Almere, one of the youngest cities in the Netherlands, offers a fantastic blend of modern architecture, nature, and water activities, all without breaking the bank. This city, built on reclaimed land, is a great destination for nature lovers and architecture enthusiasts.

Almere offers plenty of options to explore on a budget, from enjoyable activities to accommodations that will let you happily return home.

Budget-Friendly Things to Do:

1. Explore Oostvaardersplassen

Oostvaardersplassen is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts. This vast nature reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including wild horses and rare birds. Entry is free, and there are several walking and cycling trails to enjoy. Pack a picnic, rent a bike for about €10-€15 per day, and spend the day immersed in nature.

Opening Time: Monday: Closed; Tuesday - Sunday: 10.00 - 17.00.

Address: Kitsweg 1, 8218 AA Lelystad, Netherlands.

2. Visit Almere Jungle

Almere Jungle is not only a zoo but also a care institution and botanical garden, providing a unique experience for visitors. For just around €6 per adult, you can see hundreds of exotic animals and rare plant species. Enjoy a coffee or a light lunch at their Jungle Café while surrounded by greenery​.

Opening Time: Daily: 10.00 - 17.00.

Address: Kemphaanpad 2, 1358 AC Almere, Netherlands.

3. Admire Modern Architecture

A walk around the city center will let you admire the cutting-edge modern architecture that Almere is known for. Take a self-guided city walk, starting from the VVV Almere Tourist Info, where you can grab a free map.

4. Boat or Bike Along the Lakes

Almere is known for its water activities. Rent a paddleboard or kayak for €15-€25 an hour, or go for a relaxing boat ride. If you prefer staying on land, cycling around the city and along its many lakes is a great way to take in the scenery.

Accommodation on a Budget

There are budget-friendly accommodation options in Almere, such as Hotel Finn, where prices start from €75 per night for a double room. Alternatively, Airbnb rentals offer affordable stays for as low as €50 a night​!

Hotel Address: Koopmanstraat 7, 1315 HD Almere, Netherlands.

Food to Try on a Budget

Dutch food is simple, but you’ll find plenty of delicious options in Almere. Try Dutch pancakes, bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs), or the famous stroopwafels. For your budget trip, check out Tante Truus Lunches & Soup, a cozy local café known for its homemade soups and sandwiches. Expect to pay around €10 for a hearty lunch, including a drink​. In the evenings, you can grab a meal at Smullen en Spelen Pancake Restaurant, where you’ll find budget-friendly Dutch classics, with main courses starting at €12-€15.

Tante Truus Lunches & Soup Address: Marktmeesterstraat 141-143, 1315 GD Almere, Netherlands.

Smullen en Spelen Pancake Restaurant Address: Enrico Fermistraat 30, 1341 CB Almere, Netherlands.

For a week in Almere, expect to spend around €450, including accommodation, meals, and activities. A three-day trip, on the other hand, would cost around €150-€200. Almere proves that you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy what it has to offer, with plenty of free and low-cost activities perfect for budget-conscious travelers.