Hugging the northeastern corner of the Netherlands, Groningen Province centres around the historically rich city of Groningen. It has experienced a tumultuous past under the rule of Frisia, the Frankish Empire and the Holy Roman Empire before becoming part of the Dutch Republic in the 16th century.
Things to do in Groningen
Cutting-edge art museums, a centuries-old fortress village and a marine wildlife sanctuary - Groningen Province offers something to appeal to all travellers.
Sightsee in Groningen. With a rich history dating back to the 11th century, Groningen has long been an important shipping port on the North Sea. Stroll through the Old Town to admire the 19th-century Town Hall and the Renaissance-style Gold Office before climbing the tower of the Martinikerk for panoramic views across the city. Art enthusiasts can browse the modern and contemporary works on display at the innovative Groningen Museum, which also manages the Post-Modernist Bye House.
Explore Fort Bourtange. Built by order of William the Silent in the late 16th century, Fort Bourtange was designed to control the route that linked Germany with Groningen. Open to the public as a museum, this star-shaped fortress features medieval canals and dykes surrounding its historic museums and restaurants. Try to coincide your visit with one of the Eight Years' War reenactments against the Spanish soldiers.
Visit the Seal Rehabilitation and Research Centre. In the coastal village of Pieterburen is this wildlife facility where hundreds of injured or sick seals are cared for each year. Founded in 1971, it features a seal hospital, a laboratory and a quarantine area, as well as pools where you can observe seals waiting to be released. Learn about the impacts of fishing nets and pollution on these marine mammals and what the centre is doing to rehabilitate them.
Getting around Groningen
Groningen Airport Eelde is the main aviation gateway to Groningen Province and has seasonal flights to destinations across Europe. Regular trains connect to the Groningen railway station and buses travel throughout the province. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting around the region.