Groningen: Pub Crawl with Pub Quiz, Free Shots and Games

Planning a night out in Groningen? While the city is famed for its university spirit, lively bars, and student vibe, a guided pub crawl offers a hassle-free way to explore its best spots while making new friends. Although we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s a lively, well-organized experience packed with fun, drinks, and social opportunities.

What strikes us most is the interactive pub quiz as the starting point—an excellent icebreaker that sets a friendly tone from the outset. Add in complimentary entry to several bars and clubs, free shots, and guided local insights, and you’ve got a recipe for a memorable night. One possible consideration is that the pace could be fast, especially if you’re not used to a high-energy pub scene. This tour suits solo travelers, groups, or anyone eager to discover Groningen’s nightlife with some guidance and a lot of laughs.

Good To Know

• Fun, social atmosphere with guided hosts
• Includes pub quiz to break the ice
• Free entry to 5 bars and clubs, plus 4 shots
• Perfect for solo travelers and groups alike
• Explore a variety of venues from beer pubs to dance clubs
• Lively, friendly vibe that turns strangers into friends

What’s Included and What to Expect

This pub crawl kicks off with a lighthearted pub quiz, designed as a social starter rather than a competitive event. We loved the way this makes everyone feel involved early on. Teams are formed on the spot, and the questions add a humorous, relaxed tone to the evening. Reviewers like Micha praised the “interesting quiz” and the mix of venues, from a beer pub with a great atmosphere to a karaoke bar crowded with soccer fans, and even several dance clubs featuring live DJs.

After the quiz, the guides—who, based on reviews, seem to be friendly, knowledgeable, and well-versed in Groningen’s nightlife—lead the group through five venues. Each spot offers complimentary entry, which is a significant cost saver, especially if you plan to explore multiple bars in one night. Attendees are greeted with free shots or drinks, adding to the celebratory mood.

The inclusion of 4 free drinks or shots across the night ensures everyone starts the night with a little boost—plus, the atmosphere at each venue is vibrant and welcoming. Expect a mix of bar environments: traditional Dutch pubs, karaoke spots, and dance clubs with live music. The guides’ local expertise shines here, as they recommend the best spots to enjoy either a relaxed drink or dance the night away.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary

The evening begins with the pub quiz at a designated meeting point in Groningen. Guides are easy to spot—they wear black T-shirts with the logo “The Pub Crawl Groningen” and hold signs that say “PUB CRAWL START”. The quiz lasts about 20-30 minutes and fosters a shared, jovial atmosphere among strangers.

Once the quiz concludes, the group sets off on a guided tour of the city’s nightlife hotspots. The guides are praised for their knowledge of the city’s top venues. During the crawl, you’ll visit five bars or clubs, each offering free entry and shots. These venues are carefully chosen to showcase Groningen’s nightlife spectrum, from lively student pubs to dance clubs with live DJs.

The group size tends to be manageable, creating an intimate vibe despite being a social event. Many reviewers, such as Daan, mention how the guides make everyone feel included, whether they come alone or with friends. If you’re a fan of meeting diverse groups of people, this is a major plus—many travelers comment on how they connect with international visitors and locals alike.

The Venues and Atmosphere

One of the tour’s strengths is the variety of venues visited. Micha highlighted the “perfect evening to get to know Groningen and learn about pub and student culture.” The beer pub with great beers and lively atmosphere is a classic start, while the karaoke bar, crowded with soccer fans, adds a fun, energetic layer. Later stops at dance bars with live DJs guarantee the party keeps going.

Every venue offers complimentary entry, which is a significant perk, especially in a city where cover charges can add up. The free shots or drinks—distributed at different stops—are often praised for their quality, with reviewers noting that the guides make sure everyone gets a fair share, making the group feel special and included.

Guides and Group Dynamics

Multiple reviews sing praises about the guides, citing their friendly demeanor and local knowledge. Micha even mentions two guides—referred to fondly as “the two girls”—who went above and beyond to ensure everyone had a memorable experience. Their ability to foster a lively, inclusive atmosphere turns the pub crawl into more than just a bar-hopping event; it becomes a social experience.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, you’ll find this tour welcoming. Daan pointed out how the pub quiz brought everyone together, even those who might normally prefer to stay quiet. The guides’ friendly approach makes even newcomers feel at ease, creating a relaxed environment perfect for meeting new people from around the world.

Duration and Practicalities

The 4-hour duration strikes a balance—long enough to enjoy multiple venues without exhaustion. Starting times depend on availability, so booking ahead is recommended. The tour operates in English, German, and Dutch, making it accessible for international visitors.

The meeting point is straightforward: guides wear branded shirts and hold signs, making them easy to find. The tour ends back at the initial meeting point, so you’ll leave in the same area you started, handy for further exploring or grabbing a late-night snack.

For those concerned about logistics, note that additional drinks outside the included shots are at your own expense. Also, some venues might charge for coat checks if you’re visiting in colder months, and no food or snacks are included in the tour.

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Value for Money

Considering the cost includes five free venues, four free drinks/shots, and a dedicated guide, the tour offers solid value. You save on entry fees and get a curated look at Groningen’s best nightlife spots, all wrapped in a social, fun atmosphere. For those wanting an organized way to experience the city’s bar scene without the hassle of planning individual venues, this tour is a smart choice.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This pub crawl is ideal for solo travelers, first-timers in Groningen, or groups looking to make new friends. The mix of activities—quiz, free drinks, lively venues—caters to those seeking a relaxed, fun evening without the need to plan each stop. If you’re someone who enjoys good company, music, and a lively atmosphere, you’ll likely find this tour right up your alley.

It’s also perfect if you want to see the diverse side of Groningen’s nightlife—ranging from traditional pubs to energetic dance clubs—without worrying about cover charges or navigating unfamiliar streets alone.

Final Thoughts

This pub crawl in Groningen offers a friendly, lively way to explore the city’s nightlife while meeting new people from all over the world. The inclusion of a fun pub quiz, friendly guides, and free entry to multiple venues makes it a fantastic value for those wanting a social, relaxed night out.

If you’re visiting Groningen and want to experience its vibrant student and local scene without the hassle of organizing each stop, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy lively atmospheres, good music, and a bit of friendly competition with the pub quiz.

For a relaxed, social way to get to know Groningen’s nightlife and meet new friends, this pub crawl delivers on fun and authenticity.

FAQ

Is this pub crawl suitable for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention how welcoming and inclusive the guides are, making it a great opportunity to meet people even if you’re traveling alone.

How many venues will we visit during the tour?
You’ll visit five bars or clubs in total, each offering free entry and a lively atmosphere.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, you get 4 free drinks or shots throughout the night, plus free entry at each venue.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking between venues. Casual attire is perfect.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak English?
The tour is available in English, German, and Dutch, so language shouldn’t be a barrier.

Do I need to bring my ID?
Yes, an ID card or a copy is required to prove your age, as venues enforce age restrictions.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, this Groningen pub crawl offers a well-organized, social evening perfect for discovering the city’s bar scene in a fun, relaxed way. Whether you’re traveling alone or with friends, the combination of a quiz, free drinks, and guided access to top venues makes it a smart choice for a memorable night out.

You can check if your dates are available here: