Groningen is a city that loves to combine its maritime charm with lively social scenes, making it a fantastic spot for drinking tours that go beyond just sitting in a bar. What sets Groningen apart is its creative use of water — whether it’s enjoying a floating terrace or cruising through historic harbors with a drink in hand, these tours offer a unique way to see the city from a different angle. We particularly like the Terrace Boat Experience because it blends the relaxed vibe of a lakeside bar with the scenic beauty of Groningen’s waterways. Plus, the open cabriolet roof means you can soak up the sun or stay cozy when it’s chilly.
For this list, we’ve focused on two top-rated drinking experiences that combine sightseeing and socializing — both feature comfortable boats with bar amenities, but they differ in length, price, and vibe. Whether you have a short afternoon to spare or want a leisurely cruise, these options are worth considering.
Here’s a quick overview of what you’ll find below: a 1.5-hour floating terrace adventure with a cozy bar and a longer, one-hour scenic boat trip with Wi-Fi and snack options. Both tours receive glowing reviews for their friendly atmosphere and unique views, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy Groningen’s water-based side.
1. Groningen: Terrace Boat Experience with a Cozy Bar: 1.5 Hours
If you’re after a combination of scenic water views and a relaxed atmosphere, this 1.5-hour floating terrace tops our list. It’s the first floating terrace in Groningen, and it really captures the city’s innovative spirit. You’ll board a boat with a convertible roof — handy on sunny days for unobstructed sky views, and quick to close if the weather turns.
This tour takes you to The Oosterhaven, a picturesque harbor with historic ships, and then along to the Groningen Central Station, a true architectural gem with its neo-Gothic turrets and stained glass. The boat itself is designed for comfort, with heating available in winter, making it a year-round favorite. The highlight is the ability to enjoy a drink while drifting past ships and historic landmarks, all from a cozy, floating environment.
What makes this tour special is the combination of water views and cultural stops. It’s perfect for visitors who want a relaxed, intimate experience with the city’s maritime history. The reviews praise the friendly staff and the flexibility of the open roof, which makes for excellent photos.
Bottom line: This experience offers excellent value at $22.51 per person, with a relaxed pace and stunning city views. It’s especially great for those who want a mix of sightseeing, comfort, and socializing.
2. Groningen: Terrace Boat Experience with a Cozy Bar: 1 hour
For a shorter but still memorable water-based drinking experience, this 1-hour tour offers a quick glimpse of Groningen’s waterways. Priced at $17.20 per person, it provides a more budget-friendly way to see the city while enjoying a drink aboard.
This boat also features a fold-away roof, so you can enjoy the sunshine or stay dry if the weather shifts. It passes by the same highlights as the longer tour, including the Oosterhaven and Groningen Central Station. The tour is equipped with Wi-Fi, making it easy to share moments or even catch up on emails while on the water. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free snack options add a thoughtful touch.
Guests have described this experience as “great for friends or locals,” noting the relaxing vibe and friendly crew. It’s a perfect choice if you’re short on time but still want to enjoy Groningen from the water with a good drink in hand.
Bottom line: While shorter, this tour packs the same scenic charm and friendly atmosphere into a compact hour, making it a popular choice for those with limited time or budget-conscious travelers.
How to Choose Between These Drinking Tours in Groningen
When selecting the right tour, consider your time, budget, and what kind of experience you want. The 1.5-hour terrace boat is best for those wanting a more leisurely, in-depth ride with extra comfort and scenic stops. It’s ideal if you’re interested in exploring the harbor and city landmarks in one go.
The 1-hour tour is perfect for a quick, fun outing or if you’re on a tighter schedule — it still offers the same iconic sights and a lively onboard atmosphere. Both tours are suitable for anyone who enjoys a drink with a view, but if you’re traveling with kids or prefer a more social vibe, the shorter option might suit you better.
Booking early is recommended, especially during summer weekends or holidays, when these tours tend to fill up. Remember to check weather forecasts, as both tours feature open roofs that are best enjoyed in good weather. For more details and booking options, visit the longer tour and the shorter tour.
Groningen’s water-based drinking tours offer a refreshing way to see the city, combining scenic views with socializing on the water. The longer 1.5-hour experience gives a more immersive trip, while the 1-hour cruise is a perfect quick escape. Whether you prefer a relaxed afternoon with a drink or a lively, scenic ride, both options are worth booking ahead. So pack your camera and your favorite drink — Groningen’s waterways won’t disappoint.
