Historically the Herestraat has always been the main shopping street, but you should also venture to the Zwanestraat and Waagstraat for its unique fashion boutiques. A more recent shopping area is Westerhaven and for those more unusual purchases try the Folkingestraat or the "Oude Kijk in 't Jastraat".

Most shops in the centre are closed on Sunday and Monday morning until midday, except for 9 Sundays in the year. For exact dates, please contact the Groningen Tourist Information Centre.

On the Sunday shopping dates there is always live music or children's entertainment on the Waagplein, next to the Grote Markt square in the city centre.

Local markets
Nearly every day is market day in Groningen! Get a feel for local life with a browse around.

Tuesday, Friday and Saturday: vegetables, fruit, flowers, textiles, fish, and general wares on the Vismarkt and Grote Markt, Groningen's main market square. Flowers and plants on the A-kerkhof (next to the Aa Church).

Wednesday: small biological market on the Vismarkt.

Thursday afternoon: non-food market on the Grote Markt.