Groningen City Guide

Maps Events Restaurants Cafs Nightlife Sightseeing Shopping Hotels
Groningen
2014 / 2015
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Contents
Press Box
E S S E N TI A L
C I TY G U I D E S
Foreword
Brutally honest.
Wall Street Journal
4
A few words from the editor
Arrival & Getting Around
How to get to your hotel
Groningen Basics
Getting to grips with Groningen
Culture & Events 8

Concerts, festivals and events
Restaurants
21
The Independent
28
The secret of the In Your Pocket guides is that, unlike

many expensive travel guides, they are written by native English speakers living in the city they are writing
about.
29
32
Explore a wonderful West Frisian island
List of small features

Carl Rabenhaupt
Groningen for kids
Sport in Groningen
Unusual Groningen
Maps & Index

Old town map
Greater Groningen map
Venue index
Old town street register
The New York Times
26
Beds for backpackers and business executives
Schiermonnikoog
In Your Pocket: a cheeky, well-written series of guidebooks.
22
Spas, doctors and other useful information
Hotels
Daily Mail
Concentrating on both well-known and more offbeat

European destinations, In Your Pockets guides are compiled by locals and regularly updated.
Boutiques, souvenir shops and shopping centres
Health & Lifestyle
Detailed, carefully researched guides.
The Guardian
Museums, churches and other sights
Shopping
Elle
18
Where to smoke responsibly
Sightseeing
From Albania to Ukraine In Your Pocket is a wonderful

source of boutique hotels, spas and great little bars.
Solid, reliable information on everything from where

to book a reasonable B&B to how best to spend 72
hours in a city.
Bars, pubs and clubs
Coffeeshops
The Independent
12
The Dutch have much more than cheese to offer
Nightlife
Entertaining and honest: at times devastatingly so, the In

Your Pocket city guides make their rivals seem tame by
comparison.
The Irish Times

With so many European cities now within easy range,
this website is a (literally) priceless first stop before your
holiday. The guides are free to download and print off
as pdfs and have information on where to eat and stay
and what to see on European city breaks.
The Times
24
27
31
36
In Your Pocket guides are each written by an English

language writer who lives locally. All information is also
available on the publishers website.
37
37
39
39
The In Your Pocket series of guide booklets have turned

out to be highly useful in avoiding tourist traps and
other travel hazards. They have become a European
publishing phenomenon.
Sueddeutsche Zeitung
International Herald Tribune

facebook.com/groningeninyourpocket
2014 / 2015
Foreword
After many months of sleepless nights researching, writing, pounding Red Bull, eating at local restaurants, drinking beer at pubs, editing, entering data, gulping tea by the
litre, visiting museums and, yes, even sampling legal ganja,
In Your Pocket is finally proud to present its latest creation:
Groningen In Your Pocket, a complete guide to the city and
its surrounding sights. Groningens local and international
students lend the city a hip air of freedom and vitality thats
hard to find elsewhere, but its not all about the new generation. Young and old enjoy the many terraces and pubs
around town and the extensive parks and green zones in
and around Groningen (see p.10 - 11) are the perfect place
for a picnic or lazy stroll. More intrepid travellers can explore the peaceful island of Schiermonnikoog (see p.32 35). Whatever your choice may be, were 100% convinced
that this reference book with the latest and most accurate
information will guide you in discovering one of the most
intriguing cities in Holland. Enjoy!
Publisher
E S S E N TI A L
In Your Pocket Netherlands
C I TY G U I D E S
Weikesstraat 21, 5335 LE Alem, The Netherlands
ISSN 2352-8583
Company Office & Accounts
Tel. (+31) 653 79 91 46, groningen@inyourpocket.com,
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Groningen In Your Pocket is printed by Microdot in the EU
Editorial
Editorial team Theo Leerintveld & Jeroen van Marle
Researchers Theo Leerintveld, Robert Durenkamp &
Imke van Gerwen
Layout & Design Martins Zaprauskis
Photography Theo Leerintveld & Robert Durenkamp. Others
courtesy of Toerisme Groningen and VVV Schiermonnikoog
Cover Bob de Vries
Cover story
Sales & Circulation

Theo Leerintveld, tel. (+31) 653 79 91 46, theo.leerintveld@
inyourpocket.com
Cycling can get quite stressful in

Groningens city centre, so you
might consider taking a ride with
Fietstaxi Yvette shown on this issues cover. This charming tour
guide offers entertaining city
trips on her bicycle rickshaw that
are both fun and eco-friendly. In
case, youre wondering, Yvette is
also available for special events
like weddings. In the background youll notice the new
Tourist Office, which is nothing if not colourful!
Copyright notice
Text and photos copyright In Your Pocket Netherlands. Maps
copyright cartographer. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form, except brief extracts
for the purpose of review, without written permission from the
publisher and copyright owner. The brand name In Your Pocket
is used under license from UAB In Your Pocket (Bernardinu 9-4,
Vilnius, Lithuania tel. (+370-5) 212 29 76).
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Arriving & Getting Around

With an efficient rail service and one of the Netherlands
few airports, getting to Groningen is a piece of cake. In
town getting around by bus is straightforward - though
walking and cycling are perhaps the best way to get
around the old town.
By Bus
Eurolines and public express buses stop at Groningens central station. See arriving by train above for details on how
to proceed.
By car
Groningens city centre is a drivers nightmare, with plenty
of one-way streets and high parking charges. Parking on
the street costs 2.30 per hour in the centre, with a maximum time of 30 - 60 minutes. There are 13 parking garages
in and directly around the city centre, charging 1.50 - 2.50
per hour, or 12-21 per day. The most central parking garage is at Pelsterstraat 15; the Cascade garage near the station at Cascadeplein is good value at 12 per day. To avoid
congestion, driving daytrippers are advised to use the Park
& Ride system (P+R); approaching from the south along the
A28 highway, park for free at the Haren P+R station and
take the N22 Citybus to the central station and the Grote
Markt; buses depart every 10 minutes, and the 6 return
ticket paid in cash to the driver is valid for up to 5 people.
By plane
Groningens Airport Eelde is 15km south of the city centre, along the A28 highway. Taxis charge a fixed fee of 30
for the 15-minute ride to the city centre (55 if you also
prebook a return trip); its a good idea to call ahead. Hertz
and Europcar offer car rental. Bus N2 (ticket 5, 3,26 using
an OV-Chipcard) departs every 30 minutes (every hour on
Sundays) and takes 40 minutes to reach the central station,
after which it continues to Grote Markt square. The Airportliner express bus meets Ryanair arrivals and charges 4 for
the 20-minute ride to Central Station and the Martini Hotel
(in the city centre at Gedempte Zuiderdiep 8).
If youre arriving at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, you can
take the train directly from Schiphols train station to Groningen via either Lelystad or Zwolle. Theres no need to go
to Amsterdam central station first, and many Groningers
would say thats a good thing.
Groningens Central Station is an historic monument
tourist information
Tourism office (VVV)
This brand new information centre, located in the
middle of the central square is a good place to get
brochures, buy a guide or take a number if youd like
to talk to a staff member. They can give you ideas and
advice about excursions, set you up with a map and
help with plenty of other pressing questions. Also a
good resource if you have any questions about the
public transportation system. We specially loved the
(virtual) presentations of ambitious new projects like
the Forum.QA-3, Grote Markt 29, tel. 0900 202 30
50, toerisme.groningen.nl. Open 09:30 - 18:00, Mon
12:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. In July
and August this office is also open on Sundays from
11:00-16:00.
By Train
Groningens monumental train station is a pleasure to arrive
in. Luggage lockers of varying sizes and prices can be found
on the main platform. Buses to the university, suburbs and
airport depart directly outside; every couple of minutes
theres a bus to the Grote Markt main square; a single ticket
bought from the driver costs 2. However, the city centre
is also easy to reach on foot in about 10 - 15 minutes. Just
follow the crowds across Groninger Museum bridge and
straight ahead into Ubbo Emmiusstraat and Folkingestraat;
turn right on Vismarkt square to reach the Grote Markt.
Public transport
Groningens bus network is small but efficient, with buses
running from around 06:00 to 24:00, and a night bus
network. At the bus stop, stick out your hand to be sure
it stops for you. Eurokaartje tickets are most practical for
short-term visitors and can be bought from the driver.
Tickets cost 2 for rides within 2 zones (Groningen centre
and suburbs, valid for an hour), or 5 for rides on the night
buses. A bus day ticket, valid for the provinces of Groningen
and Drenthe plus part of Friesland, costs 16.
Longer-term visitors can get much cheaper fares by
investing in an OV-chipcard, the payment card for public
transport throughout The Netherlands. Using the OVchipcard, a single bus trip within Groningen costs around
1, the ride to the airport 3.26. Swipe the card against the
terminal; every time you get on and off any bus or train,
and the fare is automatically deduced. An anonymous card
can be bought for 7.50 at train or bus stations, and can
be charged at the counter or at loading devices in stations,
supermarkets and newsagents. See www.ov-chipkaart.nl
for details in English.
Qbuzz
QC-2, Stationsplein 25 (bus station), tel. 0900 728 99
65, www.qbuzz.nl/english. Open 07:00 - 19:00. Closed
Sun. The Qbuzz website has local timetables
2014 / 2015
Arriving & Getting Around

Airport
Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ)
Groningen Airport Eelde, which has been in use since 1931,
is 15km south of central Groningen, along the A28 highway. After several years of decline, the runway was extended to allow Ryanair flights to land and recent years have
shown record numbers with over 200,000 passengers
passing though. The airport is served by Ryanair, Transavia and Corendon. Taxis charge a fixed fee of 30 to the
airport, 55 if you book a return trip. We recommended
you call ahead. Hertz and Europcar offer car rental. Bus N2
goes from Groningen Central Station to the airport twice
per hour, once an hour on Sundays; the ride takes 40 minutes and costs 5. The Airportliner express bus service (tel.
(+31) 592 40 99 05) runs between the city centre (Martini
Hotel and Central Station) and the airport in 20 minutes to
meet Ryanair flights. Tickets cost 4.QE-6, Machlaan 14a,
Eelde, tel. (+31) 503 08 08 50, www.groningenairport.nl.
International buses
Despite the Netherlands sensible business attitude, intercity bus transport has still not been liberalised, in order to
protect the pampered national railway company. But there
are good international links at excellent prices from Groningen to Germany and beyond. All buses depart from the
central station.
Rental cars
You wont need a car to explore Groningen, but it can be
handy for the surrounding area. Rental is provided from
about 18 per day by the following companies.
Budget
QE-6, Helperzoom 4, tel. (+31) 882 84 70 23, www.
budget.nl. Open 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sat, Sun.
Hertz
QE-6, Laan Van De Vrijheid 280a, tel. (+31) 505 25 45
36, www.hertz.nl. Open 08:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:00 - 13:00.
Closed Sun.
Stuur
Low-cost car and van rental.QE-6, Koningsweg 27, tel.
(+31) 505 49 17 34, www.stuur.nl. Open 08:00 - 18:00,
Sat 08:00 - 17:00, Sun 08:00 - 09:00.
Hot air balloon above the Grote Markt
national holidays
January 1
April 3, 2015
April 5, 2015
April 6, 2015
April 27, 2015
May 1

May 4

May 5
May 9
May 13
May 23 - 24
June 20
June 26
September 21
December 5
December 25 - 26
December 31
New Years Day (Nieuwjaarsdag)

Good Friday (Goede Vrijdag)
Easter Sunday (Pasen)

Easter Monday (Pasen)
Kings Day (Koningsdag)
Labour Day (Dag van de Arbeid)
Remembrance of the Dead
(Nationale Herdenking)
Liberation Day (Dag van de Vrijheid)
Mothers Day (Moederdag)
Ascension Day (Hemelvaartsdag)
Whitsun (Pinksteren)
Fathers Day (Vaderdag)
Veterans Day (Veteranendag)
Budget Day (Prinsjesdag)
St. Nicolas (Sinterklaas)
Christmas (Kerstmis)
New Years Eve (Oudejaarsdag)
Taxis
Taxis in Groningen have a maximum starting rate of 2.83
and a maximum rate per kilometre of 2.08; theres no surcharge at night. The fixed rate to the airport is 30.
CPV
Regional taxi company based in nearby Sappemeer. Return trips from Groningen to Groningen airport cost 55.
QE-7, Noordbroeksterstraat 90, Sappemeer, tel. (+31)
625 06 71 13, www.fredvandermolen.nl.
Fietstaxi Yvette
Believe it or not, this fun and ecological ride is actually the
fastest way of getting around the city centre. Owner/tour
guide Yvette can also be booked for weddings, festivals
and city tours. Fares are based on 1 for each minute of
biking, although an hours cruise through the city can be
booked for 35. Highly recommended.Qtel. (+31) 642 27
78 62, www.fietstaxiyvette.nl. N
Trains
At the northern tip of the Netherlands intercity network,
Groningen is well-connected to the rest of the country,
with intercity trains heading south every 30 minutes. Timetable information can be found at the railways site www.
ns.nl or at the general public transport site www.9292.nl.
Amsterdam central station can be reached in just over 2
hours, with a change at Amersfoort or Lelystad. There
are direct trains to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport and The
Hague, and to Rotterdam. Tickets can be bought from the
machines at the station, online at www.ns.nl or (at an extra
fee of 0.50) at the station ticket counters. If youre using an
OV-Chipkaart you just need to check in using one of the
terminals on the platform before boarding the train; remember to check out at your final destination. Dutch trains
do not have reserved seats, and your ticket is valid all day.
Groningen Basics
Read on and find out why the Dutch allow people to smoke
joints, but not to operate a bicycle while intoxicated.
Language
Dutch is an Indo-European Germanic language that is
mostly spoken in the Netherlands, Flanders and Suriname
(South America). It is closely connected to the Low German dialects which by now have largely been flooded by
official German. These dialects managed to keep a number of proto-Germanic characteristics, and for this reason,
Dutch as a language is a living fossil. It represents a group
of important dialects that were spoken by the founders of
the Frankish Empire and the Saxons. The latter group were
the founders of the English language as it is spoken today,
hence Anglo-Saxons. Afrikaans, as it is spoken in South Africa, is descended from the 17th-century version of modern
Dutch. Most Dutch have a more than fairly healthy command of the English language. Many will also be adept at
other European languages with German being the most
commonly spoken. Mastering the Dutch language can be
a terrifying ordeal, but learning a few key phrases will make
things easier and may even win you friends and admirers.
Phone numbers
All In Your Pocket guides in its European publishing empire
list country codes before all telephone numbers. The Dutch
country code is (+31), but of course, you only have to use
this if youre dialling from abroad.
Roads
For a country as small as the Netherlands, there are a ridiculously high number of asphalt roads and motorways.
The majority of Dutch drivers never break the speed limit,
and considering the severity of traffic fines, this seems wise
enough. Driving through a red light? This will cost you
230. And as soon as you exceed the maximum speed by
50km/h youll lose your driving licence and be fined. Just
a few rules: within city limits you must drive 50km/h, outside city limits 80 and on motorways 100 or 120 (check
the road signs!). In the Netherlands you must drive on the
right side of the road, and you are not allowed to cycle on
motorways! You dont want to know how many tourists are
plucked off the road by police each year, happily pedalling
to their next destination.
Smoking
Since the introduction of the ban on smoking in public
places on 1 July 2008, smoking has become a lot less common. However, thanks to unclear rules you may suddenly
find yourself in a pub where there are people smoking. This
is usually in pubs with just a single staff member: the boss.
Or you may find yourself in a pub that flouts the ban on
smoking. This will not have any consequences for you: if
you light a cigarette in a pub and the manager tolerates
this, then the manager will receive a fine upon inspection.
Next to cigarette smoke, the Netherlands is of course also
known for its wafts of marijuana.
2014 / 2015
Culture & Events

Groningens various art academies and associations are a
major driving force behind the cultural life of the city. This
diversity produces a wide variety of performances, concerts
and events.
Cinemas
Forum Images
In 2017 Forum Cinema will move into the new location at
the Grote Markt, but until then you can watch excellent
art-house movies in the old camera-cinema.QC-3, Hereplein, tel. (+31) 503 12 04 33, www.groningerforum.nl.
Open 15:30 - 00:45, Sat 12:30 - 00:45, Sun 10:30 - 00:45.
Pathe
This chain of Dutch cinemas has more than 20 outlets in
the Netherlands, but this is one of our favourites. With nine
halls and 1663 seats to choose from, you cant go wrong
at this modern and stylish movie house.QC-3, Gedempte
Zuiderdiep 78, tel. (+31) 505 84 40 50, www.pathe.nl/
groningen. Open 11:30 - 24:00, Sun 10:00 - 24:00. Ticket
prices: 7 - 9. PTJAUW
Wolff
Conveniently located a bit out of old town, this huge cinema
offers all the Hollywood blockbusters and 3D movies you
crave. Parking available nearby.QE-6, Boumaboulevard
53, tel. (+31) 507 50 42 00, www.wolff.nl. Open 12:30 24:00, Sun 10:00 - 24:00. Ticket prices: 6.50 - 9.50.
Concert halls
Vera
Once upon a time this was a decent student fraternity.
Luckily, it ditched its former name (Veri Et Recti Amici,
meaning true and sincere friends) and is now the centre for underground pop culture in Groningen. From
U2 and Nirvana to Sonic Youth and The White Stripes,
the biggest names in pop and alternative music have
all played here. You can expect a couple of concerts
every week and a movie night is also a popular crowd
pleaser as well as the Swingavond on Saturday evenings.
QOosterstraat 44, tel. (+31) 503 13 46 81, www.veragroningen.nl. JEG
Groningens Grote Markt hosts lots of major events
Festivals & events

