Flevoland / Nederland
Flevoland
Explore Flevoland: The Netherlands’ Newest Province
Flevoland is a unique province in the heart of the Netherlands, renowned as the largest artificial island in the world. Created through ambitious land reclamation projects in the 20th century, Flevoland is a testament to Dutch ingenuity and water management. The province features modern cities like Almere and Lelystad, expansive nature reserves such as the Oostvaardersplassen, and a striking landscape of polders, canals, and windmills. Culturally, Flevoland is dynamic and forward-thinking, with a focus on sustainability and innovation that is reflected in its architecture and community life. The province offers a mix of urban attractions, outdoor adventures, and tranquil rural settings, making it an ideal destination for families, nature lovers, and those interested in Dutch engineering marvels.
Safety
Flevoland is considered very safe for travelers with low crime rates. Standard precautions apply, especially in urban areas and around major transport hubs.
Visas
Flevoland follows the Netherlands’ visa policy. EU/EEA citizens do not need a visa, while others may require a Schengen visa for short stays.
Customs regulations
Locals value punctuality and direct communication. It’s customary to greet with a handshake, and tipping in restaurants (around 5-10%) is appreciated but not mandatory.
Prices
Flevoland is moderately priced compared to larger Dutch cities, with affordable hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Budget travelers can find good deals, especially outside of Almere and Lelystad.
People and nationalities
Flevoland’s population is diverse, with many residents having relocated from other parts of the Netherlands and abroad. The culture is open and welcoming, with a strong sense of community and a pioneering spirit rooted in the province’s recent history.
Weather
Flevoland has a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool, damp winters. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn (May–September), when the weather is most pleasant for outdoor activities. Rain is possible year-round, so packing a light raincoat is recommended.
Health
Medical facilities are modern and widely available in Almere and Lelystad, with pharmacies easily accessible in urban centers.
Food
Flevosap
A regional fruit juice made from apples, pears, and other local fruits grown on Flevoland’s fertile reclaimed land. It's popular as a refreshing non-alcoholic beverage.
Noordoostpolder Aardappelen
Flevoland-grown potatoes from the Noordoostpolder are used in a variety of local dishes, prized for their taste and quality.
Zeedijk Fish
Freshly caught fish, such as eel or perch, served grilled or smoked in local restaurants along the dikes and harbors.
Oostvaardersplassen Game Stew
A hearty stew using game meat sourced from the Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve, often cooked with root vegetables and local herbs.
Polderkoek
A regional cake made with locally grown grains and fruit, enjoyed as a sweet treat with coffee or tea.
Transport
Regional Trains
Frequent train services connect Almere, Lelystad, and other towns to Amsterdam and the rest of the Netherlands.
Bus Network
A comprehensive bus system links cities, villages, and attractions within Flevoland, making public transport a convenient option.
Bicycle Rental
Flevoland is exceptionally bike-friendly, with rental shops in major towns and well-marked cycling routes across the province.
Car Rental
Renting a car offers flexibility to explore remote polders, nature reserves, and the scenic countryside at your own pace.
Regions
Bonaire
Bonaire-Special Municipality
Curacao
Autonomous Constituent
Drenthe
Province
Flevoland
Province
Fryslân
Province
Gelderland
Province
Groningen
Province
Limburg
Province
Noord-Brabant
Province
Noord-Holland
Province
Overijssel
Province
Utrecht
Province
Zeeland
Province
Zuid-Holland
Province
Saba
Saba-Special Municipality
Saint Eustatius
Sint Maarten
Autonomous Constituent
What to visit?
History
The Afsluitdijk is completed, transforming the Zuiderzee into the freshwater IJsselmeer and paving the way for land reclamation projects.
The Noordoostpolder, now part of Flevoland, is officially drained and becomes viable land for agriculture and settlement.
The Eastern Flevoland polder is drained, marking a major step in the creation of Flevoland.
Construction begins on Almere, which would become Flevoland's largest city.
Flevoland is officially established as the twelfth province of the Netherlands.
The Oostvaardersplassen nature reserve is designated, becoming a vital wetland habitat and a major draw for wildlife enthusiasts.
Almere and Lelystad continue rapid urban development, with Flevoland emerging as a hub of innovation and sustainability.
Activities
Explore Oostvaardersplassen
Discover the vast wetlands and spot wild horses, deer, and hundreds of bird species in this renowned nature reserve.
Visit Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet
Enjoy shopping for designer brands at discount prices in Lelystad’s waterside outlet village, styled after the Dutch Golden Age.
Cycle the Polders
Rent a bike and traverse Flevoland’s extensive cycling paths, passing through wind farms, tulip fields, and picturesque dikes.
Tour Batavialand Museum
Learn about Dutch land reclamation, shipbuilding, and maritime history at this interactive museum in Lelystad.
Admire Land Art
Seek out impressive land art installations like 'Exposure' and 'Observatorium' scattered across the province.