Lelystad Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local culture of Lelystad, Netherlands with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Lelystad

Lelystad is a relatively new city located in the province of Flevoland, in the Netherlands. Built on reclaimed land from the IJsselmeer, Lelystad is a city full of modern architecture, cultural landmarks, and unique outdoor experiences. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just want to experience modern Dutch culture, Lelystad is a must-visit destination.

List of Places to Visit in Lelystad

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet: Located in the heart of the city, Batavia Stad is a modern shopping center that features over 100 luxury and fashion brands.

  • Aviodrome: Aviodrome is an aviation museum that showcases the history and development of Dutch aviation. The museum features over 100 aircraft, including rare military planes, and offers interactive exhibits and flight simulator experiences for visitors.

  • Batavia Werf: Batavia Werf is a shipyard that specializes in building replicas of historic Dutch ships. Visitors can explore the shipyard to see the various stages of ship-building, and even participate in workshops to learn about traditional ship-building techniques.

Natural Attractions of Lelystad: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Oostvaardersplassen Nature Reserve: Oostvaardersplassen Nature Reserve is a natural wetland area that is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can take guided tours of the reserve to see wild horses, deer, and other animals in their natural habitats.

  • Lelystad Airport: Lelystad Airport is a popular destination for aviation enthusiasts. The airport features a variety of aviation-related activities, including tours, private plane rentals, and flight training courses.

  • Markermeer Lake: Markermeer Lake is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy sailing, windsurfing, and other activities on the lake, or simply take in the scenic views from the shore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lelystad

Lelystad Hiking Routes

  • Hiking in Oostvaardersplassen: Oostvaardersplassen Nature Reserve has several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the area’s flora and fauna. The trails are easy to follow and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Hiking in Hollandse Hout: Hollandse Hout is a dense forest located just outside of Lelystad. The forest features several hiking trails that offer visitors a chance to see the area’s unique flora and fauna.

Lelystad Biking Routes

  • Biking along the Markermeer: The Markermeer bike route takes visitors on a scenic tour of the lake’s coastline. The route is relatively flat, making it an easy ride for cyclists of all skill levels.

  • Biking through the Oostvaardersplassen: The Oostvaardersplassen bike route takes visitors through the nature reserve, offering stunning views of the area’s wildlife and natural beauty.

Best Things to Do in Lelystad: Activities and Tours

  • Take a boat tour of the Markermeer: Boat tours of the Markermeer are a popular activity for visitors to Lelystad. The tours offer a chance to see the area’s scenic coastline and unique wildlife up close.

  • Explore the Aviodrome Aviation Museum: The Aviodrome Aviation Museum is a must-visit destination for aviation enthusiasts. The museum features a wide variety of aircraft, exhibits, and interactive experiences.

  • Visit Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet for a shopping spree: Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet is a modern shopping center that features over 100 luxury and fashion brands.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lelystad

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Aviodrome Aviation Museum
Day 2 Take a boat tour of the Markermeer
Day 3 Visit Batavia Werf to learn about shipbuilding
Day 4 Take a guided tour of Oostvaardersplassen Nature Reserve
Day 5 Visit the modern architecture in the city center
Day 6 Go shopping at Batavia Stad Fashion Outlet
Day 7 Explore Hollandse Hout forest on foot or by bike

Food and Drink Scene of Lelystad

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poffertjes: Poffertjes are small, fluffy pancakes that are traditionally served with powdered sugar and butter. They are a popular snack and dessert in the Netherlands.

  • Bitterballen: Bitterballen are deep-fried meatballs that are typically served as a bar snack or appetizer. They are often served with mustard for dipping.

Local Beverages

  • Jenever: Jenever is a traditional Dutch liquor that is similar to gin. It is often enjoyed as an after-dinner drink or served as a shot with beer.

  • Heineken: Heineken is one of the most popular beers in the Netherlands, and Lelystad has many pubs and bars where visitors can try it.

