A modern Dutch city built in the 1970s, located in Flevoland. Known for its innovative urban planning, green spaces, and distinct districts for various activities.
Almere, the Netherlands' newest city, rises from reclaimed land just east of Amsterdam. This planned urban center showcases innovative architecture, including the colorful houses of Regenboogbuurt and floating homes on the Weerwater lake. Cycle through the Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve, sunbathe on the Almeerder beach, or design your own home in the experimental Oosterwold district. Almere's forward-thinking approach to urban living sets it apart in the Dutch landscape.
Innovative Neighborhoods and Architecture
As you walk through Almere, you'll encounter a variety of architectural styles in its distinctive neighborhoods. In the Regenboogbuurt (Rainbow Neighborhood), yellow curved houses stand next to aquamarine semi-detached homes and bright red residential towers known as the Rode Donders. Visit the De Fantasie area to see the results of a 1982 design competition that encouraged radical architectural ideas.
Water Activities and Beaches
With 47% of its area covered by water and a 42-kilometer coastline, Almere has plenty of options for water enthusiasts. Rent a boat on the Weerwater lake to view the city skyline from a different angle. Try stand-up paddleboarding or canoeing at SEC Almere, windsurfing at Sail Today, or sailing at Haddock Watersport. The Almeerder beach, the widest in the city and the largest catamaran beach in Europe, allows you to relax or learn water sports with Amsterdam's skyline in the distance.
Green Spaces and Nature
Almere has many parks and nature areas throughout the city. The Oostvaardersplassen, part of the Nieuw Land National Park, lies on Almere's doorstep. This vast nature reserve is home to red deer, over 70 bird species, Heck cattle, and Konik horses. Explore the area on foot, by bike, or join guided excursions to spot wildlife.
Experimental Housing Projects
In some areas of Almere, residents design and build their own homes, creating eclectic streetscapes that resemble colorful LEGO towns. The Oosterwold district takes this concept further, allowing inhabitants to self-organize and create their own sustainable communities. These projects often incorporate eco-friendly features like heat pumps, solar cells, and grey water systems.
Getting Around
Almere has six train stations, with direct connections to Amsterdam taking just 20 minutes. Within the city, you'll find an extensive bus network and well-planned cycling infrastructure. The city's layout, with neighborhoods designed around schools, parks, and shopping areas, makes it easy to get around on foot or by bike.
Cultural Scene and Events
The city center, designed by renowned architect Rem Koolhaas, includes a modern cinema and a theater. Every Saturday, you can visit the Organic Farmers' Market. In 2022, Almere hosted the Floriade horticultural expo, which has left a legacy of green innovation in its wake.
International Flavor
Almere's culinary scene reflects its diverse population. Sample a wide range of cuisines, from Italian to Indonesian, Greek to Korean. Active expat communities, such as International Almere, organize events and provide support for newcomers.
A City Built from Scratch
Almere emerged from the Zuiderzee in the 1960s as part of a Dutch land reclamation project. The city's first homes were completed in 1976, and it has since grown to become the Netherlands' eighth-largest city with over 214,000 residents. Almere's rapid development has allowed for experimentation in urban planning and architecture, resulting in a cityscape that continues to evolve.
