Central Station Will Close for 64 Days for Renovation Works
From May 10 to July 12, 2025, no trains will run to or from Groningen Central Station during various phases of major renovation works—buses will replace train services across the region.
From 10 May to 12 July 2025, major construction work will take place at Groningen Central Station, causing widespread disruption to train services. The project is part of a long-term renovation to transform the station area, with the goal of improving connections, accessibility, and facilities for travelers.
The construction is divided into six phases, during which train traffic will be limited or halted entirely. The most impactful period will be from 14 June to 9 July, when no trains will run to or from the Central Station. Travelers will have to rely on replacement buses provided by NS and Arriva.
Overview of Disruptions by Phase:
Phase 1 (10-11 May): No trains between Groningen and Europapark, Zuidhorn, Delfzijl, Roodeschool/Eemshaven. Buses will replace trains on all these routes.
Phase 2 (12-16 May): No trains between Groningen and Europapark. Other routes operate as usual.
Phase 3 (17-18 May): No trains between Europapark and Assen. Bus replacements will serve Haren and Assen.
Phase 4 (19 May - 13 June): No trains between Groningen and Europapark. All other directions remain accessible by train.
Phase 5 (14 June - 9 July): Full closure of Groningen Central Station. Buses replace trains on all lines in and out of the station.
Phase 6 (10-12 July): No trains between Europapark and Assen, Veendam, and Bad Nieuweschans. Buses replace trains on these routes.
View the gallery to see which busses will run in place of the usual trains.
Qbuzz will also adjust some bus lines. For instance, Qlink 2 will run more frequently between Europapark and Zuidhorn. Lines such as 61, 65, 76, 110, and 178 will temporarily reroute via Europapark.
Station Construction Progress
Construction of the new station began in 2020 and is expected to finish in 2026. Major changes include moving the bus station to the south side, building new platforms, and creating a pedestrian tunnel connecting both sides of the station. The new underpass will open on 31 July 2025 and will be accessible without a train ticket. Shops and eateries will also be included.
The renovation aims to modernize the historic station while preserving key elements, such as the iconic platform roofs. These have been recast using both new and recycled materials by a metal foundry in Hoogezand. The red columns and other parts of the historic canopy are already being installed.
Once complete, trains will stop above the pedestrian tunnel, making transfers easier and faster. The relocation and upgrade of the tracks will allow through services for Arriva trains, improving connectivity across the region.
Advice for Travelers
Travelers are strongly encouraged to check the NS or Arriva travel planners before departure for updated schedules and routes. Information about the replacement buses and stops will also be available on the official websites of both carriers.