Things To Do
in Aalsmeer
Aalsmeer is a picturesque town located in the Netherlands, known for its beautiful flower fields and the world's largest flower auction. The town is situated near Amsterdam and is often visited by tourists looking to experience the Dutch flower industry firsthand. Aalsmeer is also famous for its historic buildings, charming canals, and cultural events.
The town has a vibrant community with a strong connection to horticulture and nature.
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please
- "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
- "Tot ziens" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Aalsmeer Flower Auction, where you can experience the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of one of the largest flower markets in the world. Grab a coffee at a nearby café to enjoy the floral vibe.
Head to the historic Aalsmeer City Hall and take a leisurely stroll around its beautiful gardens. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant that serves Dutch specialties.
End your day with a peaceful walk along the Westeinderplassen lake. Consider having dinner at a waterfront restaurant to enjoy the sunset views.
Kick off the day with a cycling tour around the scenic Aalsmeer countryside, filled with canals and flower fields. Stop for a photo op at one of the picturesque windmills.
Visit the nearby Amsterdamse Bos for a relaxing picnic amidst nature. You can enjoy various outdoor activities like rowing or hiking in the park.
Return to Aalsmeer for dinner at a charming local bistro. Indulge in some hearty Dutch dishes, and unwind with a nice dessert.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Aalsmeer is known for its beautiful flower auction, which is the largest in the world, attracting florists and buyers from all over.
- The town has picturesque landscapes, with canals and charming streets, making it appealing for residents and tourists.
- Aalsmeer is well-connected to Amsterdam and other major cities, offering easy access to urban amenities while maintaining a quieter atmosphere.
- There are a variety of recreational activities available, including parks, cycling paths, and water sports due to its proximity to lakes and canals.
- The community is rich in culture and history, with events and festivals that celebrate its heritage.
- The cost of living in Aalsmeer can be high, particularly due to its proximity to Amsterdam.
- It may experience a lack of nightlife options compared to larger cities, which can be a downside for younger residents.
- During peak seasons, the flower auction can lead to increased traffic congestion, affecting daily commutes.
- Housing availability might be limited, leading to challenges in finding suitable accommodation.
- The town may have limited shopping options compared to larger urban centers, requiring residents to travel for certain goods and services.
Best Activities in Aalsmeer
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Experience the vibrant flower industry at the world's largest flower auction, and learn about Aalsmeer's notable horticultural heritage.
Explore Aalsmeer's beautiful lakes and waterways on a boat tour, enjoying the scenic views and tranquil surroundings.
Take a leisurely bike ride through the picturesque flower fields, immersing yourself in the colorful landscapes and fresh countryside air.
Tours
Uncover the best of Aalsmeer with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Aalsmeer
Visit one of these nice places.
This water tower offers panoramic views of Aalsmeer and its surrounding areas, providing excellent photo opportunities.
The Westeinderplassen is a beautiful lake area with several spots offering picturesque views and great opportunities for photography.
The flower auction provides unique photo opportunities with its bustling activity and colorful displays of flowers.
Food in Aalsmeer
Aalsmeer Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Poffertjes are small, fluffy pancakes typically served with powdered sugar and butter. They can be found at the Aalsmeer Flower Auction or local street food stalls.
Must-Try!
Haring, or herring, is a popular local delicacy. It is often served with chopped onions and pickles. Try it at the Aalsmeer Fish Market or seafood restaurants in the area.
Stroopwafels are thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup. They are a sweet treat and can be found at bakeries and local markets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Aalsmeer better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Aalsmeer Flower Auction not only offers a stunning display of flowers but also has delightful food stalls offering local treats such as poffertjes and stroopwafels.
The Aalsmeer Fish Market is a great place to sample haring and other fresh seafood dishes prepared in traditional Dutch styles. It's a must-visit for seafood enthusiasts.
Exploring the streets of Aalsmeer, you will come across various street food stalls offering a variety of local snacks and quick bites, such as bitterballen and kaassoufflés.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Aalsmeer, it's important to respect personal space, so avoid standing too close to others or invading their personal space.
