Emmen Centre: the beating heart of Drenthe
The centre of Emmen is located in the heart of Southeast Drenthe. Here, you’ll find the best of both worlds: vibrancy and space to relax. There is a mix of old buildings and modern shops. Whether you come to shop, live, work or relax, it’s all possible in the city centre. With all its lovely shops, cosy cafés, cultural spots and pleasant housing, the centre of Emmen is a place where you quickly feel at home.
Are you out with the family? There’s plenty to do with children for a fun day out!
The centre of Emmen has more to offer than you might think. Come by, look around and discover for yourself why this is the beating heart of Emmen.
Well-known shops, boutiques and markets
In the centre of Emmen, you can shop calmly and comfortably through the streets. There is plenty of space, and it has a pleasant atmosphere without busy crowds. In shopping centre De Weiert, right in the centre, you’ll find well-known shops such as The Sting, Costes, Only, Kruidvat, Vero Moda, Holland & Barrett, Bakker Bart and Primera. On the Marktplein you’ll find HEMA, and on the Noorderplein the MediaMarkt. In the Hoofdstraat you can discover boutiques and pop-up stores.
Every Friday there is a large market on the Marktplein, and in summer there are the Tuesday Vlindermarkten. During Pentecost there is the annual Pinkstermarkt.
After shopping, you can relax on one of the cosy terraces, for example on the Marktplein or in the Rensenpark.
Discover the sights in Emmen
In the centre of Emmen, you’ll find it all: culture, nature and history. You can easily combine a museum visit with a walk in nature, all in a single afternoon.
Wildlands Adventure Zoo Emmen
One of the highlights is Wildlands Adventure Zoo, where you experience a world trip in one day. You walk through the jungles of Jungola and across the savannas of Serenga. Wildlands is great for families and for anyone who loves animals and nature.
Rensenpark: creativity and nature
Close to the centre lies Rensenpark. This is a quiet and green city park on the former zoo grounds. You’ll find art, small studios, cosy coffee spots and regular events.
Atlas Theater and Museum of Contemporary Tibetan Art
For a night out, visit the Atlas Theater on the Raadhuisplein. This theatre offers a wide programme with theatre, music, cabaret and family shows. Nearby is also the Museum of Contemporary Tibetan Art, where you can view colourful and unique art from Tibet.
Living in the centre of Emmen
Living in the centre of Emmen is peaceful, with lots of greenery around you. All amenities are close by, as you can easily walk to a shop, the library or a cosy terrace. In other cities it’s often busy and crowded. In Emmen there is plenty of space, light and peace. You can live in an apartment on the Marktplein or the Raadhuisplein.
There’s something for everyone, from social housing to spacious owner-occupied homes. Everything is within walking distance: supermarket, museums, hospitality, public transport and nature. The centre is also great for families, with primary schools, playgrounds and childcare nearby. You barely need a car here.
Hospitality venues: experience the atmosphere
A visit to the centre of Emmen isn’t complete without a good coffee, lunch or dinner. Luckily, you’ll find many atmospheric hospitality venues here.
A few recommendations:
- De Brasserie – for breakfast, lunch or cake. Local and very cosy.
- Grand Café Plein – perfect for drinks on the terrace overlooking the square.
- De Kamer – the menu changes with the seasons.
- De Zwetser – atmospheric restaurant with terrace and an extensive menu.
Events and seasonal atmosphere
The centre of Emmen is lively and cosy throughout the year. Events are regularly organised for young and old.
Think of the C’est la Vie festival, Gouden Pijl and the Barrel Foodtruck Festival. During these days, there’s music, great food, art and a pleasant atmosphere. You can enjoy time together on the streets or one of the city’s squares. Curious about all upcoming events in Emmen? View the overview on this page. View the overview on this page.
There is also plenty to do during school holidays. There are children’s programmes, markets and food trucks. For families, couples or friends: there’s always something fun to experience. The centre of Emmen is alive in every season.
Parking and accessibility in the centre of Emmen
Easy to reach and plenty of parking. That’s how your visit to Emmen centre starts stress-free.
By car
- Prefer covered parking? Choose the Willinkplein (south side) or Westerstraat (north side) parking garages.
- Prefer free parking? That’s possible at parking area Oost on the Van Schaikweg/Emmalaan. From there, you can walk into the centre within minutes.
By bike or public transport
- Coming by bike? You can park it for free and securely at the Wilhelminastraat bicycle parking—right next to the centre.
- Emmen station is located right next to the centre. Whether you come by train or bus, you’ll be there in a few steps. Easily plan your trip to find the best connections.
Frequently asked questions for your visit to Emmen centre
Where can I park in the centre of Emmen?
Parking in the centre of Emmen is well arranged. You can park in the covered garages at the Willinkplein and Westerstraat. Free parking is available at the Oost parking area on the Van Schaikweg/Emmalaan, within walking distance of the centre. Then check this page.
Which shops are in the centre of Emmen?
You can shop in shopping centre De Weiert, with big names such as The Sting, Costes, Only, Kruidvat, Vero Moda, Holland & Barrett, Bakker Bart and Primera. In the Hoofdstraat you’ll find smaller boutiques and pop-up stores for anyone looking for something special.
What is there to do for families in the centre of Emmen?
One of the most popular activities in Emmen with children is visiting Wildlands Adventure Zoo. There are also frequent children’s activities and family events in the Rensenpark or the Atlas Theater.
What are the opening hours of the shops in the centre of Emmen?
Most shops in the centre of Emmen are open from Monday to Saturday. Thursday is late-night shopping. There are also regular Sunday openings. View the current opening hours here.
