Groningen, in the northern Netherlands, is a city full of character—famous for its lively university scene, striking architecture, and charming waterways. Unlike most tourist spots, Groningen offers a rich mix of lively festivals and quiet, personal explorations that reveal its authentic soul. Among the many ways to explore, we especially like the Candlelight Tour for its cozy, festive atmosphere that captures the city’s beauty after dark. The glow of illuminated bridges and towers makes this cruise feel magical, especially when paired with homemade glühwein and oliebollen—a real Dutch winter treat. The heated boats ensure you stay warm, making it a charming, comfortable way to see Groningen’s historic sights.
If you’re after a more personalized experience, a private walking tour with a local is a fantastic option. It’s perfect for travelers who want to go beyond the usual highlights, discovering hidden corners and listening to stories only locals can tell. Lastly, for those who prefer a laid-back look at the city’s waterways, the Grand Canal Tour is a relaxed 90-minute cruise. You’ll enjoy local snacks, drinks, and lively commentary, making it a great choice for small groups or couples.
Quick Overview
Groningen’s tour options cover a variety of interests and styles. You can experience the city from its waters with cozy candlelight cruises or a lively canal ride, or explore on foot with a personalized walk led by a local. Each offers a unique way to see Groningen’s bridges, historic buildings, and lively neighborhoods. Now, let’s look at each in detail.
1. Groningen: Candlelight tour
At number 1, the Groningen Candlelight Tour provides an enchanting way to experience the city at night. This 1-hour candlelight cruise takes you along the city’s canals, illuminating bridges, towers, and historic boats with festive lights. It’s perfect for those wanting a romantic or cozy outing during the winter months. The tour’s highlight is the relaxing, sheltered environment on the heated boat, which makes the experience comfortable even in cold weather.
What makes this tour stand out is the authentic Dutch winter experience—sipping homemade glühwein and nibbling on oliebollen, a traditional treat. Reviews praise its charming atmosphere, with a 4.3-star rating based on 27 reviews. Travelers love the peaceful ambiance and the beautiful views, calling it “a peaceful night out that really captures Groningen’s winter charm.” The tour runs for about an hour, with seasonally available times—so checking availability in advance is recommended.
Bottom Line: This candlelight cruise is perfect for romantic couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a cozy, visually stunning experience of Groningen’s waterways in winter.
2. Groningen: Private Walking Tour with a Local
For a more personal exploration, the Private Walking Tour with a Local offers 2 to 6 hours of tailored discovery. This tour is ideal if you prefer a flexible, intimate experience where your guide adapts to your interests. The guide will introduce you to hidden corners, share stories behind Groningen’s architecture, and reveal tips about local restaurants or cafes you might not find in guidebooks.
What makes this tour stand out is the fully customizable nature—no fixed route, just a genuine conversation about what excites you in Groningen. With a 4.6/5 rating from 11 reviews, travelers find it lively and engaging with “a local showing me the city through their eyes.” It’s suitable for curious travelers, history buffs, or those simply wanting to see a different side of the city. The price is $65 per person, and it’s best for those who love personal connection and discovery without the rush of larger tour groups.
Bottom Line: This private walk provides an authentic, personalized taste of Groningen, perfect for travelers wanting to go beyond the surface and learn local secrets.
3. Groningen: Grand Canal Tour with Snacks and Drinks
The Grand Canal Tour offers a 1.5-hour scenic cruise through Groningen’s canals, ideal for relaxing and soaking up the city’s waterside charm. For $47, you’ll enjoy a curated platter of locally-inspired snacks and drinks, all served aboard a small boat with intimate seating. The live commentary from the captain adds an engaging layer, sharing stories about the city’s quirky houseboats and historic sites.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on local flavors and storytelling—it’s more than just a ride; it’s an immersive experience. The small group size ensures a personal atmosphere and the chance to ask questions or get personal recommendations. Guests appreciate the relaxing pace and the chance to see Groningen from a different perspective, especially when the weather is pleasant. The review score isn’t listed, but from the descriptions, it’s clear this tour appeals to food lovers and those wanting a leisurely, social experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups or couples, this canal cruise combines sightseeing with tasty bites and lively commentary, making it a memorable way to enjoy Groningen’s waterways.
How to Choose
When deciding among these tours, consider your interests and travel style. If cozy winter evenings are your thing, the candlelight cruise offers a warm, romantic experience. For a highly personalized adventure, the private walking tour is best suited for curious explorers eager to uncover local stories and hidden corners. If you want a relaxed, social experience with snacks and drinks, the Grand Canal Tour hits the mark.
Budget-wise, the private walking tour at $65 is the most personal but also the priciest per hour, while the canal cruise at $47 offers a simple, enjoyable experience. Booking early is wise, especially in peak seasons, so check availability in advance.
Groningen offers a surprising array of ways to see and feel the city, from illuminated bridges to lively conversations with locals. For a romantic winter cruise, the candlelight tour is hard to beat. If your aim is to understand Groningen on a deeper level, the private walk is invaluable. And for an easygoing, scenic ride, the canal cruise delivers a laid-back yet engaging experience.
No matter your choice, each option promises a memorable glimpse into this lively Dutch city. We encourage you to book early and pick the experience that best matches your interests—Groningen waits to surprise you.