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.

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Travel plan

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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.

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

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Groningen on a Budget: A Day Trip Guide

Groningen, Netherlands offers a variety of activities for travelers on a limited budget. Visitors can explore the city's historic landmarks and vibrant student culture by renting a bike for €10 per day, or choose from a range of affordable and delicious traditional Dutch cuisine at local street markets and cafes. Accommodation options like youth hostels or budget-friendly hotels provide affordable lodging options for travelers with a tight budget.

Discovering Groningen: A Fun-Filled Family Adventure

Groningen, located in the northern part of the Netherlands, is a perfect destination for a family-friendly trip. With its charming canals, beautiful historic buildings, and numerous parks and playgrounds, there is something to entertain everyone. Explore the Groninger Museum, take a boat tour on the canals, or rent bicycles to enjoy the city's excellent bike infrastructure, making it easy and safe to explore with children.

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.

Experience Groningen, Netherlands in 5 Days!

As a tourist in Groningen, Netherlands, visitors can experience the charm of a small and lively city surrounded by beautiful Dutch countryside. With a picturesque canal running through the heart of the city, visitors can explore art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes while taking in the fascinating architecture of the historic buildings. Additionally, a must-see experience in Groningen is the Martini Tower, a 15th-century landmark that offers incredible views of the city and surrounding area from its observation deck.