Groningen itself is the capital of the Northern part of the Netherlands and its prestigious university is the second oldest in the country. It boasts the largest teaching hospital in Holland and is a flourishing centre of trade and light industry as well. The historic inner city with its lively cafés, terraces and shops is compact and easy to walk around. The Northern part of the Netherlands has plenty to offer in the way of conference venues.

Extensive conference centres in Leeuwarden with its World Trade Center, Groningen (Martiniplaza - capacity 2000+), Hoogeveen, Assen, Zuidlaren, Emmen, multifunctional convention hotels in Groningen and in the countrysides of Drenthe and Friesland with the Wadden islands, offer ample possibilities. Also various churches and the Holland Casino, including the famous Groninger Museum make eye-catching meeting places. Hotelcapacity in the various cities and on the islands is geared to the conference capacities. 

A thriving commercial centre and respected seat of learning, Groningen is the lively hub of the northern provinces.