Things to see and do in Almere
Almere stands out as a city of the future, with a well-planned layout, sustainable housing projects, and a seamless blend of nature and urban life. Its vast network of lakes and canals makes it perfect for water sports, while its modern skyline attracts architecture enthusiasts. The city is also home to some of the largest nature reserves in the country, making it a great destination for outdoor lovers. This is the place for expats to settle who want to avoid the busy streets of Amsterdam and buy a comfortable home for your family, with a garden!
Top 10 things to do and see in Almere
While Almere is not a traditional tourist city like Amsterdam or Utrecht, it has plenty to offer. Whether you love nature, design, or unique experiences, there’s something for everyone.
#1 Almere Centrum
The city center of Almere is a masterpiece of modern architecture. Designed by world-renowned architects, the skyline is filled with striking buildings, innovative shopping areas, and vibrant squares. The station area features futuristic structures like The Wave, the Citadel, and the Silverline. If you love contemporary urban planning, Almere Centrum is a must-see.
#2 Oostvaardersplassen
One of the most breathtaking natural reserves in the Netherlands, Oostvaardersplassen is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. This vast wetland area is home to wild horses, red deer, and one of the largest populations of white-tailed eagles in Europe. Hike through the trails, take a guided safari, or simply enjoy the stunning views.
#3 Almere Haven
Almere’s oldest district, Almere Haven, has a cozy, village-like atmosphere. With charming harborside restaurants, boutique shops, and scenic waterfronts, it’s a great place to unwind. In summer, the area comes to life with festivals and outdoor markets.
#4 Floriade Park
Originally the site of the 2022 Floriade Expo, this green park has been transformed into a sustainable city district. It features futuristic greenhouses, urban gardens, and eco-friendly architecture. A great spot for a leisurely walk while learning about the latest innovations in sustainability.
#5 Almeerderstrand
If you love the beach but don’t want to travel to the coast, Almeerderstrand is the perfect alternative. This city beach on the shores of the IJmeer offers golden sands, beach clubs, and plenty of water sports like kitesurfing and sailing.
#6 Kunstlinie Almere Flevoland (KAF)
Almere’s main cultural venue, KAF, is a hub for theater, music, and exhibitions. The building itself is an architectural landmark, and the program includes everything from contemporary art to major theater productions.
#7 De Nieuwe Bibliotheek
Not just a place for books, Almere’s futuristic library is one of the most beautiful in the Netherlands. With an innovative interior design, workspaces, and a great selection of international books, it’s an inspiring place to visit.
#8 The Almere Jungle
A unique indoor zoo and botanical garden, Almere Jungle is home to rescued exotic animals and tropical plants. It’s a great attraction for families, offering a mix of education and adventure.
#9 Castle Almere (Kasteel Almere)
A fascinating urban ruin, Castle Almere was an ambitious project that was never completed. Today, the abandoned structure serves as a mysterious landmark and a popular spot for urban explorers.
#10 Flevopolder Cycling Routes
Almere is surrounded by some of the best cycling routes in the Netherlands. The Flevopolder offers endless paths through forests, along lakes, and past wind turbines. It’s an ideal way to experience the innovative Dutch approach to land reclamation.
Where to sleep in Almere
Almere offers a variety of accommodations catering to different preferences. The Leonardo Hotel Almere City Center boasts bold, modern architecture and is situated in the heart of the city, close to shops and restaurants. Guests can enjoy amenities like free Wi-Fi, a bar, and a restaurant serving local dishes. PLAZA Premium Almere is a modern city hotel located near the central station, offering air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TVs and private bathrooms. It also features a 24-hour reception and on-site parking. For those seeking luxury, the Van der Valk Hotel Almere provides spacious rooms with modern décor, an indoor swimming pool, a wellness center, and a well-equipped gym. Its location near the A6 motorway offers easy access to Amsterdam and Utrecht.
Food and local specialties
Almere’s food scene reflects its multicultural population, offering a mix of international cuisine and Dutch classics. The city is known for its diverse street food, modern cafés, and lakeside restaurants. Be sure to try Dutch pancakes at a local pannenkoekenhuis or fresh seafood at one of the harborside eateries.
Events and festivals
- Almere Haven Festival (September) – A lively maritime festival featuring boat parades, concerts, and a buzzing food market.
- Libelle Zomerweek (May) – One of the biggest lifestyle fairs in the Netherlands, held at Almere’s beachside location.
- Almere City Run (June) – A popular running event through the city’s modern streets and green spaces.
- Winter Village Almere (December) – A charming Christmas market with ice skating and festive treats.
Living in Almere: Where to buy as an expat
Almere is one of the most affordable cities near Amsterdam, making it an attractive choice for expats. Popular neighborhoods include:
- Almere Poort – A modern, fast-growing district with a beach, new housing, and excellent transport links to Amsterdam.
- Almere Stad – The vibrant city center with high-rise apartments and excellent amenities.
- Almere Buiten – A green, family-friendly area with spacious homes and parks.
A bit of history
Unlike most Dutch cities, Almere has no medieval past it was created from the sea. Built in the 1970s as a solution to overcrowding in Amsterdam, it has since evolved into the Netherlands fastest-growing city. Its name comes from an ancient lake that once existed in the region, and today, Almere is a symbol of Dutch innovation in water management and urban planning.
How to get there from other big cities
Things to do in the area
- Lelystad (20 min) – Visit Batavialand for maritime history and Batavia Stad for designer outlet shopping.
- Naarden (25 min) – Explore a stunning star-shaped fortress town with a rich history.
- Marker Wadden (boat trip) – A newly created island chain in the Markermeer, perfect for nature lovers.