How well do you know Groningen? 10 fun facts about the city

Whether you just live in the city, you are from Groningen or a tourist visiting the city: With these fun facts about Groningen you get to know the city a little bit better. So read on!

1. Most beautiful station in the Netherlands

Of course Groningen people knew it for a long time, but now it has also been confirmed by the Dutch Railways. In 2019, the Groningen station was named the most beautiful station in the Netherlands. More than 10,000 people voted for eight different stations. More than 33 percent voted for Groningen, which means that the station of Groningen wins, against for example Amsterdam and Utrecht. The station is definitely worth a visit: Make sure to check out the outside and the inside of the station.

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 and still stands on the beautiful Grote Markt.

3. Bicycle city

In the cycling city Groningen it can get quite busy with cyclists. Did you know that Groningen is the only city in the Netherlands with intersections where all bicycles get green at the same time? That certainly takes some time getting used to in the beginning. 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 don’t have to travel all the way to Amsterdam for a fun festival? You will get through the summer festival season with festivals like Paradigm, Kopjek, Onder de pannen and Nazomeren. And the best part? These can all be reached by bike.

5. Eurosonic Noorderslag

Did you know that Groningen hosts one of the largest music festivals in Europe? With 42,062 visitors and 347 acts in 2020, Eurosonic Noorderslag is not only large, but also versatile. The music festival takes place throughout the city, with the largest stage on the Grote Markt. Other venues can be found in small bars and shops.

6. Groningen Breweries

Did you know that Groningen has its own breweries? There are various breweries in the city, such as Baxbier, Martinusand Hooghoudt. At the breweries you can try out some of their brewed drinks in their tasting room or take a look at the brewery itself. A piece of Groningen pride.

7. Nationalities

Did you know that the study city Groningen is enormously diverse? More than 120 different nationalities study in Groningen. This turns the city from the far north into a truely international city.

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 quirky building around 1994. The building itself is perhaps the largest art piece in the museum.

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 the Pintelier you have a choice of 23 draft beers and 80 bottled beers. Enough choice!

10. No closing times

The nightlife in Groningen is very special. It doesn’t matter what time you want to be on the dance floor, there is always a pub open in the entertainment city Groningen. Because “gezelligheid” in Groningen has no time!

Do you know other fun facts about the city? Let us know!