Groningen: Candlelight tour

Travelers seeking a cozy, atmospheric way to enjoy Groningen’s winter magic will likely find this candlelight canal cruise a delightful escape. Offering a blend of stunning lights, warm drinks, and a peaceful cruise through the city’s historic waterways, it’s a relaxing highlight for the colder months. While the tour is fairly short at just an hour, it’s packed with sights and comforts that make it a memorable experience.

Some of our favorite aspects include the beautifully illuminated bridges and towers, the chance to savor Dutch winter treats like oliebollen and glühwein, and the heated boats that keep you cozy despite the chill outside. However, since the cruise is only available during a limited season, travelers need to plan ahead. This experience suits those who want a relaxed, scenic evening with a touch of local tradition—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to enjoy Groningen’s festive spirit from a different perspective.

One possible consideration is that, due to the nature of the setup, it’s best enjoyed in drier, colder weather—bad weather might dampen the experience, or at least make it less comfortable. Still, for those who appreciate authentic, candlelit ambiance on the water, this tour offers a charming and intimate way to celebrate the season. If you love city light displays, cozy drinks, and a gentle cruise, this experience will likely be a highlight of your Groningen visit.

• Beautiful Light Displays: The tour showcases Groningen’s bridges and towers decorated with festive lights.
• Warm Drinks and Snacks: Included are traditional Dutch oliebollen and glühwein, with options to purchase additional drinks.
• Comfortable & Cozy: The heated boats ensure comfort in winter weather.
• Limited Seasonal Availability: Only running from late November through early January, mainly on Fridays and Saturdays.
• Small Group & Private Options: Depending on group size, sailings are available at 17:15 or 19:00.
• Authentic Local Experience: Combines sightseeing with traditional Dutch winter treats in a relaxed setting.

Setting the Scene: The Cruise Itself

This tour takes you on a 1-hour cruise through Groningen’s historic waterways, a perfect length to soak in the sights and enjoy the cozy atmosphere without feeling rushed. Starting between the Groningen bus station and the Groninger Museum, the meeting point is central and easy to find—ideal if you’re exploring the city beforehand.

The boats are heated, which makes all the difference during the chilly months. Reviewers mentioned that the warmth and shelter allow you to relax and really enjoy the scenic views without feeling the cold. The boats are equipped with toilets, adding another layer of comfort, especially on a winter evening.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Illuminated Sights: Bridges, Towers, and Historic Boats

The main highlight is the lights decorating Groningen’s iconic bridges and towers. The city’s architecture looks especially enchanting under a blanket of twinkling lights, creating a magical backdrop for the cruise. Reviewers have noted how “beautifully lighted” the city appears, with many mentioning that this is a unique way to see Groningen at night.

The tour also passes by historic boats, adding a sense of stepping back in time. This combination of historic and modern sights, glowing under the festive decorations, makes for captivating photos and a memorable experience.

Tasting Dutch Winter Delights

No Dutch winter experience is complete without oliebollen and glühwein, and this cruise delivers both. The handmade oliebollen are a highlight, with many reviewers calling them “delicious” and “fresh.” The included glühwein adds warmth and complements the crisp winter air beautifully.

You can also purchase additional drinks and snacks on board, offering options for those wanting more variety or non-alcoholic choices. One reviewer appreciated that the glühwein was served in a cozy atmosphere, making the experience feel extra special.

The Atmosphere: An Intimate & Festive Experience

The candlelit setting creates a romantic and relaxed ambiance. Many described the vibe as quiet and atmospheric, perfect for couples, families, or small groups. Larger groups (20+ people) can opt for the later departure at 19:00, which might suit those seeking a more lively or exclusive experience.

Guide commentary is available in Dutch, English, and German, making it accessible to a diverse audience. Reviewers appreciated the friendly guides and the fact that the tour was well-organized, with clear instructions and a warm welcome.

Practical Details: Cost, Duration, and Booking

The cost of the tour includes the oliebollen, a glühwein or soda, and the comfort of a heated boat. Since it’s a one-hour experience, it’s considered good value for the scenic and cultural highlights it offers. The tour is easy to reserve in advance, with options to cancel for free up to 24 hours before, providing flexibility.

Availability is limited to certain dates: mainly on Fridays and Saturdays from late November through early January, with specific times at 17:15 and 19:00. It’s recommended to book early, especially during peak holiday times, as the tour can fill up quickly.

This cruise is ideal for travelers who enjoy scenic city views in a relaxed setting, especially during the winter months. It’s perfect if you want to experience Groningen’s festive lights without braving the cold outside. Couples seeking a romantic outing, families with kids (who can enjoy soda instead of glühwein), or groups of friends would all find this experience charming.

If you’re craving a blend of sightseeing, local tradition, and cozy comfort, this candlelight cruise hits the mark. Just be aware that weather can impact the experience, so check rain forecasts and dress accordingly.

The Groningen Candlelight Tour offers a charming way to see the city’s illuminated bridges and towers from a unique perspective. With warm drinks, traditional snacks, and the gentle glow of candles, it’s an experience that balances visual beauty with cultural authenticity. While it does have seasonal limitations, those visiting during the right time will find it a truly memorable winter highlight.

This tour is particularly well-suited for travelers wanting a calm, scenic activity that feels both festive and intimate. It’s a great addition to your Groningen itinerary if you’re looking to add some cozy, atmospheric moments to your trip.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 1 hour, providing enough time to enjoy the lights and ambiance without feeling too lengthy.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes oliebollen (Dutch snacks), one glühwein or soda, and access to the heated boat with a guide in several languages.

Can I buy additional drinks or snacks?
Yes, there are drinks and snacks available for purchase on board if you want more options beyond what’s included.

When can I book this tour?
The tour runs only on certain dates: Fridays and Saturdays between November 25th and January 6th, plus specific Fridays in December. It’s best to reserve early because spots fill up.

Is the boat heated?
Absolutely, the heated boats ensure you stay warm and comfortable, making the experience enjoyable even in cold weather.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is between Groningen bus station and the Groninger Museum, a central location convenient for city visitors.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Dutch, English, and German, accommodating international visitors.

To sum it up, if you’re visiting Groningen during the winter season and want a peaceful, scenic, and festive activity, this candlelight cruise offers a charming perspective of the city. It’s a balanced blend of beautiful sights, cozy comforts, and authentic Dutch treats—an experience that’s worth planning for during the holiday season.

You can check availability for your dates here: