Things To Do
in Almere

Almere is a planned city located in the Flevoland province of the Netherlands. It is known for its modern architecture and unique urban design. Almere is one of the fastest-growing cities in the country and offers a mix of residential areas, business districts, and green spaces.

The city's proximity to Amsterdam and beautiful waterfront location make it a popular place to live and visit.

  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Tot ziens" - See you later

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $70 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $35
  • Coffee: $3 - $5
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $50

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Almere's Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Valkenhorst Nature Reserve, where you can spot various bird species. Enjoy the serene walking trails surrounded by lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon at the Weerwater lake, where you can rent a paddle boat or bike along the waterfront. Take a leisurely break at one of the lakeside cafes.

evening
:

Wrap up your day at the Almere City Center, indulging in a delicious meal at a local restaurant. Take a stroll through the shopping streets to soak in the evening ambiance.

day 2
Cultural Day in Almere
morning
:

Visit the Almere Kunstlinie, a hub for contemporary art, to appreciate innovative exhibitions. Engage with local artists and maybe catch a workshop.

afternoon
:

Head to the IMC Weekendschool for a guided tour to understand youth education in the arts. Enjoy lunch in a nearby café that features local dishes.

evening
:

Enjoy a theater performance at the Schouwburg Almere, experiencing the vibrant local culture. End your night with drinks at a cozy bar nearby.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Modern urban planning and architecture
  • Ample green spaces and parks
  • Good public transportation connections to Amsterdam
  • Diverse cultural events and activities
  • Family-friendly environment with schools and amenities
  • Relatively young city with fewer historical attractions
  • Some areas may feel less vibrant than major cities
  • Limited options for nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Rapid growth can lead to infrastructure challenges
  • Weather can be quite variable with rainy days

Best Activities in Almere

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Cycling

Explore the numerous cycling paths and routes in and around Almere, including the scenic Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve.

Watersports

Enjoy activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking on the various lakes and waterways in Almere.

Hiking

Discover the picturesque landscapes and nature trails in Almere, offering opportunities for leisurely walks and more challenging hikes.

Birdwatching

Visit the Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve, known for its diverse bird species and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Tours

Uncover the best of Almere with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Almere

Visit one of these nice places.

Oostvaardersplassen

Nature reserve with diverse wildlife and scenic wetlands, offering excellent photography opportunities.

Museum Waterland

Art museum located in a historic building with picturesque surroundings, ideal for capturing beautiful images.

The Green Cathedral

Artistic installation featuring tall trees arranged in a cathedral-like pattern, providing a unique and photogenic setting.

Food in Almere

Almere, a modern and vibrant city in the Netherlands, offers a diverse culinary scene that encompasses traditional Dutch cuisine along with a wide range of international influences. From local dishes to bustling food markets and charming cafes, Almere has something to tantalize every palate.

Almere Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bitterballen

A quintessential Dutch snack, these deep-fried crispy meatballs are often enjoyed with mustard. You can savor authentic bitterballen at De Beren Almere, a popular local eatery.

Must-Try!

Stroopwafels

These thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup are a delightful treat. Head to the Almere Centrum Market to sample fresh stroopwafels from various vendors.

Pannenkoeken

Dutch-style pancakes, larger and thinner than American pancakes, are a must-try. Visit Restaurant Smullen en Spelen for a delectable selection of sweet and savory pannenkoeken.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Almere better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Almere Centrum Market

This lively market hosts an array of stalls offering fresh produce, local cheeses, stroopwafels, and a variety of street food from around the world. Don’t miss the Surinamese and Indonesian stands for flavorful bites.

Food Truck Festival

During the summer, Almere hosts a food truck festival with a diverse range of cuisines including gourmet burgers, sushi, tacos, and artisanal ice cream. It's a great opportunity to sample a wide selection of street food.

Weather

The climate in this Dutch city is classified as a temperate maritime climate, characterized by relatively mild winters and cool summers. The average temperatures in winter hover around 2 to 5 °C (36 to 41 °F), while summer temperatures typically range from 17 to 22 °C (63 to 72 °F). Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly wetter months during the late summer and early fall. Winds are common due to the city’s proximity to the IJsselmeer, a large lake to the north, which can lead to cooler wind chills in the winter. Overall, the area experiences about 800 to 900 mm (31 to 35 inches) of precipitation annually, contributing to a lush green environment. Cloud cover is frequent, and sunny days can be interspersed with rain, making it essential to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions at any time of year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting and Socializing

In Almere, it is important to greet people with a handshake, especially in business and formal settings. It is also customary to maintain personal space and be mindful of interrupting conversations.

