10 must-see places in Almere, The Netherlands

Attractions in Almere

1. Architecture in Almere Centrum

Almere Centrum is often described as an “open-air architecture museum,” and it lives up to that reputation. In the city center, you’ll find contemporary architecture by renowned architects such as René van Zuuk, Rem Koolhaas, and Herman Hertzberger. It's no surprise that Almere is internationally recognized for its architecture. Notable landmarks include the round, glass City Hall and the uniquely shaped red Smaragd. The best way to explore these fascinating buildings is on a city walk through the center.

^{Foto: Robin Visser}

2. Oostvaardersplassen

Just outside Almere is Oostvaardersplassen, one of the Netherlands' largest and wildest nature reserves. Covering 5,600 hectares, this area was created after the Flevoland polder was reclaimed between 1950 and 1968. The landscape includes forests, reed fields, grasslands, and lakes, and is home to Heck cattle, Konik horses, and red deer. Wild animals, such as the sea eagle, also make this untamed land their home. You can experience a safari in your own country by walking through the publicly accessible area or taking an eco-car tour with a forest ranger to learn more about the reserve.

^{Foto: Almere City Marketing}

3. Havenkom in Almere Haven

Whether you're in the mood for a romantic dinner or catching up with friends, Havenkom in Almere Haven is the place to be. Almere Haven is the oldest part of Almere and retains a village-like atmosphere. You’ll find a variety of dining options, from French specialties to pancake cafes, and from casual Asian cuisine to formal Michelin-worthy dining.

^{Foto: Maarten Feenstra}

4. Almere Duin  

With its shell paths, wind-swept dune grasses, and beautiful water views, Almere Duin offers that perfect summer vacation vibe. The dune landscape along the IJmeer is worth visiting on its own, but the many dining options here complete the experience. Near Almeerderstrand, you'll find places like Pier 39 and MINT. icecream coffee & sweets, where the beachside terrace rivals those found in the western coastal towns.

^{Foto: Maarten Feenstra}

5. The Green Cathedral (De Groene Kathedraal)

While you won’t find traditional cathedrals in the polders, Almere has a unique one—the Green Cathedral. This gothic-style “cathedral” is made from Italian poplars and was designed by artist Marinus Boezem. In 1987, he planted nearly 180 poplar trees in the shape of the Cathedral of Reims. Walk along concrete paths that represent the ribbed arches of the cathedral as you wander through this unusual structure. Around the tree trunks, you'll notice shell circles, referencing the former Zuiderzee that once covered this area.

^{Foto: Maarten Feenstra}

6. Stadslandgoed de Kemphaan

Stadslandgoed de Kemphaan is Almere’s green oasis, focused on the connection between humans and nature. At Almere Jungle, you can visit exotic plants and animals, while the farm is home to traditional Dutch farm animals. Children will love the climbing course at Fun Forest, and for a peaceful walk or bike ride, the estate is perfect. After an active day, enjoy a warm meal at Restaurant Buitengewoon Lekker or the family-friendly de Kemphaan pancake restaurant. On Saturdays, you can also visit the Organic Farmers' Market between 9:30 AM and 1:00 PM.

^{Foto: Robin Visser}

7. The Esplanade

Looking to unwind by the water? The Esplanade, a modern square by the Weerwater, is the perfect place. Designed by Plein06, it introduces more greenery into the city. You can stroll or bike along the waterfront, listening to the soothing sounds of water lapping against the shore. There are plenty of benches to sit on and enjoy the view. The Esplanade hosts festivals and events, with traces of them disappearing shortly after.

^{Foto: Roxanne Overdijk}

8. Architecture in Rainbow Neighborhood (Regenboogbuurt)

As the name suggests, Rainbow Neighborhood is filled with colorful buildings. But it's not just the colors that make the area special—it's also the diverse shapes of the buildings. From yellow Towerhouses to aquamarine duplex homes, these artistic constructions are a visual delight. The most famous buildings are the “Rode Donders,” three red towers that are visible from the A6. Built between 1994 and 1998, the neighborhood was inspired by Berlin’s Bruno Taut neighborhoods like Onkel Toms Hütte and Hufeisensiedlung Britz. To fully appreciate this unique area, take the city walk.

^{Foto: photonaj/iStock}

9. Oosterwold

Oosterwold is another distinctive neighborhood in Almere. While its architecture isn't the main attraction, the way the area is built and lived in is fascinating. This green district is home to a growing number of homes, with residents choosing where and how to build. At least half of each plot is dedicated to sustainable urban farming, resulting in around 1,800 hectares of farmland within the city. There are many small-scale sustainable initiatives here, including an urban vineyard, an ecological bakery, and a Frietboerderij (fries farm) serving local fries.

^{Foto: Roxanne Overdijk}

10. La Defense

The La Defense building is striking from the outside, but even more so on the inside. The large glass facades are covered with a special film that influences the reflection of daylight, creating colorful, metallic hues. The street-side walls are covered with aluminum panels with a textured relief, which creates a calming effect. La Defense consists of two adjoining buildings surrounding two spacious, colorful courtyards.

^{Foto: Richard Terborg}

Will you be visiting Almere soon to explore its attractions? Check out our blogs, "5 unique green stays in Almere for a nature-filled getaway" and "7x Discover the Most Beautiful Architecture in Almere." For more tips on a weekend getaway to Almere, visit Visit Almere’s website.