Hotels in Groningen

Groningen: University City on the Hunze Plain

Groningen is the largest city in the northern Netherlands, home to roughly 235,000 residents and the University of Groningen, founded in 1614. Students make up nearly a quarter of the population, shaping a city dense with brown cafés, cycle lanes, and independent bookshops concentrated around the Grote Markt and the Vismarkt. The 97-metre Martinitoren — the city's tallest structure — has anchored the skyline since the 15th century and offers panoramic views across Groningse flat farmland.

Where to Stay in Groningen

Most hotels cluster within walking distance of the Grote Markt or along Gedempte Zuiderdiep, the former canal now lined with shops. The Schilderswijk and Oosterpoort neighbourhoods attract visitors seeking quieter streets a short cycle from the centre. The Groninger Museum — a 1994 Alessandro Mendini building bridging the canal west of the main station — draws architecture and design travellers year-round.

Practical Tips

• Getting there: Direct trains from Amsterdam Centraal reach Groningen in roughly 2 hours.
• Getting around: The city is almost entirely flat; hire a bicycle at the station for under €10/day.
• Best time to visit: April–September brings long daylight hours; the Eurosonic Noorderslag music showcase runs each January.