I’m no authority in what places are the must-dos. But I can tell you which are the ones I went to. I’ll sprinkle in some basic information along the way and tell you about my experience. Your trip will be different than mine. But I thought I’d share what I saw.

My friend makes fun of me for traveling to as many countries as I can but not taking the time to go in depth in the Netherlands. As of writing, I have been in the Netherlands for close to two years. Yet, I’ve never been to Groningen. While a foreigner might not be familiar with the city. All other Dutch people recognise it as a pillar. On a cold, rainy, and windy Saturday, I had an opportunity to visit Groningen.

Often referred to as the capital of the North, Groningen is one of the most inhabited cities in the Netherlands. More than 20% of its residents are students, and the place is home to the second oldest, and arguably one of the best Dutch universities, the University of Groningen.

The city is situated hours away from Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and the Hague. But the history is just as flavourful, if not more.

Friesland used to be administered from Groningen. Allegiance of its government once lied with the Spaniards. The city walls managed to overcome the Third-Anglo Dutch War. However, most structures weren’t spared from the Second World War. In recent times, natural gas was discovered, and continues to be at the centre of a pivotal economic and environmental issue hounding the country. 

There is a lot to unpack. And a day trip will not do the place justice. But as I always say, some time spent is better than none. 

For other places I’ve visited in the Netherlands, you can visit these links: Rotterdam and Amsterdam.

For photos I’ve taken in the Netherlands, you can visit these links: Rotterdam and Maastricht.

Here are five places I visited in Groningen:

Groninger Museum

I find museums refreshing when there is no sense of hierarchy or importance put on a specific kind of art. Be it graffiti, postmodernism, pieces made from porcelain, the Groninger Museum provides a platform for different kinds of expression to be showcased. My own knowledge and appreciation are limited. So inclusivity is an important feature in any attraction I visit. 

The architecture is also evidence of the unique approach the museum has on art. Rarely are buildings shaped and coloured this way.

When I visited, there was a temporary exhibition dedicated to Gianni Versace. I know most of his work from a Netflix series. But his full blown artistry and business mindedness were in full showcase. There was less drama. The focus moved away from his personal life. Instead, his work and vision were at the centre of the show (which I guess is how art should be)

Martinitoren

The St. Martin’s tower is the tallest building in Groningen. And for a time, apparently, in the entirety of Europe.

Any structure whose main highlight is its height, for sure, a great panoramic view of the city can be found there. But a word of caution: if you are unwilling to climb more than 200 steps, don’t bother. I’d also reconsider doing the activity if winter and/or windy weather is not your cup of tea. 

Forum Groningen

Forum Groningen houses a library, cafes, a sky bar/restaurant, cinemas, exhibitions, and a terrace. This is where the locals probably hang out. Majority of the seats are peaceful enough for residents to study and/or work at. A view is available for people who prefer seeing a glimpse of the city. I wouldn’t mind leisurely visiting this place on multiple occasions. In the Philippines, the equivalent would be a mall. 

I generally do not enjoy staying in one place and doing nothing. But I paused for a while, drank a coffee at a cafe, and ate a sandwich. The building enticed me to go against my natural tendencies. I took a break and this is one area I’d recommend to have it in if you want to incorporate some down time in your itinerary. 

Prinsentuin

I’m a firm believer that I should weather the storm and adapt to the season. Otherwise, time is wasted and excuses are unlimited. I should make an exception for gardens.

There is a rose garden, an herb garden, and an architecture exuding exquisiteness. But I got zero of that when a lot of the vegetation are wilted due to winter, and the serenity was replaced with a survival instinct given the strong winds. I’d definitely revisit when I come to Groningen for a second time. 

University Museum

The University Museum is an extension of the University of Groningen. The permanent exhibition is small. But do not confuse its size with the finer details I appreciated. 

The biggest theme I commend is its acknowledgment of the colonial nature around many of the artefacts. The recognition does not stop in writing down the history. There exists an active reckoning and questioning of the best approach to deal with the past. There is a commitment to find the truth. In some cases, the search extends to the home – be it for displaced items or actual victims (yes, there are bodies displayed in the name of science, which some might find disturbing.)

All photos were taken on January 2023.