RAPPID 2026 goes to Groningen, the Netherlands

The conference will take place in the city of Groningen, in the North of the Netherlands. Nestled in the northern Netherlands, Groningen possesses a quiet magic that captivates those who wander its streets. This vibrant university city blends centuries of history with youthful energy, creating an atmosphere entirely its own.

The medieval Martinitoren pierces the skyline, its tower offering sweeping views over terracotta rooftops and winding canals. Below, the Grote Markt pulses with life—cafés spill onto cobblestones where students, locals, and visitors mingle over coffee and conversation. The city’s compact center reveals architectural treasures at every turn: the elegant curves of the Groninger Museum’s postmodern facade, the serene beauty of the Prinsenhof gardens, and countless gabled houses leaning companionably against one another along the water.

But Groningen’s true beauty lies in its spirit. Bicycles outnumber cars, creating a gentle rhythm to daily life. The Noorderplantsoen park becomes a gathering place on sunny afternoons, while cozy brown cafés offer refuge when northern winds blow. Art galleries, independent bookshops, and innovative restaurants thrive alongside centuries-old institutions.

There’s an intimacy to Groningen that larger cities lack—a sense that around any corner, you might discover a hidden courtyard, a quirky sculpture, or simply the perfect spot to watch the world go by. It’s a city that doesn’t demand attention but rewards those who give it freely.

The venue location

The conference will take place at the Oosterpoort Theatre, 12 minutes walk from Groningen train station (a bit less than 1km or 0.6 miles): https://www.spotgroningen.nl/de-oosterpoort. The address is TROMPSINGEL 27.

A bus (3, 5, 7) will still make you walk about 5-8 minutes from the final stop to the theatre. Should this be too long of a walk, then Uber or Taxi are the best alternatives. If you are for some reason not able to make the trip from station to theater, contact us via [email protected] and we will make arrangements.

More information on public transport in The Netherlands: https://9292.nl/reisplanner/ or https://www.ns.nl/reisplanner/#/

How to get there?

Groningen can be reached with a train ride without transfers from both Amsterdam Central Station (about 2 hours), Schiphol Amsterdam Airport train station (2h20) or The Hague Train station (2h40). From other locations, one or two transfers may be required. By car, it is a generally rush hour free ride via A28 or A7. Parking in Groningen town will involve a parking in a garage for a fixed price of 15 euros per 24 hours.

Where to stay overnight?

Reasonably priced hostels, hotels and B&Bs near the venue:
Leonardo Hotel
PJs hostel
Stee in de stad
The Social Hub Groningen
Martini Hotel Groningen
Mercure Groningen Martiniplaza
NH Hotel Groningen