The Noordelijk Scheepvaartmuseum is housed in two medieval buildings, depicting the maritime history of Groningen. It offers an impressive chronological overview of a whole fifteen centuries, including models, paintings and even objects from ships. Opened in March 1932, the museum is one of the most-visited in Groningen. Given that the city is in such close proximity to the North Sea, it was a vital part of shipping and trade in its early days.

The collections start with Hanseatic shipping in the Middle Ages and cover shipbuilding in wood and iron, and even virtual Groningen in 1470! You can find a collection of rope pulleys, a smithy’s tools and miniature models of ships (and even one made of Murano glass). Your children will definitely have something to do, with the interactive displays and engines to marvel at on the ground floor. The museum also functions as a research and learning center, with a study room for anyone who wants to seek information on northern maritime history, shipyards and more. You might discover more wonders at the ever-changing temporary exhibits at the museum as well.