Discover Groningen Airport Eelde: a small, well-organized Dutch airport, perfect for relaxed travel, holidays, and quick European getaways.
A brief introduction to Groningen Airport
Groningen Airport Eelde is located near the village of Eelde, in the province of Drenthe, in the Netherlands. It is very close to the city of Groningen, only about 20 kilometers away. That’s just a short drive, making the airport very easy to reach.
Let me be honest. People often think Groningen is so far away, while at the same time Brussels (with its traffic jams) seems so close. In my opinion, it’s actually not bad at all from the Randstad. It’s a two-hour drive from Amsterdam and two hours and fifteen minutes from Rotterdam.
The airport has been around since 1931 and has grown into an important airport for people living in the northern provinces of the Netherlands: Groningen, Drenthe, and Friesland.
It’s actually quite funny to call it Groningen Airport when it is in fact located in the province of Drenthe.
Although it’s not a large airport like Amsterdam Schiphol, it is a smart choice for travelers looking for a simple, smooth, and stress-free experience. You don’t need to walk kilometers, stand in long lines, or get lost in a massive terminal. Everything is close by, well laid out, and easy to find.
That’s why more and more people from the north of the country choose Groningen Airport for their international travel.
Why choose Groningen Airport
There are many reasons why people enjoy traveling from Groningen Airport. Let’s take a look at a few of the most important advantages:
1. Easy accessibility
First of all, Groningen Airport is very easy to reach. Whether you come by car or by public transport, the airport is well connected. There is clear signage and you never have to worry about getting lost.
2. Relaxed atmosphere
In addition, the atmosphere at Groningen Airport is very calm and friendly. Unlike busy and overcrowded airports, you can take your time, relax, and enjoy the journey here. This is especially nice if you are traveling with children or elderly people.
3. Short waiting times
Because it is a small airport, there are usually short lines at check-in and security. This means you don’t have to arrive hours in advance. You can get from parking to boarding in a very short time.
4. Perfect for holidays
Groningen Airport offers many seasonal flights to popular holiday destinations in Europe. These are sunny spots where you can relax on the beach or discover new cultures. You don’t have to go to Schiphol to fly to the sun – you can simply depart from Groningen.
5. Easy and close parking
There is plenty of parking at the airport, and it is always very close to the terminal. You don’t have to walk far with your suitcases.
Seasonal holiday flights from Groningen
One of the most popular services at Groningen Airport is the seasonal flights to European holiday spots. During the summer and winter travel seasons, airlines and travel companies offer special flights to sunny and exciting places.
For example, in summer, you can fly to places like Spain, Portugal, or Greece. These destinations are perfect for people who want to enjoy the beach, eat delicious food, and relax in the sun.
In the winter, you can also book holiday flights to warmer locations or join a group tour to a winter sun destination. This is a great way to escape the cold Dutch weather for a while.
Since the airport works with both airlines and travel agencies, it’s easy to book a full package holiday that includes your flight, hotel, and sometimes even transportation at your destination. All from your local airport.
This is one of the top reasons why Groningen Airport is a favorite among people planning their vacations.
How to get to Groningen Airport
Getting to Groningen Airport is very simple, and there are several ways to reach it.
By Car
If you are driving, you will find the airport just off the A28 highway. It’s about a 20-minute drive from Groningen City. There are also signs along the way to guide you directly to the airport. So, you don’t need a complicated GPS system – just follow the signs.
Parking at the Airport
When you arrive by car, you will find three main parking areas. These are:
- Short-term parking – This is best for picking up or dropping off passengers.
- Mid-term parking – A great choice for a few days’ stay.
- Long-term parking – Perfect for longer holidays or business trips.
All of these parking areas are only five minutes away from the terminal by foot. They are well-lit, clearly marked, and easy to use. You can book your parking online in advance to make your journey even more comfortable.
By Public Transport
If you prefer to travel by bus, you’re also in luck. The airport is connected to nearby cities like Groningen and Assen by regular bus services. Buses are a cheap, eco-friendly, and reliable way to get to the airport.
The bus stop is located just outside the terminal, so you don’t need to walk far. Traveling by bus is especially convenient if you live in the city or do not want to park your car for several days.
No matter how you choose to travel, getting to Groningen Airport is always easy and quick.
What to expect at the airport
Now that you know how to get there, let’s look at what the airport offers inside the terminal.
Check-in and security
Once you arrive at the airport, you’ll see that everything is well organized. Check-in counters are clearly marked, and friendly staff are there to help you. Security checks are also very efficient, so you can pass through them quickly and safely.
Waiting area
After you go through security, you’ll find a comfortable waiting area with seats, toilets, and a small café. You can grab a snack or drink while you wait for your flight. The atmosphere is peaceful, so you can relax before boarding.
Boarding our flight
Boarding is easy and fast because the airport is not too big. There are usually only a few gates, so you never have to walk far or get confused. Staff will let you know when it’s time to board, and you’ll be in your seat in no time.
This whole process is very different from larger airports, where you often have to rush, wait in long lines, and walk through endless terminals.
Who uses Groningen Airport
You might wonder: who flies from this airport?
Families
Many families love Groningen Airport because it is less stressful. Parents can keep an eye on their children, and there is less walking and waiting.
Seniors
Older travelers also find the airport easy to use. Everything is nearby, and help is available if needed. There are even wheelchairs and assistance services on request.
Business travelers
People who travel for work appreciate the airport’s speed and convenience. They don’t waste time, and they can get to their meetings quickly.
Holidaymakers
And of course, many people use the airport to start their holidays. The seasonal flights are a big advantage for those who want a simple and direct way to fly to sunny destinations.
Fun fact: Groningen Airport is not in Groningen
Even though it’s called Groningen Airport, the airport is actually located in Drenthe, just outside the city of Groningen. This may surprise some travelers. But because it is so close to the city, it still serves the Groningen region very well.
This makes the airport a regional hub for three provinces: Groningen, Drenthe, and Friesland.
What else can you do
Before or after your flight, you might want to explore a bit more. The area around the airport is very green and peaceful, and the nearby village of Eelde has a few nice spots for a walk or a snack.
You can also visit the city of Groningen, which is full of cafés, shops, and museums. It’s a great place to enjoy a day trip before or after your flight.
Final Thoughts: Why Groningen Airport is a smart choice
To sum it up, Groningen Airport Eelde is a great place to fly from if you live in the north of the Netherlands. It may not be large, but it is:
- Convenient
- Easy to reach
- Relaxing
- Friendly
- And perfect for holiday trips
It saves you time and gives you a much better experience than many large airports. So next time you plan a trip, why not start from Groningen Airport?
More travel tips
We hope you enjoyed learning about Groningen Airport. But this is just the beginning. There are many more articles on our website that can help you plan your next trip, learn about hidden travel spots, and get useful tips for easy and fun journeys.
Take a look at our other blog posts and discover:
- More Dutch airports
- Travel advice for families
- Top holiday destinations in Europe
- Packing checklists
- And much more
Start exploring now and make your travel dreams come true, one article at a time.
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