Where to Stay in Lelystad: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Apollo Hotel Lelystad City Centre: This modern hotel is located in the heart of the city, offering easy access to the area’s attractions and dining options.

  • Verzetsmuseum Bed & Breakfast: This unique bed and breakfast is located in a historic building that once housed resistance fighters during World War II. The rooms are comfortable and offer a glimpse into the area’s history.

What to Buy in Lelystad: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Cheese: The Netherlands is famous for its cheese, and visitors to Lelystad can sample and purchase a variety of locally-made cheeses.

  • Delftware: Delftware is a type of blue and white pottery that is a traditional Dutch craft. Visitors to Lelystad can purchase Delftware souvenirs to bring home.

Local Culture and Customs of Lelystad

The people of Lelystad are friendly and welcoming to visitors. The local culture is deeply rooted in Dutch traditions, including cycling, water sports, and cheese-making. Visitors are encouraged to try local foods and beverages, and to participate in the area’s cultural events and festivals.

Best Time to Visit Lelystad

The best time to visit Lelystad is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and sunny. The city is bustling with activity during this time, with plenty of outdoor events and festivals to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lelystad

Do:

  • Do try local foods and beverages, such as poffertjes and jenever.

  • Do explore the area’s natural beauty, including Oostvaardersplassen Nature Reserve and the Markermeer.

Don’t:

  • Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, as there is plenty of walking and cycling to be done in Lelystad.

  • Don’t forget to bring appropriate attire for the season, as the weather can be unpredictable in the Netherlands.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lelystad

Lelystad is a safe city with low crime rates. However, visitors should still take standard safety precautions, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Lelystad

The Netherlands has a high standard of healthcare, and Lelystad is no exception. Visitors can rest assured that they will receive quality medical care if needed.

Getting to Lelystad: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Lelystad is easy, with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Lelystad

  • Amsterdam Airport Schiphol: Amsterdam Airport Schiphol is the largest airport in the Netherlands and is located about 60 kilometers from Lelystad.

Bus Stations Near Lelystad

  • Lelystad Centrum: Lelystad Centrum is the main bus station in the city, with connections to several regional and long-distance destinations.

Other Options

  • Train: Lelystad has a train station with connections to several major cities in the Netherlands.

  • Car: Lelystad is easily accessible by car, with several major highways connecting the city to other destinations in the Netherlands and Europe.

How to Get Around in Lelystad

The best way to get around Lelystad is by bike or on foot. There are several bike rental shops in the city, and the area’s flat terrain makes cycling an easy and enjoyable way to explore. Visitors can also take the bus to get to outlying areas of the city.

Where to Go Next from Lelystad: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Amsterdam: Amsterdam is just a short train or car ride away from Lelystad. This vibrant city is full of cultural landmarks, unique attractions, and trendy dining options.

  • Keukenhof: Keukenhof is a world-famous flower garden that is located just 50 kilometers from Lelystad. Visitors can see over 7 million tulips, daffodils, and other flowers in bloom during the spring months.

Conclusion

Lelystad is a truly unique destination that offers visitors a chance to experience modern Dutch culture, natural beauty, and historic landmarks. This comprehensive travel guide has highlighted the best things to do, places to visit, and local culture of Lelystad, making it the perfect resource for anyone planning a trip to this exciting city.

All trains and buses call at Lelystad Centrum, enabling convenient transfers All trains and buses call at Lelystad Centrum, enabling convenient transfers The bike path (right) and the roadway (left) on the Oostvaardersdijk, which separates the Ijsselmeer (left) from the Flevoland (right) The bike path (right) and the roadway (left) on the Oostvaardersdijk, which separates the Ijsselmeer (left) from the Flevoland (right) The wetlands in the Oostvaardersplassen seen from the Oostvaardersdijk, which separates it from the Ijsselmeer The wetlands in the Oostvaardersplassen seen from the Oostvaardersdijk, which separates it from the Ijsselmeer