Things To Do
in Delfzijl

Small grey shrimp from the Wadden Sea, often served on bread or in salads; available at seafood stalls and many local restaurants.

Must-Try!

Fried fish pieces (kibbeling) and raw herring with onions; common street-food items offered at markets and harbour stands.

A spiced cake typical of the Groningen region, great with coffee and found in bakeries around town.

A deep-fried snack of boiled egg in ragout, coated in breadcrumbs — a regional favourite found in snack bars and cafés.

A weekly market (check local listings for days) along the harbour selling fresh fish, cheese, produce and street snacks like herring stands and fries; ideal for tasting local seafood and meeting residents.

Small stands along the quays where local fishers or traders sell freshly smoked or pickled fish and shrimps — try the shrimps and smoked mackerel.

The Dutch are generally direct and pragmatic in conversation; small talk is polite but straightforwardness is normal and not meant rudely.

Being on time for appointments and tours is expected; if you will be late, let people know.

Respect cycle lanes and give way to cyclists; look both ways for bikes — they have priority in many places.

Keep noise down in residential areas during evenings and Sundays in some neighbourhoods; be mindful of waste separation and recycling rules.

Cool and changeable weather, with increasing daylight and migratory birds arriving — a great time for birdwatching and quieter trails. Bring layers and waterproofs for rainy spells and coastal winds.

Mild to warm temperatures, longer daylight and more boat/ferry services; beaches and island trips are pleasant. Expect more tourists on weekends and bring sun protection and windproof layers for cooler coastal breezes.

Crisp air, migrating birds and dramatic skies make it scenic but cooler and wetter; excellent for photography and quieter hiking. Be prepared for windy, rainy days and check tide schedules if exploring mudflats.

Cold, windy and occasionally icy; the area is quiet and atmospheric with fewer tourists. If canals freeze and conditions are safe, skating may occur locally—but always follow safety advice and local updates.

Trail sections along the Dollard provide easy walks with birding hides and sweeping views over salt marshes—excellent at low and high tide for different scenery.

A variety of paths through reedbeds, lakeshores and dunes with boardwalks and viewpoints—great for wildlife and nature photography; some routes are wheelchair accessible.

Historic countryside and coastal trails that pass small villages, churches and dikes—ideal for longer day hikes combined with cycling options.

Accessible by ferry from nearby Lauwersoog, the island has multiple marked walking trails across dunes and beaches; being car-free it’s perfect for peaceful long walks.

Majority of the population are native Dutch from the Groningen province—families, retirees and workers associated with the port and local industries.

A visible group involved in maritime industries, shipping and harbour services that shape the local culture and economy.

Some residents commute to larger employment and education centres, especially Groningen; students and young professionals may live here for lower housing costs and commute.

There are small communities of immigrants and international workers connected to industry, but the town remains ethnically less diverse than larger Dutch cities.

Both recreational and competitive cycling are widely practiced; the flat terrain and dedicated routes are perfect for riders of all levels.

Local amateur clubs are popular community hubs, and football is widely played and followed.

Given the coastal location, sailing, windsurfing and small-boat activities are common in summer months along the Eems and nearby marinas.

During very cold winters, outdoor skating traditions persist regionally; indoor rinks and local clubs also support skating and ice sports.