Things To Do
in Meppen
Meppen is a historic town in Lower Saxony, Germany, perched along the Ems river and serving as a gateway to the Emsland countryside. It blends medieval charm with riverside scenery, parks, and a compact, walkable town center. The town features a mix of old-town architecture, the castle grounds, and atmospheric markets that showcase regional produce.
As a serene base for exploring northwest Germany, Meppen offers easy access to cycling routes, nature reserves, and nearby Dutch border towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Meppen's historic center, where you can admire the beautiful half-timbered houses and quaint shops. Stop by the St. Vitus Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, to soak in the peaceful atmosphere. Grab a traditional German breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh bread, cheese, and coffee.
After lunch, take a guided walking tour to dive deeper into Meppen's rich history, learning about its significance during the Middle Ages. Visit the local museum, where you can explore exhibits that showcase the town's development over the centuries. Spend some time at the picturesque Ems River, where you can relax by the water or take a paddleboat out for a leisurely ride.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional German restaurant for dinner, indulging in local specialties like schnitzel and sauerkraut. After your meal, take a walk along the river promenade, enjoying the tranquil ambiance and the sound of water gently flowing. Cap off your evening with a drink at a local pub, mingling with friendly locals and soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading to the nearby nature reserve, where lush greenery and diverse wildlife await. Spend the morning hiking along the well-marked trails, immersing yourself in the serene landscape and breathing in fresh air. Be sure to bring your camera, as the views of the surrounding countryside are simply breathtaking.
After a picnic lunch surrounded by nature, continue your exploration by biking along the scenic paths that meander through the forests and fields. Stop at various lookout points to take in the idyllic scenery and perhaps spot some local fauna. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at geocaching, a fun way to explore the area while hunting for hidden treasures.
Return to Meppen in the evening and enjoy a casual dinner at a local bistro, sampling regional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. After dinner, head to the town square where you can catch a live music performance or a local event if available. Wind down with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the charming atmosphere of the town at night.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $2-4 |
| 🚗Short city taxi ride | $8-15 |
| 🏨One night in a mid-range hotel | $70-120 |
| 🛒Groceries for a few days | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with historic charm
- Access to scenic Emsland countryside and cycling routes
- Rich regional cuisine and market culture
- Safe and family-friendly atmosphere
- Limited nightlife and large-city amenities
- Distances to major metropolitan attractions
- Smaller selection of high-end dining options compared with bigger cities
- "Guten Tag" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like ...
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Die Rechnung, bitte." - The check, please.
- "Können Sie mir helfen?" - Can you help me?
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Ich bin Vegetarier" - I am vegetarian
Places to Visit in Meppen
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic church set among charming town lanes and colorful market façades, ideal for architectural and street photography.
Picturesque grounds and a moat offering classic angles for landscape and reflection shots.
Calm waters, riverside paths, and subtle reflections—great for sunset and long-exposure photography.
Food in Meppen
Meppen Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty winter classic of kale cooked with a smoked sausage (Pinkel). Commonly found in regional eateries and market stalls during colder months.
Must-Try!
A comforting potato soup often served with fresh bread, perfect for chilly days and widely available in café menus.
Apple cake with cream, a popular dessert highlighting local apples and home-baked pastries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market near the town center offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, bread, smoked meats, and seasonal specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite 'Guten Tag' or 'Hallo' is standard; locals in the north may also use 'Moin' as a casual greeting.
Punctuality is valued in business and social settings; being on time is appreciated.
Maintain a relaxed and respectful demeanor; direct communication is common and appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Meppen
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% as a tip is customary in restaurants and cafés; always tip in cash if paying by card is preferred.
Cash and cards (EC/kreditkarte) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common, especially in cafés and shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees; great for outdoor walks and early-season markets.
Long daylight hours; ideal for riverside strolls, outdoor seating, and cycling along scenic routes. Possible showers; carry a light layer.
Golden foliage around parks and countryside; perfect for scenic drives or hikes with colorful backdrops.
Cool, sometimes cold days with festive markets in surrounding towns; cozy cafés and hearty dishes are popular.
Meppen at Night
Hiking in Meppen
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive forested area near Meppen with well-marked trails for day hikes and nature walks.
Short, gentle paths through rural landscapes offering photo-worthy views and farm scenery.
Airports
How to reach Meppen by plane.
About 120–150 km from Meppen; accessible by rail and car, with international and domestic flights.
Approximately 170–190 km away; smaller but with regional and some international connections.
A few hours’ drive or train ride away; major international hub for broad connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly families and commuters, with a strong sense of regional identity.
Dutch residents and travelers given Meppen’s proximity to the Netherlands.
Smaller in number, but present in local institutions and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport across the region with local clubs and casual weekend play.
Given the flat landscape, cycling is widespread for commuting and recreation.
A notable sport in local clubs and school programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Meppen.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most eateries offer vegetarian options such as salads, vegetable dishes, and potato-based plates; it’s best to ask for no meat broth or lard and to request vegetarian sauces.