Oct
Date Time Event
Venue
Childrens Month. 40
museums, windmills,
churches and art institutes
1 - 31
throughout the province
open their doors for free
to children aged 4 to 12:
www.kindermaand.nl
Discordia and 't Barre Land
Pointless International. An
2 - 5 20:30
GT
English speaking international clown show. 16
The Day of the Region offers unrivalled opportuni4-5
ties to explore Groningen
www.dagvanderegio.nl
Every second Saturday of
the month, an Omme11
lander Market is held in
the Ebbinge district
The Stadjer Market is a fun
19 10:00 day out with the family.
MP
Tickets 4
Soundsofmusic is a week
20 long music fest in Gronin26
gen: www.soundsofmusic.nl
Nov
Ommelander Market
8
is held in the Ebbinge
district
9
10:00 day out with the family.
MP
Tickets 4
Latin Dance Night. A wonderful evening of rhythm,
15 20:00
OP
a Caribbean buffet and
cocktails. Tickets 35
Saint Nicolaas and assistants) will arrive in
15
Groningen. Visit www.
sinterklaas.groningen.nl
Exciting dance performances, innovative
21 shows, international
29
performances and lots of
young talent: Visit www.
jongeharten.nl
13:30 Theatre. Pippi Longstock22 & ing theatre performance.
MP
23
19:00 18
Culture & Events

Find a full list of events at
uit.groningen.nl
Dec
6 - 21
13
14
19 21
19 31
Jan
1-4
14 16
17
Christmas is everywhere in
fortress Bourtange. www.
bourtange.nl
Ommelander Market is
held in Ebbinge
10:00 day out with the family.
Tickets 4
WinterWelVaart. Dozens
of charter ships on the
Hoge and Lage der A and
Pottebakkersrijge
53rd Indoor Concourse
Hippique Groningen
53rd Indoor Concourse
Hippique Groningen
Marina Mascarell / Korzo:
The Unreality of Time by
20:30
the Spanish choreographer Marina Mascarell. 16
Eurosonic is gearing up for
its 29th edition with Iceland as the Focus country
for 2015
Noorderslag fest. The best,
most current Dutch acts
Venues
MP
Galleries
GT
OP
Feb
5
Musical. Claron McFadden

20:30 / Muziektheater Transparent Lilith. 23
Mar
18 19
Apr
20:30
22 25
Theatre. Toneelgroep
19:30 Oostpool: Angels in
America. 28
Dance. Maas Theater and

Dance Spring. 16
GN Groninger Museum GT Grand Theathre

MP Martiniplaza
OP Oosterpoort
SV Scheepsvaartmuseum SP Simplon
SC Stadsschouwburg ST Stripmuseum
VE Vera
GT
GT
GT
CBK Groningen
Not enough money to buy a painting or another piece of
art? Just rent one from CBK.QC-4, Trompsingel 27, tel.
(+31) 503 68 01 60, www.cbkgroningen.nl. Open 09:00
- 17:00, Sat, Sun 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue.
Noorderlicht Fotogallerie
The Noorderlicht Photogallery is a permanent exhibition
space for photography. Its a great space for young local talent, but also brings work by artists from across the
Netherlands to a wider audience. The gallery has been
located in a architectural monument since 2005 and also
hosts an annual photo festival.QB-2, Akerkhof 12, tel.
(+31) 503 18 22 27, www.noorderlicht.com. Open 12:00
- 18:00. Closed Mon, Tue. Free admission. J
NP3
NP3 represents contemporary art at three different locations in the city. bur0 Gr0ningen is the white cube art
space of NP3, while M0Bi is the temporary, mobile container for research and innovation in contemporary art. Finally, eMMa is the 24/7/365 experimental space for public
multimedia art located at the Rem Koolhaas Videobusstop
at Emmaplein.QA-3, Hofstraat 21, tel. (+31) 503 13 82 60,
www.np3.nu.
SIO2
For over 25 years this has been a renowned address for all
things made of glass. Theyll also make a piece especially
for you.QB-4, Nieuweweg 36, tel. (+31) 503 14 52 63,
www.sio2glas.nl.
May
2
17
The Rhythm & Blues Night.

39.50
Theatre. Bonte Hond &
15:00
Laika Cowboys. 13
20:00
OP
GT
Aug
20 30
Noorderzon Performing
Arts Festival Groningen is
a combination of cuttingedge arts and a large-scale
summer music festival
The Ebbingekwartier is one of Groningens urban hotspots
2014 / 2015
EXPLORE THE
Seven reasons for visiting Groningen?
GRONINGEN ESTATE HOUSES

In former centuries, Groningen estate
houses were the magnicent country seats
of local nobility. They usually originated as
stone houses; a simple defence work from
the 14th or 15th century with thick walls
where farmers could ee in times of danger.
Two of them are well worth the ride.
Fraeylemaborg Groningen (1300), and
Fra
another must-see is Verhildersum, with
boulevards, gardens and moats.
LAUWERSMEER NATIONAL PARK

The Lauwersmeer National
Park, Zoutkamp,
N
Reitdiep and the island of Schiermonnikoog are
all located North of the city. The rich and varied
ora and fauna of the NP is ideal for walking,
cycling and sailing. In addition to beautiful scenic
areas, the bicycle paths take in characteristic
villages such as Zoutkamp. The Reitdiepdal
(valley) is Europes oldest man-made landscape:
(vall
water management, an age-old Dutch profession,
has clearly left its traces here.
Mountainbike Westerwolde
Groningen, lies Westerwolde. Its
Just outside the city of Groningen
the perfect place for mountain bikers. Five different
routes, varying from 12 to 45km are available but in total
there are more than 200km bike trails at your disposal.
The route is challenging for beginners as well as
experienced thrill seekers.
Groningen Bike Trails

What do smugglers paths, a fortied city, a witchs
Wh
mountain and a handful of windmills have in common? At
rst glance nothing, but if you look a bit closer youll
discover that all of these attractions are located next to
Groningens bike trails. The province of Groningen is
literally crisscrossed with them.
Groningen is not only a city, but also the name of one of 12 Dutch
provinces with an amazing variety of sights, fun activities and
cultural venues. The best of all these places of interest are packed
together under the name Groningen 7 (G7). Here are some of the
most interesting attractions located outside of the city.
G7
toerisme.groningen.nl/en
PIETERBUREN
This small town is most likely
like
known for its Zeehondencrche
(seal sanctuary) where, for almost
forty years, sick seals and seals
washed ashore are taken care of,
with the ultimate goal to release
them back into the wild. Also the
longest walking route (464 km) in
the Netherlands, ending in the far
south of Maastricht, starts here.
BOURTANGE
Travel back into time through east
Groningen where the Bourtange
fortress has stood still in time and
where the ancient cannon booms
as it did in the year 1742. Take a
ride with the old locomotive on the
Museumspoorlijn (Museum
Railway Line) and visit the Ter Apel
Rai
monastery to see how the
Crutched Friars lived.
TERPS
Terps are articial hillocks
made by human hands.
Between 500 BC and 1000
AD, villages developed on the
Groningen terps. The village of
Niehove has retained its
original structure and the Het
Hoogeland open-air museum
in Warffum shows a terp village
in its original environment.
Mud Walking
Mudat hiking not only has a very intriguing name, but its also one of those unforgettable
Mud
experiences youll talk about for years to come. The biggest nature park in the Netherlands, the
Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the perfect natural setting for this hike where
participants walk and wade through the watershed of the mudats at low tide. Not all of the Dutch
islands are suited to this activity, but a brisk mud walk to Schiermonnikoog is thankfully one of the
best areas to try this unusual pastime.
Restaurants
Groningen has no shortage of restaurants. While dining
out in the Netherlands is generally expensive (many would
say overpriced), Groningen has thousands of students that
help keep prices in check. In the more refined restaurants,
you can expect the quality, service and variety to be better,
and prices to be higher.
Bakeries
Courtneys Kitchen
A lovely eye for detail is what makes this place stand out
from the crowd. The American-owned Courtneys Kitchen
only opened its doors recently, but has already made a
lasting impression on us. Everything here is delicious,
seductive and addictive. Good old American cupcakes
and New York cheesecake can be enjoyed at this inviting
bakery, which also offers a lovely terrace out front. If you
still need convincing, all of the sweet treats baked here
with inviting names like whoopie pies are made without
trans fats or stabilisers. A special Adult Collection made
with strong alcoholic beverages is also available.QE-6,
Nieuwe Ebbingestraat 47, tel. (+31) 620 08 62 52, www.
courtneyskitchen.nl. Open 10:00 - 17:00, Mon 13:00 17:00. Closed Sun. ZiTJ6UNBSW
Stadsbakker Meijer
Even if you dont like bread, you should still take a look at the
finest traditional bakery the city has ever produced. Bakeries
have always held an elevated position in Dutch society and
this centrally located establishment is no exception. Pastries
and cakes are also available.QA-2, Oude Kijk in t Jatstr 22,
tel. (+31) 503 11 10 27, www.uwstadsbakker.nl. Open
08:00 - 18:00, Sat 08:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
Balkan
Macedoni
An old student favourite, the Macedonia serves good
Balkan fare served in the kitsch interior of a former warehouse building. Theres everything from spicy cevapcici
meatballs and pleskavica hamburgers to skewer dishes
and grilled fish. Expect a hearty feast and big portions,
all served with a smile by the Macedonian owners.QE6, Nieuwe Ebbingestraat 101, tel. (+31) 503 13 40 09,
www.restaurant-macedonie.nl. Open 15:00 - 23:00.
13-22. T
SYMBOL key
A Accepts credit cards P Air conditioning
I Casino
I Fireplace
V Home delivery
E Live music
J Old town location B Outside seating

6 Pets allowed
X Smoking section
S Takeaway
W Wifi
Chinese
Happy Garden
For many decades this has been one of the better Chinese
restaurants in the city and perhaps the whole province of
Groningen. But dont come here for a romantic night out,
as the interior hasnt changed much since Neil Armstrong
took his first step on the moon. With almost 150 dishes
to choose from, theres no lack of selection. Number 75
(ko lo yok) and 143 (tau si ngay yok) are among our favourites, but the staff could use a little hot pepper in their
undergarments as the service can be measured in geologic time. However, the food, once you get it, is fantastic.
QE-6, Verlengde Hereweg 79, tel. (+31) 505 26 15 29,
www.happygarden.nl. Open 12:00 - 22:00. (12 - 17).
AKS
Ni Hao
Everybody knows how to say hello in Chinese, so say
hello to Groningens main all-you-can-eat emporium.
Its a huge place that can fit busloads of people, and the
cooks can continuously be seen piling up the Chinese,
Malaysian, Thai, Indonesian and Japanese dishes for all
to sample for a set price of around 25. Just like at the
spa, your time is limited to 2,5 hours.QB-3, Gedempte
Kattendiep 122, tel. (+31) 503 18 14 00. Open 17:00
- 22:00.
Belgian
Brussels Lof
Another brave survivor in the local restaurant scene; Brussels Lof has been serving fish and vegetarian meals to
hungry Groningens for 30 years - ample reason to drop
by yourself, as it is that good. Try the fish of the day or a
seafood risotto, or go veg with an artichoke pie. We love
their cheese fondue, a hot tub of cheese (five varieties)
and garlic, dredged up with bread and vegetables.QB2, Akerkstraat 24, tel. (+31) 503 12 76 03. Open 17:30 21:30. Closed Mon, Sun. (15 - 20).
Enjoy Groningens caf culture
Restaurants
Dutch
De Biechtstoel
The confession chair caf is crammed with religious
paraphernalia: statues of saints, portraits of Mary, kitsch
baroque chandeliers, and lots of chubby angels. The food
is quite heavenly too: theres fried guineafowl, game stew,
and stuffed portobello mushrooms. During the day, this
Grand Caf overlooking the square is a pleasant place for
lunch or a coffee and a book.QB-4, Damsterdiep 22-24,
tel. (+31) 503 13 82 46, www.debiechtstoel.com. Open
11:00 - 24:00. Closed Mon. 9-18. 6B
A bicycle is still the easiest way to get around Groningen
Coffee & Tea

