Groningen on a budget: a two-day adventure

Explore charming Groningen without breaking the bank!

21 June 2023

Groningen, Netherlands offers a wealth of art, culture, and history for budget-conscious travelers. Visit the iconic Martini Tower and the Groninger Museum for affordable entrance fees. Stay in budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or apartments, and sample Dutch delicacies at local street markets and cozy cafés.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring Groningen's charm

  • Start the day with a stroll through historic Prinsenhof, taking in the sights of 16th-century buildings and peaceful courtyards.
  • Visit the Groninger Museum, home to an eclectic collection of contemporary and classical art, with pieces from famous Dutch artists like Jozef Israëls and Theo van Doesburg.
  • Discover local culture and history at the Noordelijk Scheepvaartmuseum, a maritime museum showcasing the region's history as a hub for shipping and trade.
  • Grab lunch at Het Pakhuis, a cozy brewery in the city center that serves up craft beers and tasty gastropub fare.
  • In the afternoon, rent a bike and cycle around the Noorderplantsoen park, taking in the natural beauty and serene atmosphere.
  • Finish the day with dinner at De Reisiger, a cozy restaurant that offers a range of Italian cuisine, from classic pastas to wood-fired pizzas.
  • Budget hotel option: Simplon Jongerenhotel, a youth hostel in the heart of Groningen that offers basic but comfortable rooms at affordable prices.
Day 2

Going off the beaten path

  • Start the day with a hearty breakfast at the Groninger Koek, a local bakery that specializes in traditional Dutch sweets and pastries.
  • Explore the quirky Hortus Haren, a botanical garden located just outside of Groningen, featuring exotic plants, sculptures, and a butterfly pavilion.
  • Visit the Martinitoren, the iconic tower that dominates the Groningen skyline, and climb up to the top for breathtaking views of the city and surrounding countryside.
  • Discover the hidden gems of the Folkingestraat, a charming street filled with independent shops, cafes, and galleries.
  • Have lunch at De Herbivoor, a vegan restaurant that offers delicious and satisfying plant-based dishes, from burgers to bowls.
  • End the day at Vera, a legendary music venue that has hosted countless famous bands over the years, and catch a live performance or DJ set.
  • Budget hotel option: Apollo Hotel Groningen, a sleek and stylish hotel located near the city center, with modern amenities and affordable rates.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Groningen by plane is to fly into Groningen Airport Eelde. There are direct flights available from various cities in Europe including London, Copenhagen, Munich, and Gdansk.

Car

Driving to Groningen is an option for those who prefer the freedom and flexibility of their own vehicle. The A7 motorway connects Groningen to Amsterdam, while the A28 links it to Utrecht and Zwolle.

Train

You can take a train to Groningen from most major cities in the Netherlands. The Groningen train station is located in the city center and is connected to the rest of the city by local buses and taxis.

Boat

Sailing to Groningen is possible via the Groningen Seaports, which has two harbors - Eemshaven and Delfzijl. From there, you can take a bus or train to reach the city center.

Bus

Taking a bus to Groningen is a cost-effective option that is available from various locations in the Netherlands and neighboring countries. The central bus station in Groningen is easily accessible by public transport and is located near the city center.

Destination

Groningen

Welcome to the land of cheese, canal cruising, and forever bike-riding: where Groningen stands tall as a city with more bikes than people and more cheese than you can fit in your pockets. Get ready to explore this quirky destination!

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Number of days

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Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Groningen: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget!

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Groningen Adventure: 5 Days on a Budget

A trip to Groningen, Netherlands on a limited budget is definitely possible, so don’t let money constraints hold you back! Stay in a budget hostel or Airbnb, explore the city on foot or rent a bike, and take advantage of the many free activities including exploring the historic city center, visiting local parks and museums, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife with affordable drink specials.

Budget-friendly fun: Groningen in 3 days

Groningen, a charming city in the Netherlands, offers plenty of exciting activities even for those on a tight budget. The city has numerous free attractions and activities like the Groninger Museum and the charming Martinitoren church. Visitors can also save money by opting for affordable food options at local supermarkets or street markets.