A day trip to Emmen
Worthwhile
Are you staying at our holiday park in Westerbork? Then Emmen is just a 25-minute drive away. This makes it perfect for a varied day trip during your stay. This lively town in the southeast of Drenthe offers something for everyone: from spectacular animals in Wildlands to fun shops, cosy terraces and surprising culture.
Three sights
You do not want to miss
The city of Emmen has a modern feel with plenty of space, wide shopping streets and fine catering establishments. We have listed some special opportunities and activities:
- Visit the Raadhuisplein, the heart of the city with play elements, water sprinklers and adjacent restaurants. There are shops on this square, as well as the Atlas Theatre and Wildlands Zoo.
- On Fridays, the centre of Emmen hosts the weekly market. One of the largest in the Northern Netherlands, full of regional products, fabrics, flowers and delicacies.
- The Rensenpark, located where the animal park used to be, is now a creative city park with galleries, studios and a teahouse.
Wildlands Zoo
The zoo of the north of the Netherlands
The big attraction of Emmen is Wildlands Adventure Zoo. This modern zoo is not just a zoo, but a complete experience where you travel through different parts of the world:
- Jungola: walk through a tropical rainforest with monkeys, birds, elephants and even a boat ride.
- Serenga: come face to face with lions, giraffes and rhinos on the vast savannah.
- Nortica: discover polar animals such as polar bears and penguins, and learn more about the ocean through an impressive 4D film.
Tip: Buy your tickets prior to your visit. Tickets are also available at discount prices at Vakantiepark Het Timmerholt.
A trip to Emmen
Just like that
Emmen is about 25 kilometres from Westerbork and is easily accessible by car via the N381 or N374. The drive takes 20 to 25 minutes on average. There are several car parks and car parks in and around the centre, such as at Wildlands, Shopping Centre Willinkplein or Q-Park Centrum.
Do you prefer to travel by public transport? That is also possible. We recommend consulting 9292ov. You can then travel by bus from Westerbork to Beilen, and from Beilen Station by train to Emmen (via Emmen Zuid).
For the sporty holidaymaker, Emmen is also great to do by bike. There is a beautiful rural cycling route via Orvelte, Wezup and Noord-Sleen to Emmen. The distance is about 25 km, with plenty of places to rest or eat something along the way. A fun, active day trip with an extra experience!