PS!
If the Spanish architect Gaudi were still alive, he would
definitely want to check out PS! The friendly, young owners of this trendy, yet tranquil coffee bar have transformed
an ordinary house into a colourful oasis that includes two
spectacular mosaic counters. The rest of the stylish interior is worth a look as well, especially the pink espresso
machine. Enjoy any kind of coffee available here or set
aside convention and order one of its special blended teas
including one made with leaves from the African Baobab
tree.QA-2, Oude Kijk in t Jatstraat 24, tel. (+31) 507 60
07 69, www.mijnps.nl. Open 09:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:00 21:00, Sun 11:00 - 18:00. PZiTJAUGB
KXSW
Starbucks
Starbucks may have snagged the most beautiful space for
a caf in Groningen. The restored first-class waiting room
of the train station is a fabulous, extravagantly decorated
hall with high ceilings. Theres plenty of comfy seating,
free wi-fi and the usual selection of Starbucks drinks and
snacks. Of the 17,000 or so Starbucks in the world, this is by
far the biggest one on Dutch soil.QC-2, Stationsplein 3
(Train Station), tel. (+31) 886 71 12 00, www.starbucks.
com. Open 06:30 - 21:30, Thu, Fri 06:30 - 22:30, Sat 07:00
- 22:30, Sun 08:30 - 21:30. TJUSW
Toet & Taart
If you ever wondered what paradise would look like if it
was created by woman, take a journey to Gedempte Zuiderdiep 85. This historic building is home to Toet & Taart
(Dessert & Cake), which specialises in all of the heavenly
delights that many women crave during their time on
planet Earth. Cakes, chocolate and sweets are presented in
an aesthetic way to make the experience that much more
enjoyable and the two friendly owners are the icing on the
cake. The small terrace is perfect for people watching as
youre in the beating heart of the shopping district.QC-3,
Gedempte Zuiderdiep 85, tel. (+31) 633 95 12 63, www.
toet.nu. Open 10:00 - 17:30, Mon, Sun 12:00 - 17:00, Thu
10:00 - 21:00. ZiTJ6GBKS
De Kleine Heerlijkheid
Small and delicious is suggested by the name, and we
can certainly vouch for the diminutive size, as this is the
smallest living room restaurant in town. The cute 17th
century building is an atmospheric spot for a meal chosen
from a varied international menu. The ground floor is a few
steps up, so the large windows are great for watching the
going-ons on the street too.QA-4, Schuitendiep 42, tel.
(+31) 503 13 13 70, www.dekleineheerlijkheid.nl. Open
16:00 - 22:00. Closed Mon, Sun. (10 - 15). B
Eetcafe Roezemoes
Stamppotten (dishes with mashed potato and veggies)
are an integral part of Dutch cuisine. And this is one of the
better places in town to order an andijviestamppot or
boerenkoolstamppot. These cheap and hearty meals are
best consumed in the colder months of the year, mainly
due to the high calorie count. Although this is mainly a
typical winter dish, in summertime the menu here reveals
some stamppotten too. The giant outdoor terrace is another benefit of this cosy and cheap restaurant.QB-3,
roezemoes.nu. Open 11:00 - 24:00, Mon, Sun 15:00 24:00, Thu 11:00 - 02:00, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 02:30.
Lambik
A cosy eating house with a summertime terrace overlooking the Noorderplantsoen park, with just two dishes for
9,25 on the menu every day, one meat, the other vegetarian... plus a dessert. Its a charmingly basic kind of place,
but thats exactly what we all need every now and then.
QE-6, Grote Kruisstraat 73, tel. (+31) 503 14 43 60. Open
17:30 - 22:00. Closed Mon. TUB
t Pannekoekschip
There are few things more Dutch than a meal-sized pancake drenched in lovely cane sugar syrup, and the best
place to sample these in Groningen is on this original clipper ship from 1908. Below deck, simple wooden tables are
aligned below the portholes, and theres a small childrens
playroom. There are dozens of options besides the classic
syrup pancake, try exotic ingredients like bacon, banana,
ginger and pear, or a Turkish or Greek pancake. Service and
turnover are fast.QB-4, Schuitendiep 1017, tel. (+31) 503
12 00 45, www.pannekoekschip.nl. Open 12:00 - 21:00.
6-14. TW
2014 / 2015
13
Restaurants
Weeva
For some, Weeva might be a bit too corny. For others, like
us, Weeva is like a long hot bath on a cold day. In fact, Weeva (Woon En Eethuis Voor Allen or An Eating and Sleeping
Place for All) has been an institution in the city since 1871.
Although attempts to change it over the past decades
were unsuccessful, its now back where it belongs, doing
what it does best: serving Dutch-style meals for a cheap
Dutch price. The chef follows the seasons, but throughout
the year you can order regional products cooked to perfection. Dont expect any frills here but if you appreciate
good food and great service, this is the place for you.QB3, Gedempte Zuiderdiep 8, tel. (+31) 505 88 65 55, www.
weeva.nl. Open 12:00 - 23:00. PJABKW
Fast food
Eat2be
Healthy fast food certainly sounds like a good idea, and
you can try it for yourself at Eat2be, which has organic
snacks and drinks including a Brilliant Burger, the vegetarian Buddies Burger, French fries, salads, natural nuggets
and more. The set menus start from 8. Drop by for breakfast to feast on pancakes, muffins or yoghurt.QA-2, Oude
Boteringestraat 8, tel. (+31) 503 11 70 82, www.eat2be.
nl. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Sat 11:30 - 22:00, Sun 16:00 22:00. 4-11. S
Friet van Piet
Most people who run a cafeteria do it just to make a living.
However, the owner of Friet van Piet is a person who takes
his job seriously. His ultimate reward was the recognition he
just received for running the greenest cafeteria in the Netherlands. His food is also way above average. Choose one of
five different styles of frites available and top it off with one
of the imaginative sauces. Although students seem to prefer the buckets of fries, we ordered the spicy jacked wedges
and were not disappointed.QE-6, Meeuwerderweg 112,
tel. (+31) 503 13 31 20, www.cafetariafrietvanpiet.nl.
Open 11:00 - 23:00, Sat, Sun 12:00 - 21:30. Closed Mon.
PTA6ULGBKXSW
Haute Friture
Thanks to our friends at Google Maps, we are no longer
the only people who can find Uurwerkersplein. For years
this was a square without a name and there was basically
no reason to visit this hidden courtyard. Today its a hotbed of activity. Haute Friture not only deserves a medal for
its clever name, but also for its menu which is light years
ahead of most Dutch cafeterias. In addition to your standard French fries (which taste great), this hipsters haven
serves healthy vegan snacks and crispy gambas (shrimp).
The excellent homemade sauces are the icing on the cake
of this fast food culinary experience. When was the last
time one of the staff at a cafeteria asked you how the food
tasted? Definitely different.QA-3, Uurwerkersplein 2, tel.
(+31) 502 11 07 32, www.hautefriture.nl. Open 15:00 23:000, Fri, Sat 15:00 - 24:00, Sun 15:00 - 21:30. Closed
Mon, Tue. ZTJAUGBKXSW
French
De Zevende Hemel
The seventh heaven on a quiet side street just north of
the city centre has organic meat dishes and live piano music (Thu - Sat) to distinguish it from other restaurants in
the immediate vicinity. Theres ravioli and mackerel starters, duck and neck of lamb mains and sorbet and cheesecake desserts.QE-6, Zuiderkerkstraat 7, tel. (+31) 503
14 51 41, www.zevendehemel.nl. Open 17:00 - 23:30,
Tue, Wed 17:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. (15 - 20). PZ
TULB
Eetcaf Schuitendiep
A wonderfully informal eatery along the canal, posting
its daily offering on a blackboard and seducing guests
with food thats above average for a place with caf in
its name. Try the goats cheese crme brlee, the New
Zealand deer, or compose your own set-price combination menu.QB-4, Schuitendiep 70, tel. (+31) 503 18 47
97, www.eetcafeschuitendiep.nl. Open 17:00 - 22:00.
Closed Tue. (12 - 17). ZTUB
Soestdijk
If youre not a follower of Dutch royalty then the name
might require some explanation. Paleis Soestdijk was for
many decades the countryside residence of former Dutch
Queen Beatrix and her family. The new king has chosen
a different palace as his home, but his mother still lives
there. The Groningen version of this name is a cosy brown
bar that honours this beloved Dutch woman with lots of
framed pictures of her, but were not sure why so many
of them are with her cheating German husband. In any
event, two nephews of the current king also worked at this
typical student eatery, but today the only royal treatment
youll receive is a white peppermint decorated with the
face of Queen Wilhelmina, Betarixs mother, which comes
with the bill. And this is where the free Dutch history lesson ends.QA-2, Grote Kromme Elleboog 6, tel. (+31) 503
14 50 50, www.cafesoestdijk.nl. Open 16:00 - 22:00, Fri
15:00 - 03:00, Sun 16:00 - 01:00. (12 - 17). PTH
GBKXW
Historic sailing vessel at the Maritime Museum
Restaurants
Ice cream
Toscana
Although most people know Toscana as one of the most
beautiful regions of Italy, locals from the northern end of
the Netherlands know Toscana as a chain of ice cream parlours. In fact, Groningen has two of them in the heart of
old town. Every day, in season, you can choose from 32
different options varying from oude wijven (old wives) to
cookie dough. Besides ice cream, there are also 36 milkshakes to choose from and seven different crepes. Its two
small benches seem to be perpetually occupied, so most
people order takeaway.QB-2, Folkingestraat 47, tel. (+31)
503 11 00 68, www.toscana-ijssalon.nl. Also at Steentilstraat 13. ZTJABS
Indian
Get to the Grote Markt early if you want to get a seat!
De Kleine Moghul
It may look like a brightly coloured waiting room, but the
tiny Indian-run Little Moghul is one of Groningens favourite budget curry houses. You have Hindu gods peering
down from the walls as you make a choice between the
curries that include fish and vegetarian options. If youre
looking for Bhuddist events, just scan the flyers on the
wall. Cash only.QA-2, Nieuwe Boteringestraat 62, tel.
(+31) 50 318 89 05, www.moghul.nl. Open 14:00 - 22:00.
9-12. JNKS
International
Indonesian
Ask any Dutch person about the most typical dishes of the
Netherlands, and theres a good chance that Indonesian
rijsttafel gets mentioned. After 350 years of trade and colonisation, there are many Chinese/Indonesian restaurants and
toko snackbars, and Groningen has several very good ones.
Huize Maas
If youre on a budget, or just prefer simple, tasty meals then
give the three daily specials a go at this historic bar/restaurant. For only 10 per meal you wont be disappointed
by this proud place that has been in business since 1926!
The splendid views of the market square are also tempting and Huize Maas is known throughout Groningen for its
nightlife. Which other bar in the Netherlands can say that
its hosted musical giants like Dire Straits, The Ramones,
Talking Heads and Dutch legend Herman Brood?QB-2,
Vismarkt 52, tel. (+31) 503 12 36 21, www.huizemaas.
nl. Open 11:00 - 21:30, Sun 16:00 - 21:30. Closed Mon.
iTJA6GBKXW
Sathuis
Full points go to Indonesia for coming up with the idea to
drip spicy peanut sauce over skewered chunks of grilled
chicken - its sinfully delicious. The Sathuis serves no less
than 16 varieties of kipsat, keeping your attention away
from the fact the place looks like the wall tiles all fell off.
Besides peanutty goodness, there are Indo classics like
nasi tjampur and pisang goreng, fried banana.QC-3, Herestraat 111, tel. (+31) 503 11 28 65, www.satehuis.nl.
Open 13:00 - 22:00.
Land van Kokanje

Named after the mythical land of plenty, this restaurant
is set inside a glorious Art Deco building. The affordable
menu has everything from wraps and pancakes to delicious hamburgers, steak and fish dishes, all made with
organic ingredients. The van dittem en dattum menu is
a great combination of this and that. Best of all, its one
of the few places you can order Moet & Chandon champagne by the glass. For a local dessert try the rijstebrij rice
pudding, naughtily served with caster sugar and butter.
QA-2, Oude Boteringestraat 9, tel. (+31) 503 18 06 22,
www.landvankokanje.nl. Open 11:00 - 23:00. (9 - 23).
ZH6UW
Warung Jawa
A basic Surinamese-Javanese Indonesian restaurant and
takeaway thats good for a quick, cheap meal. There are Indonesian tjauwmin (fried Chinese noodles), bami (spiced,
fried Indonesian noodles) and nasi (rice) dishes, and roti
chicken. Surinamese food includes and the pietjel vegetable mix with peanut sauce, perhaps best washed down
with Fernandes, a typical Surinamese soda drink.QC-2,
Gedempte Zuiderdiep 110-112, tel. (+31) 503 12 29 22,
www.warungjawa.nl. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 15:00 22:00. Closed Mon. 6-11.
Mendini
The restaurant in the Groninger Museum - but open to
all - is named after the buildings Italian architect, and it
serves good Dutch snacks (including local mustard soup
and cheese) and Italian hot meals as well as drinks, coffee and cake. The museums quirky design continues in
the restaurant: the interior was designed by artist Maarten
Baas, who modelled all the furniture from synthetic clay.
QC-3, Museumeiland 1, tel. (+31) 505 25 33 26, www.
mendinirestaurant.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00. Closed Mon.
8-14. B
2014 / 2015
15
Restaurants
Mr. Mofongo
The Dutch have been a nation of world travellers for
centuries and this seems to be the inspiration for this
colourful restaurant and bar. This is the Groningen version of the well-known chain of Hard Rock Cafes, but instead of music related memorabilia on the walls, theyre
decorated with travel items like Eskimo snow boats and a
dugout canoe. Mr. Mofongos menu reads like an exciting
travel guide from around the globe, although the stories
are only available in Dutch. As a result youll find spareribs from the USA next to a jump & surf dish from Down
Under or Japanese teriyaki noodles, our favourite.QA-2,
Oude Boteringestraat 26, tel. (+31) 503 14 42 66, www.
mofongo.nl. Open 12:00 - 22:00. Closed Sun. (10 - 15).
T6UGK
Ugly Duck
Were not sure if the name of this laid back restaurant refers to its most promising dish, the duck stew, but we do
know that this has been one of the cheapest places to eat
dinner in downtown Groningen since 1985. Dont expect
a fancy meal or romantic atmosphere, because you wont
find it here. have a seat at one of its many tables if youre
on a budget or are hungry for a big, cheap meal. The huge
servings will fill you up and theyre brought before you
promptly by professional staff with genuine smiles.QB-2,
Zwanestraat 28, tel. (+31) 503 12 31 92, www.ugly-duck.
eu. Open 12:00 - 24:00, Tue, Wed 12:00 - 23:00, Sun
14:00 - 23:00. Closed Mon. TJNKW
Italian
La Regina
If pizza is your favourite Italian food, La Regina is a safe option. With exactly 50 different kinds to choose from and
a handful of pastas, lasagnas and salads you wont leave
this takeaway joint hungry. Although most of the pizzas
are good value for money, the tacky names like mafiosa,
Corleone and Al Capone are a major shortcoming of an otherwise solid experience. Luckily, the cuisine is much more
inspired.QE-6, Paterswoldseweg 168, tel. (+31) 505 25
06 53, www.laregina.nl. Open 16:00 - 22:00.
Groningens markets are a feast for the senses
Lunch
Broodjes van 5
Great sandwiches and baguettes to take away or eat inside the elegant caf with its original Art Nouveau gallery
and ceiling. Theres a choice of over 25 toppings, including sweet and hearty options - try the smoked chicken,
or the Varese with gorgonzola, rocket and walnuts.QB-3,
Poelestraat 5, tel. (+31) 503 12 49 61. Open 08:30 - 17:00.
Closed Sun. 3-6. JS
Corps de Garde Loungecaf
The lunch restaurant at the Corps de Garde hotel is well
worth looking up; its set in a grand ground-floor room
that doubles as the hotel library, with plenty of good regional books to peruse and even a record player with 1,000
LPs. The Dutch menu includes fine sandwiches and eggs.
QA-2, Oude Boteringestraat 74, www.corpsdegarde.nl.
Open 12:00 - 14:30.
Goud Heerlijk
A refreshingly modern lunch caf and deli just across the
Spilsluizen canal. Goud Heerlijk (gold delicious) serves
soups, simple lunch options and delicious Mediterraneaninspired meals, all prepared as much as possible with
regional, seasonal organic ingredients. The buffet allows
you to compose your own lunch, served with fresh bread.
Theres take-away, cooking workshops and sale of cooking utensils too.QE-6, Nieuwe Ebbingestraat 22, tel.
(+31) 651 55 43 30, www.goud-heerlijk.nl. Open 10:00
- 20:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
4-9. JBW
Grand Caf Treslinghuis
In the heart of the northern suburb of Oosterpark lies this
hidden gem, which is one of the cheapest lunchrooms in
the city. The homemade speciality is without a doubt the
tasty Grunneger mosterdsoep (mustard soup), although the
vegetarian cannelloni with spinach and ricotta cheese is
also quite good. The sunny terrace is another reason to
drop by as are the friendly waiters who make you feel at
home as soon as you arrive. You can also order one of the
three daily specials (meat, veggie and fish) from the blackboards on the wall four days a week. Even if youre not
hungry, this place deserves a visit if only for its collection
of historic black and white photographs.QE-6, Klaprooslaan 120, tel. (+31) 503 17 12 80, www.treslinghuis.
nl. Open 10:00 - 21:00. Closed Mon, Sat, Sun. iT
6ULNGBKXW
HEMA Caf
The top floor restaurant of this iconic Dutch department
store has tasty and cheap, simple meals served indoors or
on the nice terrace with views over the city centre rooftops. The HEMAs famous broodje rookworst smoked
sausage sandwich is for sale on the ground floor for
2.QB-3, Herestraat 64, tel. (+31) 503 18 14 41. Open
09:30 - 18:00, Mon 12:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00.
Closed Sun. 4-8. BW
Restaurants
North African
Benz
Eat Sahara-style, seated on cushions at low tables in one
of three unique Bedouin or North African (indoor) tents.
Benz serves southern and eastern Mediterranean fare,
such as tabouleh or humus & tahina salads, falafel, stuffed
peppers, grilled lamb and Moroccan stewed Tajine dishes.
The mosaic menus get you a taster of all the best dishes.
Combine your sweet baklava dessert with a puff of scented smoke from a nargila waterpipe. Occasionally theres
bellydancing too.QB-3, Peperstraat 17, tel. (+31) 503
13 79 17, www.restaurantbenz.nl. Open 17:00 - 24:00.
Closed Mon. 15-29.
Dont forget to take a Groningen canal tour
Soup
Het Opstapje
Named after the three steps you have to take to enter
this lunchroom, Croissanterie Het Opstapje is a centrally
located eatery in the heart of Groningen. Although the
sandwiches are fresh, tasty and inexpensive, we had
problems feeling at home in this artificial-looking space.
Perhaps its the outdated interior with the ugliest wall mural weve seen in Groningen. In any case, if youre hungry
try a tasty baguette like the Dow Jones (with American
roast beef) or the Stockholm (with smoked salmon).QA-2,
Oude Boteringestraat 4, tel. (+31) 503 12 14 17, www.
hetopstapje.nl. Open 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. (1 - 5).
PiJANGBKXS
De Soepwinkel
If, like us, youre a big fan of soup in all its wonderful incarnations, then pay a visit to this fashionable eatery where
hot liquid food rules. Every day the passionate owner
serves a handful of different soups. Just take a look at the
blackboard and choose from homemade Dutch favourites
to more exotic recipes with less common ingredients. If,
however, you cant make up your mind, try the proeverij,
which gives you a small taste of three soups. The only
downside of this small eatery are its limited opening
hours. Takeaway is also available.QB-2, Oude Kijk in t
Jatstraat 12, tel. (+31) 507 37 02 53, www.desoepwinkel.
com. Open 12:00 - 18:00, Thu 12:00 - 20:00, Sat 12:00 17:00. Closed Sun. TJNSW
Lavazza Koffie & Lunchlokaal

Coffee snobs can certainly appreciate a good Italian
espresso so if you know the Lavazza brand then you cant
go wrong at this stylish bar where everything is put in the
right place and served at the right temperature as quickly
as is humanly possible. The middle-of-the-road music is
doesnt distract, the barrista is extremely friendly, the
walls are decorated with photos from the renowned Lavazza calendar and the sandwiches are all freshly made.
Despite all these positive aspects, the place seems a bit
generic and lacks, whats the word, soul.QB-1, A-straat
14, tel. (+31) 503 60 17 18, www.koffieenlunchlokaal.nl.
Open 08:30 - 17:45, Sat 09:30 - 17:30, Sun 11:00 - 17:30.
iJAUGBKSW
Tosti World
Tostis are part of Dutch culture and an essential segment of
college life. Generations of young people from all corners
of the Netherlands have grown up with this cheap and
simple, yet filling breakfast, lunch or dinner. After a good
night of drinking nothing beats the taste of melted cheese
and ham in your mouth. If youre a bearded hipster you
can also try something trendier like the mozzarella and tomatoes tosti or the sandwich filled with goats cheese and
honey.QB-3, Vismarkt 30, tel. (+31) 507 50 14 52, www.
tostiworld.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 04:00,
Fri 10:00 - 04:30, Sat 10:00 - 05:00, Sun 10:00 - 17:00.
iTJAGBKXSW
Takeaway
Dinner Served
Eating quality food prepared by a master chef at home
or in your hotel room is always an option when you
order from Dinner Served, a small, one-man takeaway
business. Run by a passionate young cook, this place
gets high marks for flavour and authenticity. He uses
original recipes and fresh ingredients in all his dishes
and knows how to cook them. We recommend the
mouthwatering South American tournedos.QE-6,
Meeuwerderweg 119, tel. (+31) 503 18 58 00, www.
dinner-served.nl. Open 12:00 - 22:00, Sun 17:00 22:00. Closed Mon, Tue. NS
Thai
Thai Jasmine
Named after the most common rice grain produced in
Thailand, Thai Jasmine has been catering to Asian food
enthusiasts in the heart of Groningen since 2004. The
16-page menu lists all of the usual highlights as well as
some less ordinary options. If youre feeling brave and
adore spicy food, try one of the options marked with three
red peppers.QB-3, Gedempte Zuiderdiep 19, tel. (+31)
503 13 35 02, www.thaijasmine.nl. Open 17:00 - 22:00.
ZTBS
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17
Nightlife
Bars & Pubs
Cafe Boone
During home and away games of the local football club
this is one of the best spots in town to meet some diehard FC Groningen fans. Just make sure youre not wearing
a team jersey of their arch rivals Ajax (Amsterdam), Feyenoord (Rotterdam) or FC Twente (Enschede). On other
days Boone, which was named after the nickname of the
father of the current owner, is a small brown bar with no
frills. This is a second living room of sorts for many families
from the neighbourhood.QE-6, Meeuwerderweg 88, tel.
(+31) 641 96 87 93. TLNBX
Caf de Koffer
Every pub in Groningen offers beer, but only one can call
itself Groningens best beer bar. Its drinks menu boasts no
less than 200 different brews, many of which flow freely
from the taps. Unfortunately, there are just too many to
try in one go, but we certainly did our best. The relaxed
staff, the varied clientele, the beers served in their own
branded glasses and the music which isnt turned up
too loud all make this an ideal place to sit and chat with
friends. Hundreds of enamel beer platters adorn its walls,
but whisky drinkers also have plenty to be happy about
here and the attached terrace is real a crowd pleaser as
well.QB-1, Nieuwe Blekerstraat 1, tel. (+31) 503 13 62 51,
www.dekoffer.nl. Open 16:00 - 03:00. JLNBW
Caf Mulder
Caf Mulder is a great place to sample a glass of Dutch jenever, a Jever brew from just across the border in Germany,
a Czech Kruovice or a proper Belgian beer. A 30-something crowd stands or sits in this cosy space, which is
usually more of a place for quiet conversation rather than
headbanging to the music on the stereo. A proper billiards
table keeps locals entertained and a small range of bar
snacks is also available.QB-2, Grote Kromme Elleboog
22, tel. (+31) 503 14 14 69. Open 16:00 - 01:00, Fri, Sat
16:00 - 02:00, Sun 16:00 - 23:00. NG
Join the party and explore Groningens nightlife scene
SYMBOL key
I Casino
I Fireplace
V Home delivery
E Live music

