Groningen Netherlands

Tours

Discover the canals of Groningen in an hour with Rondvaartbedrijf Kool, a family business which has provided canal tours for more than 50 years. Float past the tall steeple on the Martinitoren and other old buildings. Buy some snacks, beer, or prosecco to enjoy throughout the cruise. Come to the meeting point, then jump aboard the boat to begin exploring the canal. Marvel at the many beautiful towers, bridges, and buildings which you will see along the historic canals. Sit back and relax to see the wonders of medieval and modern architecture along the way. Let the friendly staff take care of you and purchase a drink or snack. Choose from a variety of coffees, teas, sodas, Heineken or Belgian beers, wine, or prosecco to buy aboard the boat. Then, sip on your drink and take in the churches and scenery that you will see during the cruise. Encounter the well-known Martinitoren, a famous tall church steeple. Then, sail past the Groniger Museum, which displays modern and contemporary art. Also, look at the Tasman Tower. Finally, finish up your tour at the starting point and get off the boat.

In the last 500 years, the Martinitower tower has endured fire and lightning, and has nearly collapsed. Wars have been won and lost on its steps, but the tower has stood firm and, at 97 metres, it is still the highest building in the city. Climb the tower to experience some tangible history and a stunning view. Over 250 steps Because there is no lift, climbing the d’Olle Grieze – Old Grey One – involves some unremitting labour. Most visitors take about an hour for their visit. But rest assured that your work-out will be handsomely rewarded. After every so many steps, take in the Martinikerk church vaults, centuries-old ornaments, heavy bells or giant flagpoles. On the first gallery, step outside to walk around the tower at a height of 39 metres. And on this gallery you can also find a small cinema where you can watch a short movie about the history of Groningen through the eyes of the tower, High above the city A considerable number of steps higher will take you to the bell tower. After the narrow and somewhat damp passages, you may experience a feeling of space. This is where you can hear gulls above and people at the market while you stand between the clock dials. After enjoying the beautiful view of the city and environs the time has come to go back down. Any sore muscles the following day will be well worth the effort.

Discover the first floating terrace in Groningen and enjoy a unique combination of the relaxation of a terrace and the magic of a boat trip. Experience the ultimate destination for anyone who wants to enjoy some cold drinks on the water. We are not a Historical boat tour with a Guide. Board the boat and enjoy the flexibility of the cabriolet roof, which can be opened on sunny days for an unobstructed view of the sky, and closed quickly to ensure comfort and dryness in the event of an unexpected rain shower. Enjoy a wide selection of drinks and snacks at the bar, from summer beers and refreshing wines to warm (vegetarian) snacks. Everything is available for a perfect drink or party on board. With space for 75 people, the boat is perfect for both intimate gatherings and large group activities, such as company outings, birthdays, and more. After sunset, the atmospheric lighting creates a charming ambiance, while the comfortably furnished seating with soft cushions promotes a cozy atmosphere. For extra convenience, there is a clean and accessible toilet on board. You don't have to worry about comfort. The boat departs from an easily accessible location opposite Groningen Central Station, with fixed times so you can easily plan your day. Enjoy top service from the friendly crew, who ensure that all your needs are met, so you can relax and enjoy your time on the water.

Join the most entertaining open-air canal cruise of Groningen. Where personal contact and authentic stories about Groningen are held in high esteem. Enjoy the Groningen canals, interesting information and unlimited beverages for one hour long. We navigate along the Old Museum (Westerhaven), warehouses Hoge and Lage der A, AA-church, Hoek van Ameland, Noorderhaven, the Prinsenhof, the Stadsschouwburg and of course the famous Martinitoren Our experienced and enthusiastic skippers will tell you all about the history, architecture and culture of the city while you enjoy the view.

During your 1.5 hour walking tour (max. 25 guests per group) you will see, feel, smell, hear about the history, present and future of the city of Groningen. With your guide you will explore the historical city-centre. The 1000-years old metropolis of the North of the Netherlands will embrace you. Be amazed by this vibrant student town. See Renaissance combined with modern architecture. Look around and enjoy the green squares, the tower, the people, the stories you will be told. You will make unforgettable memories during your visit! The tour starts at the brand new Forum Groningen where you will learn all about technical innovations, modern culture and actuality. Your guide will take you on a walk and to see the New Market Square and de Martini-toren. Continuing your tour you will see so much more, like the office of the Commisionar of the King, the Palace of the 17th and 18th century Regents, the City-Hall situated on the Grote Marktsquare, the Gold-office and the Academic Building. Enjoy the beautiful yellow tower of the A-church and step back 800 years when you are exploring the oldest harbour of Groningen. Of course, you can not miss the old Folkingestraat with it's Jewish history and (not part of the tour on Sundays) the impressive Pepergasthuis, the shelter place for pilgrims who came to worship until the end of the 16th century, the relic of Saint John the Baptist. At the end of the tour, ending at the Forum Groningen again, use the electric stair-cases to discover the 45m. high platform yourself. The view is breath-taking. When you have seen this all, and don't worry because this all can be seen in a 1.5km walk, you will always remember your visit to this warm, welcoming, lovely place with its 235.000 inhabitants, including the 70.000 students. We look forward to welcome you.

