Hotels in Groningen

Unveiling Groningen: A Tapestry of Culture, Nature, and Architectural Wonders

Discover Groningen, a vibrant city in the Netherlands brimming with cultural treasures and youthful energy. Stroll through its picturesque streets, where striking architecture meets charming canals. Don’t miss the Groninger Museum, a kaleidoscope of contemporary art, and the iconic Martinitoren, offering panoramic views. Explore the lively social hub around the Grote Markt, dotted with trendy bars and cafes. With its historic town hall and lush gardens, Groningen is a delightful blend of history and modernity, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path experience in Europe.

Discover great hotels in Groningen

Groningen offers a range of accommodation options, from family-friendly hotels to comfortable star-rated establishments. Budget travellers can find hostels that provide a sociable atmosphere, while city hotels cater to those seeking convenience and charm. Expect well-appointed rooms and a welcoming vibe throughout the city’s diverse hotel scene. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travellers in Groningen:

1. Van der Valk Hotel Groningen-HoogkerkOpens in a new window: Van der Valk Hotel Groningen-Hoogkerk is a fantastic choice for travellers seeking a business-themed and pet-friendly experience. This property features multiple meeting rooms and a range of services tailored for business professionals, ensuring a seamless stay. The hotel also allows pets onsite, providing essential amenities like food and water bowls. With its thoughtful approach to comfort and convenience, this hotel garners positive sentiments for providing a welcoming atmosphere and outstanding facilities for those on the go.
2. Fletcher Family Hotel PaterswoldeOpens in a new window: For those seeking adventure and business amenities, Fletcher Family Hotel Paterswolde is an excellent selection. Offering a variety of adventure sports and recreational activities nearby, such as horse riding and hiking, it caters to the active traveller. The property features a well-equipped meeting room, ideal for combining work with exploration. Guests appreciate the unique blend of business and adventure opportunities, making it a popular choice for those wanting to enhance their travel experience with exciting activities.
3. Van der Valk Hotel Groningen WesterbroekOpens in a new window: Van der Valk Hotel Groningen Westerbroek is a luxurious haven for travellers who appreciate high-end experiences and pet-friendly accommodations. This property boasts multiple meeting rooms and elegant design, ideal for those seeking comfort and sophistication. With a focus on unique amenities, it provides a refined atmosphere that appeals to discerning guests. The hotel is well-regarded for its commitment to delivering a luxurious stay, ensuring that visitors enjoy every aspect of their time in Groningen.

Top locations to stay in Groningen

Eelderwolde, Westerbroek, and Paterswolde are excellent areas to consider while visiting Groningen. Eelderwolde offers picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. Westerbroek is known for its charming countryside and outdoor activities, while Paterswolde is a business hub with convenient transport links. For first-time visitors, Paterswolde is best suited due to its accessibility to Groningen's social and cultural scene.

1. EelderwoldeOpens in a new window: Eelderwolde is a charming village that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city life. Nestled beside the picturesque Paterswoldsemeer lake, it’s perfect for nature lovers and those seeking outdoor activities like cycling and walking along scenic routes. The peaceful atmosphere is ideal for relaxation, yet it's just a short distance from Groningen city, making it convenient for those who want to explore urban attractions. You'll find beautiful parks and a close-knit community vibe that makes it feel like a home away from home.
2. PaterswoldeOpens in a new window: Paterswolde is a lovely lakeside village famous for its stunning waterside views and vibrant local culture. The area is known for its recreational opportunities, including sailing and fishing on the Paterswoldsemeer, which is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. With lovely cafes and boutiques, Paterswolde provides a charming setting for leisurely strolls and shopping. Plus, its proximity to Groningen ensures you can easily access cultural attractions while enjoying the serene environment.
3. WesterbroekOpens in a new window: Westerbroek is a quaint village that exudes a rural charm, making it a delightful spot for those looking to unwind. Known for its picturesque countryside and friendly atmosphere, it offers a unique glimpse into traditional Dutch life. While it's quieter than the other locations, you can enjoy beautiful walking paths and local parks, perfect for a peaceful day out. It’s an excellent base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty while still being close enough to experience the vibrant city life in Groningen.

Things to do in Groningen

Groningen enchants visitors with its vibrant blend of historical charm and contemporary flair. Explore lush parks, scenic waterways, and inviting squares, ideal for leisurely strolls or cycling. Enjoy lively festivals, indulge in theatrical performances, and savour delightful dining experiences, making this city a must-visit for every traveller.

• Centrum Beeldende Kunst GroningenOpens in a new window – Step into the world of creativity at Centrum Beeldende Kunst Groningen, where contemporary art takes centre stage. This vibrant arts centre showcases a diverse range of exhibitions, making it a great spot for art enthusiasts to discover new talents and innovative works.
• Visual Arts CentreOpens in a new window – Explore the rich tapestry of artistic expression at the Visual Arts Centre. This dynamic art museum features an array of exhibitions that reflect both local and international artists, providing a unique insight into the evolving art scene.
• Grote MarktOpens in a new window – Experience the lively atmosphere of Grote Markt, a bustling square at the heart of Groningen. Surrounded by stunning architecture, this piazza is perfect for people-watching, enjoying local cuisine at outdoor cafés, or simply soaking up the vibrant energy of the city.
• Groninger MuseumOpens in a new window – Delve into the fascinating world of art and design at the Groninger Museum. Known for its striking modern architecture, the museum is home to a rich collection of contemporary art, photography, and applied arts, making it a must-visit for those looking to expand their cultural horizons.
• Prinsenhof GardensOpens in a new window – Escape the urban hustle at Prinsenhof Gardens, a serene urban park that invites relaxation amidst its beautifully landscaped grounds. Stroll through the lush greenery, admire the floral displays, and enjoy a moment of tranquillity in this hidden gem.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Groningen

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Groningen is during February, March, and December, when hotel rates tend to be lower. For those looking to immerse themselves in the city's landmarks, history, and culture, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During your visit, you can explore a variety of attractions, including museums, theatres, beautiful gardens, and fascinating monuments. Additionally, you might enjoy biking around the city to admire its stunning architecture and partake in local festivals or visit historic churches. This way, you can experience all that Groningen has to offer while staying on a budget and enjoying great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals for hotels in Groningen, start by exploring the Deals or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted accommodation rates as your travel date approaches. Consider enabling email alerts or push notifications to keep updated on flash sales and special promotions, helping you capitalise on potential savings. Additionally, Smart Shopping is a useful comparison tool available via the app, allowing you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best options for your stay in the Netherlands.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate based on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates could help you save on your stay in a hotel in Groningen. For those in search of distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels may provide a more personalised experience and possibly better value. When you make a booking with Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price leans towards the higher end, we’ll suggest alternative dates that could be more affordable, helping you find a great deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels located near the city centre usually tend to be pricier; however, with Groningen's superb public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that is still well-connected. For those eager to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often excellent value for money to be had. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Groningen

Groningen experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.4°F (3.0°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 63.7°F (17.6°C). August is usually the wettest month. April, July, and September are the peak travel months in Groningen, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by no to light rainfall. On the other hand, May, November, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.