Holiday in Borkum
Island in Germany — tips, highlights & best time to visit 🇩🇪
Country
Germany
Type
Island
Best time to travel
June–September
Budget/day
75–120 €
Getting there from Germany
Borkum is accessible by ferry from Emden (2.5h) or by fast ferry (1h). Flights from Emden are possible.
About Borkum
Borkum is the largest and westernmost of the East Frisian Islands, located about 30 kilometers off the Lower Saxony coast in the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wadden Sea. With an area of 31 square kilometers, 26 kilometers of beach, and the stimulating climate of the open North Sea, Borkum is a state-recognized North Sea spa that has attracted spa guests and those seeking relaxation for over 180 years. The island offers three different types of beaches: The North Beach with its powerful surf is ideal for surfers and wave riders, the South Beach by the Wadden Sea is perfect for families with children, and the nudist beaches provide nature-loving bathing pleasures. The oceanic climate with low pollen levels and iodine-rich aerosols is particularly beneficial for respiratory diseases and allergy sufferers. Three historic lighthouses shape the silhouette of Borkum: The Old Lighthouse from 1576, the Small Lighthouse, and the New Lighthouse offer observation platforms with panoramic views over the island and the sea. The island railway connects the ferry terminal with the town center and is one of the island's landmarks. The North Sea Aquarium, the local museum, and guided mudflat hikes to seal colonies and shell banks bring visitors closer to the Wadden Sea ecosystem. Borkum's car-free character — traffic is limited to bicycles, horse taxis, and the island railway — ensures relaxed deceleration. Fresh North Sea fish, East Frisian tea with Kluntje and cream, and crab sandwiches at the harbor shape the culinary island experience.
Top 5 highlights in Borkum
The places you absolutely must not miss.
Nordbad and Südbad
Borkum offers both the wild North Beach with surf and the calm South Beach for families.
Old Lighthouse
The 45-meter high lighthouse from 1576 is the island's landmark and offers a panoramic view over the entire island.
Gezeitenland
The adventure pool with sauna and wellness uses real North Sea water and is ideal for bad weather days.
Seal Banks
By excursion boat, you can reach the seal colonies off the island and observe the animals up close.
Island Tour
The historic island railway and electric buses cover the entire island – cars are prohibited in the village.
Hotels in Borkum
Vergleiche tausende Hotels, Apartments und Resorts auf Expedia – mit Bestpreis-Garantie, kostenloser Stornierung und Bonuspunkten.
* Weiterleitung zu Expedia.de. Es gelten die dortigen Nutzungsbedingungen.
Pauschalreisen & Rundreisen
Berge & Meer – 170 Tage Cookie
Best time to travel for Borkum
Recommended travel time
June–September
Summer
Mild, 16–21 °C, healing oceanic climate
Winter
Cool, 1–5 °C, stormy but mild
How much does a holiday in Borkum cost?
Average costs per person per day
Budget
45–65 €
Hostel, Street food, Public transport
Mid-range
75–120 €
Hotel, Restaurant, Excursions
Luxury
160–270 €
Boutique hotel, Fine dining
Book a package holiday to Borkum
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Compare package holidays now5 travel tips for Borkum
Insider knowledge that makes your holiday better.
Borkum is car-free in the town center – plan your arrival without a car or park it at the harbor.
The oceanic climate air on Borkum is particularly beneficial for skin problems and allergies.
A trip to the seal banks is an unforgettable experience in calm seas.
The Old Lighthouse is only accessible during guided tours – inquire about the times.
Borkum also offers charm in winter – storm walks and thalassotherapy treatments are particularly popular then.
Food & drink in Borkum
These specialties you must try!
