It is finally here: the much awaited Summer holidays! After having completed another academic year, it is now time to relax and enjoy the upcoming sunny days. Are you spending your summer in Groningen and do you not yet know how to plan your days? Do not worry because there is plenty to do! Here is your guide to some of the best activities to do in and near Groningen during these months.

1. Climb the Martinitoren 

We all know about it: the Martini Tower. Standing 97 meters tall, did you know that you can also climb up the stairs for a panoramic view of the city of Groningen? The climb is a bit of a hike, as the staircase consists of 260 steps, yet, the view that awaits you is definitely worth it! As the tallest church steeple in the city of Groningen and as one of the main tourist attractions, this should be a must on your summer bucket list. Fun fact: Groningers have nicknamed the tower “d’ Olle Grieze”, which translates to the “Old Gray”.

2. Visit Museums in Groningen

Visiting the different museums in Groningen is a must activity for the museum enthusiasts. From art to history, see how the different museums offer striking collections and exhibitions. A museum night is moreover organised on the 21st of September, where you can visit the GRID Groningen in Akerk, Groninger Museum, Museum aan de A, Noorderlicht Studio, Forum Groningen, Synagogue Groningen and University Museum Groningen. Bonus tip: read our separate blog on museums in Groningen, providing you with an in depth guide of which museums to add to your list.

3. Plan a Picnic Day

There is something very special about spending a sunny afternoon in a park with good company and delicious food. Plan your next picnic day in one of the picnic spots in Groningen, including the Noorderplantsoen, Stadspark, Nieuwe Kerk, Martinikerkhof, Groningen City Beach, or the Hoornsemeer. Bonus tip: buy your picnic essentials from the stalls selling fresh and local produce on the Vismarkt and Grote Markt.

4. Boat day in the City

There is so much more to see from the water! See the city from a different perspective and cruise through the canals for a lovely day in the sun. There are different options of boat tours in Groningen: rent your own boat to navigate through the canals yourself or join a bigger boat for a guided tour of all the historical know alls of the city and its canals. And: some boat tours also offer complimentary snacks and drinks!

5. Open Air Cinema

It is well known that the Forum hosts a cinema, however, did you know that on the rooftop you can also watch movies? On specific dates, the open air cinema is opened, however, tickets have to be purchased in advance. Aside from watching the movie, you also have a view of the Groningen sunset and skyline! This is a double win, because even the snacks and drinks are included in the ticket price.

6. Swimming in Groningen

Is the heat too much and would you like to cool off in the water? The city has different bodies of water where swimming is permitted. At the city beach of Groningen, Paterswoldemeer, Hoornse Plas, and Kardingerplas for example, you can swim in the natural outdoor waters. Do you prefer going to an indoor pool? Groningen offers these possibilities at the Papiermolen, Kardinge, and Helper Swimming Pool for instance, and tickets can be purchased in advance!

7. Visit the Dutch Islands

Did you know that the Netherlands also has islands? The “TV TAS” or translated to the “TV bag”, are an acronym for the Dutch islands of Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland and Schiermonnikoog. Because Groningen is located all the way in the North, it is easier and faster to travel here. Of course, here you are able to unwind at the Dutch beaches, ride a bike around the island, go stargazing at night, see the authentic and historical villages, the lighthouses, and even go skydiving. The islands are an ideal destination for people who wish to reconnect with nature, anyone seeking peace and tranquility, but also for the adventurers. Want to know more? Read about it in our blog!

8. Spend a day in Nature

If you want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, the province of Groningen and its surroundings offer a lot of opportunities to reconnect with nature. Take a walking route or hop on your bike to explore the different forests, nature reserves and scenic landscapes close to home. Top destinations for nature lovers include the Lauwersmeer National Park, Drentsche Aa National Landscape, The Onlanden, Zuidlaardermeer, Hondsrug Geopark, and Bourtange. Fun fact: the Hondsrug Geopark is a UNESCO global geopark, and thus a must visit if you enjoy nature.

9. Day trip to Other Cities

Close to Groningen you find different destinations for a fun day trip. For instance, to Giethoorn, which is a car free village known for boat filled waters and bicycle trails. Additionally, the Netherlands is quite a small country so it is easy to travel to the beach of Scheveningen for example. Do you want to cross the border? From the central station of Groningen you can easily catch a bus or train to, for example, Germany or Belgium. Tickets can be purchased in advance, and when bought early, are more affordable! Within hours you can step foot in a different country and explore another city for a day.

10. Tour of the Municipality Building

Did you ever wish to explore the beautiful Municipality Building of Groningen? This is now your chance. Weekly, the municipality organises free guided tours by the University of Groningen of the building. After having been completely renovated every Friday, the building now hosts a new council chamber, a wedding hall, and different artworks, amongst others. Reserve your time slot in advance to see what the big building on the Grote Markt has to offer!