Things to Do in Emden: 11 Highlights That Are Truly Worth Seeing

Top Emden Sights on the Map

On this map we’ve marked our top things to do in Emden so you can get your bearings more easily.

Johannes a Lasco Library

What do you need to know? The Johannes a Lasco Library is the oldest library in East Frisia. Housed within ancient church walls, it holds a large collection of humanities and theology books — and it’s open to the public.

Is it worth it? Absolutely! Old books in an even older building — it doesn’t just sound cool, it looks seriously impressive. There’s an almost Hogwarts-like vibe to the place, and you’ll pick up a thing or two about Emden’s history along the way.

Our tip: You can arrange guided tours of the library upon request, giving you a much deeper look at the building and the man it’s named after.

Ostfriesisches Landesmuseum Emden

What do you need to know? The East Frisian Landesmuseum sits right on the Emder Delft in the old town hall and is one of the most visited attractions in Emden. Across nearly 3,000 square meters of exhibition space, you’ll get a vivid, engaging introduction to East Frisian history and culture.

Is it worth it? Without a doubt! Everything here is genuinely impressive — from the Bernuthsfeld bog body to the large painting gallery and the Emden armory with its 400-year-old swords. In our opinion, it’s the best museum in Emden, and possibly in the entire region.

Our tip: Don’t skip the climb up the town hall tower. From the top you’ll have a fantastic panorama over the Emden inner harbor.

Ratsdelft

What do you need to know? The Ratsdelft is a historic inner harbor right in the heart of Emden. Over 400 years ago, Emden was one of the most important port cities in Germany — more ships were moored in the Delft than the entire British fleet possessed at the time.

Is it worth it? Totally! Far fewer ships are moored here today, but the Ratsdelft hasn’t lost any of its maritime charm. You can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, and many of Emden’s best museums are located right on the Delft.

Museum Lightship Amrumbank

What do you need to know? The museum lightship Amrumbank is a historic vessel that served in the German Bight for 65 years. Today it’s moored on the Emder Delft as a maritime history museum.

Is it worth it? Definitely — especially if you’re into seafaring. The exhibition on the development of radio and maritime navigation technology is really well done, and there’s a lot to learn here.

Our tip: On board there’s a wonderfully cozy, nautical cabin restaurant. And in true East Frisian fashion, you’ll find delicious fish and plenty of tea.

Kunsthalle Emden

What do you need to know? The Kunsthalle Emden is located right next to the train station and is well known across Germany — art lovers from all over the country make the trip to see it.

Is it worth it? The Kunsthalle only opened in 1986, so it has a very modern, minimalist feel — which is actually a perfect match for the exhibitions. You’ll find abstract art from the 20th and 21st centuries here, and it’s easy to see why contemporary art fans are so crazy about this place.

Dat Otto Huus

What do you need to know? Yes, the Otto Huus on the Emder Delft is entirely dedicated to German comedian Otto Waalkes. He’s from Emden, and the city is seriously proud of that.

Is it worth it? The exhibition is packed with photos and memories from Otto’s life, props, awards, and prizes. Even if you don’t run into Otto himself, you’ll definitely meet his Ottifants. There’s even a small movie theater — the Otto Cinema — where sketches are screened. So much Otto!

Neue Kirche Emden

What do you need to know? The Neue Kirche Emden was the first Reformed preaching church in northern Germany — built in 1648, to be precise. It stands in downtown Emden and strongly reminds us of the Noorderkerk in Amsterdam.

Is it worth it? Really impressive, both inside and out — and the acoustics are incredible. One standout feature is a display case inside the church containing the original sermon from the church’s opening, nearly 400 years old. Mind-blowing!

Große Seeschleuse

What do you need to know? The large sea lock (Große Seeschleuse) connects the Emden inner harbor with the outer harbor and the Ems River. Twice a day — at 8 AM and 5 PM — boats are locked through from one harbor to the other.

Is it worth it? For ship enthusiasts and kids alike, it’s a really cool spectacle. Spring and summer are the best times to visit though — in winter things get quieter and the wind blows pretty hard.

Emden City Wall

What do you need to know? The Emden city wall is now a green recreational area that wraps around half the city. Originally built in the early 17th century for defense against enemy troops, it’s a real slice of the city’s history.

Is it worth it? The green spaces are great for walking, cycling, or picnicking on a nice day. In a few spots you can still see the last remaining remnants of the old pentagonal bastion.

Our tip: Two 19th-century windmills stand along the wall — those are worth a look too.

What do you need to know? The maritime museum “Freunde der Seefahrt” (Friends of Seafaring) was founded by a cook and a sailor, originally just to give seafarers a place to meet. It quickly grew into a well-visited museum.

Is it worth it? The place is packed to the rafters — everywhere you look there are photos, shipping company flags, ship models, and artifacts from bygone seafaring days. Super authentic. And best of all, admission is free.

Die Knock

What do you need to know? Die Knock is the southwesternmost tip of the East Frisian region of Krummhörn, where the Ems flows directly into the Emden outer and inner harbor. Fun fact: it was first mentioned in historical records back in 1286.

Is it worth it? It’s about 15 kilometers from Emden, but Die Knock is still one of the most popular spots in the area — and it’s easy to see why. Long dikes, a small sandy beach, and almost complete seclusion make it perfect for a lovely walk with views over the Ems and the Dollart.