How The North Was Won

By Author: David Villa
Total Articles: 26
Comment this article

Great for not getting lost
It's quite impossible to get lost in the centre of town. The central area of Groningen is very compact and everything is within biking or walking distance. Groningen's centre is cozy and small and in case you do wonder off: the main landmark Martini Tower is always in sight ato return you to the centre. And no risk of getting hit by cars either: the centre is prohibited for vehicles.

Great for all night fun
Groningen's nightlife is very vibrant and the bars surrounding the Grote Markt are definitely the places to be. Of course there are many other places to turn to, for example the Poelestraat area next to the market. The city is well known for its music scene and often there's live music in one of the many bars and clubs. Unlike many large cities in the Netherlands, most bars don't close until 4 o'clock. At that time night bars open so if you like you can continue your party elsewhere.

Great for shopping
The town and its people are far one of the most easygoing in the country. The laidback locals are down to earth and like a joke, but are difficult to fool. There's ...
... always time for fun, no matter how stressful life can be. But those who need it, can go for some serious retail therapy. The main shopping area is ideal for this, and it's called the Herestraat. Of course you can relight that shopping fire of over the rest of the centre as well, as there are stores widely represented with high (and low) profiled brands. Four days a week there's a market on the Grote Markt and the Fish market nearby. That would be on Tuesdays, Thursday, Fridays and Saturdays.

Great for culture
Although the city isn't too big, Groningen certainly has made its mark as the main urban centre of the north. Especially music and other arts are high profiled here. Because of the university and art school, lots of students contribute to a diverse cultural scene. With many museums to choose from, art lovers with get their kicks for sure. Many tourists come to the city because of the Groninger Museum. Without a doubt it's the most important, most famous museum in town. The building's funky design is one of the most modern and innovative of its kind in the country.

Great for history
The city of Groningen was founded all the way back around 1100 A.D. and the old medieval buildings are still visible all over town. A canal surrounds the historic centre. There's enough space for some fresh air in the parks, as they are big and clean. Especially in the summer they host open-air events. Groningen has 185.000 inhabitants and the student population is very high, thanks to the university (since 1614) that attracts many of them from all over the world. They're the young spirit in an old town, but don't worry: the non-students are still very fun and not at all ancient.

Way up in the North of the country lays Groningen. Life's a kick in this town. Whether you're here for shopping, lunch or drinking, everyone enjoys the relaxed, laidback atmosphere. Would you like to work in the capital of the North? Take a look at the job offers or vacatures Groningen!