6 Pets allowed
X Smoking section
S Takeaway
W Wifi
De Keyzer
Its all about the pompous short guy at the emperor; Napoleon is depicted on paintings around the bar, and can
also be spotted as a bust overlooking proceedings from
above and frowning at the annoyingly large advertising
screen. Theres Gulpener, Koninck and Edelweiss Weissbier,
and peanuts for self-peeling therapy. Since its opening in
1993 its been one of our favourite places to hang out in
Groningen.QA-3, Turftorenstraat 4, tel. (+31) 503 12 91
94, www.cafedekeyzer.nl. Open 15:00 - 02:00, Fri 15:00
- 04:00, Sat 15:00 - 05:00. Closed Sun.
De Pintelier
Below the little statue of Brussels Manneken Pis (the
pissing-boy-statue), this legendary Groningen bar has 30
types of beer on tap, another 82 in bottles (including all
Trappist beers), 67 varieties of whiskey and 22 kinds of delicious local jenever gin. At least, thats how far we counted
before the hard liquor started working. The walls are decorated with portraits of Belgian royalty, which are actually
not the best looking people weve seen. Even after a good
night of drinking. Expect it to be crammed full of revellers
by early evening. Nobody gets out of here alive. Luckily
theres a secluded terrace for some fresh air.QB-2, Kleine Kromme Elleboog 9, tel. (+31) 503 18 51 00, www.
depintelier.nl. Open 15:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 15:00 03:00. JAGBXW
Der Witz
The Netherlands and Germany arent - to put it mildly - best
of friends, especially where sporting events are concerned.
Despite all of this, the German owned bar Der Witz (The
Joke) has been a cherished part of the Groningen nightlife scene since 1981. This small bar always has 10 beers on
draught and dozens more available in bottles, making it one
of the better beer bars in town. The walls are decorated with
hundreds of photos documenting the history of Hollands
large Teutonic neighbour, but the owner has wisely left out
any mention of the two World Wars or any World Cups. We
would, however, like to know if the framed sheet music
signed by composer Johannes Brahms is real or a fake.QB3, Grote Markt 47, tel. (+31) 503 14 14 17, www.derwitz.nl.
Open 10:00 - 03:00, Mon 12:00 - 03:00, Sat 09:00 - 03:00,
Sun 13:00 - 03:00. JABX
Nightlife
De Sleutel
De Sleutel is a wonderful bar and restaurant with jazz
tunes, pictures of ships and horses, naughty ceiling frescoes and age-old beams. Theres plenty of space around
the bar and a traditional stamtafel table is where the regulars meet.QA-1, Noorderhaven 72, tel. (+31) 503 18 14
54, www.cafedesleutel.nl. Open 16:30 - 23:00, Thu, Fri,
Sat 16:30 - 01:00. Closed Sun. JG
De Toeter
If youre wondering where the unusual name De Toeter
came from, just lift your head up high and look at the ceiling
of this browner than brown bar. The roof is littered with
wind instruments, which in Dutch are often referred to as
toeters. But the main attraction here is the unbelievable selection of beers and whiskeys. With 17 beers on draught and
another 120 in bottles, this is a real beer caf. De Toeter even
has its own brew: Toeterblond. The photogenic shelves behind the bar are filled with an even more astonishing collection of alcoholic beverages. With a giant outdoor terrace
and a great variety of tapas on the menu not to mention
a private mooring station for boats, we cant think of one
reason to head home.QA-3, Turfsingel 6, tel. (+31) 503 12
44 99, www.cafedetoeter.nl. Open 16:00 - 03:00, Fri 15:00
- 03:00, Sat 11:00 - 03:00, Sun 17:00 - 03:00. JB
De Uurwerker
De Uurwerker (The Hour Worker) is by far one of the coolest places in town. Since 2013, this relatively new venue
has become a meeting point for Groningens hipsters (and
wannabes). Besides the tasty, dirt cheap meals, this trendy
bar/restaurant also offers a wide range of beer and cocktails. A giant secluded terrace with dozens of cosy benches
is one of the best places to meet new people on a sunny
day and the funky interior is enough reason to drop by.
Watching the attractive staff is yet another reason to
spend some time in this hidden gem.QB-2, Uurwerkerkersgang 24-7, tel. (+31) 508 20 09 91, www.uurwerker.
nl. Open 10:00 - 24:00, Mon, Sat 12:00 - 24:00. Closed
Sun. PTJUGBKXW
De Wolthoorn
A traditional caf founded in 1923, and seemingly unchanged ever since, De Wolthoorn is extremely atmospheric with its brown walls, well-dressed barmen
and elderly clientele. Old photographs, paintings and
lovely stained-glass windows set the atmosphere. Often
named the best caf in the Netherlands, this may be the
best place anywhere to order a few shots of oude jenever gin and have a go at billiards. Just dont touch the
regulars cues, locked up in special cupboards on the wall.
QB-2, Turftorenstraat 6, tel. (+31) 503 12 02 82, www.
cafewolthoorn.nl. Open 16:00 - 01:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 16:00
- 02:00, Sun 20:30 - 02:00. NGW
More nightlife at
The Central Stations interior is an architectural masterpiece
Grand Cafe Hooghoudt

If you appreciate knowledgeable staff in stylish outfits
with top notch manners, head down to Grand Cafe Hooghoudt. Located at the heart of the Grote Markt, this is a
great place for lunch, a drink or a couple of hours with a
good book. If you thought the attractive, well-dressed
staff was impressive, wait until you see the the picture
perfect interior that looks like it was ripped from the pages
of a trendy design magazine. The centuries old building is
decorated with historical paintings, incredibly long mirrors
and comfortable furniture. As the name of the bar suggests, the famous, locally made jenever (Dutch gin) is also
available here.QB-3, Grote Markt 42, tel. (+31) 503 12
82 58, www.cafehooghoudt.com. Open 10:00 - 02:00,
Mon 11:30 - 01:00, Tue, Wed 10:00 - 01:00, Sun 11:00 01:00. PTAGBKW
Metropolis
Decorated with posters from the futuristic 1920s Fritz
Lange film Metropolis, this caf is an excellent place to
hang out and suck up some culture (and maybe some
secondhand cannabis smoke). Apart from the monthly
singer-songwriter concerts and DJ nights, regular game
nights with table tennis or traditional Dutch sjoelen
(throwing wooden discs at targets) are available. Smokers
from the next door coffeeshop are also welcome making
it one of the very few places in town where you can enjoy
your weed with a beer.QA-2, Oude Boteringestraat 51,
tel. (+31) 502 60 11 22, www.cafemetropolis.nl. Open
14:00 - 02:00, Mon 15:00 - 24:00. Closed Sun.
Time Out
Since 1976 Time Out has been an institution in the Groningen nightlife scene. If all 50,000 students who inhabit the
city would squeeze in a bit and hold their breath, most
of them would probably fit into this giant bar on two
floors. In fact, two separate buildings were combined to
create this spacious and modern bar where many different architectural styles have been brought successfully
together. In the cooler months of the year the fire place in
the back is a crowd pleaser as are the juicy spareribs and
perfectly marinated Indonesian satay.QB-3, Poelestraat
34 - 36, tel. (+31) 503 13 15 35, www.grandcafetimeout.
nl. Open 11:00 - 02:00, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat 11:00 - 03:00.
PTJAUGBKXW
2014 / 2015
19
Nightlife
Student bars
Take a stroll in one of Groningens many parks
Live music
De Spieghel
What began in 1979 as a jazz caf evolved into a club with
a broader musical spectrum. Bands plug in their instruments here at least four days a week to the adoration of
a grateful crowd. Lots of celebrities have played here and
you can discover your own hero among the many black
and white photos on the wall. Another giant bar with one
of Groningens best kept secrets, an open-air rooftop terrace, is available upstairs. A jukebox is available if youd like
to hear a different tune.QB-3, Peperstraat 11, tel. (+31)
613 08 26 82, www.jazzcafedespieghel.nl. Open 20:00 04:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. JAEGXW
Het Concerthuis
Is Het Concerthuis a bar, a live music venue or a down-toearth restaurant? Well let you be the judge of that. If, however, you get inspired by the creative atmosphere, grab
a piece of chalk and release your inner thoughts on the
giant blackboard on the wall. If, on the other hand, youre
here with friends, then take a seat on the vintage furniture
and order some food sharing platters. Talented patrons can
even take a seat behind the piano and entertain the crowd.
The central bar is a good place to try one of its six draught
beers, while the back end of The Concert House functions
as a small stage for local bands.QB-3, Poelestraat 30, tel.
(+31) 502 30 42 50, www.hetconcerthuis.nl. Open 10:00
- 01:00, Fri, Sat 10:00 - 03:00. TJABKXW
Traditional bars
t Hooghoudt Proeflokaal
Although the original establishment no longer exists, the
friendly owner of Cafe Atlantis took this place over a couple
of years ago. Luckily, he left the historic interior almost completely intact and he even serves drinks from the Groningen-based Hooghoudt distillery. In addition to its famous
traditional jenevers, six other spirits are available, which are
served on a special tray. If you havent met any locals yet
and have always wondered what centuries-old Dutch buildings look like inside, then dont be shy. Colourful wallpaper
blends in perfectly with the wooden interior and the historical paintings are stunning.QC-2, Gedempte Zuiderdiep 61,
tel. (+31) 503 13 61 83. Open 14:00 - 03:00, Mon 15:00 01:00, Sun 14:00 - 01:00. J6GBXW
De Negende Cirkel
De Negende Cirkel (The Ninth Circle) is one of the citys
most popular student bars. Despite its unsavoury reference to a Satanic cult, the Groningen version is much more
friendly and doesnt involve the killing of innocents or the
molestation of farm animals, not that weve seen anyway.
Although the interior of an Eskimo hut at the North Pole
has more charm than this barren space, its still packed almost every night with young teenagers doing everything
that we responsible, boring and hard-working adults can
only dream of. Perhaps youd like to see the drinks list?
Forget about it. Order a small Heineken or a giant cup of
that ice cold Amsterdam brew.QB-3, Poelestraat 25, tel.
(+31) 503 60 49 05, www.negendecirkel.nl. Open 21:00
- 04:00. GBXW
Pool & Billiards

Cue Action
Feel at home in this relaxed pool hall where you can show
off your skills at 10 snooker and 16 pool tables. Two dart
boards are also available.QA-4, Schuitendiep 21, tel.
(+31) 503 13 85 15, www.cueactiongroningen.nl. Open
18:00 - 01:00, Thu 18:00 - 02:00, Fri 14:00 - 02:00, Sat
13:00 - 02:00, Sun 13:00 - 01:00. PJW
Poolcenter Streetlife
Next door to Holland Casino, theres a cheaper way of
testing your mathematical skills than blowing your hard
earned cash at the poker or roulette tables. Playing a game
of pool in this no frills place sets you back exactly one euro,
while an hour at one of the tables will cost you only 6.50.
But with more than 50,000 poor students in town and
most of them looking for some cheap fun, this place is obviously pretty popular. Theres also a fully licenced bar, air
hockey and table football games. Oddly enough, images
of the Wild West decorate the walls here. Perhaps this is
an homage to the rough characters that are often spotted
here at the end of the evening?QB-3, Peperstraat 16, tel.
(+31) 503 13 60 60, www.streetlife-groningen.nl. Open
14:00 - 02:00, Thu, Fri, Sat 14:00 - 03:00. One hour of
pool: 6.50. PJGW
Its hard to find a free place to leave your bike
Coffeeshops
After extensive research, weve compiled a representative
list of coffeeshops across the city, so that youre never far
away from one of these exceptional Dutch institutions.
Although the Netherlands was once a safe haven for people who enjoy the herb, conservative politics and a new
national law have sent many a foreign toker looking for
less turbulent shores to have a joint. The new law states
that only Dutch residents can buy and smoke soft drugs
like marijuana and hash at coffeeshops. Although more
strictly enforced in other areas of the country, the wise
and commerce-driven Groningers do what they usually
do when they dont like a law. The city and the police usually turn a blind eye to foreign smokers, so step inside and
smoke a J.
Coffeeshops
Dees
If your a big fan of the Amsterdam style of coffeeshops,
large and with lots of amenities, this is your best choice in
Groningen. And size also matters in Dees, being the biggest shop in town. Although finding this colourful place,
hidden in a small side street, is an adventure in itself. Also
it has the most dangerous security in the person of a cute
little dog who makes up for his lack of length by barking
with his loudest voice. The decent selection of pre-packed
herbs is shown in two ring binders, one for 5 and one for
12 selections. The mixed audience prefers to take a seat
at the outdoor area in the back, or play a game of pool,
darts or table football. Dont forget to check out the giant fish bowl in this two storey industrial building.QB-3,
Papengang 3, tel. (+31) 503 13 24 10. JBXSW
De Vliegende Hollander
De Vliegende Hollander (The Flying Dutchmen) has been
serving guests since 1983, thus making it the oldest coffee
shop of the town. The main reason we like this small place
is that it has 17 different quality marihuana selections and
the only one in town serving the good old Purple stuff.
Loved by hippies and others as it grows outside and it
doesnt have the high THC-amounts. Two small glass cages,
one being the smallest one of the Netherlands, are build
for smoking youre weed or hash at the spot. A Wurlitzer
jukebox is at your disposal when you wanna break the silence. Also a good place to pick up homemade spacecake
and a spice joint (without tobacco).QC-2, Gedempte Zuiderdiep 63, tel. (+31) 503 14 48 07, www.de-vliegendehollander.nl. Open 12:00 - 22:00. JAXS
Metamorphose
A narrow coffeeshop with plywood furniture, games,
good coffee and a few sandwiches on the menu. Its OK to
consume your spliff here in the large glass smoking room,
or next door at Metropolis where you can also order alcoholic drinks. Fans can get a Metamorphose umbrella or
T-shirt. Its near the university and attracts more students
than most other coffee shops.QA-2, Oude Boteringestraat 53, tel. (+31) 503 14 44 60. Open 11:00 - 24:00, Sun
12:00 - 24:00. J6XS
Hang on to your hat! Its time to get high
Reykjavik
The capital of Iceland may not be on everybodys bucket
list, but we still recommend it. The same goes for this
coffeeshop, recently reopened after a year-long ban.
The owner used the time off to to refurbish Reykjavik
completely. And although we like the modern touch; the
counter is way too high and belongs in a hospital. The extensive use of rough wood in benches and tables was not
smart either. Small bags, but good weed.QA-2, Spilsluizen 6, www.koffieshopreykjavik.nl. Open 11:30 - 23:30.
JXS
The Clown
The Clown looks at first glance like a fun place to visit,
tucked in between the colourful shop of Confettifeest and
the always inspiring homegarden places. But have a better look at the logo, and youll see that the clowns brain
pops out of his head, maybe a direct result of the joint he
is smoking. So be warned and keep your offspring far away
from this central coffeeshop. Once inside, make sure you
stick to the six Clowny Rules which are posted on the wall,
or the hard core gang of regulars will show you the exit.
And believe us, you dont wanna mess with these diehard
fans of local FC Groningen football team. Take a seat at the
long central bar and enjoy one of the strongest weeds
available in the city. Voted recently as the best coffeeshop
in Groningen.QB-2, Folkingestraat 24, tel. (+31) 503 13
42 69. Open 09:00 - 22:00, Sun 12:00 - 21:00. JXS
Head & Smart shops

De Tevreden Rookster
If you have no idea what Tampanensis, Mokum and Utopia
are, visit The Happy (female) Smoker for more knowledge about the magical world of mushrooms. Serving an
extensive amount of sclerotia since 1983. What we liked
about the staff is their knowledge about the Philosopher
Stones. Whatever name you prefer, make sure youre not
alone and take your time as effects can occur slowly. Also a
good place for (water) pipes and other amenities that you
need to get high with these natural products.QC-3, Herepoortenmolendrift 29, tel. (+31) 503 13 62 94, www.
detevredenrookster.nl. Open 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon,
Sun. JS
2014 / 2015
21
Sightseeing
The architecture in Groningen is a world of contrasts. In
addition to well preserved centuries-old houses, youll
also find many modern, state-of-the-art office buildings.
Groningens charming streets, more than 1500 in total, are
another must-see during your visit. Our favourites would
have to be the Hoge en Lage der Aa, Turfstraat, Willemstraat
and the Zuiderpark. Each has its own character, history and
charm.
SYMBOL key
I Casino
I Fireplace
V Home delivery
E Live music
Buildings & Squares

