Martini church and tower
The most important Groningen monument is the Martini tower which has overlooked the city for over five hundred years. This fourth highest tower of the Netherlands can be climbed until the third gallery, during which visitors can also communicate with the tower via their mobile telephones! Afterwards, see the Martini church, the largest church in Groningen. Originating from approximately 1230, it includes frescos from the 13th century, and one of the largest Baroque organs in northwest Europe. Ask about the church’s opening hours prior to your visit.

Main railway station
The Groningen main railway station has more on offer besides getting on or off a train. This is the “cathedral of the winged wheel”’, the entrance gate for the city as well as an extremely important monument. When standing in the main hall, imagine yourself a traveller from the 19th century: admire shelters for various classes, leaded windows, beautifully decorated ceilings and the six metre-high wrought iron streetlight in the centre.

Courts of almshouses
If you are looking for quiet in the city, find one of the over thirty courts of almshouses: tranquil places in the city, often hidden behind impressive doors. These small houses originally provided accommodation to pilgrims, the poor, sick, and elderly. A special Hofjeswandeling (available at the Tourist Information Office) takes in a number of the most interesting ones.

Goudkantoor (Gold Office)
Originally a provincial tax office, this building was built in 1635. With its lavishly decorated façades, it was the last Renaissance style building to be constructed in Groningen. It was given the name of Goudkantoor in the 19th century when the “bureau of security for gold and silver” was located here, and it is now a café/restaurant.

Prinsenhof and Prinsentuin
During recent years, Radio/TV Noord was accommodated in the Prinsenhof, but they moved a short while ago. Originally used as a monastery, a suitable function for this complex is now being looked for. Behind the Prinsenhof is the Prinsenhoftuin, which includes a rose garden and herb garden, and a footpath covered with foliage (berceau). The garden, surrounded by a wall, is one of the best examples of a Renaissance garden in the Netherlands. The Prinsenhoftuin garden is opened from early April to half-October from 10 am to sunset. The tearoom is open during fine weather.

Warehouses
Groningen was also an important commercial centre in earlier days, as is proven by the numerous warehouses that have been retained in and around the city centre. Fine examples are found in the so-called A-kwartier (district) in particular. The Groningen harbour used to be located at the Hoge der A. As from the 12th century, buildings functioning as houses or warehouses arose here. Nowadays, most of the more than two hundred warehouses function as dwelling houses.

Synagogue
Varying exhibitions are held here and there are plans for a permanent exhibition about Jewish history in Groningen. The synagogue is open to the public during exhibitions. Folkingestraat 60

Hotels in Groningen
 Mercure Hotel Groningen Martiniplaza NH Groningen Hotel NH Hotel De Ville Hotel Auberge Corps de Garde Bastion Hotel Groningen Hotel de Doelen Eden City Hotel Groningen Hampshire Hotel Groningen Hampshire Hotel Plaza Groningen Hotel Schimmelpenninck Huys Martini Hotel Asgard Hotel Klipper Zwadde