Groningen is a city that makes exploring on foot or by water both easy and enjoyable. Its compact center, lively waterways, and eclectic mix of historic and modern sights make it a fantastic place for guided and self-guided tours. We’re particularly fond of the Historical Canal Tour, which combines a relaxed cruise with lively storytelling, offering a genuine feel for Groningen’s past and present. Plus, the Groningen: Grand Canal Tour stands out for its stylish and comfortable approach to sightseeing — a truly relaxing way to see the city’s highlights. Whether you prefer a lively boat experience, a self-guided adventure, or a mysterious puzzle, Groningen offers a variety of tours that suit all interests and budgets.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the 8 best tours in Groningen. From scenic boat rides and interactive city walks to fun scavenger hunts and murder mysteries, each offers a unique way to experience this dynamic city. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, these options deliver memorable moments and local insights.
1. Historical Canal Tour
At number one, the Historical Canal Tour offers an engaging hour-long cruise through Groningen’s canals, with the added bonus of unlimited free drinks. The tour sails past landmarks like the Old Museum (Westerhaven), the colorful warehouses Hoge and Lage der A, the impressive AA Church, and the Martinitoren—all narrated by a lively skipper who shares fascinating stories about the city’s history and architecture.
What makes this tour stand out is the balance of sightseeing and storytelling. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, informative experience without sacrificing comfort. The itinerary includes stops around the Oosterhaven, the Groninger Museum, and the Noorderhaven, giving a taste of Groningen’s diverse waterfront neighborhoods. Reviewers love the relaxed atmosphere and the engaging commentary, with one calling it “a leisurely boat trip made very interesting by information about the canal and city.” For just $24.32 per person, it’s an excellent value.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for those wanting an authentic, friendly introduction to Groningen’s waterways and history, with the bonus of free drinks to keep things lively.
2. Groningen: Terrace Boat Experience with a Cozy Bar: 1.5 Hours
For a more laid-back yet stylish water adventure, the Terrace Boat Experience combines the charm of a floating terrace with the comfort of a bar onboard. During this 1.5-hour cruise, you can enjoy panoramic views of Groningen’s Oosterhaven and Groningen Central Station while sipping drinks from the onboard bar.
The boat’s convertible roof is a highlight, providing sunshine in good weather and shelter during rain. This makes it especially appealing in spring and summer, but winter options with heating are also available. The boat is Wi-Fi-equipped, and vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free snacks are offered, making it suitable for diverse tastes. Many reviews praise the relaxed vibe and the quality of drinks, with one saying, “Great experience, good food, nice people and a beautiful boat.”
This tour is perfect for those wanting a leisurely, social outing with a flexible schedule and a touch of elegance. Costing $22.51, it’s a good deal for a relaxing water experience with a cozy bar.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a stylish, comfort-focused cruise with excellent views and a friendly atmosphere.
3. Groningen: Terrace Boat Experience with a Cozy Bar: 1 hour
If you’re short on time but still want a taste of Groningen’s waterways, the 1-hour Terrace Boat Experience delivers a quick but lively cruise. For around $17.20, you’ll pass by key sights like the Oosterhaven and Groningen Central Station while enjoying a drink from the onboard bar. The boat’s roof can be folded in the sun or closed in the rain, making it a flexible option in all weather conditions.
Guests love the casual, relaxed vibe, with one reviewer noting, “Great experience, cozy ship and atmosphere while doing a little bit of sightseeing.” The opportunity to enjoy drinks and snacks onboard makes this tour especially appealing for weekend outings or quick get-togethers. The inclusion of Wi-Fi ensures you can share your photos or even do a little holiday work if needed.
Bottom line: This short but sweet cruise is perfect for those wanting a quick, enjoyable water tour with friendly service and a bit of fun.
4. e-Scavenger hunt Groningen: Explore the city at your own pace
For those who prefer to create their own adventure, the e-Scavenger Hunt offers a self-guided, interactive exploration of Groningen. Designed for groups up to six, it invites you to solve riddles and complete challenges as you stroll through the city’s top sights. The game is available in multiple languages, including English, and allows you to start and stop whenever you wish, making it flexible for your schedule.