Centraal Station (Railway Station)
One of the most striking railway stations in the Netherlands can be found south of Groningens old town. Even
if youre not much of a trainspotter, the so-called cathedral of the winged wheel is a national monument and
well worth a visit. Despite whats written on the faade,
this has been the informal entrance to the city since 1896.
Architect Gosschalk used both Renaissance and Gothic elements to create this stunning masterpiece and the main
hall with its decorated ceilings, lead windows and iron
streetlights feels like a museum dedicated to the heydays
of train travel. Today its an oasis of peace, but not so long
ago it was still a major hub for rail passengers. We especially like the salle des pas perdus, which was designed so
that footsteps cant be heard.QC-3, Stationsplein 4.
City Hall (Stadhuis)
The Groningen city hall, with its impressive pillars, is a sight
to see. Despite the fact that the Neoclassical city hall dating back to 1810 is still in full use as the office of the mayor
and senior civil servants, a part of this magnificent historic
building is still open to the public. The south faade has
posts connected by chains, which are designed to prevent
people from sitting in the windowsills on market days, as
their chatter kept the civil servants from doing their work.
Some bullet holes, which are remnants of heavy fighting
that took place here in WWII, can still be seen on the western faade. Once inside, the natural stone floor and superb
paintings are bound to impress. Two genuine 300-year-old
benches complement the impressive interior of the hall.
The so-called wedding room with its wonderful murals
from 1938 is another must-see.QA-3, Grote Markt 1. J
One of Groningens famous gasthuizen
6 Pets allowed
X Smoking section
S Takeaway
W Wifi
View of Martinitoren from St. Jansstraat
Euroborg
In a city and province that is packed with churches, its
perhaps fitting that the stadium of local football giants
FC Groningen is called the Green Cathedral. Another nickname of the cosy Euroborg is the Green Hell, but whichever moniker you prefer, the fact is that the stadium is a
masterpiece of architecture. From the outside it may look
a bit dull and hardly resembles a holy football temple, but
once inside its easy to understand why the home teams
opponents often have difficulties beating the green and
white squad. Each of its 21,879 seats are always filled to
the rafters with fanatical supporters at home matches and
the stands are divided into two rings that entirely surround
the pitch. The complex also has other facilities including
a cinema, restaurants, a school, a casino, offices, a supermarket and even a martial arts school. FC Groningens
stadium is also the only one in the Netherlands that creates green energy with the solar panels on its roof.QE-6,
Boumaboulevard 4.
Gasthuizen & Hofjes
Dutch cities that flourished during the Middle Ages all
have hofjes, best translated as courtyards. Although many
have disappeared over the course of the centuries, the city
of Groningen still boasts nearly three dozen hofjes. These
groups of houses surrounding an inner courtyard or square
are not only wonderful to explore, but also of historic significance. Many of these institutions were created to care for
the sick and elderly or to accommodate pilgrims. The oldest
of these dates back to 1267, while the most recent addition
was built in 1939. You can get a map of the the most scenic
ones at the tourist information centre.
Sightseeing
Gasunie
Monkey Hill and the Castle of the Witch are two of the not
so flattering names that locals have given to the modern
building of De Gasunie. The headquarters of a wealthy gas
company, the building even has an atomic bomb shelter at
its base. Fake windows are meant to trick the staff into believing that theyre in some natural oasis instead of locked
up in a massive, solid underground bunker. Above ground
a wide range of interesting architecture and design await
the inquisitive traveller inside this 18-storey, 89m-high
building. The two architects responsible for the building
claimed that they created an organic architecture that
consists - like human beings - from three layers of protection: skin, clothing and building. Dont forget to admire
the hanging gardens and the highest (60m) indoor waterfall in the Netherlands.QE-6, Concourslaan 17.
Synagoge
WW II may have wiped out nearly the entire Jewish population of Groningen, but their most important building survived the horror of the Holocaust. Built in 1906 in a distinctive Moorish style in the heart of the former Jewish quarter,
this cruciform building never lost its original charm and was
returned to its congregation in 1981. A special interactive
programme makes a visit interesting for kids, too.QB-2,
Folkingestraat 60, www.synagogegroningen.nl. Open ,
Wed, Sun 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat. Admission: adults 5, children free. In June, July and August
also open on Thu, Fri, Sat 13:00 - 17:00. TJ
Churches
Der Aa-Kerk
The oddly named 18th century Aa church is a beautiful
brick building that stands on the spot of several earlier
versions, that suffered an unfortunate series of demolition, fires and gravitational setbacks. It lost its religious
function decades long ago and its used for exhibitions,
events and parties nowadays. The 76-metre high tower
with its distinct yellow balconies rises up over the nave
and choir, which are a metre higher than those inside the
Martini church. Group tours of the building (50 for up to
15 people) can be requested, and go up into the roof, but
not up the tower.QB-2, Akerkhof 2, tel. (+31) 503 18 14
33, www.aakerk.nl.
Martinitoren
The Olle Grieze or old grey one is Groningens landmark
monument. The 97 metre high church tower dates back
to the 15th century, and can be climbed up to just below
the top, where the carillon bells hang. For the math freaks
among us: its exactly 370 steps to the top, although the
viewpoint at 56 meters is only a mere 251 steps. Tickets
for the tower are for sale at the VVV tourist information office. The tower is closed on most public holidays and if the
weather is bad; call the tourist office to check.QA-3, Martinikerkhof 1. Open April-Oct 11:00-17:00, closed Sun.
July/Aug also Sun 10:00-16:00. Nov-Mar 12:00-16:00,
closed Sun. Admission 3/2.
Museums
GR-ID
A quirky museum dedicate to the history of graphic art,
the graphic industry and the works of local printer and
artist Hendrik Werkman, member of the renowned local
group De Ploeg. Housed in a former school built in the
unique Amsterdam School architectural style in 1928,
the rooms are crammed with printing presses and instruments, and although there are no texts in English, the staff
is happy to tell you about the development of graphic
design; call ahead to arrange a tour. Located just behind
the central station, its well worth a visit before hopping
on the train.QE-6, Rabenhauptstraat 65, tel. (+31) 505
25 64 97, www.grafischmuseum.nl. Open 13:00 - 17:00.
Closed Mon. Admission 4,75/3,75.
Groninger Museum
Groningens best museum has
to be the Groninger Museum.
This colourful building was
designed by renowned Italian
architect Alessandro Mendini.
The other pavilions, halls and
the fascinating bridge were
created by other well-known
designers and architects and
the result has been a worldclass museum since 1994 building. The history and culture of the city and province of
Groningen can be discovered via archaeological finds,
17th-century drawings, portraits of prominent Groningers
and impressive examples of regional arts and crafts and
applied arts, such as Groningen silver. Asian ceramics are
also on display and the substantial De Ploeg collection of
modern art from the 1920s and 30s is another must-see.
Please note that exhibitions change regularly so check its
website to see whats on before visiting.QC-3, Museumeiland 1, tel. (+31) 503 66 65 55, www.groningermuseum.
nl. Open 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission: adults
13, children 16 - 17 years 10, children 6 - 15 years 3.
PTJAULGKW
Noordelijk Scheepvaartmuseum (Maritime museum)
Giving an overview of 15 centuries of maritime history
in the northern Netherlands, the excellent maritime museum is located in a magnificent medieval house near
Groningens old harbour. With themes ranging from the
Hanseatic league, seafarers souvenirs, maps, navigation
to the demise of the Groningen ship construction industry in the 1950s, the museum is great fun for both adults
and children. Our favourite exhibit: a large hook to poke
at polar bears that come too close, found in the exhibition about the whaling expeditions between 1600 and
1800.QB-2, Brugstraat 24-26, tel. (+31) 503 12 22 02,
www.noordelijkscheepvaartmuseum.nl. Open 10:00
- 17:00, Sun 13:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission
4/2.50. JA
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Sightseeing
Stripmuseum (Comics museum)
Groningens museum of comics sketches the history of this
ancient artform, showing its development from the Bayeux Tapestry via medieval Japanese and Maya drawings
to modern-day cartoons including Donald Duck and Tintin. The main focus is on Dutch and Belgian comic heroes
and artists - the texts are all in Dutch. Kids will also love
the McDonalds inside.QB-1, Westerhaven 71, tel. (+31)
503 17 84 70, www.stripmuseum.nl. Open 10:00 - 17:00.
Closed Mon. Admission 8.95/7.50. TJAKW
Universiteitsmuseum (University Museum)
Since 1934 a small but classic university museum with large
glass display cases crammed with weird and wonderful
objects, which illustrate the advance of science in Groningen over the centuries. Objects are arranged by theme:
discovery, measuring/ordering, experiment and answers.
Highlights are a model electric car from 1836, pots with
body parts and a piece of tattooed skin preserved in
formaldehyde, early microscopes, 1960s pacemakers and
an Egyptian mummy called James. Also on display is the
original Nobel prize medal awarded to physicist Zernike.
Theres a room dedicated to Aletta Jacobs (1854-1929), the
first female student and the first to get a PhD here, and
who promoted family planning, free contraception and
introduced the pessarium - the Dutch cap - in the 1880s.
Such a pity, scandalous even, that this museum has no
captions in English.QB-2, Oude Kijk int Jatstraat 7a, tel.
(+31) 503 63 50 83, www.rug.nl/museum. Open 13:00 17:00. Closed Mon. Admission free.
Parks & Cemeteries

Ebbingekwartier
Located just north of the city centre, the Ebbingekwartier,
which is one of the best urban hotspots in town, offers
wonderful views of Groningens skyline. Its huge swathes
of green space are the perfect place for a relaxed afternoon or a sporty workout. Youll often see students playing Frisbee, volleyball or football and a few can even be
seen studying for an exam, while families light up barbecues for dinner.QE-6, Bloemsingel.
Noorderplantsoen
What Central Park is to New York and Hyde Park to London,
the Noorderplantsoen is to Groningen. Sooner or later during your stay in Groningen youll bump into this well-laid
out park. This so-called northern public garden once
functioned as the citys original defensive system, but today its a peaceful oasis. At the end of the 19th century the
fortifications became obsolete and were transformed into
the current English -style park. Its hard to imagine that
only two decades ago the heart of this park was traversed
by a busy road. All vehicles are now banned so you can
enjoy this central green zone and its Art Nouveau bandstand. On sunny days the earthen walls next to the ponds
become public sunbathing areas and the Noorderplantsoen is also a popular venue for outdoor events.QA-1,
Noorderplantsoen.
Carl Rabenhaupt
On the north side of City Hall on the Grote Markt, youll
find the bust of commander Carl von Rabenhaupt who
is famous for many reasons including his giant curly
wig. Its probably the only statue of a German commander on a Dutch building and it was placed there to
commemorate the Franco-Dutch War, or to be more
specific, the Siege of Groningen in the year 1672. Today, August 28 is a local holiday, better known as Bommen Berend Day, which is named after the leader of the
22,000 strong army of the Bishop of Mnster, that tried
to capture the city, unsuccessfully. He was nicknamed
Bombing Bernard for shooting more than 5,000 bullets
at the city in only a months time, which we gather was
quite a lot back then. German-born Carl von Rabenhaupt was the fearless commander of the city of Groningen. Although officially retired, he was put in charge
of the Dutch defences and personally made sure that
the attacking Catholic army never entered the city.
QB-3, City Hall (north faade).
Prinsenhoftuin
If you need a break from hectic urban landscape just
walk a few extra meters to the peaceful courtyard of De
Prinsentuin, best translated as the Princes Garden. As
the name suggests, this is not an ordinary courtyard. The
Renaissance-style garden built in 1626 consists of a rose
garden, an herb garden and a sundial dating back to 1731.
Translate the Latin phrase with your mobile device and
you might just enjoy life even a bit more than you did
before. On one side of this secluded oasis is a giant wall
(which was once taller still). When the French ruled this
part of the world, the wall was designed to prevent people
from throwing alcoholic beverages to their friends who
were patients at the military hospital. Yes, truth is stranger
than fiction. These days you can just order a drink at the
lovely tea house.QA-3, Prinsenhof. TJ
Places of interest
Hortus Botanicus
Groningens 20-hectare botanical gardens are the biggest
in the Netherlands and have been entertaining guests
since the 17th century. Hortus Botanicus Haren, only 5km
south of the city, boasts over a thousand different species
of plants from around the globe throughout its gardens
and greenhouses. The biggest attraction by far is the wide
variety of gardens including the Chinese garden with the
intriguing name of The Hidden Empire of Mingh, which
also contains a replica of a Chinese teahouse. The Celtic
garden is also worth a look and the whole place is great
fun for kids due to its interactive stops along the way.
Dont leave without visiting the extensive gift shop.QE6, Kerklaan 34, Haren, tel. (+31) 505 37 00 53, www.
hortusharen.nl. Open 10:00 - 17:00. Admission: adults
8, children (4-15 years) 4. TALK
Sightseeing
Infoversum
Of the nearly two dozen full dome 3D theatres found in the
world, one is located on the outskirts of Groningen. In the
heart of the Ebbingekwartier, Groningens newest urban
hotspot, youll find this impressive architectural wonder.
The promoters of this remarkable 11 million building deserve a big pat on the back for creating such an incredible
project in the far north of the Netherlands. Once inside, be
prepared to experience the arts, culture, business and science all in one place. A wide range of digital 3D movies, concerts and educational films are shown by eight digital projectors here. English and German 3D movies are screened
every last Saturday of the month.QE-6, Vrijdemalaan 2,
tel. (+31) 508 20 05 00, www.infoversum.nl. Open 14:00
- 22:00, Tue 18:30 - 22:00, Sat, Sun 11:00 - 22:00. Closed
Mon. Admission: adults 10, children 4 - 16 years 7.50.
PTHAULGW
Sightseeing tours
German Guided Tours
Every Saturday you can join these German guided tours
led by native German-speaking students from the local
university. Tours begin at at 14:00 at the VVV Tourist Office.
QB-3, Grote Markt 29, www.groningen.de.
Boat tours
Huningas Watersport
The Oldambtmeer is only a 20-minute ride outside of
Groningen. You can learn how to sail on this picturesque
lake or, if youre already an experienced sailor, you can rent
a proper boat here. Windsurfing classes are also available.
QE-8, Strandweg 1, Midwolda, tel. (+31) 652 30 75 28,
www.zeilschoolblauwestad.nl. Boat rental from 40,
courses windsurfing (150) and sailing (350).
Rondvaartbedrijf Kool
Rondvaartbedrijf Kool is the oldest canal boat company in
town and has been ferrying tourists and locals around for
over 45 years. The one-hour round trip through the canal system that surrounds the city is an absolute must-see in Groningen. The well-maintained boats are completely covered and
have a heating system for the winter months, but the roof
panels and the side windows are opened during the summer.
The boats have artistic Dutch names like Pronkjewail and the
Wonderlaand.QC-3, Stationsweg 1012, tel. (+31) 503 12 83
79, www.rondvaartbedrijfkool.nl. Prices: adults 12, children 4 - 12 years 6.50. Departures one to five times daily
depending on the season and the day.
Rondvaart in Groningen
If youre travelling with a group or just have some money
to burn and want to impress your better half, this company
has several boats for hire. Two motorboats can be rented
with a guide for groups with a maximum of 12 or 32 persons. Electric boats are also available for a maximum of 10
- 12 people.QA-3, Turfsingel 6, tel. (+31) 507 21 09 00,
rondvaartingroningen.nl.
Groningens Infoversum 3D theatre
Out of town
Museum Aquarium Delfzijl (Muzeeaquarium Delfzijl)
If youre passionate about archaeology, geology and marine life, then head down to this interesting museum on
Hollands coastal border with Germany. Museum Aquarium Delfzijl is located at the bottom of an embankment
near the beach and the port. Its the perfect environment to see where stalactite caves, shells, dogfish and
thousands of other sea creatures once called home. We
especially liked the aaibak (petting tank), where a wide
range of marine life can be met in the flesh so to speak.
A part of the museum is also dedicated to the rich maritime history of Delfzijl and its surroundings. The northernmost megalithic tomb in the Netherlands is also on
display.QD-7, Zeebadweg 7a, Delfzijl, tel. (+31) 596 63
22 77, www.muzeeaquarium.nl. Open 10:00 - 16:30.
Admission: adults 5.50, children 4 - 17 years 3.25.
TJAUL
National Prison Museum (Nationaal
Gevangenismuseum)
What Alcatraz is to San Francisco, the village of Veenhuizen
is to Groningen and the rest of the Netherlands. Since the
beginning of the 19th century beggars and tramps were
deported here, not all voluntarily. The informative National Prison Museum explores the fascinating history of
crime and punishment in the Netherlands. Five centuries
of Dutch justice are presented on interactive displays, not
to mention gruelling instruments of torture. Kids can discover why the place is supposedly doomed by solving the
Curse of Veenhuizen and intrepid travellers can even spend
the night at a few of the picturesque former staff houses,
which have been transformed into bungalows. The gift
shop sells some interesting, original prison souvenirs. Not
surprisingly, the town is actually still home to a handful of
functioning prisons.QE-6, Oude Gracht 1, Veenhuizen,
tel. (+31) 592 38 82 64, www.gevangenismuseum.nl.
TLN
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Shopping
Groningens appeal as a shopping town stems from its
charming streets, which make the retail experience that
much more memorable. Youll find the big international
brands here, but if we had to pick one type of shop thats
indicative of the city it would have to be its many unique
clothing boutiques, which are located throughout the city.
Shops are usually open from Monday to Saturday, but on
Sundays they have limited opening times.
Antiques
Heidema Antiek
If furniture from Empire and Biedermeier doesnt ring a bell,
better give this shop a miss. Otherwise this is paradise for
you.QC-2, Gedempte Zuiderdiep 124, tel. (+31) 503 12
48 00, www.heidemaantiek.nl. Open 12:00 - 18:00, Sat
12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Tue, Sun. JA
Kunsthandel Han Vos
Chinese art and old Dutch paintings go hand-in-hand at
this charming art shop.QB-2, Kleine Kromme Elleboog
6, tel. (+31) 503 12 35 26, www.kunsthandelhanvos.nl.
Open 12:00 - 18:00, Sat 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun.
Bookshops
De Zwerver
The tramp specialises in maps, guidebooks and travel literature. Plenty is available in English, and anything can be
ordered.QA-3, Oude Kijk int Jatstraat 43, tel. (+31) 503
12 69 50, www.dezwerver.nl.
Kunst & Vliegwerk
In this centuries old (ex-)butchery, youll find a wide range
on classical CDs, while this shop also sells a great variety
on books. More an antique shop than your average book
seller.QB-2, Oude Kijk in t Jatstraat 10, tel. (+31) 503 18
56 81, www.boekhandelkunstenvliegwerk.nl. Open
10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat
10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. JA
Riemer Boekhandel
This old and very charismatic bookshop is one of the best
in the city. Although the lions share of the shops selection
is in Dutch, theres a sizable international section as well.
QE-6, Nieuwe Ebbingestraat 1, tel. (+31) 503 13 40 41,
www.riemerboekhandel.nl. Open 09:30 - 18:00, Mon
13:00 - 18:00, Thu 09:30 - 21:00, Sat 09:30 - 17:00. Closed
Sun. JAL
Cheese
Groninger Kaasboetiek
The aroma of aged cheese can be overwhelming to the uninitiated but fromage lovers will want to spend hours here.
In addition to hundreds of cheeses you can also buy breads
and a great variety of nuts.QB-1, Astraat 5, tel. (+31) 503
13 90 09, www.groningerkaasboetiek.nl. Open 09:30 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00. Closed Sun. JAS
Kaashandel Van der Ley
This shop sells since 1934 more than dozens of cheeses.
QB-3, Oosterstraat 61-63, tel. (+31) 503 14 80 03, www.
kaasvanderley.nl. Open 09:00 - 18:00, Sat 09:00 - 17:00.
Closed Mon, Sun. J
Department stores
IKEA
This Scandinavian phenomenon needs no introduction. Find all the beds, baths, sofas, furniture and Swedish meatballs you crave at its Groningen location, one of
the 13 IKEA places in the Netherlands. Also the cheapest
place in town for breakfast, for just one Euro you get a filling starter of the day.QE-6, Sontweg 9, tel. 0900 235 45
32, www.ikea.nl. Open 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 09:00 - 20:00.
Closed Sun. PiTAULGKW
NUL50
More than 300m2 design pleasure:varying from toys to
household item, from furniture to gifts.QB-2, Brugstraat
3, tel. (+31) 503 18 00 03, www.nul50.nl. Open 10:00 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00
- 17:00. Closed Sun. TJA
Erotic
Anja Sexshop
If you need of revive your sex life or if you simply like erotic
toys, youre in the right shop.QB-3, Gedempte Zuiderdiep 129, tel. (+31) 503 14 25 74.
Deltashop
If sex is your thing, bring a visit to this well stocked shop.
Expect a giant collection of all fun things you can think
of, and those we didnt know that even existed. Another
great asset are the small cabins, where you can have some
private time with some sexy videos for just 8 Euro. Including a roll of toilet paper to clean up the mess. Due to the
half open setting you can even listen to your neighbours
actions...QB-2, Folkingestraat 53, tel. (+31) 503 12 64 49.
Open 10:00 - 23:00. Closed Sun. JA
Games & Toys
Theres no shortage of shops in Groningen
The Fantasy Shop

