Groningen: Pub Crawl with Pub Quiz, Free Shots and Games
When it comes to experiencing the nightlife of a university city like Groningen, few options offer as much value and fun as a guided pub crawl. This particular tour, operated by De Borrelvloot, mixes social games, free drinks, and a local guide to showcase the best of what Groningen’s bar scene has to offer. While I haven’t personally been on this exact crawl, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of an engaging, well-organized night that appeals both to solo travelers and groups.
Three things we love about this experience are the inclusion of a pub quiz to break the ice, the free entry to multiple bars, and the friendly, knowledgeable guides who know all the hotspots. A potential consideration is that extra drinks outside the package are not included, so be prepared to budget for some additional costs if you want to keep the party going. This tour suits anyone looking for a fun, social way to discover Groningen’s nightlife, especially if you enjoy games, meeting new people, and lively atmospheres.
Key Points
- Inclusive Social Experience: Perfect for both solo travelers and groups, with a pub quiz that gets everyone talking.
- All-Inclusive Entry: Enjoy free access to five bars or clubs, saving time and money on cover charges.
- Free Drinks and Shots: Four complimentary drinks or shots to kick off the night.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable hosts who are experienced in creating a lively, friendly vibe.
- Variety of Venues: From beer pubs with great atmospheres to dance clubs with live DJs, there’s something for all.
- Flexible & Convenient: 4-hour tour with easy-to-spot guides and options to reserve and pay later for flexibility.
What to Expect from the Groningen Pub Crawl
The experience kicks off at a well-recognized meeting point in the heart of Groningen, where guides wear black T-shirts bearing the tour logo and hold signs saying “PUB CRAWL START.” This makes it easy to spot your hosts and ensures a smooth start. The initial part of the evening is dedicated to a pub quiz, which acts as an icebreaker—perfect for loosening up and meeting others. Reviewers praise the quiz for being fun and interesting, with one mentioning “a great way to get to know Groningen and learn about the pub and student culture.”
Once the quiz is complete, the guides lead the group through the city’s nightlife, stopping at five different venues that promise diverse atmospheres. Expect a mix of traditional beer pubs, lively karaoke bars (some with a soccer fan vibe), and dance venues with DJs. The tour includes complimentary entry, which is a major perk, helping you skip long lines and making the night more relaxed.
Throughout the evening, you’ll be greeted with free shots or drinks at each venue, providing an instant boost and encouraging socializing. The reviews highlight how this creates a buzzing, friendly environment where strangers quickly become friends. The guides, praised for their friendliness and knowledge, help keep the energy high and the experience seamless.
Thirsty for more? These other drinking tours in Groningen Netherlands caught our attention
The Venue Variety and Atmosphere
From the detailed reviews, it’s clear that the bar choices are thoughtfully curated to give a broad taste of Groningen’s nightlife. One reviewer mentions visiting a beer pub with great atmosphere, then a karaoke bar with a soccer fan club, and finally a dance bar with live DJs. This variety means you experience different sides of the city’s night scene without having to navigate it alone or pay at each door.
The guides are credited with creating a lively, inclusive vibe where everyone feels comfortable, even if they come alone. This is vital, particularly for solo travelers or newcomers, as it transforms a night out into a social event.
The Guides and Service
According to reviews, guides like “the two girls” mentioned, know all the top spots and work hard to keep everyone engaged. They’re also praised for making sure everyone feels included, regardless of whether they’re traveling alone or with a group. Their friendly attitude and local knowledge enhance the overall value of the experience, making the night both fun and informative.
Practical Aspects and Pricing
The duration of four hours strikes a good balance for a night out—long enough to explore several venues without becoming overwhelming. The price, which covers entry to five venues, four free drinks, and a guided experience, is deemed excellent value, especially when considering the savings on cover charges and the inclusion of drinks.
Booking is flexible—pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance—ideal for travelers with unpredictable schedules. The activity is accessible for those with comfortable shoes and an ID card, making it simple to prepare for the night.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Would Love This Tour?
This pub crawl is perfect for first-time visitors wanting to get acquainted with Groningen’s nightlife in a relaxed, social setting. It’s also ideal for international travelers looking to meet people from around the world, as the reviews highlight the mixed groups and friendly atmosphere. Students and young professionals will find it especially appealing, given the lively venues and casual vibe.
The Bottom Line
In essence, this Groningen pub crawl offers a well-organized, fun-filled way to explore the city’s bars without the hassle of planning individually. The pub quiz sets a cheerful tone, while the free entry and complimentary drinks make it great value. The knowledgeable guides are a real highlight, transforming what could be just another night out into a memorable social experience.
If you’re after a relaxed, social, and affordable way to experience Groningen’s vibrant nightlife, especially if you’re new in town or traveling solo, this tour ticks all the boxes. Expect lively venues, friendly faces, and plenty of opportunities to connect with new friends in a city that’s renowned for its youthful, dynamic culture.
FAQ
How long does the pub crawl last?
It lasts approximately 4 hours, giving you enough time to visit five different venues and enjoy all the included activities.
Are drinks included?
Yes, you get four free drinks or shots as part of the package. Any additional drinks outside the package are not included.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot beforehand. You can pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Where do we meet the guides?
At a designated meeting point where guides wear black T-shirts with the tour logo and hold a sign saying “PUB CRAWL START.” Make sure to arrive on time and have your confirmation email ready.
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Reviewers mention that even if you come alone, you’ll be made to feel included and part of the group, thanks to the guides and the pub quiz.
What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is available in English, Dutch, and German, ensuring a smooth experience for travelers from various backgrounds.
Can I bring food or snacks?
Food or snacks are not included in the tour, and it’s advisable to eat beforehand or plan to purchase at the venues.
To sum it up, the Groningen pub crawl with a pub quiz offers fantastic value for anyone wanting a lively, social night out. With an emphasis on friendly guides, a variety of venues, and free drinks, it provides a safe, easy way to experience the city’s nightlife. Whether you want to meet new friends or just enjoy some great drinks and music, this tour is a lively, well-organized choice that captures Groningen’s youthful spirit.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Museum Experiences in Groningen Netherlands
More Tickets in Groningen Netherlands
More Tour Reviews in Groningen Netherlands
Still browsing? Here are more Groningen Netherlands experiences we've covered recently
- Groningen: Grand Canal Tour with Snacks and Drinks
- Groningen: Candlelight tour
- Groningen: Pub Crawl with Pub Quiz, Free Shots and Games
- Groningen: Private Custom Tour With a Local Guide
- Best of Groningen: Private Walking Tour With a Local
- Groningen: City Canal Cruise (With Unlimited Drinks)
- Groningen: Evening Cheese and Wine Cruise