Things To Do
in Aurich
Aurich is a charming East Frisian town set inland from the North Sea coast, known for its well-preserved historic center and riverine surroundings. It serves as a quiet hub for exploring East Frisia’s culture, tea traditions, and flat, bike-friendly landscapes. The town combines traditional timber-framed streets with pleasant parks and easy access to coastal day trips.
Expect a relaxed pace, friendly locals, and a gateway feel to the broader Frisian coast and moorland scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local café in the heart of Aurich, savoring freshly baked pastries and locally brewed coffee. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of the historic center, admiring the beautifully preserved half-timbered houses that date back centuries. Don't forget to visit the St. Lambert's Church, where you can appreciate its impressive architecture and rich history.
Head to the Aurich Castle, where you can explore the museum that showcases the local history and culture. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling traditional East Frisian dishes such as 'Grünkohl' or 'Pinkel'. After lunch, take a walk in the nearby park, where you can relax by the pond or enjoy the vibrant flowers in bloom.
As evening approaches, make your way to a local brewery to taste some refreshing East Frisian beer paired with a hearty dinner. Engage in conversations with locals, who can share fascinating stories about Aurich's history and traditions. End your day with a peaceful evening stroll along the canals, where the sunset casts a magical glow over the water.
Start with a visit to the Aurich Art Gallery, where you can explore contemporary works by local artists and enjoy the rotating exhibitions. Afterward, participate in a guided tour that delves into Aurich's artistic heritage, learning about the influences that shaped the local art scene. Take a moment to relax in the gallery's café, sipping on tea while surrounded by inspiring artwork.
Visit the local theater to catch a rehearsal or a matinee performance, experiencing the vibrant performing arts culture of Aurich. Enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro, where you can relish delicious homemade dishes while discussing the local arts scene. Spend the afternoon visiting small artisan shops, where you can find unique handmade crafts and local souvenirs.
For dinner, choose a cozy restaurant that features live music, providing a lovely backdrop to your meal. After dining, immerse yourself in the local nightlife by visiting a bar where you can mingle with residents and enjoy a taste of local spirits. End the night with a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets, appreciating the artistic installations that light up the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-5 |
| 🚌Public transport day pass | $6-9 |
| 🍷Three-course dinner for two | $40-60 |
| 🩹Basic healthcare visit | $60-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with easy access to nature
- Rich tea culture and regional seafood traditions
- Quiet, authentic East Frisian experience away from crowds
- Smaller nightlife and fewer big-city amenities
- Some services may require travel to larger nearby cities
- Weather can be changeable; pack for rain and sun
- "Guten Tag" - Hello/Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does that cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich hätte gern …" - I would like to have ...
Places to Visit in Aurich
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque hub with colorful timber-framed façades and the Rathaus—great for architectural shots and street life.
Quiet waterways and tree-lined banks offer reflective surfaces and sunset photography opportunities.
Silhouettes of church towers against broad skies provide classic German town photography subjects.
Food in Aurich
Aurich Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh North Sea shrimp served on crusty bread with lemon, herbs, and a light mayo—an East Frisian staple.
Must-Try!
Kale cooked with smoked sausage (Pinkel) and potatoes, a winter classic in the region.
Fresh fish dishes (cod, plaice, etc.) often served with potatoes and dill, reflecting the coast’s influence.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly stalls offering regional produce, cheeses, fish, baked goods, and opportunistic street snacks.
Seasonal stalls along routes near the market offering freshly caught shrimp sandwiches.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and arrivals; punctuality is appreciated in both business and social settings.
A firm handshake and a polite greeting (Guten Tag) are standard; polite small talk is appreciated in social settings.
People in public spaces typically speak in moderate tones and respect personal space.
Tea is a cherished tradition; if hosting or visiting, offering tea is a thoughtful gesture.
Safety
Tipping in Aurich
Ensure a smooth experience
In Germany, tipping around 5-10% in restaurants is common; rounding up the bill is appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted, and cards (debit/credit) are common in shops and restaurants; some small venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with occasional rain; blossoms and fresh greens brighten parks and streets; great for walking tours.
Warm, long days with a refreshing breeze from the coast; ideal for outdoor cafés, biking, and markets.
Cooler temperatures with colorful foliage and harvest markets; quieter streets and comfortable exploring.
Cold, damp conditions with short days; festive markets nearby and cozy indoor venues for warmth.
Aurich at Night
Hiking in Aurich
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hikes through flat moorlands and near the coast; easy accessibility from Aurich.
Protected areas with boardwalks and birdwatching opportunities within a short drive.
Airports
How to reach Aurich by plane.
Major regional airport with convenient connections to many European destinations; about a 1.5–2 hour drive from Aurich.
Large international airport offering extensive routes; roughly a 2–2.5 hour drive to Aurich depending on traffic.
Smaller Dutch airport with some European connections; drive time around 2.5–3 hours with border crossing.
Regional airport nearby serving limited routes; fastest option for some connections, depending on season.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Strong emphasis on family-friendly parks, schools, and safe streets.
Mature community with quiet neighborhoods and accessible services.
Nearby towns and cities provide educational and employment opportunities; local cafes and pubs cater to a younger crowd in the evenings.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Locals support regional clubs and enjoying matches is a common pastime.
Flat terrain and scenic routes make cycling a popular daily activity.
Community groups organize weekend runs and social meetups.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aurich.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in many eateries; look for salads, cheese plates, and seasonal vegetables.