This tour is especially popular among families or groups who love puzzles and discovery. One reviewer says, “It’s a fun way to learn about the city while enjoying some friendly competition.” The price of $36.76 per group makes it an affordable option for a personalized, engaging experience that combines sightseeing with fun.
Bottom line: Perfect for curious travelers who want to explore independently but with guided elements, ideal for families or friends who enjoy puzzles.
5. Exciting Murder Mystery – Interactive city walk in Groningen
For those who enjoy combining sightseeing with storytelling, the Murder Mystery City Walk offers a fun, interactive way to discover Groningen. Over three hours, your team will solve puzzles and follow clues to catch the culprit, all while exploring some of the city’s most intriguing spots. The cost of about $79.79 per group (up to six people) makes it a good value considering the immersive experience.
Guests describe it as “a very fun time” that provides a different perspective on familiar sights. The narrative-driven gameplay keeps everyone engaged, making it suitable for friends, families, or colleagues. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy detective stories or want a more lively, participatory experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for puzzle lovers and those seeking a memorable, story-rich activity that blends sightseeing with interactive storytelling.
6. Explore Groningen with the Grand Canal Tour
Sailing on the Grand Canal Tour is a top-tier experience for those who want a comfortable, rundown of Groningen’s waterways. This 90-minute cruise has been praised for its “enchanting waterways” and the chance to learn about landmarks like the Groninger Museum and the city’s historic railway station.
The tour combines live storytelling with panoramic views, giving you insights into the architecture and significance of the sights. The boat’s sleek design and relaxed pace make it perfect for travelers who prefer a more refined experience. Reviewers note the striking architecture of the museum and the ornate details of the station, making this cruise a photographic delight.
Priced at $57.64, it offers good value for a more luxurious, in-depth cruise. It’s suited for visitors who want to relax and savor the sights with a knowledgeable guide.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those seeking a stylish, informative cruise in comfort, especially if you’re interested in modern architecture and historic buildings.
7. Groningen Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour
This self-guided scavenger hunt simplifies exploring Groningen with a fun, puzzle-based approach. For just $6.23 per person, you solve riddles and uncover hidden corners of the city at your own pace over two hours. It’s ideal for a quick yet engaging way to see popular sights and learn some local secrets.
Reviewers appreciate the interactive puzzles and the chance to discover things they wouldn’t find on a traditional walk. One said, “It exceeded our expectations! We learned a lot while having fun,” highlighting how this tour combines education with entertainment.
Bottom line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want an active, fun way to see the city in a short time.
8. Groningen Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game
Finally, the Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game challenges you to solve a captivating case across Groningen. Over approximately two hours, your team will unravel clues, complete puzzles, and learn about a detective story. Suitable for up to four players and costing $31.07, it offers a story-driven experience that appeals to puzzle enthusiasts.
While some reviews mention it as a “really fun” activity, others note it’s less polished than other options, but still engaging for fans of mysteries. It’s best suited for those who love detective stories and want an interactive, story-based challenge.
Bottom line: An inventive, story-rich activity that works well for small groups or families looking for a puzzle-solving adventure.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Groningen
When deciding among these tours, consider your budget, interests, and the type of experience you’re after. For a relaxed introduction to the city, the Historical Canal Tour offers value and storytelling. If you prefer a stylish, comfortable cruise, the Grand Canal Tour is hard to beat. For active explorers, the self-guided scavenger hunts and city walk murder mystery provide interactive fun, perfect for families or groups.
Timing is also key—water tours in good weather make for memorable experiences, while indoor or puzzle activities work year-round. Booking early is advisable during peak seasons, especially for popular water cruises and special events. Think about your group’s fitness level, interests, and whether you prefer guided storytelling or independent exploration.
Final Thoughts
From leisurely boat rides to interactive mysteries, Groningen’s variety of tours makes it easy to tailor your experience. For a laid-back, scenic introduction, we recommend the Historical Canal Tour. For something more modern and comfortable, the Grand Canal Tour offers a stylish twist on sightseeing. If puzzles and self-guided adventures are your thing, the Groningen scavenger hunts are excellent choices.
No matter your preference, booking early will ensure you get the best experiences during your visit. Groningen’s vibrant water, architecture, and stories are waiting—don’t miss the chance to explore this lively city in a way that suits your style.
