Groningen

Groningen is the largest city in the north of the Netherlands, as well as the name of the surrounding province.

South towards Assen
There is a liftershalte, a spot for hitchhiking, at the Emmaviaduct, the road to the A28, 200 meter westwards of Central Station, in the direction of Assen.



West towards Leeuwarden, Heerenveen
The liftershalte is also fine if you are going West.

East towards Germany
Hitching east towards Germany is harder since there's no obvious place to start hitching. The usual hitchhiking spot used to be at the crossing of the Europaweg and the Sontweg (close to Ikea), but the bus stop has been relocated to the middle of the road so people cannot stop on the side anymore. Some people prefer to start hitching already on the other side of the bridge, just after the crossing Europaweg/Damsterdiep. People at these two spots can, however, still drive towards the West or South. The best spot is therefore at the end of the Euvelgunnerweg. It's quite far away, so might not be an option if you don't have a bike or someone to drop you off. Here all cars are going on the motorway eastwards, so all cars would do. Many are not going very far, but the first petrol station is already before the first exit.

''Koen decided to stand at the on-ramp of the N7 at the crossing of the Europaweg and Bergenweg. Cars have some place to stop there and most go towards the east too. He got a ride in 15min.''

Alternatively you can take the train (sometimes without a ticket, as they don't always check) to Nieuweschans and start hitchhiking on the border service station a short walk away. This is a place where you are likely to end up anyway. Just after the border the road splits, and there aren't any service stations for a long time, so this is the last chance to get a good ride. Look on google maps how to reach the service station. There is a bridge going to the other side of the road.

Stranded?!
If you get stuck in Groningen you can stay at the 'Santana' 24-hour bar, but they might get you to buy a drink once in a while. It's right in the centre by the market place (Akerhof 4a). Moreover, Groningen is a vibrant student city and going for a drink might result in a couch or bed for the night. Try your luck.

Other information
(Info as of Jan.2010)
 * Two free internet terminals can be found at the main station.
 * The local banks do free coffee and sometimes cookies.
 * The local 'Lefier' (jobcentre) does free coffee and has jars of chocolates and mints.
 * The local art school has access to a microwave (and internet if you borrow someone's log-in!)

isin: :Category:Groningen

Groningen