The academic year is almost over, the sun is (mostly) shining, and our stress levels have stabilised again. Whether you're staying in the city all summer or just sticking around between travels, there's a lot to enjoy without needing to go far. From local festivals to canal adventures and quiet garden escapes, here are six great ways to make the most of your summer in Groningen.

1. Experience Noorderzon in Noorderplantsoen

Every August, Groningen’s favourite park comes alive with one of the city’s cultural highlights: the Noorderzon Performing Arts Festival. For 11 days, the normally peaceful Noorderplantsoen transforms into a creative playground filled with (inter)national music, theatre and art.

Even without buying tickets, there’s plenty to enjoy. You’ll find free performances, visual art, and food trucks, which is the recipe for a perfect Groningen summer night. Noorderzon is a great mix of art and ‘gezelligheid’.

2. SUP Through the Canals

Ever tried stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) through a historic Dutch city? Groningen is perfect for it. Gliding along the canals offers a whole new perspective on the city’s architecture and bridges, and it’s surprisingly peaceful out on the water. Not into standing up on water? Renting a canoe or joining a boat tour is just as magical.

3. Cool Off at Local Swimming Spots

Groningen has no shortage of places to dive in when the weather gets hot. Some of the best outdoor swimming spots include:

• Paterswoldsemeer: A large lake just south of the city with space to swim, relax, or even try windsurfing.

• Hoornseplas: Popular with locals for swimming, sunbathing, and lazy picnics.

• Kardingerplas: A quieter spot surrounded by nature, perfect for a peaceful swim.

• De Papiermolen: Groningen’s beloved outdoor pool, ideal for a classic summer swim with grassy areas for lounging.

Pack your towel, sunscreen, and maybe a frisbee, but most importantly: don’t forget the snacks!

4. Explore the University Museum 

Rainy day or too much sun? The University Museum is the perfect place to spend a couple of hours. It offers a fascinating glimpse into science, medicine, and the university's history. 

Right now, the museum is hosting the exhibition "Brainstorm: The Human Brain & Research in Groningen", which explores how the brain works, what researchers are discovering and how to give your brain a healthy future. It’s a great way to reconnect with the world of research and curiosity, minus the exams.

5. Stroll Through the Prinsentuin

Just behind the Prinsenhof in the city centre, you’ll find the Prinsentuin (Prince’s Garden): a walled Renaissance-style garden that feels like stepping into a different era. With rose-lined paths and geometric flower beds, it’s one of the city’s most peaceful places to slow down. Bring a book, a coffee, or just yourself and spend some time surrounded by buzzing bees and blooming flowers. 

6. Play Disc Golf in Stadspark

If you’re up for something active and a bit unusual, try disc golf in Groningen’s Stadspark. Think of it as golf meets frisbee. Your goal is to get your disc into a series of metal baskets in as few throws as possible. Easy to learn and fun to do with friends.

For this 9-hole course, you can rent discs and book a start time online on this website. Just bring your competitive spirit, and you are ready to go! 

Enjoy Your Summer!

Whether you're relaxing with a book in the Prinsentuin or learning how to balance on a paddleboard, Groningen has more than enough to keep your summer vibrant. So get out there, explore, and make the most of the break—you've earned it!