Punctuality

Punctuality is highly valued in Almere, so it is important to be on time for meetings and appointments. Arriving a few minutes early is considered respectful.

Respect for Public Spaces

Almere residents take great pride in their public spaces, so it is important to show respect for the environment by disposing of waste properly and avoiding any form of vandalism.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Almere with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Safety in Almere is generally regarded as being quite good, with a low crime rate compared to many urban areas. The city, which is part of the province of Flevoland, benefits from a strong community focus on safety and community services. Local authorities actively engage in crime prevention and community policing efforts, aiming to maintain and enhance public safety. Residents typically report feeling safe in their neighborhoods, and the presence of community programs contributes to a sense of security. However, like any urban area, there can be isolated incidents of petty crime, such as theft or vandalism, particularly in densely populated or less monitored areas. Emergency services are well-equipped and responsive, with police, fire, and medical services readily available. Various community initiatives and neighborhood watch programs also promote safety awareness among citizens. Overall, Almere presents a friendly environment, where safety and quality of life are prioritized. Integration of technology and community resources helps enhance safety, with measures like surveillance cameras in public areas and measures to prevent youth crime. While no place is entirely without risk, Almere's commitment to safety makes it a welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

Tipping in Almere

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Almere, Netherlands, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. It is common to round up the bill or leave a small tip of 5-10% at restaurants and cafes.

Payment

Payment in Almere, Netherlands is commonly done using debit or credit cards. Cash is also accepted but is less common, especially for larger transactions. Contactless payments are widely accepted in most establishments.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Almere.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring (April - June)

Spring is a great time to visit Almere as the city comes to life with blooming flowers and pleasant weather. You can enjoy outdoor activities and visit the beautiful parks and gardens.

Summer (July - August)

During the summer months, Almere experiences warm and sunny weather, making it an ideal time for outdoor festivals, beach activities, and exploring the city's waterfront.

Autumn (September - November)

Autumn in Almere brings a lovely display of fall colors in the surrounding forests and parks. It's a great time for nature walks and enjoying the crisp, cool weather.

Winter (December - February)

Winter in Almere can be cold, but it also offers the chance to experience festive markets, ice skating, and cozy indoor activities. The city takes on a charming winter atmosphere.

Almere at Night

As the sun sets, a lively and energetic atmosphere comes to life in Almere. This modern city offers a variety of nightlife experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences. The heart of the action is typically found in Almere Stad, where a mix of stylish bars, cozy pubs, and vibrant clubs create a dynamic scene. For those who enjoy dancing, venues like Club Cell and Eindelijk Weer provide a fun and upbeat environment with DJs spinning the latest hits and classic tunes. For a more relaxed evening, there are numerous bars and lounges where you can unwind with a drink. Places like Bar Cafe Cheers and Café Plein offer a laid-back atmosphere that's perfect for casual conversations and socializing with friends. In addition to the bar scene, Almere also boasts several cultural venues that host a variety of performances. The KAF (Kunstlinie Almere Flevoland) is a prominent cultural hub where you can enjoy concerts, theater productions, and other live events. During the warmer months, the city's waterfront areas, such as Almere Haven, become popular spots for evening strolls and al fresco dining. Many restaurants and cafes set up outdoor seating, allowing patrons to savor delicious meals and drinks while enjoying scenic views over the water. With its mix of modern amenities and vibrant venues, the nightlife in Almere offers something for everyone, whether you're looking to dance the night away or enjoy a quiet evening with friends.

Hiking in Almere

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lentevreugd

A beautiful nature reserve featuring various trails through forests and wetlands, ideal for hiking and bird watching.

Almeerderhout

A large park with multiple hiking trails, offering scenic views of the landscape and opportunities to observe local wildlife.

Oostvaardersplassen

A unique nature reserve known for its diverse flora and fauna. It has well-marked trails for hiking and offers picturesque views of the wetlands.

Markermeer

Though primarily a water body, the surrounding areas provide walking paths where you can enjoy hiking along the coast with beautiful views of the lake.

Noorderplassen

This area features walking and hiking paths around several lakes, perfect for a tranquil hike amidst nature.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Almere through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Almere by plane.

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)

The main international airport serving Amsterdam and the Netherlands, located approximately 30 kilometers from Almere.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM)

An international airport serving the metropolitan areas of Rotterdam and The Hague, located about 60 kilometers from Almere.

