Things To Do
in Dronten
Dronten is a planned town in Flevoland, built on reclaimed land in the Noordoostpolder. It features a modern, family-friendly layout with green spaces, cycling paths, and water features. The town serves as a gateway to the surrounding polder landscapes and nearby nature reserves like the Oostvaardersplassen and Wolderwijd.
Visitors can expect a peaceful, efficiently organized Dutch town with easy access to larger cities such as Lelystad, Zwolle, and Amsterdam.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day at the historic center of Dronten, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café. After your meal, stroll through the picturesque streets, taking in the beautiful architecture and charming shops. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Dronten Town Hall, an impressive structure with a rich history.
After lunch, head over to the Dronten Museum to delve into the local culture and history. The exhibits provide a fascinating insight into the development of the town and its surroundings. Spend some time relaxing in the nearby park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and perhaps a picnic.
As the sun sets, explore the vibrant dining scene in Dronten, choosing from a variety of restaurants that offer local and international cuisine. Consider trying some traditional Dutch dishes, paired with a refreshing local beer. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the canals, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
Start your day with a visit to the nearby Oostvaardersplassen Nature Reserve, where you can witness a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. Enjoy a guided walking tour, learning about the unique ecosystems and animal species that call this area home. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters.
After your nature walk, have lunch at a scenic spot overlooking the reserve, where you can watch birds and other animals. Spend the afternoon exploring the reserve further by renting a bike or taking a canoe out on the water. The tranquil setting allows for some reflective moments amidst the beauty of nature.
Return to Dronten in the evening and unwind at a cozy pub or eatery, sharing stories of your wildlife adventures. Sample local dishes while enjoying the warm ambiance of the town. As night falls, take a stroll under the stars, appreciating the peacefulness of the surroundings.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 💶Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🚆Public transport monthly pass | $70-100 |
| 🏠1-bedroom apartment (city center) per month | $900-1,200 |
| 💡Utilities (monthly) | $150-250 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Good bike infrastructure and flat terrain for easy exploration
- Close access to diverse nature reserves (Oostvaardersplassen, Horsterwold)
- Small-town nightlife may feel quiet for some travelers
- Limited direct international flight options from Dronten
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much is this?
- "Waar is de dichtstbijzijnde halte?" - Where is the nearest stop?
Places to Visit in Dronten
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, open water with soft morning light ideal for landscape photography.
Misty mornings and straight tree lines create dramatic compositions.
Wetlands with wildlife and expansive skies; best at dawn or dusk.
Modern planned-city architecture and water features for architectural shots.
Long levees and geometric water channels offering reflective vistas.
Cultural venue, weekly markets and events provide lively photo opportunities.
Food in Dronten
Dronten Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty potato mash dish often served with kale or sauerkraut and normally accompanied by smoked sausage.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked beef stew with onions, typically served with mashed potatoes or rice.
Battered and fried fish bites, usually served with garlic sauce and fries.
Raw herring eaten with onions and pickles; a seasonal Dutch treat.
Large Dutch pancakes served with sugar, syrup, or fruit and bacon as desired.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town square offering fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and seasonal snacks; great for sampling local bites in the morning.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Yield to pedestrians; use bike bells and signals at crossings; stay in bike lanes.
A simple hello (hallo/hoi) is common; polite greetings in shops and pubs are appreciated.
Be patient and form orderly queues in public transport, markets, and shops.
Keep noise reasonable, especially in residential areas and public transport.
Safety
Tipping in Dronten
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or 5-10% for good service is common.
Cash is accepted but card and contactless payments are widely used; many places accept iDeal and other online payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures, blooming fields and migrating birds make it ideal for cycling and outdoor photography.
Warm days with long daylight; great for lakeside activities, outdoor cafes, and festivals.
Cooling temperatures and harvest markets; colorful foliage along polder trails.
Cool weather with possible showers; festive lights in town and quiet landscapes—great for moody photography.
Dronten at Night
Hiking in Dronten
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive forested area with varied loops for all levels.
Iconic wetlands offering expansive wildlife viewing and birdwatching opportunities.
Airports
How to reach Dronten by plane.
Major international hub with frequent flights; convenient rail connections to Dronten via Lelystad.
Small regional airport offering domestic and charter flights; easy access to the area.
Regional airport serving several European destinations; longer transfer to Dronten.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Dronten attracts many families due to parks, schools, and a safe, spacious environment.
Some residents commute to Amsterdam or Zwolle for work.
A portion of the population is retired, enjoying the quieter pace.
A small but growing community of international residents seeking a high quality of life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A national pastime with excellent bike paths around Dronten.
Wolderwijd and nearby water bodies provide ideal sailing conditions.
Local clubs and community fields are popular for participation and spectators.
Public and club courts available for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Dronten.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants in Dronten offer vegetarian options; look for vegetarisch on menus or ask for meat-free alternatives.
Many supermarkets carry gluten-free products; tell staff about dietary needs, and check sauces and breads for gluten.