Emmen
Emmen: a city full of nature, culture and conviviality
Emmen, located in southeastern Drenthe about 25 kilometers from Camping De Berken, is a modern city with a rich history and plenty of recreational opportunities. The city is best known for Wildlands Adventure Zoo, an adventurous animal park where you can discover various worlds of nature and culture.
In addition, Emmen is a paradise for shopaholics. The compact and cozy shopping center De Vlinder offers an array of boutiques, stores and restaurants. For culture lovers there are plenty of opportunities: visit the Atlas Theater or discover the prehistoric history in the area, with impressive dolmens and vast moorland landscapes.
History of Emmen
History of Emmen: From Esdorp to Modern City
Emmen began as a small Esdorp in the early Middle Ages, situated on the sand ridges of the Hondsrug. Originally the village revolved around agriculture and animal husbandry, with surrounding peat bogs that were later reclaimed for peat extraction.
In the 19th and 20th centuries, the advent of industry and the reclamation of the peat transformed Emmen into an economic center. With the large-scale urban renewal in the 1950s, Emmen grew into a modern city, with neighborhoods designed according to the garden city ideology.
Tourist activities Emmen
Wildlands Adventure Zoo
A unique combination of zoo and adventure park, where you will meet worldly animals in lifelike habitats such as the jungle, savannah and polar regions. Perfect for a day of exploration and fun! Address: Raadhuisplein 99, Emmen
Shopping center De Weiert
A cozy shopping center in the heart of Emmen, with a diverse range of stores, boutiques and restaurants. Ideal for a day of shopping and enjoying the lively atmosphere. Address: Raadhuisplein 45, Emmen
Veenpark in Barger-Compascuum
An open-air museum that brings to life the history of peat laborers and peat extraction. Discover authentic villages, historic machinery and life in the Drenthe peatlands. Address: Berkenrode 4, Barger-Compascuum
Rensenpark
The former zoo grounds in Emmen have been transformed into a creative city park. A place for relaxation, art, culture and events, right in the middle of the city. Address: Hoofstraat 18, Emmen
Also fun for an evening out:
Kinepolis (cinema). Address: Westeind 70, Emmen
Bike route
Drouwen - Emmen cycle route: 78.4 km.
Turn left at the campsite:
Drouwen - Borger - Exloo - Odoorn - Valthe - Klijndijk - Emmen - Klijndijk - Valthe - Odoorn - Exloo - Borger - Drouwen.
walking route
Roundabout Rietplas Emmen: Start and end, Grijze Kraai 2, Emmen, 9.6 km
Hiking nodes: 15, 19, 02, 82, 75, 78, 15
Shops and market
Shopping center De Weiert in Emmen is the largest indoor shopping center in the Northern Netherlands, located opposite Adventure Zoo Wildlands and the ATLAS Theater on the bustling Raadhuisplein. It offers a diverse range of stores and catering establishments, including fashion stores, drugstores, toy stores and various eateries. For a complete list of the stores present and a map, please visit the official website.
The Butterfly Market in Emmen is an atmospheric combination of flea market and fair that takes place eight times a year on Tuesdays in July and August in downtown Emmen. Visitors can enjoy antique and used items, new items and various activities. The market extends throughout the center, except for the covered area, and offers a varied program for young and old.
Weekly Market: Every Friday the Warenmarkt takes place in the center of Emmen. More than 100 stalls with all kinds of various products are on the Market Square and in the Hoofdstraat. The Warenmarkt is from 08:00 to 14:00 hours. Weekly there are great promotions and offers.
Eating out or taking away
Brownies & downies Emmen offers a unique dining experience where delicious food is combined with social commitment. The lunch café serves freshly prepared dishes in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. What makes it special is that the team consists of employees with intellectual disabilities, who ensure an unforgettable visit with enthusiasm and dedication. Address: Noorderstraat 12, Emmen
World restaurant Puur in Emmen offers an all-in-dining concept where you can enjoy unlimited world dishes for a fixed amount. The restaurant features live and front-cooking stations, where dishes are freshly prepared for you. With a wide selection of international cuisines, including sushi, grills and authentic pizza, there is something for everyone. The kid-friendly facilities, such as a playroom and children's buffet, also make it ideal for families. Visitors appreciate the variety and quality of the food, as well as the cozy atmosphere. Address: Westerstraat 212, 1st floor
The Brasserie in Emmen is a cozy meeting place with an extensive menu and an attractive terrace. It offers delicious dishes, a wide range of drinks (including special beers and whiskeys), and regular live music. The warm ambiance and hospitable service make it an ideal place for lunch, dinner or drinks. Address: Hoofdstraat 53, Emmen
Ristorante Pizzeria Lorenzo in Emmen offers an authentic Italian dining experience with a varied menu of traditional dishes, including pizzas and pastas. Guests appreciate the friendly service and cozy ambiance. The restaurant is conveniently located at Matissepassage 96, near the center of Emmen. For current opening hours and more information, please visit the website. Address: Matissepassage 96, Emmen
