Budget-friendly fun: Groningen in 3 days

Discover the charm of Groningen without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Getting to know Groningen

  • Check into the Martini Hotel, a cosy budget hotel located in the heart of Groningen.
  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at 't Pannekoekschip, a restaurant housed in an old restored ship.
  • Head to the Groninger Museum, which has a quirky collection of contemporary, modern art and photography.
  • Take a stroll around the Prinsentuin, a beautiful garden with a maze and a tea house.
  • Visit the Martinitoren, the tallest church tower in Groningen, and climb to the top for a stunning view of the city.
  • End your day with a pint of locally brewed beer at De Pintelier.
Day 2

Exploring the University Town

  • Start your day with a traditional Dutch breakfast at Buurman & Buurman, a trendy café with a cosy atmosphere.
  • Visit the University of Groningen, one of the oldest universities in the Netherlands, and admire its stunning architecture.
  • Stroll through the student neighbourhood of Oosterpoort, filled with young energy and vibrant street art.
  • Visit the Noorderplantsoen, a beautiful park with a lake, a playground, and a small petting zoo.
  • Explore the Groninger Forum, a modern library with an impressive rooftop terrace and a cinema.
  • For dinner, visit the Wadapartja, a funky restaurant where you can enjoy a diverse range of dishes made from fresh and local ingredients.
Day 3

Biking and Beyond

  • Rent a bike from OV-fiets and cycle to the Reitdiephaven, a picturesque harbour with colourful houses.
  • Continue your bike ride to the charming village of Zuidlaren, known for its historic buildings and beautiful natural surroundings.
  • Have lunch at the Doe Museum, a fun and interactive museum with a focus on art and design.
  • Visit the Fraeylemaborg, an impressive castle hidden in the lush greenery of Slochteren.
  • Explore the street art at the Suikerfabriek, a former sugar factory now transformed into a cultural hotspot.
  • End your day with dinner at Het Feithhuis, a stylish restaurant housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century building.
  • Groningen is a dynamic and charming city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. With this itinerary, you're sure to have an unforgettable trip on a limited budget. Bon voyage!

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.

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