Groningen City Sights

  1. Groninger Museum

    Arriving by train it's impossible to miss the Groninger Museum. Occupying three islands in the middle of the canal in front of the station, the museum is, at the very least, a schizophrenic structure that will draw an opinion from any viewer. However, opinions vary wildly, from a breathtaking venture in form and design, to statements along the lines of 'Why?'

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  2. Martinikerk

    The 16th-century Martinikerk, at the northern corner of the Grote Markt, steals the show. Its tower, the Martinitoren, is 96m tall and is considered to have one of the most finely balanced profiles in the country. A climb (around €3 ) to the top yields stellar views.

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  3. Noordelijk Scheepvaartmuseum

    Well worth an hour or two, the Noordelijk Scheepvaartmuseum is well funded and well organised. The museum is laid out over several floors of buildings that once comprised a 16th-century distillery. Just getting through the labyrinth of 18 rooms is an adventure in itself and guarantees an excellent workout.

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  4. Prinsenhof Gardens

    If you're exploring the northeastern corner of the city, take a breather at the serene Prinsenhof Gardens, the gardens of a 16th-century mansion.

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  5. Synagogue

    One of the few working synagogues left in the country. It began life a century ago as a mosque (the light arches and minarets are dead giveaways) but now houses a school and temporary exhibition space; its beautifully restored wooden ceiling is one of the interior's highlights. Check Tourist Office for opening times.

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  6. Town Hall

    The Town Hall is an eye-catching building on the Grote Markt which dates back to 1810.

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