East Frisia Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in East Frisia, Germany.


Introduction to East Frisia

Located in Lower Saxony, Central Europe, East Frisia is a hidden gem for travelers seeking authentic and peaceful experiences. East Frisia is a region with vast landscapes of green fields, natural parks, and wetlands, making it an ideal spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The region also has a rich and vibrant culture, with a local dialect and customs that you’ll love exploring.

List of Places to Visit in East Frisia

East Frisia is home to many charming towns and cities that offer a great mix of relaxation and exploration. Here are some of the best places to visit in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

East Frisia has a rich history and cultural heritage that visitors can explore through its museums and historical landmarks. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions in East Frisia:

  • The East Frisian Museum in Emden
  • The Moormuseum in Moordorf
  • The Pilsum Lighthouse in Krummhörn
  • The “Teemuseum” in Norden

Natural Attractions of East Frisia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

East Frisia boasts of a unique ecosystem with rugged moors, shoreline beaches and networks of waterways. Here are some natural attractions that you shouldn’t miss:

  • The Wadden Sea National Park
  • The Otterndorf Elbmarschenhaus (nature center)
  • The Schwimmende Moorhütte in Friedeburg
  • The Greetsieler Grachten in Greetsiel

Hiking/Biking Routes of East Frisia

Hiking and cycling are popular activities in East Frisia, and the area offers plenty of trails for visitors to explore the region’s natural beauty. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes that you can embark on:

  • The Ostfriesland Route
  • The Friesenweg
  • The Ostfrieslandwanderweg
  • The Nordseeküstenradweg

Best Things to Do in East Frisia: Activities and Tours

East Frisia is a great destination that offers visitors a diverse range of activities and tours. Regardless of your travel style, you’re guaranteed to have a blast with these top things to do in East Frisia:

  • Take a boat tour on the East Frisian canals
  • Explore the Wadden Sea and its salt marshes
  • Try surfing in the North Sea
  • Visit the East Frisian islands

Week-Long Itinerary for East Frisia

A week in East Frisia will give you plenty of time to enjoy the region’s stunning scenery, cultural attractions and more. Here is a sample itinerary to make the most of your week in East Frisia:

Day Activity
1 Visit Emden and its museums
2 Explore the Wadden Sea National Park
3 Taste fresh seafood in Greetsiel
4 Bike to Norddeich and take a boat to Norderney Island
5 Hike in the Woldmörsicher Wald
6 Relax at the spa in Bad Zwischenahn
7 Visit the Krummhörn lighthouses and moorlands

Food and Drink Scene of East Frisia

East Frisia is known for its delicious and hearty cuisine that reflects the region’s traditional customs. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages when visiting East Frisia:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Bohnen und Speck (beans and bacon)
  • Grünkohl (kale with sausages)
  • Labskaus (dried beef with mashed potatoes)
  • Ostfriesentee (East Frisian Tea with Kluntjes)

Local Beverages

  • Klosterbitter (Herbal Liqueur)
  • Lüttje Lage (Beer with schnapps)
  • Jever Pils (Beer)
  • Korn (A type of Schnapps)

Where to Stay in East Frisia: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

East Frisia offers various types of accommodation that can suit any traveler’s budget. Here are some great options to stay:

  • Hotel Landhaus Großes Meer
  • Hotel Jeverland
  • Hotel-Pension am Hafen
  • Jugendherberge Aurich

What to Buy in East Frisia: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

East Frisia offers unique souvenirs and local products that you can buy and bring home. Here are some ideas:

  • East Frisian Tea
  • East Frisian Knicklights (wood carvings)
  • Jever beer
  • Friesland cloth

Local Culture and Customs of East Frisia

East Frisia has a rich culture and traditions that you can learn and experience during your visit. Here are some customs that you should know:

  • Tea Time Tradition: East Frisians take their love for tea seriously, and they have specific customs on how to serve and enjoy tea.
  • Plattdeutsch: East Frisia has its own dialect, Plattdeutsch, which is still spoken by locals.
  • Friesland Flag: The West Frisian flag is an important symbol of East Frisia and represents the region’s proud heritage and identity.

Best Time to Visit East Frisia

The best time to visit East Frisia is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are in full swing. The region also has several festivals during this time, such as the Hafentage in Emden and the Brökelser Market in Rastede.

Do’s and Don’ts of East Frisia

Do:

  • Try the East Frisian tea during tea time.
  • Explore the Wadden Sea.
  • Dress for the weather, as it can be windy and rainy.

Don’t:

  • Drink and drive.
  • Litter or pollute the environment.
  • Wear shoes indoors.

Safety and Health

Safety in East Frisia

East Frisia is a safe destination for travelers, and there are no major security concerns. However, visitors should still take precautions, such as locking their valuables in their accommodation and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in East Frisia

East Frisia is a healthy destination, and there are no significant health risks for travelers. Visitors should bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities and stay hydrated during their trip.

Getting to East Frisia: Transportation Options and Logistics

East Frisia is accessible by various modes of transportation, making it easy to get to the area.

Airports Near East Frisia

The nearest airports to East Frisia are:

  • Bremen Airport (BRE)
  • Hamburg Airport (HAM)
  • Hannover Airport (HAJ)

Bus Stations Near East Frisia

  • Emden Bus Station
  • Leer Bus Station
  • Aurich Bus Station

Other Options

  • Trains to Emden, Leer and Aurich
  • Rental cars from major cities nearby

How to Get Around in East Frisia

Public transportation is available in East Frisia through trains and buses. Additionally, visitors can rent bicycles or take a taxi to explore the region.

Where to Go Next from East Frisia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some destinations and excursions to visit after exploring East Frisia:

  • Hamburg, Germany
  • Lübeck, Germany
  • Groningen, Netherlands
  • Bremen, Germany

Conclusion

East Frisia is a hidden gem in Germany that’s waiting for travelers to explore. With its natural beauty, cultural heritage and delicious cuisine, the region offers visitors a unique vacation experience. Whether you enjoy outdoor adventures, cultural excursions, or relaxing vacations, East Frisia has something to offer for everyone.

Fishing port of Neuharlingersiel Fishing port of Neuharlingersiel


    Aurich
    East Frisian Islands
    Emden
    Leer
    Norden Norddeich
    Varel
    Wilhelmshaven