Groningen’s best tours cut straight to the heart of this 1,000-year-old Dutch city. The private walking tours stand out, letting you explore at your own pace while getting local insights you won’t find in guidebooks. For food lovers, culinary tours showcase authentic Dutch flavors in family-run spots. History buffs will appreciate the expert-led tours through medieval squares and past landmark buildings, while audio tours work well for independent travelers who prefer flexibility.
I’m particularly fond of the custom walking tours – they’re wonderfully adaptable and wheelchair-accessible, giving you the real essence of Groningen without tourist traps. The local guides are passionate storytellers who know their stuff, and prices are reasonable for what you get.
Check out these top-rated tours to experience the best of Groningen:
Key Points
- Groningen offers a diverse range of tour options, including private custom walking tours, local guided tours, thematic and unique tours, audio/self-guided tours, and unique culinary experiences.
- Tour details include hotel pickup, knowledgeable local guides, and a focus on Groningen’s 1,000-year-old history, architecture, and cultural insights.
- Key landmarks covered in the tours include the Martini-toren, New Market Square, oldest harbor, A-church, and Folkingestraat, showcasing the city’s blend of Renaissance and modern architecture.
- Tours are accessible for wheelchair users, ensuring inclusivity, and offer excellent value for the experiences provided, with flexible booking options and family-friendly discounts.
- Groningen’s vibrant student culture, with a population of 235,000 including 70,000 students, is highlighted in the tours, providing insights into the city’s past, present, and future.
Groningen Private Custom Walking Tour With A Guide (Private Tour)
The Groningen Private Custom Walking Tour with a Guide is a personalized exploration of the city, allowing travelers to curate their experience based on their preferences.
The tour offers a flexible itinerary that can be tailored to each visitor’s interests, whether it’s exploring historic landmarks, visiting local attractions, or experiencing the city’s vibrant culture.
Guests can meet their guide at their accommodation or a centrally located hotel, and the tour may conclude at a different location unless specified in advance.
Priced from $56.52 per person, the tour includes a local guide, customization, and an optional drink or food break.
While entrance fees to the Martinikerkhof and Graphic Museum Groningen aren’t included, the tour is accessible for wheelchair users, stroller-friendly, and accommodates service animals.
With a 5-star rating from previous travelers, this private walking tour provides an immersive and personalized way to discover the best of Groningen.
Read our full review: Groningen Private Custom Walking Tour With A Guide (Private Tour) Review
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Welcome to Groningen: Private Tour With a Local
Travelers seeking an immersive exploration of Groningen can embark on a private tour with a local guide. This 2-6 hour walking experience offers a customized itinerary based on personal interests, allowing visitors to discover the city’s hidden gems beyond typical tourist sites.
Led by knowledgeable locals, the tour promises insider tips, tricks, and best-kept secrets, providing an authentic glimpse into Groningen’s vibrant culture, traditions, and city life.
Priced from $56.56 per person, the tour can be tailored to suit various needs. Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance ensures flexibility, while the option to reserve now and pay later adds convenience.
Children under 3 years old join for free, and those aged 3-12 receive a 50% discount. With an overall rating of 4.6/5 and positive feedback highlighting the personalized experiences, this private tour offers exceptional value for money and a unique perspective on Groningen.
Read our full review: Welcome to Groningen: Private Tour With a Local Review
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Groningen Like a Local: Customized Private Tour
Setting out on a customized private tour, visitors can discover Groningen like a local. The 3-hour walking experience, rated 4.7 out of 5 based on Viator and Tripadvisor reviews, offers a personalized exploration of the city.
For $57.57 per person, travelers receive a guided tour with a Lokafyer, a local who provides practical insights rather than in-depth historical facts. The tour is flexible, with the option to start from a centrally located hotel.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour accommodates service animals and children under 3. Appropriate for most travelers, the tour operates rain or shine. Visitors cover entrance fees to attractions along the way.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this customized private tour provides an enjoyable, authentic glimpse into Groningen through the eyes of a local.
Read our full review: Groningen Like a Local: Customized Private Tour Review
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Groningen: Candlelight Tour
While the Groningen: Candlelight Tour may not be as popular as the Customized Private Tour, it offers a unique and enchanting way to experience the city. As the sun sets, participants are guided through the historic streets, illuminated by the warm glow of candles. This atmospheric tour allows visitors to appreciate the city’s architectural gems, such as the iconic Martini Tower, in a more intimate and romantic setting.
The tour typically lasts around 90 minutes and covers the heart of Groningen’s city center. Participants will learn about the city’s rich history and culture, with the guide sharing fascinating insights along the way. The candlelight adds a sense of mystery and wonder, making this tour a memorable experience for those seeking a more immersive and atmospheric exploration of Groningen.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover your city, the Groningen: Candlelight Tour is a delightful option that provides a captivating and unforgettable way to experience the city.
