Groningen

Groningen University Museum, established in 1934, showcases an eclectic mix of nature, culture and science. Highlights include historical medical instruments, the world's first electric vehicle from 1835, and a tribute to Dr Aletta Jacobs, the Netherlands' first female graduate. The museum's anatomical theatre has around 50 macabre anatomical preparations, as well as some skeletons and wax models. Check the official website to learn about the ever-changing temporary exhibitions.

Museum aan de A, formerly the Northern Maritime Museum, now focuses on Groningen city and province life. It highlights both triumphs and complex histories, like the local maritime heritage and Groningen's involvement in slavery. With a few years still needed for its full transition, the museum offers an engaging blend of history and culture.

Excalibur at Klimcentrum Bjoeks, the world's tallest freestanding climbing tower, offers a unique ascent for experienced climbers. Rising 37 metres with an 11-metre overhang, it mimics real peak conditions. Climbers can connect via a dedicated WhatsApp group for partners, and rent all necessary equipment on the spot. For the adventurous, there's even an option to stay the night atop Excalibur. Bjoeks also features remarkable outdoor bouldering on concrete, a distinct experience requiring technical skill. Indoor climbing and essential facilities like showers and a kitchen make your stay extra comfortable.

Vismarkt, a hub of urban vibrancy, has transformed from a 17th-century fish market into a lively centre for shopping and dining. Every Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, the square is busy with market stalls offering a variety of goods. Surrounding historic buildings like the Korenbeurs and the A-Kerk add architectural charm. The Korenbeurs, a notable UNESCO monument, now hosts a supermarket, blending history with modern convenience. Vismarkt regularly hosts cultural events, making it a focal point of city life.

Camp Westerbork Memorial Centre serves as a poignant reminder of the tragic history of over one hundred thousand Jews, Sinti and Roma deported during WWII. It actively preserves their stories through exhibitions, eyewitness lectures and theatrical performances. This site of reflection connects past atrocities to present-day dilemmas, emphasizing the individual humanity behind the Holocaust.

The International Wooden Shoe Museum in Eelde showcases an unrivalled collection of over 3,000 pairs of clogs and wooden-soled footwear from more than 45 countries, making it the world's most comprehensive exhibit of its kind. The museum, born from the passion of the last clog makers in Eelde and enhanced by significant private collections, also displays a vast array of clog-making tools and machinery.

The Drents Museum in Assen is a treasure trove of history and art, showcasing over 90,000 objects. Its archaeology collection, featuring prehistoric artefacts like the mummified Yde Girl and the oldest known canoe, the Pesse canoe, is among the most important in Northwest Europe. The museum also boasts a significant art collection, considered one of the Netherlands' finest, alongside an impressive array of contemporary realism art. A visit offers an immersive journey through Drenthe's rich past and artistic legacy.

DOT in Groningen is a versatile event space, known for its iconic white dome. This multifunctional venue caters to up to 500 guests for congresses, dinners, and parties. Its gastrobar and charcoal-fired Josper grill offer a vibrant culinary experience, complemented by DJs and live music. The outdoor terrace suits both casual and professional gatherings. With a film and theatre hall featuring advanced sound and lighting systems, DOT is a unique destination for a range of events.

Lying on the former northern defence line of the city, this English-style public park is a beloved place for outdoor activities, be it a walk, a picnic or duck watching. Adorned with magnificent foliage and ponds, the park also serves as a backdrop to vibrant cultural events, most notably the Noorderzon Performing Arts Festival in August.

Situated half an hour southwest of Groningen, Plaza Posta is an all-embracing activity centre suitable for groups of all themes and sizes, be it family or work events. With over a dozen programmes from escape games to bowling to outdoor tours, it's all up to your definition of fun. For the essential bites and drinks, the historic De Postwagen restaurant provides a variety of options including high tea, buffets and barbecue. It's advisable to enquire beforehand about opening hours and availability, including those of the restaurant, as they may be subject to large group bookings.

With a history dating back to the 17th century, the Prince's garden is a historic landmark that today unfolds as a tranquil oasis with its manicured garden and inviting foliage corridors. Against the scenic backdrop of the Martinitoren, visitors can enjoy leisurely strolls and lounge in the garden's tea room. Every summer, poets gather here to present their work at the dedicated festival, which makes for a fitting complement to the splendour of the place.

Perched over the Damsterdiep canal, these hanging kitchens are quirky extensions to brick-walled houses that trace back to mediaeval times. Designed to provide extra room and water access to households, these unique structures make for a charming sight when strolling through the city of Appingedam. Visit Aan Tafel café across from these houses and enjoy your high tea or snack with a view of these architectural gems.

Officially declared a Dark Sky Park in 2016, Lauwersmeer National Park is just a 45-minute drive from Groningen and is mostly renowned for its rich birdlife and the popular night walks, offering a celestial escape in a country with an otherwise heavy light pollution. As one of just above 40 Dark Sky Parks worldwide — and the second in the country after Boschplaat — it promises sightings of the nocturnal wildlife, constellations and, on rare occasions, even the northern lights.

The fortress of Bourtange, this small village sitting on the German border, is a captivating star-shaped defensive structure completed in the 16th century during the Eighty Years' War. Stroll through its cobbled alleys for a journey through time as you browse quaint shops — including a small candle workshop — alongside bars and restaurants. Regularly hosting events like markets and historical re-enactments, the fort offers both a glimpse into the past and a vibrant contemporary experience for visitors.