Things To Do
in Emmen
Emmen is a charming town located in the northeastern region of the Netherlands. It is known for its beautiful countryside, including forests, heathlands, and meadows. The town is home to the Wildlands Adventure Zoo, a popular attraction featuring a variety of exotic animals.
Emmen also has a rich cultural scene with museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks to explore.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk in the Emmerdennen forest. Enjoy the serene surroundings and watch for local wildlife.
Have lunch at a nearby café and then visit the Emmen Zoo to explore diverse animal habitats. The zoo has a great selection of tropical species and interactive exhibits.
Dine at a unique restaurant in Emmen, specializing in local cuisine. Consider taking a leisurely stroll around the city center for some evening relaxation.
Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art to see impressive works by local and international artists. Spend some time understanding the exhibits that appeal to you.
Explore the local shops in the city center and take a coffee break at a charming café. Don't miss tasting some traditional Dutch pastries.
Attend a performance at the Theater de Muze to enjoy local talent. After the show, have dinner at a cozy bistro nearby.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Emmen has a rich cultural heritage with various museums and art galleries.
- The city offers a range of recreational activities, including parks and cycling routes.
- Emmen is known for its family-friendly environment and community-focused atmosphere.
- It has a relatively low cost of living compared to larger cities in the Netherlands.
- The region boasts a variety of natural landscapes, including the nearby Drentsche Aa National Park.
- Emmen may lack the vibrant nightlife and entertainment options found in larger cities.
- Job opportunities may be more limited compared to urban centers.
- Public transport options can be less frequent and extensive than in other regions.
- Some may find the city to be less cosmopolitan and diverse.
- Weather can be quite rainy and dull during certain seasons, which may affect outdoor activities.
Best Activities in Emmen
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the Dierenpark Emmen, a large zoo with a variety of animals and attractions.
Visit the Veenpark, an outdoor museum that showcases the history of peat extraction in the region.
Take a nature walk or go for a bike ride in the beautiful Emmerdennen forest area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Emmen with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Emmen
Visit one of these nice places.
A ridge offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a great spot for photography.
A zoo featuring beautiful natural landscapes and exotic animals, offering numerous photo opportunities.
A picturesque village with charming old buildings and beautiful scenery, perfect for capturing the essence of the area.
Food in Emmen
Emmen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Dutch dish made from a combination of potatoes mashed with vegetables like kale, endive, or sauerkraut, often served with a smoked sausage.
Must-Try!
These mini Dutch pancakes, often dusted with powdered sugar and served with butter, are a must-try sweet treat.
A popular Dutch bar snack, these deep-fried crispy meat-based balls are often served with mustard for dipping.
A type of Dutch sausage, usually made of ground pork, that is a staple in many Dutch dishes.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Emmen better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a variety of local street food including herring sandwiches, stroopwafels, and freshly fried fish.
A vibrant market where you can sample traditional Dutch street food like raw herring with onions and pickles, and kibbeling (deep-fried fish nuggets).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Emmen, it's important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others during conversations or interactions.
Punctuality is highly valued in Emmen, so it's important to arrive on time for social and professional engagements.
Greetings in Emmen often involve a handshake and maintaining eye contact. It's important to greet people with respect and courtesy.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Emmen with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Emmen
Ensure a smooth experience
In Emmen, Netherlands, tipping is not obligatory, but it is appreciated for good service. Usually, a tip of 5-10% of the total bill is considered generous in restaurants and cafes.
Payment in Emmen, Netherlands is mainly done using debit or credit cards. Most businesses and restaurants accept major credit cards, and contactless payment methods are also widely used. However, it's always good to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments that may not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Emmen.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring, from March to May, is a great time to visit Emmen when the city comes alive with colorful flowers in bloom and pleasant temperatures ideal for exploring the outdoor attractions.
Summer, from June to August, is the peak tourist season in Emmen with warm weather perfect for outdoor activities, and you can enjoy festivals, outdoor markets, and various cultural events.
Autumn, from September to November, brings beautiful foliage and milder temperatures, making it a peaceful time to visit and enjoy the changing colors of the city and surrounding nature.
Winter, from December to February, may experience colder temperatures and occasional snowfall, offering a serene and festive atmosphere with Christmas markets, ice skating, and indoor cultural offerings.
Emmen at Night
Hiking in Emmen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large nature reserve featuring heathlands, forests, and wetlands. It's perfect for hiking with well-marked trails and diverse wildlife.
This scenic area includes various hiking routes through forests, moors, and heath lands, showcasing the natural beauty of the Drenthe region.
A unique geological formation offering a mix of forests, heaths, and beautiful views. Suitable for both short and long hikes.
Features walking paths through a beautiful garden that showcases modern sculptures, ideal for a relaxing hike.
A forest area near Emmen with marked trails, ideal for a peaceful hike in nature with plenty of flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Emmen through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Emmen by plane.
The main international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 130 km west of Emmen.
An international airport situated about 180 km south of Emmen, offering flights primarily to European destinations.
Located approximately 40 km northwest of Emmen, this airport serves regional and some international flights.
Located roughly 190 km southeast of Emmen, in Germany, serving various European destinations.
An international airport in Germany, approximately 300 km northeast of Emmen, serving a wide range of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Emmen, representing a significant portion of the population.
One of the largest minority groups in Emmen, largely due to immigration in the late 20th century.
A prominent demographic group in Emmen, also stemming from 20th-century immigration.
A notable group in Emmen, reflecting the proximity to the German border.
A growing demographic group due to migration from various Eastern European countries.
A smaller yet significant community, often descending from historical ties between the Netherlands and Indonesia.
A community with roots in Suriname, contributing to the multicultural aspects of Emmen.
Includes various smaller populations from Asia, Africa, and other regions, adding to the diversity of Emmen.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Emmen, with several local clubs and a strong community involvement.
Emmen has a passionate following for ice hockey, particularly due to the presence of the local team, which participates in national competitions.
Field hockey is widely played in Emmen, with numerous local teams and facilities catering to both youth and adults.
Basketball enjoys popularity among the youth in Emmen, with various leagues and recreational teams available.
Volleyball is also popular in Emmen, with multiple clubs and a strong emphasis on youth participation.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Emmen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Emmen offer vegetarian and vegan options, with innovative dishes that celebrate local produce and flavors.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can find gluten-free options in various eateries, particularly those with international cuisine.