Things To Do
in Emmen

Emmen is a vibrant city located in the northeastern part of the Netherlands, known for its rich history and cultural attractions. The city is surrounded by beautiful nature reserves and parks, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Emmen is home to the famous Wildlands Adventure Zoo, showcasing a variety of wildlife and habitats.

With its charming streets and welcoming atmosphere, Emmen offers visitors a unique blend of urban and natural experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Emmen
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Wildlands Adventure Zoo, where you can explore various themed areas and see exotic animals up close.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, then take a stroll through the Emmen city center, visiting shops and the Emmen Museum to learn about the region's history.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Dutch restaurant and then take a leisurely walk through the nearby park to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a hike at the nearby Dwingelderveld National Park, where you can enjoy stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.

afternoon
:

Return to Emmen for lunch, followed by a visit to the local market to sample Dutch delicacies and buy souvenirs.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife in Emmen by visiting a local bar or music venue for live entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel (per night)$90
🍻Beer$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical attractions.
  • Surrounding natural beauty with parks and reserves.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may be less frequent in rural areas.
  • Weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and autumn.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ja" - Yes
  • "Nee" - No

Places to Visit in Emmen

Visit one of these nice places.

Wildlands Adventure Zoo

Capture stunning shots of wildlife in naturalistic settings, perfect for animal lovers.

Emmen City Center

The picturesque streets and unique architecture provide excellent backdrops for street photography.

Dwingelderveld National Park

A beautiful nature reserve with heathlands and forests, ideal for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Emmen

Emmen offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects both local and international flavors, making it a great destination for food lovers.

Emmen Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stamppot

A traditional Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes and various vegetables, often served with sausage.

Must-Try!

Haring

Raw herring fish, typically eaten with onions and pickles, a true Dutch delicacy.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Emmen Market

A vibrant weekly market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food stalls offering quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Emmen experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters. Average summer temperatures range from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -1°C to 5°C (30°F to 41°F). Rainfall is spread throughout the year, with late spring and autumn being the wettest seasons. Always check the forecast before your visit, as weather can be unpredictable.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Politeness

Dutch people value politeness; greetings and saying 'thank you' are important.

Punctuality

Being on time is expected for social and business meetings.

Direct Communication

The Dutch are known for being direct; it's considered honest rather than rude.

Safety Guide

Safety

Emmen is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, standard safety precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing personal belongings. It is advisable to avoid poorly lit areas at night and to use reputable transportation options.

Tipping in Emmen

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is common.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, and contactless payments are popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather with blooming flowers; perfect for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Warm temperatures; ideal for visiting the zoo and enjoying outdoor festivals.

Autumn

Cooler weather with colorful foliage; great for hiking and nature walks.

Winter

Cold temperatures with possible snow; enjoy winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Emmen at Night

Emmen's nightlife is vibrant, featuring a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city offers a relaxed atmosphere where locals and visitors enjoy socializing. Popular spots include pubs with live music, cocktail bars, and dance clubs that cater to various tastes. Events and festivals often take place, adding to the lively scene.

Hiking in Emmen

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Dwingelderveld National Park

A vast area of heathland and forests with well-marked hiking trails, ideal for nature lovers.

Bargerveen Nature Reserve

Features unique peat bog landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, offering tranquility and scenic views.

Airports

How to reach Emmen by plane.

Groningen Airport Eelde

The nearest airport to Emmen, located about 40 km away, offers regional flights and connections to major Dutch cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Emmen is a walkable city with pedestrian-friendly streets, especially in the city center. Many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance of each other, allowing visitors to explore without needing a vehicle. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are designated pedestrian zones, making it easy to navigate.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Emmen is home to many families, attracted by its parks, schools, and family-friendly activities.

Students

The presence of local educational institutions brings a youth demographic to the city, contributing to its vibrant culture.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Emmen, with local clubs and community engagement in the game.

Speed Skating

The region has a strong tradition in speed skating, with many enthusiasts participating in this winter sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Emmen is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bicycle. Public transportation includes buses that connect the city to nearby towns and cities. Cycling is a popular mode of transport, and there are designated bike lanes throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Emmen.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Many restaurants in Emmen offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, but it's advisable to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, especially in larger restaurants and cafes.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Emmen is robust, with several clinics and hospitals available for residents and visitors. Emergency services are efficient, and pharmacies can be found throughout the city. For non-urgent care, local doctors and specialists are accessible, and many speak English.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide