Groningen, the vibrant capital of the northernmost province in the Netherlands, blends medieval charm with youthful energy. A bustling small city with a thriving student population, Groningen has a beautiful historic centre, featuring picturesque canals and well-preserved heritage architecture. Many of the best places to stay in Groningen are housed within striking historic buildings, offering a characterful base for exploring the region.

The impressive Martinitoren, a 15th-century bell tower, dominates the skyline of Groningen’s old town. Amble to the nearby Grote Markt to pop into popular cafés, bars and eateries, fill your bags with fresh produce at the Vismarkt, or ponder creativity at the bold, futuristic Groninger Museum, or the intriguing Northern Maritime Museum. Guided walking tours come highly recommended as a way of delving deeper into the city’s fascinating past. 

Venture beyond the city to discover the natural beauty of the Lauwersmeer National Park and the Wadden Sea, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit the pretty fortified town of Bourtange, amble around the peaceful monastery gardens of Aduard, and cycle between the farms and windmills of the northern Netherlands. Return to your pick of the best places to stay in Groningen ahead of a fabulous food-focused evening — the city’s emerging culinary scene attracts quite a crowd!

The Best Places to Stay in Groningen

For Boutique Chic

• Miss Blanche fuses timeless elegance with contemporary cool in a 19th-century property near the heart of the old town. Expect well-chosen antiques, modern art pieces and lots of light in high-ceilinged rooms with private balconies and smart bathrooms. Next-door bar Cicci's specialises in small plates and is not to be missed. 
• Hotel Prinsenhof is housed in a striking historic building — previously home to monks, and later a military hospital. Beautiful interiors have a vintage feel, with some of the 34 guest rooms featuring exposed beams, earthy tones and eclectic design touches. The Restaurant Nassau and the Brasserie are both excellent.

For City Style

• The Market Hotel has a sleek, contemporary feel. A four-star hotel with a rooftop terrace, expansive wellness centre and cracking European cuisine, this is a brilliant choice for a city break. Guest rooms feel smart and stylish, with muted tones, cosy beds and city views. 

For an apartment or holiday house

• For a self-catering spot, we recommend visiting our online partner Booking.com.

Travel Information

• Fly to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, and hop aboard a two-hour train to Groningen. Alternatively, most hotels will be happy to organise an airport or train station pickup in advance. Groningen is well-connected to cities across the region by rail.  
• The Netherlands is great for exploring with the freedom of your own transport! If you would like to hire a car, we suggest that you contact our online partner Rentalcars.
• Travel during the summer for temperatures ranging between 11 and 23ºC, although this is the busiest time of year. The spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) months are ideal for those seeking fewer crowds and great hotel offers.

Still not sure?

• Expand your search to explore our list of the best places to stay in Amsterdam. 
• Alternatively, see our pick of all the best places to stay in the Netherlands. 
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.