What to do in Groningen
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Public Relations
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
A practical guide to studying, living, and settling into the student capital of the Netherlands.
Groningen is known as one of the most student friendly cities in the Netherlands. With more than sixty thousand students, a compact layout, and an active international community, the city offers everything from modern study spaces to affordable restaurants and lively nightlife. Whether you are arriving from abroad or moving from another Dutch city, Groningen is a place where students quickly feel at home.
Why Groningen Is a Great Place to Study
Groningen is young, energetic, and easy to navigate. Most locations are within a fifteen minute bike ride, and the city centre is filled with cafés, shops, and cultural spots that cater to student life. The overall atmosphere is welcoming and diverse, making it simple to build a routine and meet new people during your studies.
Student Housing in Groningen
Finding a room can be competitive, especially around the start of the academic year. Typical rental prices are:
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Shared rooms: 400 to 650 euros per month
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Studios or private accommodations: 700 to 1200 euros per month
Many students choose neighbourhoods such as Korrewegwijk, Selwerd, Oosterpark, Paddepoel, and parts of the city centre because they offer a good balance of affordability and convenience.
When searching for housing, always check:
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Whether registration is allowed
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Deposit requirements
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Utility agreements
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Contract conditions
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The general state of the room
Platforms like RentSwap make it easier to find verified rooms from outgoing tenants, helping students avoid unclear offers or unsafe listings.
Best Study Spots in Groningen
Groningen offers a wide range of study environments, from quiet libraries to casual cafés.
Forum Groningen
A modern building with open workspaces, quiet study areas, cafés, and a rooftop view. Ideal for group study sessions or long days of revision.
RUG University Library (UB)
Located in the city centre, offering extended opening hours and multiple study floors. It is one of the most popular study locations among students.
Zernike Campus Study Areas
Many study zones are available across campus buildings, making it convenient for students with back-to-back classes.
Popular Study Cafés
Several cafés are suitable for shorter study sessions. Examples can be found in the section below.
Student Friendly Cafés and Places to Hang Out
Whether you are looking for a quiet place to work or a casual spot to meet friends, Groningen has plenty of cafés to choose from.
Study friendly cafés
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Bagels and Beans (multiple locations)
Cafés and spots for hanging out with friends
These locations are central, comfortable, and frequently visited by students.
Affordable Places to Eat in Groningen
Groningen has a strong selection of affordable food options that fit a student budget.
Student budget friendly restaurants
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FEBO / Big Snack Hoek (Fast food vending machine)
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Jajanan (Indonesian food)
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Wah Hing (popular & affordable Chinese restaurant)
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Hasret and Ozan (well known for its kapsalon and has multiple locations)
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Kebabmeisters (crispy chicken kapsalon option)
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Mr. Dam (affordable banh mi and has multiple locations)
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Pho Saigon (warm & filling pho)
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Salsa Shop (offers student discounts)
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Asian Food Plaza (variety of Asian dishes)
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These restaurants are spread throughout the city, especially near the centre and student areas.
Nightlife in Groningen
Groningen’s nightlife stands out because many bars stay open until late. The city centre fills with students on most days of the week, and there is always something happening.
Popular bars
Clubs popular among students
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Sunny Beach (a lot of internationals)
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Copas (also a lot of internationals but mainly plays Spanish music)
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PALACE (hosts many student and ESN events)
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Club PEPR (hosts many student association collaborations)
Whether you enjoy casual drinks or busy club nights, the city offers a variety of choices.
Gyms, Sports, and Staying Active
Staying active is easy in Groningen, thanks to a mix of gyms and outdoor spaces.
Popular gyms among students
ACLO is one of the best options if you want to explore different sports or take classes throughout the week.
Outdoor and group activities
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Running or walking through Noorderplantsoen
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Cycling routes within and outside the city
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Renting a boat with a group to explore the canals during warmer months
Groningen offers many opportunities to stay active, both indoors and outdoors.
Getting Around the City
Groningen is best explored by bike. Cycling is safe, fast, and the cheapest way to travel.
Transport options:
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Secondhand bike: 70 to 150 euros
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Swapfiets subscription: 19.90 to 27.90 euros per month
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Bus rides for rainy days or long distances, usually costing a few euros per trip
Because the city is compact, students rarely rely on cars or expensive transport passes.
Daily Essentials for New Students:
During your first weeks in Groningen, make sure to arrange:
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Registration at the gemeente
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BSN (if required)
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Health insurance
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Dutch SIM card
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Bank account
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GP registration
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A bike or public transport card
These essentials help you settle in smoothly and avoid issues later on.
Final Thoughts: Living and Studying in Groningen
Groningen is a city that offers comfort, community, and convenience. With many study spaces, affordable places to eat, student friendly gyms, and a lively social scene, it is a great place to begin your academic journey. No matter your interests or background, the city has something to offer.
Finding a safe and verified room is one of the most important steps when moving. With RentSwap, you can secure verified student housing without worrying about unclear listings or complicated agreements. And if you are moving out, you can help another student take over your rental contract and receive 200 euros in return.
RentSwap. Making student housing swaps easy.