If your a real LARPer or just a fan of Harry Potter, Game
of Thrones and/or The Lord of the Rings, head down to
this well equipped shop where all your phantasies come
alive.QB-2, Zwanestraat 22, tel. (+31) 502 80 57 64,
www.thefantasyshop.nl. Open 10:30 - 18:00, Thu 10:30
- 21:00, Sat 10:30 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun. TJA
Shopping
Kamphuis Kookgereedschap
If cooking is your thing, head down to this earthly paradise
for wannabe Jamie Olivers.QB-2, Brugstraat 34, tel. (+31)
503 11 68 00. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00,
Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. JA
Mulder Feestartikelen
Whether youre looking for a costume for Halloween or just
a fun party this place has it covered all year round.QC-3,
mulderfeestartikelen.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. J
Wine & Liquorshops

Youll find these famous Dutch cartoon ladies at the Stripmuseum
Secondhand shops
De Klederij
Secondhand vintage clothes. An institution in Groningen
for already more than three decades.QC-2, Gedempte
Zuiderdiep 93, tel. (+31) 503 13 22 53. Open 10:30 17:30. Closed Mon, Sun. JN
Fair Back Kringloop
Located in the middle of an unattractive industrial setting,
youll find this giant warehouse, filled to the rafters with
second hand stuff. Great variety on furniture, clothing, toys
and whatever else other people got rid of.QE-6, Ulgersmaweg 139, tel. (+31) 505 49 82 33, www.fairback.nl.
Kringloopbedrijf Mamamini
Keen on retro style? Then the largest second-hand shop
in Groningen is the place to go, but watch your step as
every last square meter of the building is covered in merchandise. With four different locations to choose from,
you cant go wrong in this shop that claims that all profits
are send to charity.QE-6, Noorderbinnensingel 100, tel.
(+31) 503 13 22 00, www.mamamini.nl. Open 10:00 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00, Sat 12:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun.
Onder de Linde
Groningens latest secondhand shop opened early 2014.
Great vintage clothes and accessories.QB-4, Steentilstraat
15, tel. (+31) 653 41 33 16, www.winkelonderdelinde.nl.
Open 11:00 - 18:00, Thu 12:00 - 19:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00.
Closed Mon, Sun.
Speciality shops
Cartoonwinkel.nl
Always wanted a Batman T-shirt? Or a Star Wars flightbag
from Darth Vader? This is your chance. All your favourite comic heroes come alive in this well stocked shop.
QB-2, Folkingestraat 55, tel. (+31) 503 18 58 43, www.
cartoonwinkel.nl. Open 10:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 18:00, Thu 10:00 - 21:00. Closed Sun.
DDBYS Beachwear
Local made beachwear, for all sizes.QB-3, Carolieweg
30, tel. (+31) 503 13 35 34, www.ddbys.nl. Open 10:00
- 17:30, Sat 10:00 - 17:00. Closed Mon, Sun.
De Roemer
This family business sells natural Dutch spiritsas well as
single malt scotch, wine, beer and fine brandies.QB-1, Astraat 13, tel. (+31) 503 13 86 35, www.slijterijderoemer.
nl. Open 10:00 - 18:30, Thu 10:00 - 21:00, Sat 10:00 18:00. Closed Mon, Sun.
Wijnhuis Jos Beeres
The owners are very passionate about wine and youll
no doubt benefit from their knowledge and enthusiasm.
QA-2, Oude Boteringestraat 66, tel. (+31) 503 13 22 41,
www.josbeeres.nl. Open 11:00 - 18:00, Sat 10:00 - 17:00.
Closed Mon, Sun.
groningen for kids

Bringing the children to Groningen but not sure whats
on offer? Heres our handy guide to the citys (and its
near surroundings) best day trips and attractions positively bursting with kids appeal.
Boomkroonpad
Always wondered how Tarzan felt swinging through
the trees? Make your way down to the small town of
Drouwen, a 30-minute drive from Groningen, and
see for yourself. Although a bit less adventurous, the
Boomkroonpad is a fun stop for a couple of hours. At
an average height of just over 20m, you can follow a
well-laid out path through the tops of the trees here.
QE-7, Steenhopenweg 4, Drouwen, tel. (+31) 592 37
73 05, www.staatsbosbeheer.nl/boomkroonpad.
Admission: adults 4, children 4 - 12 years 2. Open
April - October 10:00 - 17:00; November - March
Sun 10:00 - 16:00. Take bus 24 from Assen (which is
easily reached by train from Groningen CS) towards
Borger, get out at the Papenvoort stop. TL
Kinderboerderij Kiosk
Youll find this great playground for kids in the green
oasis of the Stadspark. The so-called farm zoo is home
to typical barnyard creatures like donkeys, pigs, goats
and other animals, while the adjoining kiosk sells cold
and warm drinks and some small snacks for humans.
QE-6, Concourslaan 1, tel. (+31) 503 13 32 34. T
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27
Health & Lifestyle

Adventure sports
Euro Kartracing
Speeds of up to 60km/hour will keep the F1 driver in
you satisfied! Minimum height 1,55 cm and must be 14
years of age or older. Also ten bowling lanes are available.
QE-6, Kardingerweg 50, tel. (+31) 505 47 47 47, www.
kartbaangroningen.nl. Open , Mon, Tue 18:00 - 23:00,
Wed, Sun 14:00 - 23:00, Thu 16:00 - 24:00, Fri 16:00 01:00, Sat 14:00 - 01:00. Tickets: 15 per heat (12 min.).
TA
Dance schools
Plaza Danza
Groningens favourite dance school.QE-6, Boterdiep 20A,
tel. (+31) 503 13 05 07, www.plazadanza.nl.
Rob & Inez
Rob and Inez dont only teach tango, they even breath it.
Highly recommended if you always wanted to learn about
this Argentinean lifestyle.QA-2, Spilsluizen 9, tel. (+31)
651 38 19 24, www.rob-inez.com.
Hairdressers & Barbers

Kapsalon SOAP
Recommended hairdresser, with attached beauty salon.
QE-6, Nieuwe Ebbingestraat 6, tel. (+31) 503 64 35 86,
www.soap-groningen.nl.
Medical & Wellness

Massagepraktijk Groningen
Since 2008 therapist Johan is available after making an appointment.QE-6, Tuinbouwstraat 166, tel. (+31) 654 65
47 70, www.massagepraktijkgroningen.nl.
Opticians
Sportel Optiek
Offers a complete eye care package.QE-6, Nieuwe
Ebbingestraat 14, tel. (+31) 503 13 46 63, www.
sporteloptiek.nl. Open 09:00 - 18:00, Mon 13:00 - 18:00,
Sat 09:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. JAL
Spas & Beauty

Bad Nieuweschans
The first Spa Centre of the Netherlands was only opened in
1985. Although a German professor already a decade before
discovered the healing water at a depth of 633 meters. The
wholesome water, rich in minerals, is heated up to 36 degrees in a thermal bath for total relaxation. Nowadays the
complex is shattered with baths and saunas, thus creating
the perfect environment for a well deserved break from ordinary life.QE-8, Weg naar de bron 3-9, Bad Nieuweschans,
tel. (+31) 597 52 77 77, www.fontananieuweschans.nl.
Open 09:00 - 23:00. Prices starting from 14.75. PZ
iTAULGBKDCwW
Birds eye view of Groningen from the Martinitoren
Sports complexes
Sportcentrum Kardinge
By far the biggest multifunctional sport complex in the
whole province of Groningen. If skating, tennis, swimming or squash is your thing, head here.QE-6, Kardingerplein 1, tel. (+31) 503 67 67 67, www.kardinge.nl.
TALK
Swimming & Water parks

De Papiermolen
This is the place to go for a swim in Groningen. On sunny
days most locals head out to the De Papiermolen, which
is about 15 minutes bicycle ride from the city centre. Here
youll find everything youd find by the sea: loud teenagers, beer-chugging construction workers and flirtatious
students on the prowl. This giant outdoor swimming
pool (heated all year round) has a large grassy patches
complete with a caf, showers and bathrooms.QE-6,
Papiermolenlaan 3, tel. (+31) 505 25 33 15, www.
sport050.nl. Open 07:00 - 20:00, Sat, Sun 10:00 - 20:00.
Entrance: prices vary between 3.90 and 5.20.
Useful addresses
Italian classes
Learn the most romantic language (Italian) with native
speaker Lionella.Qtel. (+31) 623 63 49 99, delcanto@
home.nl.
Kostuumverhuur Groningen
If you always wanted to get dressed up like Napoleon,
Bugs Bunny, Batman, Marlylin Monroe, a strawberry or
local hero Bommen Berend, visit this rental shop. Guaranteed great fun.QB-3, Oosterstraat 25 A, tel. (+31)
503 18 82 57, www.kostuumverhuurgroningen.nl.
TJA
Schoen- en sleutelreparatie Oranje
Opposite shopping centre De Beren youll find this shop
where you can replace keys and fix your shoes.QE-6, Korreweg 18, tel. (+31) 613 36 14 98. Open 09:30 - 18:30,
Mon 13:00 - 18:30, Sat 09:30 - 17:00. Closed Sun. LN
Hotels
Groningen has a decent selection of hotels including
some great budget options. The tourist office can book
rooms for you and may have deals that work out cheaper
than booking directly from the hotel. Visit toerisme.groningen.nl.
SYMBOL key
Z Anti-allergy
O Casino
Hotels
T Child-friendly
T City centre location
Asgard Boutique Hotel

In a quiet corner of the old town, Asgard is set in a lovely
1935 brick building. Inside its all Scandinavian design with
clean lines and lots of wood. The new top floor has wonderful rooms with balconies and good views. Nearby, two
apartments are rented out as well. Asgard was the mythical nordic home of the gods - so why not your home in
Groningen too.QC-2, Ganzevoortsingel 2-1, tel. (+31)
503 68 48 10, www.asgardhotel.nl. 118 rooms (singles
105, doubles 120-175, 2 apartments 100-150).
Breakfast 15. HALGBW hhh
H Conference facilities U Facilities for the disabled
Bastion Hotel Groningen

Out of town near the A7 highway, but still easily reached
by bus from the train station, the Bastion hotel, one of a
chain of roadside motels, is an affordable option. The
rooms are well-furnished and quiet; the deluxe rooms are
larger and come with a bathtub. Theres free wifi throughout, a PC for you to use in the lobby, a smoking lounge and
a restaurant.QE-6, Bornholmstraat 99, tel. (+31) 505 41
49 77, www.bastionhotels.nl. 80 rooms. PAFL
GKXW hhh
Corps de Garde
In a beautiful 17th century guards house beside the former Boteringepoort city gate (marked by a yellow neon
light installation), the Corps de Garde is a modest yet
wonderful place to spend the night. The interior is a mix
of old and new; the charming attic rooms feature ancient
wooden beams, while other rooms are modern with high
ceilings. Most have showers, a few have bathtubs, but all
have TVs and wake-up lights with birdsong. The comfortable lounge has a wall full of art books, and converts to an
inexpensive caf by day.QA-2, Oude Boteringestraat 74,
tel. (+31) 503 14 54 37, www.corpsdegarde.nl. 19 rooms.
PHAULGBW hhh
I Fireplace
F Fitness centre
L Guarded parking
R LAN connection

6 Pet-friendly
K Restaurant
D Sauna
X Smoking section
C Swimming pool
W Wifi
De Doelen
Right on Groningens main square, De Doelen is part of a
large complex of cafs and bars that gets very lively on
weekend nights. The classic-style interior has plenty of
wood, red plush and leather seats; the rooms are less ostentatious. Ask for a room facing the rear for a quiet night.
QA-3, Grote Markt 36, tel. (+31) 503 12 70 41, www.
hotel-dedoelen.nl. 38 rooms (singles 49, doubles 49).
HAGBKW hhh
Hampshire City Hotel Groningen
Love city life is the motto of this modern, central hotel
opposite the casino. Its easily recognised by the long and
narrow windows scattered across the facade. The City
Hotel has three types of rooms, all decently sized, though
with small bathrooms. Linger over breakfast to check out
the great photos of old Groningen on the walls.QB-4,
Gedempte Kattendiep 25, tel. (+31) 505 88 65 65, www.
edencityhotel.com. 93 rooms. POARUFL
GBDW hhh
Hampshire Hotel Groningen Centre
This 1960s highrise building on the eastern edge of the old
town offers great views over the roofscape of Groningen
from the large windows of the modern rooms. The comfort class rooms come in fresh colours and have showers,
while deluxe rooms have additional bathtubs. For longterms stays, three neat apartments sleeping up to four
people are available in a house across the street.QB-4,
Radesingel 50, tel. (+31) 503 16 29 55, www.hampshiregroningen.nl. 64 rooms. PHALGW hhh
Reserve a hotel online at

