Groningen
Groningen is a good reason to spend time in the north of the Netherlands. Allow two nights if you want a city break with museums, cafés and an evening out. Treating it as a quick extra day from Amsterdam gives the journey too large a share of the visit.
Old landmark, modern meeting place
The Martini Tower anchors the historic city, while the Forum brings a contemporary cultural building into the center. Let these give your walk its shape instead of building the day around a series of timed indoor stops.
Leave time for the streets between the sights
Groningen has a strong student-city character. The streets around Poelestraat and Peperstraat are part of its evening life, while Noorderplantsoen offers a quieter outdoor break. Choose a hotel location with your preferred evening in mind.
A northern trip needs its own space
Groningen and Leeuwarden can both belong in a longer northern route. You do not need to cover both on the same day. Give each city time, especially if you also want to get out into the surrounding landscape.
The coast is another journey
The Wadden Islands add ferries and a different kind of stay. Choose your island and departure port before deciding where to sleep on the mainland. For a short first visit, the seven-day itinerary stays in the west; add the north when you have enough days to enjoy it.
Explore more places to visit in the Netherlands.