One of the most striking railway stations in the Netherlands can be found south of Groningen's old town. Even if you’re not much of a trainspotter, the so-called 'cathedral of the winged wheel' is a national monument and well worth a visit. Despite what's written on the façade, this has been the informal entrance to the city since 1896. Architect Gosschalk used both Renaissance and Gothic elements to create this stunning masterpiece and the main hall with its decorated ceilings, lead windows and iron streetlights feels like a museum dedicated to the heydays of train travel. Today it’s an oasis of peace, but not so long ago it was still a major hub for rail passengers. We especially like the salle des pas perdus, which was designed so that footsteps can't be heard.