Being on time is considered polite and respectful in Aalsmeer, so make an effort to be punctual for meetings, events, or social gatherings.
When meeting someone in Aalsmeer, it's customary to offer a handshake and maintain eye contact as a sign of respect and courtesy.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Aalsmeer with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Aalsmeer
Ensure a smooth experience
In Aalsmeer, tipping is not compulsory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip in restaurants and cafes. In hotels, leaving a small tip for the housekeeping staff is also appreciated.
Cash is widely accepted in Aalsmeer, especially for small purchases and in traditional markets. However, credit and debit cards are also commonly used, particularly in larger establishments. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular, and most businesses accept major international cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Aalsmeer.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Aalsmeer is in spring, particularly in April and May, when the world-famous flower fields are in full bloom. Visitors can experience the stunning colorful displays of tulips and other flowers at locations such as Keukenhof Gardens and the Aalsmeer Flower Auction.
Summer in Aalsmeer offers pleasant weather and opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling and boating on the nearby lakes. The days are long, and there are various events and festivals to enjoy, including water sports activities and open-air markets.
Autumn brings a change in the landscape as the leaves turn vibrant shades of red and gold. It's a quieter time to visit, perfect for peaceful strolls and enjoying the local cuisine, including freshly harvested seasonal produce.
Winter in Aalsmeer is a cozy time, with traditional Christmas markets and the chance to experience the festive atmosphere. The nearby cities offer ice-skating rinks, holiday decorations, and a variety of indoor cultural events.
Aalsmeer at Night
Hiking in Aalsmeer
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large park near Amsterdam, perfect for hiking, biking, and nature walks. It features numerous trails and beautiful scenery.
A picturesque area with parks and lakes, offering various trails for hiking and walking, as well as opportunities for bird watching.
A green area with walking paths and serene landscapes, ideal for a peaceful hike in nature.
A natural park space with several trails and open fields, great for hiking and enjoying the outdoors.
A small park in the area, offering trails for walking and jogging amongst trees and green spaces.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Aalsmeer through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Aalsmeer by plane.
The main international airport serving Amsterdam and the Netherlands, located approximately 10 km from Aalsmeer.
An international airport located about 25 km from Aalsmeer, serving both Rotterdam and The Hague.
An international airport located around 100 km from Aalsmeer, mainly serving low-cost airlines.
Belgium's largest international airport, located about 150 km from Aalsmeer.
An international airport in Germany, located approximately 170 km from Aalsmeer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, primarily consisting of native Dutch citizens.
A significant group with roots in Suriname, often having Dutch nationality.
A community with a rich cultural heritage, contributing to the diversity of Aalsmeer.
Another important demographic group with a strong presence in the region.
A smaller community reflecting the historical ties between the Netherlands and Indonesia.
Includes residents from various European countries, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the town.
A growing demographic, comprising individuals from various regions seeking refuge in the Netherlands.
The Soul of Aalsmeer
Discover the essence of Aalsmeer through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Aalsmeer, with numerous clubs and a strong community following.
Field hockey has a significant presence in Aalsmeer, with local clubs offering training and competitions for various age groups.
Tennis is widely played in Aalsmeer, with several tennis clubs providing facilities and lessons for players of all levels.
Running is a popular recreational activity in Aalsmeer, with many local events and running clubs promoting fitness and community engagement.
Cycling is a favored pastime in Aalsmeer, supported by numerous cycling paths and community events that encourage outdoor activity.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aalsmeer.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many eateries in Aalsmeer offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, including cafes like De Zoete Inval and restaurants like Flora Boskoop. Additionally, local markets often have stalls offering fresh produce and plant-based products.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can find options at restaurants and cafes in Aalsmeer that cater to dietary needs. It's advisable to inform the staff about the dietary requirements, and they are usually accommodating.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Aalsmeer with these cultural adventures.
