Groningen is a compact walk. The Grote Markt at the heart of town anchors the centre, with the 97-metre Martini Tower rising over it — climb it on a clear day. The Groninger Museum on its own little island opposite the central train station is the one essential visit: a wild deconstructivist building by Alessandro Mendini and Coop Himmelb(l)au, housing a strong collection that runs from 17th-century Dutch Masters to contemporary art. For anyone with an interest in maritime history, the Noordelijk Scheepvaartmuseum is worth an hour.