A fun day out in Groningen doesn’t have to be expensive at all. There are plenty of activities you can enjoy that are completely free. You can spend a whole day enjoying Groningen without spending a single euro. Sounds like a perfect day in Groningen, doesn’t it?
Prinsentuin
Nestled within the high walls of this garden lies a beautiful hidden gem. Here in the Prinsentuin , you can find a moment of complete tranquillity, right in the heart of Groningen’s city centre. The Prinsentuin is situated behind Hotel Prinsenhof, where the Princes of Nassau used to stay when they were in Groningen. Stroll past the colourful roses, fragrant herbs and characteristic arboured walkways, or find a quiet bench with a good book. A lovely spot to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a while.
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Galleries in the city
You don’t have to pay an entrance fee to enjoy a generous dose of art and creativity in Groningen. Scattered throughout the city, you’ll find various galleries where you can pop in for free and be surprised by the art on the walls. From modern art and colourful paintings to photography and work by up-and-coming talent: behind every door, there’s something new to discover. Step inside, have a leisurely look around, and you might just stap out with some fresh inspiration.
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Children’s farms
Love animals? In Groningen, you’ll find various petting farms where you can meet goats, sheep, rabbits and other farm animals. Visit the animals at Dierenweide De Eelderbaan in Vinkhuizen, De Beestenborg between Ulgersmaborg and Oosterhoogebrug, or Stadsboerderij Het Boegbeeld in Lewenborg. From goats and sheep to rabbits and other farm animals: a visit to a petting farm is a fun day out for young and old alike.
Forum
The Forum is the city’s living room and a place where there’s always something going on. Pop in for free, admire the remarkable architecture, browse through the city library or enjoy the view over the city from the roof terrace. There are also regular free exhibitions and installations on display. Still not had your fill? Pay to visit one of the changing exhibitions or catch a film at the cinema.
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Swimming
On hot days, there are plenty of places in and around Groningen where you can take a refreshing dip for free. Right in the city centre, you can enjoy the sun, sand and water at the Stadsstrand near DOT. Prefer a bit more greenery? In the Stadspark , you’ll find a swimming pond where you can cool off. The Hoornse Plas and the Kardinger Plas are also popular spots for swimming, relaxing and enjoying a summer’s day by the water.
Geocaching
Discover Groningen in a surprising way with geocaching. Using your phone, you’ll search for hidden ‘treasures’ scattered throughout the city. Along the way, you’ll pass well-known highlights and places you might normally walk right past. A fun and free activity for anyone who wants to explore Groningen in a playful way, either on your own or with others.
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Art Route
If you look around carefully, you’ll discover that Groningen is one big open-air museum. On this free art trail, you’ll walk past surprising spots where art, history and city life come together. Leave the well-trodden paths behind and be surprised by extraordinary works of art, details and stories that you might otherwise walk right past. From impressive traces of Jewish history to a strikingly designed public toilet: a new discovery awaits around every corner.
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Stadspark
The Stadspark is the city’s green backyard. A lovely spot where there’s always something to do. Spread out a picnic blanket on the grass, read a book in the sun or take a leisurely stroll past the Scottish Highland cattle. In the north-western corner of the park lies de Heemtuin, where you can stroll amongst unusual plants and flowers. Along the way, you’ll pass various works of art, and at the Kinderboerderij Stadspark you can meet goats, pigs and other farm animals. Fancy a bit of action? Bring a frisbee and play a round of disc golf with friends.
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Tumult
Creativity is at the heart of Tumult. This is where music, theatre and the visual arts come together. Throughout the year, they organise a wide range of (free) activities, from inspiring sessions and workshops to cultural events. Whether you enjoy getting creative yourself or simply want to come and have a look, there’s something for every age and every level. Take a look at the calendar and discover what’s coming up soon.
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