Emden

Emden is the harbour city on the Dollart bay — Volkswagen plant, the Kunsthalle Emden, and home of Otto Waalkes. The city has been in cultural renaissance for two decades: the Kunsthalle (founded by publisher Henri Nannen), the East Frisian State Museum, and the restored old town around the Ratsdelft with its historical herring fleet are worth a visit. Borkum ferries and global freighters leave Emden harbour. For East Frisian atmosphere, take the Otto-themed shrimp-cutter tour or visit the penguins at the zoo. Mudflat hikes towards the Netherlands start in Greetsiel or Pilsum (with its photogenic lighthouse).