Groningen as your race course: Discover the city during the Urban Tail 2026

Groningen is gearing up for one of the most unique and enjoyable sporting events of the year: the Urban Trail 2026. On Sunday, March 22, our beloved Martini city will transform into a giant course where sportsmanship and culture meet. No boring fixed loops through empty streets, but a voyage of discovery straight through the buildings that give Groningen its character, with an absolute starring role for Hotel Prinsenhof. Furthermore, you will run through the Academy Building, the UMCG, and nightclub Palace, to name just a few locations.

An Anniversary to Remember

In 2026, we celebrate the 10th edition of the Urban Trail in Groningen. For this special occasion, a 'best-of' route has been designed featuring various top locations from previous editions:

• Focus on Experience: It's not about the fastest time, but about the unique experience of the city.
• Unique Locations: A chance to take a look inside buildings that are normally closed to the public.
• Anniversary Route: A combination of trusted classics and new, surprising discoveries throughout the city center. For this special edition, an extra distance has also been added for the fanatic runners who want to enjoy the city even longer.

History in the Fast Lane: Hotel Prinsenhof

In our opinion, the absolute highlight this year is the passage through Hotel Prinsenhof. The hotel is a 5-star establishment of absolute top class. The atmosphere of serene tranquility and understated luxury is briefly broken by the rhythmic sound of hundreds of sneakers. Runners will pass through:

• The Courtyard Garden: A beautiful green oasis in the middle of the city center.
• Historic Hallways: Running under impressive chandeliers and along ancient walls. A setting to truly enjoy and perhaps pass through at a slightly slower pace.
• Restaurant Nassau: While guests enjoy their Sunday morning, this beloved restaurant provides a unique backdrop for the runners. Feel free to join us in the evening for a dinner of absolute gastronomic class to recover! 

The Perfect 'Stay' During the Trail Weekend

At Stay in Groningen, we know that a great event depends on having the right place to recharge after the finish. Our hotel partners are located right next to the finish line and all provide a unique experience:

• The Market Hotel: Ultimate luxury on the Grote Markt, just a stone's throw from the finish line on the Vismarkt. Ideal for diving into the sauna after the race or collapsing onto the amazing beds.
• Hotel Schimmelpenninck Huys: For those seeking the authentic Groningen atmosphere. Their extensive breakfast is the perfect fuel for the run or the ideal reward afterward.
• The Happy Traveler: The ideal, informal base for groups of friends who want to head into the city together after receiving their medal to celebrate their achievement or enjoy some shopping!

Make It a Weekend

The Urban Trail forces you to look at your surroundings differently; you'll see details of the City Hall, the Forum, and the University Library. Our tips for a complete weekend:

• Book an Overnight Stay: Turn the run into a full city trip and enjoy the first spring sunshine on the terraces. This is how you truly discover how beautiful this northern student city is.
• Culinary Delights: Reserve a table after the race at Restaurant Nassau or one of our other local hotspots. For the true foodies, we have a guide to the best restaurants in the province! 
• Soak Up Some Culture: Take time for a new exhibition in the Groninger Museum, or various other events and outings to complete your weekend. See our events page.

Whether you are a seasoned runner or participating for the atmosphere: you cannot miss the Urban Trail 2026. Will we see you at the start on the Vismarkt, or afterward in one of our hotels? We are ready to cheer you on!

Curious about the availability of our partner hotels during the Urban Trail weekend? Check our booking page for the best deals in March 2026.