Groningen Netherlands

Tours

In the last 500 years, the Martinitower tower has endured fire and lightning, and has nearly collapsed. Wars have been won and lost on its steps, but the tower has stood firm and, at 97 metres, it is still the highest building in the city. Climb the tower to experience some tangible history and a stunning view. Over 250 steps Because there is no lift, climbing the d’Olle Grieze – Old Grey One – involves some unremitting labour. Most visitors take about an hour for their visit. But rest assured that your work-out will be handsomely rewarded. After every so many steps, take in the Martinikerk church vaults, centuries-old ornaments, heavy bells or giant flagpoles. On the first gallery, step outside to walk around the tower at a height of 39 metres. And on this gallery you can also find a small cinema where you can watch a short movie about the history of Groningen through the eyes of the tower, High above the city A considerable number of steps higher will take you to the bell tower. After the narrow and somewhat damp passages, you may experience a feeling of space. This is where you can hear gulls above and people at the market while you stand between the clock dials. After enjoying the beautiful view of the city and environs the time has come to go back down. Any sore muscles the following day will be well worth the effort.

Discover the canals of Groningen in an hour with Rondvaartbedrijf Kool, a family business which has provided canal tours for more than 50 years. Float past the tall steeple on the Martinitoren and other old buildings. Buy some snacks, beer, or prosecco to enjoy throughout the cruise. Come to the meeting point, then jump aboard the boat to begin exploring the canal. Marvel at the many beautiful towers, bridges, and buildings which you will see along the historic canals. Sit back and relax to see the wonders of medieval and modern architecture along the way. Let the friendly staff take care of you and purchase a drink or snack. Choose from a variety of coffees, teas, sodas, Heineken or Belgian beers, wine, or prosecco to buy aboard the boat. Then, sip on your drink and take in the churches and scenery that you will see during the cruise. Encounter the well-known Martinitoren, a famous tall church steeple. Then, sail past the Groniger Museum, which displays modern and contemporary art. Also, look at the Tasman Tower. Finally, finish up your tour at the starting point and get off the boat.

Discover the first floating terrace in Groningen and enjoy a unique combination of the relaxation of a terrace and the magic of a boat trip. Experience the ultimate destination for anyone who wants to enjoy some cold drinks on the water. We are not a Historical boat tour with a Guide. Board the boat and enjoy the flexibility of the cabriolet roof, which can be opened on sunny days for an unobstructed view of the sky, and closed quickly to ensure comfort and dryness in the event of an unexpected rain shower. Enjoy a wide selection of drinks and snacks at the bar, from summer beers and refreshing wines to warm (vegetarian) snacks. Everything is available for a perfect drink or party on board. With space for 75 people, the boat is perfect for both intimate gatherings and large group activities, such as company outings, birthdays, and more. After sunset, the atmospheric lighting creates a charming ambiance, while the comfortably furnished seating with soft cushions promotes a cozy atmosphere. For extra convenience, there is a clean and accessible toilet on board. You don't have to worry about comfort. The boat departs from an easily accessible location opposite Groningen Central Station, with fixed times so you can easily plan your day. Enjoy top service from the friendly crew, who ensure that all your needs are met, so you can relax and enjoy your time on the water.

Join the most entertaining open-air canal cruise of Groningen. Where personal contact and authentic stories about Groningen are held in high esteem. Enjoy the Groningen canals, interesting information and unlimited beverages for one hour long. We navigate along the Old Museum (Westerhaven), warehouses Hoge and Lage der A, AA-church, Hoek van Ameland, Noorderhaven, the Prinsenhof, the Stadsschouwburg and of course the famous Martinitoren Our experienced and enthusiastic skippers will tell you all about the history, architecture and culture of the city while you enjoy the view.

During your 1.5 hour walking tour (max. 25 guests per group) you will see, feel, smell, hear about the history, present and future of the city of Groningen. With your guide you will explore the historical city-centre. The 1000-years old metropolis of the North of the Netherlands will embrace you. Be amazed by this vibrant student town. See Renaissance combined with modern architecture. Look around and enjoy the green squares, the tower, the people, the stories you will be told. You will make unforgettable memories during your visit! The tour starts at the brand new Forum Groningen where you will learn all about technical innovations, modern culture and actuality. Your guide will take you on a walk and to see the New Market Square and de Martini-toren. Continuing your tour you will see so much more, like the office of the Commisionar of the King, the Palace of the 17th and 18th century Regents, the City-Hall situated on the Grote Marktsquare, the Gold-office and the Academic Building. Enjoy the beautiful yellow tower of the A-church and step back 800 years when you are exploring the oldest harbour of Groningen. Of course, you can not miss the old Folkingestraat with it's Jewish history and (not part of the tour on Sundays) the impressive Pepergasthuis, the shelter place for pilgrims who came to worship until the end of the 16th century, the relic of Saint John the Baptist. At the end of the tour, ending at the Forum Groningen again, use the electric stair-cases to discover the 45m. high platform yourself. The view is breath-taking. When you have seen this all, and don't worry because this all can be seen in a 1.5km walk, you will always remember your visit to this warm, welcoming, lovely place with its 235.000 inhabitants, including the 70.000 students. We look forward to welcome you.

