What to see in Groningen in two days: a ready-made itinerary

Two days in Groningen — that’s enough time to see the main sights without it turning into a gruelling marathon. Group the attractions by neighbourhood, allow for a bit of leeway depending on the weather, and don’t plan any important sightseeing straight after an overnight coach journey.

Check opening times, events, accessibility and tickets on the official tourism portal: these details change more often than the attractions themselves.

Day one: the historic centre

Start with the Grote Markt and the Martini Tower, then stroll through the streets of the city centre and along the canals. There’s heavy cycle traffic, so don’t stand on the cycle paths.

Day two: museums and other neighbourhoods

On the second day, choose between the Groninger Museum or the Forum Groningen, which offers panoramic views of the city. Noorderplantsoen Park is ideal for a peaceful afternoon.

How to set a realistic pace

Plan one main paid attraction for half a day, and leave the rest of the time for the streets, the waterfront and short stops. If a booking is required, factor in the journey from your previous location. After a long journey, it’s better to shorten your itinerary than to rush through unfamiliar areas.

Early or late arrival

Check in advance whether you can leave your luggage at your accommodation, and check the route from your exact drop-off point. Start your morning itinerary with open spaces rather than a museum with fixed opening hours. If arriving in the evening, save public transport timetables and the hotel’s contact details offline.

Transport and navigation

Download an offline map, mark the coach station, your accommodation and your return departure point. The city centre is often convenient for walking routes, but a museum or hill further afield may require transport. Compare single and day tickets using the current fares from the local operator.

Budget and meals

Set aside a separate budget for transport, one or two paid attractions and any unexpected travel costs. For lunch, head away from the most touristy squares and check the menu before ordering. Water and a compact snack will help you avoid having to change your route because of queues.

Preparing for a coach journey

Keep your ticket, passport, mobile phone and any necessary medication in your hand luggage. Allow plenty of time for your return journey: the name of the city is no substitute for the exact address and platform. Check out our tips on offline maps and preparing your mobile phone for a trip abroad.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a city tourist card?

It isn’t automatically worth it. Only count the museums and trips you’ll actually have time for, and check the terms and conditions on the official website.

What should I do if it rains?

Keep one museum alternative in mind, but don’t cram all your visits into a single day: you’ll still need to get around the city between them.