Discover Groningen in the evening during our one-hour cheese and wine cruise! Join us on a guided tour along the enchanting canals of Groningen, where history and charm meet the contemporary. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Groningen's picturesque canals while savoring a selection of various cheeses and a glass of wine. During this cruise you will get to see all the highlights that Groningen has to offer, like our personal favorites: Centraal Station, Hoge en Lage der Aa and Noorderhaven. As you leisurely cruise through the serene canals of Groningen, let the scenic beauty captivate your senses. Our guided tour offers insights into the city's history, architecture, and hidden gems, creating a harmonious blend of relaxation and exploration. With a maximum of 15 participants, our small-group setting ensures a comfortable atmosphere.

Sealcentre Pieterburen is the place where you can see the care of the seals and their habitat, the Wadden Sea. Every day, a team of seal nurses, vets and volunteers from all over the world look after these animals. They are sick, wounded, disturbed by humans or entangled in plastics. With your visit, you support our work. A healthy seal can’t live without a healthy sea. That is why we let you see beyond the individual animal. In our centre, researchers are studying the connection between animal, sea and ourselves. So that we continue to improve not only our centre, but also ourselves. And you can play a part in that, too. You will get a unique look at the sealcare during your visit. Walk around and learn all about how seals are taken in, cared for and released again. Besides our colleagues from the visitor centre, you will also meet seal guards, seal nurses, vets and, of course, volunteers from all over the world. Ask your questions directly to them. They would love to answer them.

Explore Groningen on your terms with this self-guided audio tour, accessible on your smartphone! Immerse yourself in the beauty of this historic city at your own pace and in your preferred language. This self-guided audio tour offers you the flexibility to choose your destinations and decide how long you wish to spend at each site. Groningen is the city of vast polders, the Martinitoren, narrow streets and a bustling student life. Although the word "city" is used, Groningen never received city rights, did you know that? However, according to the modern definition, we may just call Groningen a city. Experience Groningen at its best through this self-guided city audio tour. You will get to know impressive sights, such as the Forum, the Martinitoren, the Grote Markt, the Groninger Museum, but also hidden courtyards and narrow streets. Are you already impressed by seeing the Dronkemanstoren? We have carefully crafted the most beautiful walking route for you and gathered more than 38 captivating and interesting stories. You'll pass by all the well-known landmarks but will also be surprised by new discoveries and hidden gems. Explore Groningen's rich history, embrace its vibrant present, and be delighted by its captivating legends and stories. Whether you're embarking on a solo adventure, enjoying a romantic city stroll with your partner or exploring the city with friends or family, our self-guided audio tour caters to all preferences. Plus, you'll receive a nice discount when you do the tour with companions.

Experience the vibrant student city of Groningen with a local guide. This student city has more than 1,000 years of history. Cycle with our experienced guides along the highlights in the center but also along the beautiful gems outside the center. The Grote Markt, the Martini Tower, the Groninger Museum and the Forum, but also the Oosterpark and the Noorderplantsoen. See all the main highlights while learning about Groningen's rich history. The best outing in the city of Groningen for more than 15 years. The bike tour lasts 2-2.5 hours.

Discover the city's beautiful bridges and towers, all decorated with festive lights, during this candlelight cruise. Glühwein (or soda for the kids) and oliebollen are not to be missed during this tour. An atmospheric tour on a heated canal boat which can be enjoyed as a group, or just with the two of you. A glass of glühwein and the oliebollen (Dutch snack) are included in the price. In addition, we have several drinks and snacks on board, which can be bought during the tour. Be sure to reserve a spot for this very special tour as this opportunity is only available on Saturday between the 25th of November and the 6th of January in the new year, and on Friday on the 15th, 22nd, and the 29th of December. You can take the candlelight cruise on Friday en Saturday at 17.15, larger groups of 20 people or more can also sail at 19:00 PM.