Despite being only two hours by train from Amsterdam, many locals consider Groningen, the Netherlands' northernmost city, to be inconveniently far away.

But this perceived isolation, in a pancake-flat and starkly beautiful landscape, has its perks. By being slightly removed from the non-stop nonsense that unsettles the dense urban conglomeration between Amsterdam, Utrecht and Rotterdam, lonely Groningen has a calm, distinct character of its own, although it's young population gives this once sleepy university town has a brawny start-up culture. Indeed, the city's official slogan says it all: There's nothing above Groningen.

It's the Netherland's cosmopolitan capital of the north. Many students stay in town during the weekends, preferring to party here and liven up the city, rather than trek south to do the washing at mamma's. The gorgeous old town is host to many events and festivals, yet always has plenty of quiet corners to take a break. With more than 300,000 bicycles (in a city of only 190,000 people) this once sleeping university town can be called one of the best cycling cities in the world. For us, Groningen is one of the best kept secrets in the Netherlands. Although this guide may change a thing or two...

We welcome any tips sent to our research and sales team at groningen@inyourpocket.com. Enjoy Groningen.