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Martini Tower

Recently restored to its original glory, the pride of Groningen or "d'Olle Grieze" (the Grey Tower as the locals affectionately call it) is the most prominent landmark in Groningen and has been for over 500 years. Originally a wooden church it now towers over Groningen and provides you great views over the city as well as its beautiful surroundings. The tower is 97 meters high. 

 

Behind the tower is the Martini church, which contains a series of vault and choir paintings that are unique in Holland. 

 

Hortus Haren 

Established in the 17th century, Hortus Haren has many interesting attractions. Coffee bushes, cinnamon trees, vanilla orchids and bananas flourish in this tropical rainforest environment. Get close to the collection of tropical insects in the insectarium or relax in the Chinese garden, a replica of a Chinese Mandarin's Feng Shui garden from the Ming Dynasty.

 

By canal or carriage! 

A great way to see the city is to take a trip in a horse drawn carriage, or a guided tour by boat on the canals. Carriage trips leave from the main Market Square (Grote Markt) on Saturday afternoons and take approximately half an hour. From Monday to Saturday, canal trips leave from the jetty at the Groninger Museum and Central Station and take about an hour. Fascinating stories are told of the history of Groningen and details of the beautiful quayside buildings.