in Groningen (in Dutch: “bruine kroeg”) voted best café in &amp; around Groningen in 2019.

Café de Oude Wacht (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

Go up the ‘Martinitoren’ or ‘Olle Grieze’, as the people in Groningen call it, and get a feel for where you are. Tickets can be bought at the ‘VVV’.

Martinitoren

Serving flavorful Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine, SemSom offers a variety of mezze, wraps, and grilled dishes. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes it a popular choice for a satisfying meal.

SemSom

A cozy and lively place that is known for its surprise menu consisting of 3, 4 or 5 courses. It’s a well-priced offering that can be combined with a nice glass that fits each dish. The casual atmosphere, good food, and great people make it an ideal spot to unwind with friends.

De Betere Tijden

A cozy café and lunchroom in Groningen, with a mission to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for people with disabilities. The menu features a variety of homemade brownies, cakes, and other sweet treats, as well as a selection of sandwiches and salads.

Brownies & downieS (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

A multifunctional event venue and cultural space located in Groningen's former sugar factory. Hosting a variety of events, including concerts, festivals, markets, and exhibitions, it's a unique and versatile space to experience art and culture.

EM2 (Price range: €€-€€€ moderately priced to somewhat expensive)

An intimate speakeasy-style bar that offers a wide range of creative cocktails, unique spirits, and a laid-back atmosphere reminiscent of a Prohibition-era hideaway. Make sure you reserve a spot.

The Stockroom (Pirce range: €€€ somewhat expensive)

A cozy and authentic Middle Eastern restaurant in Groningen, serving a variety of delicious dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options.

El Maida

A legendary music venue and cultural hub in Groningen, known for its alternative music scene and iconic concerts. With a history spanning over six decades, Vera has hosted many famous bands and artists, making it a must-visit spot for music lovers.

Vera (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

A cozy and stylish restaurant in Groningen, offering a French-inspired menu featuring a variety of dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options. The menu changes seasonally to reflect the availability of fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Bellami's - Bar à Manger

Noorderzon Festival of Performing Arts &amp; Society

Noorderzon in August

A bustling street in Groningen's city center, known for its diverse shopping options, nightlife, and dining spots. From vintage and second-hand clothing stores to bars and clubs, it's a vibrant area to explore both day and night.

Oosterstraat

Barrel: A cozy, welcoming wine bar in Groningen, offering a carefully curated selection of wines from around the world. Knowledgeable staff and a relaxed atmosphere make it a perfect spot for wine lovers or casual catch-ups with friends.

Barrel Winebar (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

Fresh, local produce with a delicious city vibe. You are welcome all day for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and drinksOne of the highest rater lunchrooms in Groningen.

Eight

Walk the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="notion-link-token notion-enable-hover" href="https://www.groningermuseum.nl/en/visit/activities-events/stadswandeling">Musical route along street art and graffiti</a>. This route passes by street art and graffiti in the city of Groningen and includes background information on the artists.

Walk the Musical route along street art and graffiti

This boutique hotel is located in a historic building with uniquely designed rooms that blend contemporary style and classic charm. Pricetag: high

Corps de Garde

A beautiful, historic garden located in the heart of Groningen, adjacent to the Prinsenhof complex. Featuring winding paths, fountains, and a variety of flora, it's a popular spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic.

Prinsentuin (Price range: Free)

A household name in Groningen for Mexican cuisine, Four Roses is located in a beautiful monumental building on the corner of Oosterstraat and Zuiderdiep, right in the city center. You’re able to share plates (and Tequila).

Four Roses

A historic, charming pub (in Dutch: “bruine kroeg”) with a cozy atmosphere, known for its beautiful stained glass windows and traditional Dutch interior. Mostly known for its excellent customer-oriented service. Voted best café in the Netherlands in 2008

Café Wolthoorn & Co (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

For budget-conscious travelers looking for a unique stay, Bud Gett Hostels offers a modern and clean environment with a fun design. The hostel features private rooms and dormitories with shared facilities, making it suitable for solo travelers, couples, and groups. The central location and friendly atmosphere make it a popular choice among visitors. Pricetag: low

Bud Gett Hostels:

You will like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" class="notion-link-token notion-enable-hover" href="https://www.facebook.com/hsagroningen/?locale=nl_NL">HSA</a> if you like weird underground vibes.

Hundread Sound Accompany (HSA)

Kult: A funky, artsy café-bar in Groningen with a relaxed vibe. Great spot to enjoy live music, creative events, and eclectic decorations. Don't forget to try their tasty food and local beers

Café-Bistro Kult

Price range: €€

A specialty beer bar in Groningen with a vast selection of Dutch craft beers . Great atmosphere and knowledgeable staff to help you explore new brews.

Proeflokaal MOUT (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

A cozy, traditional Belgian beer café in Groningen, offering a wide range of Belgian and international beers. The warm atmosphere and knowledgeable staff make it a favorite spot for beer lovers.

