Groningen Residents Enjoy Shortest Distances to Leisure Facilities in NL
Residents of Groningen have quicker access to museums, cinemas, sports facilities, and other leisure venues than most people in NL, according to figures from CBS reported by OOGTV.
While many in Groningen may feel they cycle far for a drink, a swim, or a cultural evening, the numbers tell a different story. In almost every category, leisure amenities in the city are closer than the national or provincial averages.
Culture and Entertainment Close By
On average, a museum is just 3.4 km away for Groningen residents, compared to 4.2 km nationwide and 4.3 km across the province. Within 5 km, locals have access to an average of 4.3 museums, nearly double the provincial average and well above the national figure.
Cinemas are also nearby, with an average distance of 3.5 km compared to 6.5 km nationally. The city offers 2.1 cinemas within 5 km, versus a national average of just 1.3.
The performing arts are even more accessible. Theatres and similar venues are an average of 3.2 km away in Groningen, compared to 4.9 km across the Netherlands. Locals enjoy access to five venues within 5 km, more than double the national average of 2.9.
Sports and Recreation
Sports facilities are within easy reach. A swimming pool is typically 2.6 km away, compared to 3.4 km nationally. Thanks to Kardinge, the city’s ice rink is only 5.3 km away for the average resident, while people in Drenthe travel nearly 45 km for the same experience.
Attractions such as zoos or amusement parks average 3.8 km from Groningen homes, compared to 5.6 km nationally and 7.6 km provincially.
Urban Advantage
The findings confirm what broader CBS research has long shown: urban residents generally have better access to amenities than rural populations. A study by the University of Groningen notes that city dwellers also expect shorter travel distances for leisure, especially when walking or cycling.
For Groningen, the numbers suggest that residents enjoy one of the highest levels of leisure accessibility in the country—making it a city where cultural outings, sport, and recreation are often just a short bike ride away.