Eindhoven Airport (EIN)

An international airport located in Eindhoven, approximately 125 kilometers from Almere, serving various European destinations.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

The main international airport serving Brussels, Belgium, located about 150 kilometers from Almere.

Germany's Düsseldorf Airport (DUS)

An international airport located in Düsseldorf, Germany, approximately 175 kilometers from Almere, offering a range of global connections.

Walkability

The city is designed with an emphasis on pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, featuring wide sidewalks, numerous crosswalks, and extensive pathways that encourage walking. It boasts a grid layout that facilitates ease of navigation, making it convenient for residents and visitors alike to traverse the area on foot. Parks and green spaces are integrated throughout the urban landscape, providing pleasant areas for strolls and outdoor activities. Additionally, the presence of designated bike lanes supports non-motorized transport, promoting a healthy lifestyle while contributing to a lower carbon footprint. Public amenities, including shops, schools, and community centers, are often within walking distance, fostering a sense of accessibility and encouraging local engagement. With a focus on sustainability and livability, the city has made strides to ensure that walking is not just practical but also an enjoyable aspect of daily life.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dutch

The majority ethnic group in Almere, consisting of individuals with Dutch ancestry.

Turkish

A significant minority group, many of whom have migrated for work and family reunification.

Moroccan

This group includes individuals and families with Moroccan heritage, often part of the labor migration history.

Surinamese

Residents with roots in Suriname, a former colony, contributing to the multicultural community.

Indonesian

Comprising descendants of Indonesians, some of whom came to the Netherlands during the colonial period.

Polish

A growing group of immigrants from Poland, chiefly attracted by job opportunities.

Other European

Includes various nationalities from other European countries residing in Almere.

African

Includes immigrants from African countries, contributing to the city's diversity.

Asian

Diverse group including individuals from various Asian countries, enriching the cultural landscape.

The Soul of Almere

Discover the essence of Almere through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is one of the most popular sports in Almere, with numerous clubs and a passionate local following.

Field Hockey

Field hockey enjoys a strong presence in Almere, with various clubs and competitive leagues promoting the sport.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played in Almere, featuring several teams and a youth development program.

Volleyball

Volleyball has a solid community in Almere, with many recreational and competitive teams participating in leagues.

Tennis

Tennis is a well-liked sport in Almere, supported by numerous clubs and facilities for players of all levels.

Running

Running is a popular recreational activity in Almere, with scenic routes and organized events for runners.

Traffic

The city features a well-planned road network that accommodates both private vehicles and public transportation. Traffic can be heavy during rush hours, particularly as many residents commute to nearby Amsterdam for work. The layout includes several roundabouts and main thoroughfares, such as the A6 and A27 highways, which facilitate access to surrounding areas. Public transport options, including buses and trains, are also integral to the city's traffic dynamics, providing alternatives to driving. Infrastructure for cycling is well-developed, promoting bike use and helping to alleviate congestion. While the city is generally designed for efficient movement, peak times see increased activity and can lead to slower traffic flow in key areas. Urban development continues to influence traffic patterns as more residential and commercial projects are completed, which can increase local traffic volumes. Overall, Almere's transport system reflects a balance between maintaining smooth traffic flow and addressing the needs of its growing population.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Almere.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Almere boasts numerous eateries catering to vegetarian and vegan preferences. From innovative plant-based dishes at Woodstone Pizza and Wine to vegan-friendly pastries at The Black Cockatoo, there are plentiful options for those seeking meat-free meals.

Gluten-free Dining

Many restaurants and cafes in Almere offer gluten-free alternatives. De Kemphaan, known for its organic fare, provides a variety of gluten-free choices, including soups, sandwiches, and snacks to accommodate gluten-sensitive diners.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Almere with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

Healthcare in the region is well-structured, providing residents with access to a range of medical services. Facilities include general practitioners, specialists, hospitals, and outpatient clinics, ensuring comprehensive care across various health needs. Residents can access preventive care, routine check-ups, and emergency services. The healthcare system is supported by both public and private providers, with health insurance playing a key role in covering costs. Most citizens have mandatory health insurance, which is designed to ensure that they can receive necessary medical care without significant financial burden. In addition to traditional medical services, there are also wellness and preventive health programs aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles among the population. Community health initiatives often focus on chronic disease management, mental health support, and health education to encourage proactive health behaviors. Collaboration among healthcare professionals, social services, and local government enhances the continuity of care, especially for vulnerable populations and those with chronic conditions. As the city continues to grow, healthcare services are adapting to meet the increasing demands of a diverse and expanding population.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2024 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide