In Aurich, the city’s history and architecture meet a variety of places to visit: the Historical Museum is right in the heart of the old town, the Stiftsmühle windmill shapes the cityscape, and the focus at the ENERGIE ERLEBNIS ZENTRUM Ostfriesland is on energy. If you’re weighing up cultural attractions and activities for your stay, you’ll find ideas here ranging from church architecture to cycling.
Old Town, Museum and Churches
The Historical Museum is housed in the former princely chancery and presents Aurich’s history as a royal residence. In addition to the exhibition, lively guided tours of the city and museum are led by costumed guides known as the Auricher Kulturgesichter. Visitors can also experience an East Frisian tea ceremony at the museum, complete with stories and myths about tea. Check with the operator for current availability of tours and the tea ceremony.
The Lambertikirche also brings together several eras: the Evangelical Lutheran church was rebuilt in 1833–1835 to plans by Aurich master builder Kommerzienrat Conrad Bernhard Meyer, and is Neoclassical in style. The church also houses the late Gothic “Ihlow” altar, an Antwerp altarpiece. The Lukasgilde carved it between 1510 and 1515; in 1529, the altar was brought to Aurich from Ihlow Monastery together with the organ.
Another glimpse of Neoclassicism awaits at the Reformed Church. It was built in 1812–1814 to plans by Aurich architect C. B. Meyer and is the only Neoclassical centralized church in the Weser-Ems region. Its construction dates can be compared with those of the Lambertikirche: both buildings belong to the same architectural period, but were built in different decades.
Mills, Energy and Excursions
Aurich’s Stiftsmühle is a historic windmill and a landmark visible from far away. Visitors can take in views over Aurich from its gallery. The mill is also a distinctive landmark for cyclists: the 32-kilometre Aurich Mill Tour passes right by it and takes in all five of Aurich’s historic mills. Check route conditions before setting out.
Another themed attraction is the ENERGIE ERLEBNIS ZENTRUM Ostfriesland in Aurich. Its interactive permanent exhibition, ENERGIE ZUKUNFT, explores various aspects of energy in a fun and informative way. At the ENERGIE TURM, visitors experience a 360-degree projection about the power of energy. The historic excursion boat MS Stadt Aurich is also based at the Aurich sports and leisure harbour on the Ems-Jade Canal and offers sightseeing trips. Ask the operator about current sailings.
Tannenhausen: Swimming Lake and Early History
In the nearby district of Tannenhausen, outside the central urban area, swimming opportunities meet archaeological history. Visitors can bathe and swim at the lake, with lifeguards from the DLRG ensuring safety. There is also a fenced area with its own entrance set aside for dogs, where owners can relax with their pets. Check local conditions before your visit.
Another point of interest in Tannenhausen is the megalithic tomb: it comprises megalithic burial sites dating back around 5,000 years to the Funnel Beaker culture. These sites were destroyed during Christianisation and the associated construction of churches. In the area around Aurich, swimming and a glimpse into a much older history offer two distinct ways to spend your time.
Nature in the Wider Aurich Destination
The Fehntjer Tief Nature Conservation Station also offers a connection to nature and the cultural landscape within the wider Aurich destination. The station works to preserve the Fehntjer Tief and serves as an outdoor learning centre for environmental education, as well as a place for community events and public outreach. In spring and summer, students and visitors can explore the plants and birdlife of the wet meadows on foot or by bicycle.
The station’s historic surroundings include the listed Gulfhaus, a typical East Frisian farmhouse dating from 1843. This regional setting is distinct from the city experience in Aurich: it adds landscapes and environmental education to the range of options without replacing the impressions of the old town, churches and mills.
Discover more destinations: Hage, Großheide, Osteel, Wiesmoor, Lütetsburg, Ihlow, Norden, Wrisse.
Back to the main travel overview: Aurich.
