10 facts you should know about Groningen

Whether you live in the city, are from Groningen, or are visiting as a tourist, it doesn’t matter. With these fun facts about Groningen, you’ll get to know the city a little better. So read on!

1. Car-free(er)

Did you know that Groningen has been considered a pioneer in sustainable urban development for years? The city center is designed in such a way that cars can hardly pass through it, giving pedestrians plenty of space to stroll around peacefully. This makes Groningen not only a pleasant city to explore, but also one of the most enjoyable places to live and visit.

2. Martinitoren

Before the Martinitoren stood in its prominent place, two other towers stood here. The first tower was built at the end of the 13^th century and was around 30 meters high. Unfortunately, this tower did not survive. The second tower collapsed at the end of the 15th century. The current Martini Tower, also known as the Olle Grieze, was built from 1496 onwards and still stands on the beautiful Grote Markt.

Photo: Groningen Bicycle city

3. Bicycle city

In fietsstad Groningen kan het aardig druk zijn met fietsen. Wist je dat Groningen als enige stad in Nederland kruispunten heeft waar alle fietsen tegelijk groen krijgen? Dat is in het begin zeker even wennen. Sometimes it seems like a real cycling jungle in the city centre. Luckily the city centre has a large number of bicycle parking spots, where you can park your bike neatly and safely.

4. Festivals

Did you know that you really don’t have to travel all the way to the Randstad for a fun festival? You will get through the summer festival season with festivals like Paradigm, Kopjek, Onder de pannen and Nazomeren. The best part? All of these places can be reached by bike, just like we do in Groningen.

Photo: Paradigm

5. Eurosonic Noorderslag

Did you know that Groningen hosts one of the largest music festivals in Europe? With more than 40,000 visitors and a line-up of over 200 artists, Eurosonic Noorderslag in 2026 is not only big, but also incredibly diverse and international. The music festival takes place throughout the city, with the largest stage located on the Grote Markt. Other stages can be found in small pubs and shops.

6. Breweries in Groningen

Did you know that Groningen has a number of its own breweries? There are several breweries in the city, such as Baxbier and Martinus. At the breweries, you can taste the beer in the tasting room or take a look around the brewery itself. A source of pride for Groningen.

Photo: Hooghoudt

7. Nationalities

Did you know that Groningen is incredibly diverse when it comes to students? Students from around 127 different countries study at the University of Groningen. This makes this city in the far north a truly cosmopolitan place.

8. Groninger museum

The Groninger Museum was not designed by a Groninger, but finds its origins in sunny Italy. Architect and artist Mendini designed the unique building around 1994. The building itself is perhaps the museum’s greatest exhibit.

Photo: Marketing Groningen

9. Pintje in De Pintelier

Did you know that just like Kraantje Pappie you can drink a pintje (beer) at the Pintelier. In the famous song ‘Lil Craney’ Kraantje Pappie sings about Groningen and a beer in the Pintelier. At De Pintelier, you can choose from 23 beers on tap and 80 bottled beers. Plenty of choice!

10. No closing times

The nightlife in Groningen is very special. It doesn’t matter how late you want to stay on the dance floor, there is always a bar open for you in the entertainment district. Because in Groningen, fun knows no time!

Do you know any other fun facts about Groningen? Let us know!