For savvy travelers who like architecture and more
Amsterdam is a top Dutch spot, yet savvy travelers are on to a refreshing alternative just 30 minutes away by train. Almere, the Netherlands‘ youngest city, offers a real Dutch experience — with fewer crowds and better prices than the capital.
Almere’s story is uniquely Dutch: a city literally carved from the sea floor. Built on reclaimed land in the 1970s, it has grown into the Netherlands’ eighth-largest city. What makes it extraordinary besides its origins is its evolution into a vibrant, sustainable urban center that perfectly balances modern living with natural beauty.
The city’s proximity to Amsterdam is perhaps its greatest asset for travelers. A direct train connection takes visitors from Amsterdam to Almere in just 28 minutes, making it an ideal alternative base. Hotel rates in Almere are typically much lower than comparable Amsterdam accommodations, while offering modern amenities and more peaceful surroundings.
Almere’s urban planning has created a living laboratory of contemporary architecture. The city center showcases bold, colorful residential blocks that challenge traditional Dutch design while maintaining functionality and livability. The striking Almere Poort district features experimental housing projects that have influenced urban planning across Europe, including the innovative Regenboogbuurt (Rainbow Neighborhood) where houses are painted in vibrant hues that create an almost fairy-tale atmosphere.
The city’s crown jewel is the Kunstlinie Theater, a stunning cultural venue designed by Sanaa architects that seems to float above the landscape with its distinctive glass-and-steel construction. Even for non-theater goers, the building’s exterior and surrounding plaza offer excellent photo opportunities and represent the city’s commitment to integrating high-quality architecture into daily life.
One of Almere’s best aspects is its abundant green space. The city was designed to feature extensive parks, nature reserves, and water features that create a refreshing contrast to the density of older Dutch cities. The Oostvaardersplassen, Europe’s largest man-made nature reserve, lies just outside Almere and offers incredible wildlife viewing. Within the city, Weerwater Lake provides a scenic nexus for recreation and relaxation. You can rent bikes, for an essential Dutch experience, and cycle along the many paths winding through forests, meadows, and along waterways.
Almere’s greatest strength as a destination is its authenticity. Dutch families live, work, and play here; it isn’t a place focused on tourists. The city also serves as an excellent base for exploring the broader region, with easy access to many other cities and attractions.
If you seek to understand the modern Netherlands, avoiding the crowds and costs of traditional tourist destinations, Almere is a perfect solution. It rewards curiosity, offers genuine value, and provides insights into how the Dutch are building their future — one innovative neighborhood at a time.