Groningens pride and joy: the main university building
2014 / 2015
29
Hotels
Botels
Several impressive old ships moored in the canals around
Groningens old town offer small rooms in the winter
months, roughly between October and April. Rooms in
other ships along the same quay, such as the Pelikaan, can
be booked via www.slaapschepen.nl.
The picturesque village of Ezinge is well worth the journey
Martini Hotel
A charming, central hotel in a historical building with
spacious breakfast and dining areas on the ground floor,
and great stained-glass windows in the stairwell. Rooms
are decked out in earth tones, with small shower cabins.
The furniture in the standard rooms looks a little weary,
yet still functional. Rooms on the upper floors have good
city views. Bike rental is included in the room fee.QB-3,
martinihotel.nl. 108 rooms. OARLGW hh
NH Hotel De Ville
Groningens most impressive boutique hotel, part of the
NH chain, is as individual as they come. The lobby inside
the historical old town building has an impressive wooden
desk and artworks. The modern rooms are furnished with
antiques, and bathrooms by local designer Hesther Buunk.
For discerning sleepers, theres a menu for pillows, and
special womens rooms come with magazines, beauty
products and a large make-up mirror. Guests can make use
of the courtyard garden and rental bikes.QA-2, Oude Boteringestraat 43, tel. (+31) 503 18 12 22, www.nh-hotels.
com. 66 rooms. HA6ULGBKW hhhh
Pension Tivoli
Basic accommodation above a traditional pub. The walls
and the mattresses are thin, check-in times are limited and
theres a steep staircase to navigate, but youre right in the
city centre, and theres free wifi, tea and coffee. Plus, it really
doesnt get cheaper than this. Rooms have TV and a microwave. The clean toilets and showers in the hall are shared;
some doubles have their own shower.QB-3, Gedempte
Zuiderdiep 67, tel. (+31) 612 54 41 52, www.pensiontivoli.
nl. 12 rooms (singles 35, doubles 45-50). W
Schimmelpenninck Huys
Occupying seven connected buildings in central Groningen, the Schimmelpenninck Huys has a quaint courtyard
garden and baroque-style rooms with modern comforts.
The standard rooms are more than adequate, but try the
suites with their huge bathtubs and rain showers. As an
extra perk, some of the luxury rooms in a historical part
of the complex are entered through a fragrant chocolate
shop.QB-3, Oosterstraat 53, tel. (+31) 503 18 95 02,
www.schimmelpenninckhuys.nl. 60 rooms. A
De Mars
Built in 1924, the elegant white cargo ship De Mars sailed
along the Baltic and English coasts, and was turned into a
charter sailing boat in the 1990s. The 13 huts have 34 beds
in total and share toilets and showers, breakfast is included.QE-6, Hoge der A 10, tel. (+31) 503 14 21 59, www.
hotelschip.eu. 13 huts (singles 39,50, doubles 79).
Klipper Zwadde
The Zwadde, a 100-tonne iron one-master, was built in
1897 and served as a cargo ship until the early 1970s, first
under sail, later powered by diesel. Now again a sailing ship
used for leisure trips, it spends the summers sailing the IJsselmeer lake and Waddenzee sea. From October to March
its moored in central Groningen and used as a hotel; the
small but comfy cabins share two showers and toilets.
Breakfast is included.QB-1, Hoge der A 26, tel. (+31) 655
57 84 89, www.zwadde.com. 6 rooms (6 Total rooms ).
6 huts (single 37,50, doubles 75). JLNGW
Bed & Breakfast

Campo Verde
Football fans might want to make the trip to Bedum, a
15-minute train ride from Groningen, to see where Dutch
national hero Arjen Robben began his life. One of the
worlds best football players (or actors if youre a Spanish,
Chilean, Australian, Mexican, Costa Rican or Argentinean
squad fan) was born in this picturesque village, which is
also where Yvonne Groeneveld runs this small B&B. Only
two rooms are available, but both are designed to pamper
you from start to finish and are decorated in a modern style.
The luxurious breakfast is reason enough to spend the night
here.QD-6, Lageweg 5, Bedum, tel. (+31) 644 31 99 22.
Bourtange is one Hollands most beautiful fortress towns
Hotels
Hostels
Bud Gett Hostels
An excellent hostel in central Groningen, with good
double, triple and quad rooms with private facilities, as
well as the dorm accommodation youre used to at hostels. Rooms are spanking clean, quiet and modern. Use of
linens and wifi is included, the buffet breakfast is charged
extra. Dorm rooms all have their own shower and toilet,
as well as shared bathrooms in the hall. Bike rental too.
QB-3, Rademarkt 3-3a, tel. (+31) 505 88 65 58, www.
budgetthostels.nl. 33 rooms (33 Total rooms ). ?? rooms
(doubles 47-67, triples 62-99, dorms 27 per bed).
PALGKW
Simplon Jongerenhotel
Just north of the old town, this friendly courtyard budget
hotel has large clean dorm rooms, singles and doubles,
decked out in fresh colours and artistic murals. Despite
the youth hotel name, people of all ages are welcome.
The caf/restaurant is a great place for an affordable
meal, whether youre a guest or not. Breakfast costs extra.QE-6, Boterdiep 73-2, tel. (+31) 503 13 52 21, www.
simplonjongerenhotel.nl. 12 rooms (12 Total rooms
). 15 rooms (singles 36-45, doubles 45-65, triples
54-95, quads 110; dorm beds 15-18, sheets 2,50).
ARLGBK
Camping
Camping Stadspark
This seven acre campsite is the best option in town if
youre on a budget or just love camping. In addition to
its cheap prices, it also offers a pleasant atmosphere and
its spacious campsites are a welcome treat for all. Luckily tents and caravans are divided into separate areas here
and three wooden cabins can be rented by fair weather
campers. Shower and toilet facilities are modern and well
looked after and a childrens area with a canoe pond and
a beach volleyball court is included in the price. A snack
kiosk and a small restaurant are at your disposal and the
friendly owners go well out of their way to make your
stay a pleasant one. The campsite is part of the 90 acre
Stadspark, which is located just three kilometres from
the town centre.QE-6, Campinglaan 6, tel. (+31) 505
25 16 24, www.campingstadspark.nl. Tent/car and two
adults: 18.50/night, tent only 5; 2-person cabin 35,
4-person cabin 45. TLBKW
Apartment rental
City Apartments
Affordable, comfortable lodging in several apartments of different sizes along Oudeweg and Nieuweweg. All come with wifi, a fully equipped kitchen,
linens and a washing machine. Available from one
week upwards. Note that check-in is from 16:00-18:00.
QB-4, Nieuweweg 6, tel. (+31) 503 16 88 50, www.
cityapartments.nl.
Short Stay Groningen

Rooms, studios and apartments for rent, all across Groningen, for both short and long term. Many are fully furnished
and include wifi. Browse the options online, or visit Short
Stays city centre office.QB-3, Rademarkt 10, tel. (+31)
502 30 46 76, www.shortstaygroningen.nl. Open 09:00
- 17:30. Closed Sat, Sun.
Out of town
Scandinavisch Dorp
What do a Finnish sauna, Norwegian waffles, Swedish
smorgasbord and 20 Norwegian wooden cabins have in
common? All of these Scandinavian delights can be found
on the far southern outskirts of Groningen next to the
border of the picturesque Paterswolde Meer, a manmade
lake that was the by product of 16th-century peat mining.
Nowhere else in the region will you find such a tranquil
and peaceful place to spend the night. On the other hand,
theres also plenty to do here, especially if youre a water
sports enthusiast.QE-6, Oude Badweg 1, Eelderwolde,
tel. (+31) 505 25 68 67, www.scandinavischdorp.nl.
iTA6LGBKDXCwW
sport in groningen
Whether you like basketball, ice hockey or football,
youll find what youre looking for here. Donar basketball club is among the best in the country and is the
current league champion. Football club FC Groningen
played in Europe this year, but were knocked out in the
first round by Scotlands Aberdeen. Ice hockey team
GIJS Bears Groningen isnt in the nations top league,
but a mere one level lower.
Donar (www.donar.nl) has been one of the biggest
teams in the country since its founding in 1951. Last
season they picked up their third Dutch title and their
second league cup. They play at the 4,300-seat MartiniPlaza.
World cup star Arjen Robben (currently of Bayern
Munich) is the most famous player that local football
club FC Groningen (www.fcgroningen.nl) has ever
had on its squad. At the tender age of 12 he played
for the lcoal green and white before being sold to PSV
Eindhoven at the age of 19. Top-player Luis Suarez also
played one season for Groningen before heading off
to Ajax, Liverpool and Barcelona. Almost all fortnightly
matches are sold out at the cosy 22,500-capacity stadium.
The GIJS Bears Groningen ice hockey club isnt
exactly at the top of its game as its days of glory remain in the distant past when it gained league titles
back in 2006 and 2007. Although the team, which was
established in 1969, was called the Grizzlies back then.
Home games are held at the Kardinge sportcentrum.
Visit www.gijsbears.nl for more information.
2014 / 2015
31
Schiermonnikoog
On the far northern side of Groningen city, where the
provinces of Groningen and Friesland meet each other at
the picturesque Lauwersmeer lake, lies the small village
of Lauwersoog. From here its a 45-minute (regular) ferry
ride to the island of Schiermonnikoog. The greater part of
this 18km long and 3km wide Wadden island is a national
park where cars are forbidden, but there are plenty of wonderful options for cycling and hiking on the island. Only a
thousand people live here and most of these in the only village of the same name. In fact, birds outnumber people on
the island in all seasons. The best thing about Schiermonnikoog in our humble opinion is the easy access to Europes
widest beaches. Nature lovers will also love the fact that
half of all Dutch flower and plant species can be found here.
The island is visited by some 300,000 tourists every year.
Arriving & Getting around

The Wagenborg Passagiersdiensten ferry is the one and
only way to get to low-traffic Schiermonnikoog. It takes
approximately 45 minutes and is available 365 days a year.
The timetable for departures to and from Schiermonnikoog are fixed for the entire year. Additional departures
are scheduled during peak periods. From Monday to
Saturday there are five departures to the island at 06:30,
09:30, 12:30, 15:30 and 18:30. On Sundays the first 06:30
departure isnt available. You can take the ferry back to the
mainland at 07:30, 10:30, 13:30, 16:30 and 19:30 from Monday to Saturday. Once again, on Sundays the first 07:30
departure of the day isnt available. Cars are banned on
the island and each passenger can bring a maximum of
30kg of hand luggage on board. After passing through the
ticket checkpoint, you have to place your hand luggage
in the baggage cars.QZeedijk 11, Lauwersoog, tel. (+31)
854 01 10 08, www.wpd.nl. Only return tickets are sold:
14.80/person. AL
Take advantage of the wind on Schiermonnikoog
Public transport
When you arrive with the boat a public bus will be waiting for
you at the ferry landing. Depending on the time of your departure, buses will depart from the bus stop 40, 35 or 30 minutes
before departure of your ferry.QOosterreeweg 2, Schiermonnikoog, www.openbaarvervoerschiermonnikoog.nl.
Return tickets: 3.50.
Soepboer Rijwielverhuur
With three easily accessible locations and 4,000 bikes
to choose from, this is your best bet for renting a bike.
QPaaslandweg 1, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 53
16 36, www.fietsverhuursoepboer.nl. Open 08:00 18:00. Rentals starting from 6 a day.
Watertaxi
If youd like some privacy on your trip to Schiermonnikoog, you might consider taking a water taxi. Although
a bit pricey (110 for one person, 55 per person for two
or more), youll get to Schier in 15 minutes instead of the
usual 45 minutes with the ferry. A reservation is required. A
maximum of 12 people can take the taxi at one time.Qtel.
(+31) 854 01 10 08, www.wadtaxi.nl.
Accommodation
Visit one of the islands characteristic lighthouses
Herberg Rijsbergen
Herberg Rijsbergen is one of the most characterful hotels on
the island, especially if you appreciate the peaceful feeling
this tranquil, yet historic building exudes. A giant garden, a
secluded terrace and an intimate setting makes this small
hotel with only 13 rooms one of our favourite places to crash
in the area. The rooms are by no means luxurious and youll
also notice that TVs have been purposely left out of all accommodation, so you escape from your everyday routine
without any distractions. Two common rooms are available
and the beach and the town are just a few minutes walk
away.QKnuppeldam 2, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519
53 12 57, www.rijsbergen.biz. iLGBXW
Schiermonnikoog
Hotel Duinzicht
You can expect 35 spotlessly clean rooms throughout the
building and even in the garden and this century-old establishment also has a relaxed atmosphere that cant be
beat. The accommodation was recently renovated and is
now equipped with all of the necessary amenities including some of the best mattresses weve come across in
Schiermonnikoog. You will, however, have to do without
a lift. The attached garden and playground is yet another
benefit of this highly recommended place for guests who
prefer tranquil surroundings to luxurious comforts.QBadweg 16, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 53 12 18, www.
hotelduinzicht.nl. iTALBKXW
Hotel Graaf Bernstorff
Three different kinds of rooms are available at this centrally
located hotel. If youve got money to burn, the penthouse
is your safest bet, while the luxury and standard rooms are
a bit more affordable. Whichever room you pick, you can
expect high-end quality from soft linens on the bed to
heated floors and the comfy, modern bathrooms are yet another reason to stay here. The downstairs restaurant serves
the best cakes on the island and the terrace and the 19thcentury library are also crowd pleasers.QReeweg 1, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 82 00 50, www.bernstorff.nl.
Rooms 120 - 170. JALBKXW
Hotel Van der Werff
Since 1726 this hotel has been an indispensable part of the
social life of this small island. Whether its the bar, the restaurant or the hotel, countless travellers have enjoyed this
charming place, including Dutch royalty. We have to admit, the oldest hotel on the island knows how to pamper
its guests and although the rooms vary greatly in size and
style, all will leave you feeling more than satisfied. The restaurants stylish carpet and the French table linens are the
perfect background for an evening of fine dining. In short,
staying Hotel Van der Werff is a gift to yourself from start to
finish.QReeweg 2, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 53 12
03, www.hotelvanderwerff.nl. PALBKXW
Schier-monnik-oog
To explain the meaning of the islands odd name, its
best to divide it in three separate parts: Schier, Monnik and Oog. Schier stands for grey, Monnik means
monks and Oog is best translated as island. So it literally means island of the grey monks referring to the
17th century monks of the Claerkamp monastery who
once lived here.
Drink & Eethuis De Berkenplas
If swimming in the salty sea isnt at top of your bucket
list, try the fresh water of de Berkenplas. Attached to the
lakeshore is a small eatery with a giant outdoor terrace.
Keeping an eye on your offspring on the beach is much
more relaxed from here and much less stressful than trying to keep track of them at the nearby Wadden Sea coastline, one of the widest beaches in Europe. All of the usual
snacks and drinks are available and its also a good place
to rent a canoe.QPrins Bernhardweg 1, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 53 15 70, www.schiermonnikooghoreca.nl. Open April - October 10:30 - 18:30; off season Sat, Sun 10:30 - 18:30; Closed January & February.
T6LNBKS
Noderstraun
Were usually not big fans of dining at hotel restaurants,
but we gladly made an exception for Noderstraun. In addition to its picture perfect location at the foot of the Wadden Sea dunes, it also provides a great mix of generous
seafood platters and Mediterranean cuisine in posh surroundings. Be sure to save some space for the heavenly
chocolate dream dessert, which fully lives up to its name.
QBadweg 32, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 53 19 40.
Open 09:00 - 22:00. PTAILGBKXW
Eating & Drinking

