5 hotspots in Groningen

In the north of the Netherlands, you find the beautiful student city of Groningen. These 5 hotspot you have to visit when in Groningen!

1. Forum rooftop

The Forum is a spectacular building in the city center of Groningen near the Nieuwe Markt. It is a meeting spot for people with a cinema, expositions, events, a library, catering, tourist information and the rooftop. The rooftop is free to access and provides a beautiful view of the Groningen skyline. From the rooftop you have a great view of the Martinitoren, which is only 100 meters away.

2. Noorderplantsoen

The Noorderplantsoen is a park, surrounded by the Oranjewijk, Noorderplantsoenbuurt and Hortusbuurt. The park is located on part of the former defensive walls from the 17th century. It was opened in 1880 and stretches over 20 acres. The park is a national monument and is a must visit when in Groningen.

3. Martinitoren

When you say Groningen, you say Martinitoren. The Martinitoren is the flagship of the city and is part of the Martinikerk located on the Grote Markt. With 96,8 meters high it is the highest tower in Groningen. Locals have given the tower the nickname d' Olle Grieze, which means Old Gray in the local dialect.

The current tower has two predecessors that do not exist anymore today. The first tower was built in the 13th century, located on the west side of the Martinikerk and was around 30 meters high. Due to a lightning strike in 1408 the tower got destroyed. The construction of the second tower was started in 1452 and was around 45 meters high. This tower did not survive long as a fire destroyed the tower in 1465. In 1469 the construction of the current tower started, but how long the construction took is still unknown today.

4. Grote Markt

De Grote Markt (the big market) is the most important square of Groningen and marks the middle of the city. The square is home to the Martinikerk with the Martinitower, the city hall and loads of shops, bars and restaurants.

5. Stay in the Leonardo Hotel

The Leonardo Hotel in Groningen is located in one of the characteristic buildings on the Groningen Skyline: La Liberté. Mirrors on the building bounce the sunlight differently throughout the day which constantly changes the face of the building. The hotel is located on a 20 minute walk from the Grote Markt and has its own gym and parking. The Leonardo has different room types to fit everyone’s needs and can be booked through BitBook!