On Sunday 12 October, Groningen will be upside down again. Thousands of runners will run from Haren to the Vismarkt during the 4 Mile of Groningen, and that means: crowds, blocked-off streets and people everywhere with start numbers, sports drinks and adrenaline. Whether you are at the start line yourself or want to cheer along the course: these tips will get you there without detours or traffic jam frustration.
For runners: how to get to the start in Haren
No appetite for parking stress? Nice. Because there are free shuttle buses running between Groningen and Haren, before the start and after the finish. On presentation of your starting ticket, you can board at the Hoofdstation, P3 Bornholmstraat or P R Hoogkerk.
Prefer the train? There are four trains an hour between Groningen and Haren. From the station, you can walk to the start at Kerklaan in a few minutes.
And for cyclists: leave your bike in Haren and pick it up after the finish. Save time and traffic jams.
For spectators: how to navigate smartly through the city
The 4 Mile is one big city party, but traffic thinks differently. Groningen Bereikbaar advises you to walk, cycle or take public transport.
Park your bike for free and safely in the underground parking spaces near the Forum or the Grote Markt. Thanks to the bicycle tunnel and the crossing bridge, you can easily pass or cross the route. Perfect if you want to take in several places along the route.
Road closures (and where you can still get there)
The 4 Mile causes some chaos every year – the fun kind, but still. Road closures and parking bans apply in Haren and Groningen on Saturday 11 and Sunday 12 October. The city centre in particular is largely closed: the Vismarkt is the scene of the finish and only accessible with a visitor’s pass.
Want to soak up the atmosphere? On foot, you can still stroll towards the city centre via Turftorenstraat or Kromme Elleboog.
Public transport: check before leaving
Because of the 4 Mile event, some buses will operate differently than usual. Plan your trip via 9292.nl or check Arriva, NS or Qbuzz for the current timetable.
Tip from us
Park outside the city centre, catch a bus or bike, and just enjoy the energy in the city. The 4 Mile is not just a running race – it’s a complete city takeover.