Enjoy the historic city of Groningen in our beautiful open tour boat. Groningen is one of the oldest cities in the Northern Netherlands and has many sights, such as the Martini Tower, the Groninger Museum and the beautiful old canals that flow through the city. The electrically powered Pronkjewail sails silently through the canal while you enjoy a wide variety of drinks. The tour is equipped with an audio guide in three different languages, which provides you with information on the vast and interesting history of the city of Groningen. The "Pronkjewail" is a comfortable and spacious modern boat that we have been operating since 2020. It is a boat with very little CO2 emissions and is therefore completely keeping in line with the sustainability targets of these times. Book your ticket now and be surprised by our beautiful city.

Discover Groningen in the evening during our one-hour cheese and wine cruise! Join us on a guided tour along the enchanting canals of Groningen, where history and charm meet the contemporary. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Groningen's picturesque canals while savoring a selection of various cheeses and a glass of wine. During this cruise you will get to see all the highlights that Groningen has to offer, like our personal favorites: Centraal Station, Hoge en Lage der Aa and Noorderhaven. As you leisurely cruise through the serene canals of Groningen, let the scenic beauty captivate your senses. Our guided tour offers insights into the city's history, architecture, and hidden gems, creating a harmonious blend of relaxation and exploration. With a maximum of 15 participants, our small-group setting ensures a comfortable atmosphere.

Experience the vibrant student city of Groningen with a local guide. This student city has more than 1,000 years of history. Cycle with our experienced guides along the highlights in the center but also along the beautiful gems outside the center. The Grote Markt, the Martini Tower, the Groninger Museum and the Forum, but also the Oosterpark and the Noorderplantsoen. See all the main highlights while learning about Groningen's rich history. The best outing in the city of Groningen for more than 20 years. The bike tour lasts 2-2.5 hours.

Discover Groningen on an enchanting canal tour with Borrelvloot! Embark on a journey through the city's waterways while sipping on unlimited drinks and immersing yourself in fascinating historical tales. Our experienced skippers will guide you along Groningen's iconic landmarks, sharing insights into the city's rich history and unique culture. Perfect for Every Occasion: Whether you're with family, friends, celebrating a bachelor/bachelorette party, or organizing a corporate outing, Borrelvloot offers an unforgettable experience. Customize Your Experience: Enhance your canal tour by adding extra delights such as a bbq, a delectable snack platter, or a beer tasting session. Create the perfect package for your group's preferences! Starting and Ending Point: The adventure begins and ends at Schuitendiep, just a few minutes' walk from Poelestraat, Groningen's vibrant area with cafes and restaurants. It's also a short stroll to the city center, allowing you to seamlessly continue exploring Groningen or return to your accommodation. Join us on the Borrelvloot for a charming and cozy adventure along Groningen's picturesque canals. Book now for an experience that blends relaxation, discovery, indulgence, and the option to turn it into a celebration!

The Groninger Museum is renowned for its vibrant architecture and captivating exhibitions. It seamlessly blends study and relaxation, and bursts with artistic energy. The postmodern architecture is an artistic highlight, designed by Alessandro Mendini together with Philipe Starck, Michele de Lucchi and Coop Himmelb(l)au. The museum's collection is diverse and intriguing. Explore the expressionism of Groningen’s De Ploeg artists, and marvel at the striking designs of the Memphis Group. Discover the beautiful 12-metre-high stairwell installation by Dale Chihuly. The Treasure Room features a gleaming array of Groningen silver, highlighted by a miniature Martini Tower. Local history and culture are also prominently featured. Discover the temporary exhibition: How Van Gogh Came to Groningen. This exhibition tells the story of determined Groningers and enterprising students who, in 1896, brought modern art to the North. The Groninger Museum hosted one of the largest Vincent Van Gogh exhibitions over a century ago, and this exhibit recounts how modern art reached the northern Netherlands in the 1890s. In the Ploeg Pavilion, another temporary exhibition includes: A Collective of Artists from Groningen. In 1918, young artists founded the art collective De Ploeg, meaning "The Plough" and "The Group." This name symbolized the need to cultivate new art in Groningen. By joining forces, these artists prepared Groningen for modern art through shared expositions and activities. Famous names include H.N. Werkman and Johan Dijkstra. Celebrate the Chinese Year of the Dragon with a journey through 5,000 years of Asian ceramics. This exhibition showcases pieces from the Anders Collection, highlighting aspects of ceramics culture in China and Japan from 3,000 BCE to the early 20th century. Visitors will discover 400 exquisite objects that reveal everyday life, habits, rituals, and decorative arts in Asian cultures. The exhibition Behind the Scenes pulls back the curtain on everything visitors don't normally see. How does a collection come into being, and how are artworks conserved? How are they transported and subsequently presented to the public? Behind the Scenes answers these questions. Visitors choose which frame best suits a particular artwork or decide which lighting shows it off most effectively. In 2020, Vincent van Gogh’s painting The Parsonage Garden at Nuenen in Spring was stolen from the Singer Laren museum. In 2023 came the joyful news that the painting had been recovered. The Parsonage Garden at Nuenen in Spring has returned to public view in Behind the Scenes at the Groninger Museum.