Emden possesses a strong economy with all the benefits of a modern, tourist-friendly destination. With a the Volkswagen plant located here, the town has long been connected with factory production. Aside from this, visitors have many options for recreation. These include the Kunsthalle, or Museum of Modern Art, the Johannes a Lasco Library and the Maybe that explains why Emden has so many different faces. On the one hand a strong economic environment with a flourishing Ostfriesisches Landesmuseum, or East Frisian Regional Museum.

The cuisine in Emden is something of a highlight, and there are many examples of the local cuisine that are sure to tickle your palate – from the waterside, these are largely fish based. Particular local favourites are herring, which can be nicely washed down with a pint of bitter. One particular recommendation for sampling the local fare is Café im Landesmuseum on the Brückstraße; great for whiling away a sunny afternoon with friends.