Read our full review: Groningen: Candlelight Tour Review
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Discover Groningen in This Outside Escape City Game Tour!
For those seeking a unique and engaging way to explore the charming city of Groningen, the Outside Escape City Game Tour offers an immersive and interactive adventure.
With an overall rating of 4.8 from 10 reviews and recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour is a must-try for visitors.
The tour begins at the Stationsweg 13 meeting point and ends at the Waagplein 1, covering the highlights of Groningen. Participants will receive detailed online instructions with riddles and hints to guide them through the city.
The private tour ensures a personalized experience without extra fees.
The tour is accessible, with service animals allowed, and it’s located near public transportation, making it stroller and wheelchair friendly.
Booking is easy, with confirmation received upon booking, free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, and a lowest price guarantee with flexible payment options starting from €25.00 per group (up to 6 people).
Read our full review: Discover Groningen in This Outside Escape City Game Tour! Review
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Groningen in 1 Day: Walking Tour – Audioguide in 7 Languages
If you’re looking to explore the highlights of Groningen in a comprehensive yet flexible manner, the Groningen in 1 Day: Walking Tour – Audioguide in 7 Languages is an excellent option.
This self-guided audio tour allows you to discover the city at your own pace, spending 2-3 hours covering a 7.1 km route. Along the way, you’ll encounter the city’s key landmarks, including the Forum, Martinitoren, Grote Markt, and Groninger Museum, as well as hidden gems.
The tour provides over 38 captivating stories accessible via smartphone. Priced from $7.71 per person, the tour offers flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The audio guide is available in 7 languages, ensuring an engaging experience for international travelers.
While the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, it’s a great way for able-bodied visitors to enjoy Groningen’s rich history and culture at their own convenience.
Read our full review: Groningen in 1 Day: Walking Tour – Audioguide in 7 Languages Review
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Private BBQ Cruise Tour at Lake Paterswoldsemeer With Drinks
This private BBQ cruise tour at Lake Paterswoldsemeer in Groningen offers a delightful 2-hour journey on the water.
Priced at $475.81 for a group of up to 8 people, this tour includes up to 3 drinks per person and snacks and appetizers. The tour departs from and returns to the S. Allendeplein 59 meeting point, easily accessible via Google Maps.
The cruise is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed. Most travelers can participate, and the tour is fully private – only your group will be aboard. A licensed captain guides the boat, and SUP boards are available for use.
Boasting a 5-star rating from 1 review, this tour is highly recommended for its excellent food and organization.
Confirmation is provided at booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. The Reserve Now and Pay Later option makes planning convenient.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a unique experience, this BBQ cruise is an excellent choice in Groningen.
Read our full review: Private BBQ Cruise Tour at Lake Paterswoldsemeer With Drinks Review
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Groningen: Private Custom Tour With a Local Guide
Travelers seeking an immersive experience in Groningen can embark on a private custom tour with a knowledgeable local guide.
This tour offers flexible duration options ranging from 2 to 8 hours, ensuring visitors can tailor the experience to their preferences. Priced from Kč 1,364 per person, the tour allows participants to explore Groningen’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Guided by locals fluent in multiple languages, including Italian, French, Spanish, English, and German, the tour provides insider insights into the city’s culture and lifestyle.
The experience includes hotel pickup for those staying in the city center, while alternative meeting points are available for out-of-town hotels.
With an impressive overall rating of 4.6 out of 5 based on 5 reviews, the private custom tour is highly recommended for its engaging and knowledgeable guides, personalized experiences, and informative nature.
Travelers can easily check availability and book the tour, with the option to reserve without immediate payment.
Read our full review: Groningen: Private Custom Tour With a Local Guide Review
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Groningen: Walking Tour With Local Guide
Those wishing to explore Groningen’s rich history and architecture can embark on a 1.5-hour walking tour led by a knowledgeable local guide.
This group tour, limited to a maximum of 25 guests, showcases the city’s 1,000-year-old history. Visitors will see key landmarks like the Martini-toren, New Market Square, and the oldest harbor, as well as experience the blend of Renaissance and modern architecture.
The tour also delves into Groningen’s vibrant student culture, with 70,000 students among its 235,000 residents. Participants can engage with the guide to learn about the city’s past, present, and future.
Other highlights include admiring the beautiful yellow tower of the A-church and walking through the Folkingestraat, noting its Jewish history.
The tour culminates at the Forum Groningen, providing breathtaking views from its 45m high platform. Priced at £14.78 per person, the tour offers excellent value and is accessible to wheelchair users.
Read our full review: Groningen: Walking Tour With Local Guide Review
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Sum Up
Groningen offers a variety of engaging tours that cater to different interests and preferences. From private custom walking tours to candlelit experiences and outdoor city games, visitors can explore the city’s rich history, architecture, and local culture. Whether you’re looking for a personalized experience or a group activity, Groningen has plenty of options to suit your needs and make the most of your visit.