Groningen Getaway: A 4-Day Adventure on a Budget

Discovering the charm of Groningen without emptying your wallet.

21 June 2023

Groningen is a charming and quaint little town in the Netherlands that is perfect for a budget-friendly trip. With its numerous museums, parks, and historic buildings, there is something for everyone. The best part is that most of the attractions are free or very affordable, making it easy to see and experience everything this lovely city has to offer without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Settling in and Exploring

  • Check into The Student Hotel, an affordable and modern stay close to the city center
  • Take a stroll down the vibrant Provinciehuis street, filled with unique shops and cafes
  • Visit Groninger Museum, displaying eclectic modern art and exquisite designs
  • End the day with a local favorite at De Groote Griet, a quaint pub serving delicious beers and traditional Dutch snacks.
Day 2

Historical Groningen

  • Get a glimpse of the city's rich heritage at Martinikerk, a beautiful 13th-century church
  • Admire the 100-year-old painted ceilings and ornate organs at Der Aa-kerk
  • Take a tour of the centuries-old City Hall, featuring an impressive collection of art and artifacts
  • Have lunch at De Drie Gezusters, a cozy cafe boasting delightful Dutch cuisine
  • Enjoy a relaxing boat tour through the picturesque canals of Groningen.
Day 3

Sights and Sounds

  • Take a peaceful walk in Noorderplantsoen, a serene park and favorite spot for locals
  • Indulge in scrumptious pancakes and waffles at Pannenkoekschip Groningen, a floating restaurant
  • Check out the scenic views at Reitdiep Haven, one of Groningen's most scenic waterfronts
  • Enjoy an evening of live music at Vera, Europe's famous alternative music venue
  • Grab a drink at The Crown, a cozy and friendly bar popular among locals.
Day 4

Natural Beauty

  • Head to De Onlanden, a tranquil nature reserve filled with diverse flora and fauna
  • Have breakfast at an authentic Dutch bakery, Bakkerij Blanche, before hitting the road
  • Explore Lauwersmeer National Park, a vast nature reserve that includes a bird sanctuary and lush forests
  • Take a bike ride through the stunning countryside and enjoy the refreshing country air
  • End the last day with dinner at Het Pakhuis, an atmospheric brewery and restaurant serving hearty meals and flavorful beers.

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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