Old city, young spirit
Groningen was founded all the way back around 1100 A.D. The old medieval buildings are visible all over town and a canal surrounds the historic centre. The parks are big and clean: they often hold open-air events. Main eye-catcher downtown is the Martini Tower, right in the heart of the city. The city has 185.000 inhabitants and has a high student population thanks to the university (since 1614) that attracts many students form all over the world. They’re the fresh breeze of air in the old centre of town. No worries though, there are lots of non-students around and they all get along just fine.
Easy shopping
Groningen is by far one of the most easygoing cities in the Netherlands. The laidback locals are difficult to fool and are known for their specific sense of humor. No matter how tough life is, there’s always time for fun. And if you need it, there are lots of possibilities when it comes to retail therapy. For example in the main shopping street Herestraat. All over the centre there are stores with high (and low) profiled brands. Several days a week there’s a market on the Grote Markt.
No chance of getting lost
The central area of Groningen is very compact and everything is within walking or biking distance. Groningen’s centre is small and cozy and if you do get lost; just look for d’Olle Grieze (the Old Grey One): the Martini Tower. Always in sight and a handy landmark that will bring you back to the centre. The best bit of the old centre is that there’s no risk of cars or buses running you over. They are prohibited in the main parts of town. Some of the old canals surrounding the centre are now filled with concrete but there also traffic is very limited.
Party all night
The city’s nightlife is vibrant and the bars surrounding the Grote Markt are definitely the places to be. Of course there are lots of other options, for example the Poelestraat area next to the market. Groningen is known for its music scene and often there’s live music in one of the many bars and clubs. Unlike many cities in the Netherlands, most bars don’t close until 4 (or 7) o’clock.
Historic trade town
Although Groningen is not a very large city, it certainly has made its mark as the main urban centre of the north. Especially when it comes down to music and other arts, education, and business. The large amount of students definitely contributes to a diverse cultural scene for a city of its size. With many museums to choose from, art lovers with get their kicks for sure. The Groninger Museum is the most important, most famous museum in town. Many tourists come to the city just because of this museum. The building’s funky design is one of the most modern and innovative of its kind in the country. The history of Groningen is strongly connected to trade. Industry flourished immensely and obviously even today it’s possible to find a cool job in one of the sectors of work available. Everyone on every level can find work here, so give it a go!
Author Resource:
Groningen is known as the student capital of the north. However, non-students and other locals also enjoy the relaxed, laidback city immensely. Do you want to work in this great city? Take a look at the job offers or vacatures in Groningen !
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