Groningen scavenger hunt
The buzzing capital of the north, with the Martini tower rising high above the city — discover it by cracking riddles and codes at real places. Or simply explore the route as a self-guided walking tour. In English.
A city with a mind of its own, full of stories
Groningen is young, lively and full of character — a real student city with a rich history. Around the Grote Markt and the Vismarkt it buzzes with life, while the streets beyond are full of surprising corners. A scavenger hunt is just the right excuse to walk around it with fresh eyes.
You come face to face with the Martinitoren (the city's landmark church tower), affectionately known to locals as “d'Olle Grieze” (“the old grey one”), explore the Grote Markt and the Vismarkt, and pass the strikingly modern Forum. At each stop you crack a code; together they spell the secret word that opens the treasure chest.
Prefer to just look around? You can also explore this route freely — without questions, with the story, the background and the sources at every stop. That makes it just as much a free self-guided walking tour.
- 1.5–2.5 hoursat your own pace
- Freeduring the launch
- All agesfamily-friendly
- In the browsernothing to download
What you'll see along the way
The Martinitoren
“D'Olle Grieze” — the tall landmark that has towered over the Grote Markt for centuries.
The Grote Markt
The lively heart of the city, always bustling and lined with terraces.
The Vismarkt
An atmospheric square with the Korenbeurs (former corn exchange), where trade and history meet.
The Forum
A talked-about, modern building that shows the bold, contemporary side of Groningen.
Frequently asked questions about the Groningen hunt
Can I walk the Groningen route without the puzzles?
Yes. Alongside the scavenger hunt with puzzles you can explore the Groningen route freely: you walk the same route without questions and read the story, the background and the sources at every stop. That makes it a free self-guided walking tour of Groningen, at your own pace and without an account.
Where does the Groningen route go?
You walk through the centre past the Martinitoren, the Grote Markt, the Vismarkt and the Forum. The exact route and starting point are in the app.
How long does the Groningen hunt take?
On average 1.5 to 2.5 hours, at your own pace. You can always pause for a drink on a terrace along the way.
Is the Groningen scavenger hunt suitable for children?
Yes, it is fun for all ages; some puzzles take a bit of detective work, so younger children have the most fun playing together with an adult. It is an active, playful way to discover the city.
What does the Groningen scavenger hunt cost?
During the launch it is free. Afterwards you can leave a small voluntary donation.
Ready to crack Groningen?
Pick the route, head out and open the treasure chest. Today, completely free.
Start in Groningen →