Belgisch Café de Pintelier (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

Located in a quiet neighborhood close to the city center, the recently opened Hotel Halbert offers comfortable rooms and personalized service for a pleasant stay in Groningen. Pricetag: medium

Halbert

A renowned electronic music venue and festival site located on the outskirts of Groningen. With a focus on techno and house music, it's a must-visit spot for electronic music fans.

Paradigm (Price range: €€-€€€ moderately priced to somewhat expensive)

Folkingestraat: A picturesque, lively shopping street in Groningen filled with unique boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafés. Perfect for a leisurely stroll to discover hidden gems.

Folkingestraat

With multiple locations around Groningen, Coffee Company offers a comfortable atmosphere, quality coffee, and free Wi-Fi, making it a popular choice among students and remote workers.

Coffee Company

This modern and stylish hotel offers a combination of short and long-term stays for students, travelers, and young professionals. The rooms are comfortable, and the hotel boasts a variety of amenities, such as a gym, co-working spaces, and a game room. The lively and youthful atmosphere makes it a unique place to stay during your time in Groningen. Pricetag: medium

The Social Hub

Our central station ‘Hoofdstation’, nothing compared to Antwerp, but still very lovely

Hoofdstation

This Israel-inspired restaurant likes to be Balagan which translates into a “disorderly, confusing, and/or overwhelming situation”. It’s a great place for both brunch and dinner, and that Balagan desert is asking you to take photos of it.

An upscale cocktail bar with a refined, retro vibe, offering a menu of expertly crafted drinks and a selection of light bites in an elegant setting.

Mr Smith's Loft (Price range: €€€ somewhat expensive)

Known for its quality coffee, delicious pastries, and sandwiches, Coffee Break provides a comfortable space with free Wi-Fi, making it an excellent spot to work or study.

Coffee Break

For sailing, canooing, swimming, sunbathing, picnicking

Paterswoldse meer

One of the nicest ways to explore Groningen city? On foot. Choose one of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.groningenstore.nl/routes-en-kaarten/stadswandelingen/">route booklets from the Groningen Store</a> and set out on a city walk, opt for an online walk or join one of the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://groningergidsenteam.nl/">city guides</a>.

City walks

A trendy, stylish cocktail bar in Groningen with a creative menu, offering a wide range of drinks including innovative cocktails and a vast gin selection. Great ambiance for a night out or a cozy gathering with friends.

Mr. Mofongo (€€-€€€ moderately priced to somewhat expensive)

A family-run craft brewery in Groningen, offering a selection of unique, locally produced beers. The brewery also features a cozy bar and restaurant, serving delicious food that pairs well with their brews.

Brouwerij Martinus (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

A bar with a very nice and various offer in beers, wines, and cocktails. You’ll find it in the same building as the vegan restaurant ‘Achterwerk’.

Cilinder bar (Price range: €€€ somewhat expensive)

Watch a movie at DOT in the 20-meter live planetarium. DOT is the only full-dome 3D dome theater in the Netherlands. In the winter, DOT is transformed into a big Christmas ball. In summer you can go swimming at the nearby city beach.

Watch a movie at DOT

his contemporary cafe offers a wide range of hot and cold drinks, pastries, and sandwiches. With ample seating and free Wi-Fi, it's a suitable spot to work or study. Doppio has multiple locations around Groningen.

Doppio Espresso

A great place to hang out when the sun shines.

Zondag

Is basketball more your thing? ‘Donar’ has the most active basketball scene in the Netherlands and a team ranking top 3 over the past few years. Are you from any big city in the US? Skip the basketball. Basketball is usually played on Saturday.

Basketball: Donar

A modern bistro-style restaurant in Groningen, offering a creative and eclectic menu featuring a variety of international dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options. With a stylish ambiance and attentive service, it's a great spot for a special occasion or a night out.

Bistro Boys (Price range: €€-€€€ moderately priced to somewhat expensive)

Visit the market on the ‘Vismarkt’ . The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://gemeente.groningen.nl/markten-in-de-gemeente-groningen">schedule for the market can be found here</a>.

Mahalo is a popular vegan restaurant next too the Noorderplantsoen, serving a variety of delicious plant-based dishes inspired by global flavors. With an emphasis on healthy, organic, and locally-sourced ingredients, the menu offers a range of colorful salads, flavorful bowls, and mouthwatering desserts. The warm and inviting atmosphere makes Mahalo an ideal destination for vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal.

Mahalo

The game and puzzle store in Groningen offering a vast collection of games.

Wirwar Spellen en Puzzels

A popular, cozy beer café in Groningen, known for its extensive beer menu featuring local, national, and international brews. A laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for beer enthusiasts to unwind.

Bierlokaal Café de Koffer (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

A prominent cultural center and concert venue in Groningen, hosting a wide range of events, including music concerts, theater performances, and festivals. Ticket prices and fees may vary depending on the specific event.

De Oosterpoort: (Price range €€€ varies, depending on the event)

A popular music venue in Groningen, hosting a variety of concerts and events, including live music, dance parties, and festivals. Known for its diverse programming and welcoming atmosphere, it's a great spot to discover new artists and enjoy a night out.

Simplon (Price range: €€ moderately priced)

The historic main building of the University of Groningen, featuring stunning architecture and a central location.