Ambrosijn
Not the cheapest place on Schiermonnikoog, but certainly
one of the better establishments around to spoil your taste
buds. Although Ambrosijn only opened a couple of years
ago, today it would be hard to imagine the islands eating
& drinking scene without this lovely eatery. The cook loves
his job and the result is a wide array of heavenly dishes
made from unusual recipes. We especially appreciated the
use of so-called forgotten vegetables that often dont
find their way to dinner tables these days. Unfortunately,
the quality comes with a matching price tag, but we think
its worth the expense. Try a couple of scoops of the locally made ice cream called Eilander IJs.QLangestreek
13, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 72 02 61, www.
ambrosijn.nl. PTJALGKW
Youre never far from the sea on Schiermonnikoog
2014 / 2015
33
Schiermonnikoog
Schiermonnikoger Vishandel
For decades this family-run business has been serving
hungry locals and tourists a range of freshly prepared fish.
What began at a mobile stall evolved into a modernly designed shop with a handful of seats back in 1993. If you
consider yourself a seafood lover than look no further and
bear in mind that you can also order takeaway.QNoorderstreek 38, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 53 17 43.
Open 12:00 - 19:00. Closed Mon. PTJKS
Strandpaviljoen De Marlijn
Youll find Strandpaviljoen De Marlijn at the northernmost
point of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Although the
mighty fish that this beach hut honours isnt on the menu,
we can guarantee that dinner or lunch at this informal venue will be a welcome treat for refined eaters. The magnificent location positioned high in the dunes is yet another
reason to give it a try and the fruits de mer is a huge crowd
pleaser, but youll also have to dish out plenty of cash to
enjoy it. A good selection of board games is available if
you somehow get bored of the splendid views of the sea.
QPrins Bernhardweg 2, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31)
519 53 13 97, www.demarlijn.com. TBKW
Strandpaviljoen Paal 3
Paal 3 is the most popular place on the island for kite
sports enthusiasts and wannabes who just want to look
cool. Youll find this wooden structure supported on giant
poles above one of the widest beaches in Europe. Naturally, the giant terrace is its greatest asset, so grab a bamboo
seat with colourful African cushions and order one of the
cheap pizzas or the delicious gambas and wash it down
with a trendy drink. It also boasts the biggest selection
of teas on Schier.QStrand, einde Badweg, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 53 15 57. TBK
Tourist Information
VVV Schiermonnikoog
Ask the friendly ladies behind the counter anything
youd like to know about Schiermonnikoog. They can
arrange hotels, transport and tours and give you maps
of hiking and biking trails. Some cute souvenirs are
on sale inside and the building is also home to a post
office and an ING servicepunt for bank related matters.
QReeweg 5, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 531
233, www.vvvschiermonnikoog.nl. Open 09:30 17:00, Sat 10:00 - 16:00. Closed Sun.
Schiermonnikoogs maritime traditions are still evident
Tox Bar
In addition to its delicious homemade satay and juicy
spareribs, Tox Bar is also famous for its wild parties. Its
basically the only real disco on Schiermonnikoog, so
party people arrive here sooner or later. Expect all of the
usual disco lights and pumping bass to get the crowd
going. For over four decades this has been the best place
to show off your inner dancing queen and it doesnt
seem like that will change any time soon. Perhaps it's the
surprisingly affordable beers on draught in bottles that
make everyone feel like dancing?QReeweg 7, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 53 13 73, www.toxbar.nl.
Open 22:00 - 04:00. ALGBK
Centuries-old architecture is one of the islands highlights
Vrouwe Jakoba
This place considers itself to be the smallest supermarket in the Netherlands, but basically its a good place to
pick up groceries, island products and take-away food
like pizza. It also delivers.QBadweg 4, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 53 11 73, www.vrouwejakoba.nl.
Opening times vary greatly depending on the season.
TJL
Schiermonnikoog
Museums
Schelpenmuseum Paal 14
If your fascinated by the sea and want to know more
about shells and the molluscs that inhabit them, check
out this entertaining little museum run by a lovely family
in a separate part of their private home. Over 1500 kinds
are on display, but the explanations are unfortunately only
available in Dutch. Some of these creatures have already
been on planet Earth for at least 540 million years. Besides
being an important part of the ocean food chain, theyre
also a source of important luxury goods like pearls, dyes
and sea silk. Learn all about their single muscular feet,
rasping tongues and muscle-powered hairs. Some of
these tiny animals even change gender just to reproduce!
Theyd probably feel right at home on the east side of Paal
14 at the special beach on the northern part of the island.
QMartjeland 14, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 53 16
63, www.schelpenmuseum.nl. Open 15:00 - 17:00 &
20:00-22:00. Admission: adults 2, children under 12
years of age 1. TJ
SightseeinG Tours
November Wandelmaand
At first glance November may not seem like the best
month to take a walking tour of Schiermonnikoog, but
from our own experience its actually the perfect time
of year for an outing like this as long as you have a good
raincoat and several layers of warm clothing underneath.
Each weekend walk in November will be given a special
theme, so you can choose between nature, sports, culture
and history or culinary tours. Please note that all tours are
primarily designed for Dutch speaking visitors.Qwww.
vvvschiermonnikoog.nl/wandelmaand.
Schiermonnikoog is the epitome of tranquility
Shopping
t Peperhusjen
Nostalgia and sweets galore are in abundance at the prettiest sweets shop on the island. Hundreds of different candies
will bring you back to your childhood at this old-fashioned,
typically Dutch little shop.QMiddenstreek 42, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 53 11 58, www.peperhusjen.nl.
Open 14:00 - 17:00, Sat 11:00 - 17:00. Closed Sun. TL
t Witte Kockhus
This picturesque fairytale house is full of enough flowers
to decorate a number of different palaces, but its collection of statues is also worth a look.QLangestreek 22,
Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 519 53 20 67. J
Useful addresses
Coaching on Schier
If your life is hectic and stressed, hire Coach Julia for a private
session. During a 90-minute nature walk, this experienced
life coach will listen to your problems and come up with
solutions so you can have a more structured and fulfilling
life right away.QReddingsweg 2, tel. (+31) 625 00 72 17,
www.coachingopschier.nl. 100 for a 90-minute session.
Thijs Vliegerparadijs
Wind is an integral part of Schiermonnikoog and the staff
at Thijs Vliegerparadijs have even made a business of this
free gift from Mother Nature. A number of different kites
are available, depending on how adventurous you are.
In any case, you can only go airborne after an intensive
and informative training session. Its great fun for kids and
adults who refuse to lead a boring life.QBadweg, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 624 10 34 52. T
With the kids
Take a horse-drawn carriage ride on the beach
Lytje Willem
Schiermonnikoog is full of old and goofy stories about
mythical characters like Lytle Willem. This goblin lived in a
tiny cottage near the coast and had wild adventures every
day. Today his name still represents great fun by providing fun programmes for children during school holidays.
Check out its website for the latest offer.QHeereweg
4, Schiermonnikoog, tel. (+31) 633 14 41 36, www.
lytjewillem.nl.
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35
Unusual Groningen
Unusual food
One of Groningen's peculiar food specialities is Scottish
eggs, locally called grunse eitjes. They're basically hard
boiled eggs that have been fried with a spicy layer of potato or minced meat. Once these were luxurious snacks
only prepared for picnics, but now they're in every supermarket and make for excellent snacks when you're
wandering around the city. Look for them at the coin-operated automatiek snack bars. We think the version with
meat is a little disappointing, so we recommend you stick
with the potato variety, which of course is also suitable
for vegetarians.
Unusual Students
In other countries, the mere mumbling of curse words like
klootzakken, kankerlijers, losers and sukkels to a police officer would be sufficient for a night in a cell at at the very
least (and perhaps a sound beating, too). However, in the
Netherlands things are a bit different. A female student
from Groningen was acquitted recently after she uttered
these offensive words out loud to an officer of the law,
during a wild night out. However, the highest legal body
in the Netherlands, the Hoge Raad (the High Council), did
not agree with the verdict given at a lower level of the
justice system. They agreed that police officers should not
be overly sensitive, but in the end they found the student
guilty after all.
Unusual Bike parking

Exit Groningens train station and you cant miss the socalled Stadsbalkon or city balcony: an elevated platform
with trees poking out. Beneath the undulating slab of concrete designed in 2007 by Rotterdams KCAP lies the citys
largest underground bicycle parking garage with space for
no less than 4,500 bicycles. The bike path to the station
cunningly passes right through the parking lot. The light
and transparent design and 24-hour security make it a safe
spot day or night. A famous old statue, Het Peerd van Ome
Loeks (Uncle Loeks Horse) can be found beneath the trees.
Perfect sunset in the Province of Groningen
Venue index
Ambrosijn 33
Asgard Boutique Hotel 29
Bastion Hotel Groningen 29
Benz 17
Boomkroonpad 27
Broodjes van 5
16
Brussels Lof
12
Budget 6
Bud Gett Hostels
31
Cafe Boone
18
Caf de Koffer
18
Caf Mulder
18
Camping Stadspark
31
Campo Verde
30
CBK Groningen
9
Centraal Station
22
City Apartments
31
City Hall
22
Coaching on Schier
35
Corps de Garde
29
Corps de Garde
Loungecaf 16
Courtneys Kitchen
12
CPV 6
Cue Action
20
De Biechtstoel
13
De Doelen
29
Dees 21
De Keyzer
18
De Kleine Heerlijkheid 13
De Kleine Moghul
15
De Mars
30
De Negende Cirkel
20
De Pintelier
18
Der Aa-Kerk
23
Der Witz
18
De Sleutel
19
De Soepwinkel
17
De Spieghel
20
De Tevreden Rookster 21
De Toeter
19
De Uurwerker
19
De Vliegende Hollander 21
De Wolthoorn
19
De Zevende Hemel
14
Dinner Served
17
Drink & Eethuis De
Berkenplas 33
Eat2be 14
Ebbingekwartier 24
Eetcafe Roezemoes
13
Eetcaf Schuitendiep 14
Euroborg 22
Fietstaxi Yvette
6
Forum Images
8
Friet van Piet
14
Gasthuizen & Hofjes 22
Gasunie 23
German Guided Tours 25
Goud Heerlijk
16
Grand Cafe Hooghoudt 19
Grand Caf Treslinghuis 16
GR-ID 23
Groninger Museum
23
Hampshire City Hotel
Groningen 29
Hampshire Hotel
Groningen Centre
29
Happy Garden
12
Haute Friture
14
HEMA Caf
16
Herberg Rijsbergen
32
Hertz 6
Het Concerthuis
20
Het Opstapje
17
Hortus Botanicus
24
Hotel Duinzicht
33
Hotel Graaf Bernstorff 33
Hotel Van der Werff
33
Huize Maas
15
Huningas Watersport 25
Infoversum 25
Kinderboerderij Kiosk 27
Klipper Zwadde
30
Lambik 13
Land van Kokanje
15
La Regina
16
Lavazza Koffie &
Lunchlokaal 17
Lytje Willem
35
Macedoni 12
Martini Hotel
30
Martinitoren 23
Mendini 15
Metamorphose 21
Metropolis 19
Mr. Mofongo
16
Museum Aquarium Delfzijl
25
old town street register

1e Drift Ged. Zuiderdiep* 3C
2e Drift Ged. Zuiderdiep* 3B
A-Brug* 2B
Achter de Muur
3B
Achter de Noorderkuipen* 3A
Achterom* 4B
Agricolastraat 4A
Akerkhof 2B
Akerkstraat 2B
Battengang* 4B
Blekersgang* 2C
Bocht van Guinea*
4B
Bonte Brug*
4B
Boteringebrug* 2A
Boteringeplaats* 2A
Broerstraat* 2A
Brugstraat 2B
Bruine Ruiterstraat*
3B
Burchtstraat 3B
Butjesstraat 2A
Carolieweg 3B
Coehoornsingel 2C
Damsterdiep 4B
Damsterplein 4B
De Laan*
2B
De Verbinding*
3C
Derde drift Lopendediep* 2A
Dolhuisgang* 3C
Donkersgang* 3B
Driemolendrift 2C
Ebbingebrug* 2A
Eerste drift Spilsluizen* 2A
Emmabrug 2C
Emmaplein 2C
Engelenpoortje* 3B
Folkingedwarsstraat* 2B
Folkingestraat 2B
Ganzevoortsingel 2C
Gardepoort* 3A
Gasthuisstraatje* 1A
Gedempte Kattendiep 4B
Gedempte Zuiderdiep 2C
Gelkingestraat 3B
Grote Gang
4B
Grote Kromme Elleboog*
2B
Grote Leliestraat
1A
Grote Markt
3B
Grote Rozenstraat
1A
Guichardsgang* 2A
Guldenstraat 2B
Guyotplein* 2A
Gymnasiumstraat* 3A
H.N. Werkmanbrug* 3C
Haddingedwarsstraat* 2B
Haddingestraat* 3B
Hardewikerstraat 2A
Havenstraat 1A
Herebinnensingel 3C
Hereplein 3C
Herepoortenmolendrift* 3C
Heresingel 3C
Herestraat 3B
Hoekstraat* 2A
Hofstraat 3A
Hoge der A*
2B
Hoogstraat* 3B
Hoornstraat* 4B
Hopmansgang* 4B
Jacobijnerstraat* 3A
Jonkerstraat 2C
Kattenhage* 3A
Keerweer 2C
Kijk In 't Jatbrug*
2A
Kleine Butjesstraat*
2A
Kleine der A
2B
Kleine Gang*
4B
Kleine Gelkingestraat* 3B
Kleine Haddingestraat* 3C
Kleine Kromme Elleboog*
2B
Kleine Leliestraat*
2A
Kleine Molenstraat*
4B
Kleine Pelsterstraat*
3B
Kleine Peperstraat
3B
Kleine Raamstraat
3C
Kleine Steentilstraat* 4B
Kostersgang 4B
Koude Gat
3B
Kreupelstraat 3A
Kruitgracht 3A
Kruitlaan* 4A
Kruitstraat* 3A
Kuiperplaats* 2B
Kwinkenplein* 3A
Leliesingel 1A
Lijnbaanstraat 4B
Lopendediep 2A
Loppersummergang* 4B
Lutkenieuwstraat* 2B
Maagdenbrug* 3A
Martinikerkhof 3A
Moeskersgang* 4B
Munnekeholm* 2B
Museumbrug* 2C
Museumeiland* 3C
Museumstraat* 2B
Mussengang* 4A
Muurstraat 2A
Naberpassage* 3A
Nieuwe Boteringestraat 2A
Nieuwe Kijk In 't Jatstraat 2A
Nieuwe Sint Jansstraat 4A
Nieuweweg 4B
Nieuwstad 3B
Noorderbinnensingel 1A
Noorderhaven 1A
Oosterhavenstraat* 4B
Oosterkade 4B
Oostersingel 4A
National Prison Museum 25

NH Hotel De Ville
30
Ni Hao
12
Noderstraun 33
Noordelijk
Scheepvaartmuseum 23
Noorderlicht Fotogallerie 9
Noorderplantsoen 24
November Wandelmaand
35
NP3 9
Pathe 8
Pension Tivoli
30
Poolcenter Streetlife 20
Prinsenhoftuin 24
PS! 13
Public transport
32
Qbuzz 5
Reykjavik 21
Rondvaartbedrijf Kool 25
Rondvaart in Groningen 25
Sathuis 15
Scandinavisch Dorp 31
Schelpenmuseum Paal 14
35
Schiermonnikoger
Vishandel 34
Schimmelpenninck Huys 30
Short Stay Groningen 31
Simplon Jongerenhotel 31
SIO2 9
Soepboer Rijwielverhuur
32
Soestdijk 14
Stadsbakker Meijer
12
Starbucks 13
Strandpaviljoen De Marlijn
34
Strandpaviljoen Paal 3 34
Stripmuseum 24
Stuur 6
Synagoge 23
Thai Jasmine
17
The Clown
21
t Hooghoudt Proeflokaal
20
Time Out
19
Toet & Taart
13
Toscana 15
Tosti World
17
Tourism office
5
Tox Bar
34
t Pannekoekschip
13
t Peperhusjen
35
t Winkeltje
35
t Witte Kockhus
35
Ugly Duck
16
Universiteitsmuseum 24
Vera 8
Vrouwe Jakoba
34
VVV Schiermonnikoog 34
Warung Jawa
15
Watertaxi 32
Weeva 14
Wolff 8
Oosterstraat 3B
Ossenmarkt 2A
Oude Boteringestraat 2A
Oude Ebbingestraat 3A
Oude Kijk In 't Jatstraat* 2A
Oudeweg 4A
Papengang* 3B
Pausgang 2A
Pelsterdwarsstraat* 3B
Pelsterstraat 3B
Peperstraat* 3B
Phebensstraat 3C
Plantsoenbrug* 1A
Pluimerstraat 4B
Poelebrug* 4B
Poelestraat 3B
Poortersplein* 4A
Popkenstraat* 3A
Postrijdersgang* 3A
Poststraat 2A
Pot- En Pannengang* 2A
Praediniussingel 2C
Prinsenstraat 3B
Raamstraat* 3C
Radebinnensingel 4B
Rademarkt* 4B
Radesingel 4B
Reitemakersrijge* 2B
Rodeweeshuisstraat* 2A
Ruiterstraat 3C
Schoolholm 2B
Schoolstraat* 3A
Schuitemakersstraat 2B
Schuitendiep 4B
Singelstraat* 3A
Sint Jansbrug*
3A
Sint Jansstraat
3A
Sint Walburgstraat*
3A
Snikkevaardersgang* 4B
Snor Damsterdiep*
4B
Snor Singelstraat*
3A
Soephuisstraatje 2B
Soniusgang* 4B
Spilsluizen 2A
Stalstraat 3A
Stationsstraat* 2C
Steentilbrug* 4B
Steentilstraat 4B
Stoeldraaierstraat* 2B
'T Klooster*
2A
Tingtangstraatje* 3B
Torenstraat* 2C
Trompbrug* 4B
Trompstraat 4B
Tuinstraat 4A
Turfsingel 3A
Turfstraat 3A
Turftorenstraat* 2B
Tussen Beide Markten* 3B
Tweede Drift Spilsluizen*
2A
Ubbo Emmiussingel 2C
Ubbo Emmiusstraat
3C
Uurwerkersgang* 2A
Vierde Drift Noorderhaven*
2A
Vijfde Drift Noorderhaven*
1A
Vishoek* 1A
Vismarkt 2B
Visserstraat 2A
Voor 't voormalig Klein
Poortje* 4B
Vosgang* 4B
Waagplein* 3B
Waagstraat* 3B
Walstraat 3A
Weeshuisgang 3A
Werfstraat 1A
Winschoterkade 4B
Ypenmolendrift* 3C
Zoutstraat 1A
Zuiderkuipen* 2C
Zwanestraat 2B
2014 / 2015
39
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Maps Events Restaurants Cafs Nightlife Sightseeing Shopping Hotels

JOIN THE TEAM

If youre interested in a unique and rewarding career with Europes leading

A few words from the editor

Arrival & Getting Around

How to get to your hotel

Getting to grips with Groningen

Culture & Events 8

The secret of the In Your Pocket guides is that, unlike

Explore a wonderful West Frisian island

List of small features

Maps & Index

The New York Times

Beds for backpackers and business executives

In Your Pocket: a cheeky, well-written series of guidebooks.

Spas, doctors and other useful information

Concentrating on both well-known and more offbeat

Boutiques, souvenir shops and shopping centres

Health & Lifestyle

Detailed, carefully researched guides.

Museums, churches and other sights

Where to smoke responsibly

From Albania to Ukraine In Your Pocket is a wonderful

Solid, reliable information on everything from where

Bars, pubs and clubs

The Dutch have much more than cheese to offer

Entertaining and honest: at times devastatingly so, the In

The Irish Times

In Your Pocket guides are each written by an English

The In Your Pocket series of guide booklets have turned

International Herald Tribune

Sales & Circulation

Cycling can get quite stressful in

4 Groningen In Your Pocket

We have come a long way in the 22

Arriving & Getting Around

Groningens Central Station is an historic monument

Arriving & Getting Around

Hot air balloon above the Grote Markt

6 Groningen In Your Pocket

New Years Day (Nieuwjaarsdag)

Culture & Events

Groningens Grote Markt hosts lots of major events

8 Groningen In Your Pocket

Festivals & events

Culture & Events

Musical. Claron McFadden

Dance. Maas Theater and

GN Groninger Museum GT Grand Theathre

The Rhythm & Blues Night.

Seven reasons for visiting Groningen?

GRONINGEN ESTATE HOUSES

LAUWERSMEER NATIONAL PARK

Groningen Bike Trails

J Old town location B Outside seating

Enjoy Groningens caf culture

A bicycle is still the easiest way to get around Groningen

Coffee & Tea

Historic sailing vessel at the Maritime Museum

Get to the Grote Markt early if you want to get a seat!

Land van Kokanje

Groningens markets are a feast for the senses

16 Groningen In Your Pocket

Lavazza Koffie & Lunchlokaal