A Guide to the Best Tulip Fields in the Netherlands

As a traveler myself, I know that nothing compares to the awe-inspiring sight of tulip fields in full bloom. The vibrant colors and endless rows of flowers stretching as far as the eye can see make for an unforgettable experience. And if you’re planning a trip to the Netherlands, you’re in for a treat because this is the ultimate destination for tulip lovers.

The Netherlands is world-renowned for its tulip fields, with millions of visitors flocking to see the stunning displays each year. From mid-March to mid-May, the country transforms into a floral wonderland, and it’s hard not to be swept away by the sheer beauty of it all.

But with so many tulip fields to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start. That’s why I’ve put together this guide to the best tulip fields in the Netherlands. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s something here for everyone. From the iconic Keukenhof gardens to the lesser-known but equally stunning fields in Flevoland, this guide has got you covered.

🤩 Prefer a private tour? Book a Private Keukenhof Gardens and Tulip fields Tour for an unforgettable experience.

Reasons Why Tulips in the Netherlands is Famous

When it comes to flowers, tulips are undoubtedly one of the most iconic and beloved blooms that delight people worldwide. And while tulips can be found in different parts of the world, there is one place that is particularly famous for its tulips – the Netherlands.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the reasons why tulips in the Netherlands have become so famous.

Firstly, it’s worth noting that tulips have a rich historical and cultural significance in the Netherlands. The flower’s journey to the country began in the 16th century when the botanist Carolus Clusius introduced tulip bulbs from the Ottoman Empire to The Netherlands. Clusius planted these bulbs in the Hortus Botanicus garden in Leiden, and it wasn’t long before tulips started to gain popularity among the Dutch people.

Fast forward a few centuries, and the Netherlands now produces the most significant amount of tulips globally. The perfect climatic and soil conditions of the country make it an ideal place to grow the flowers, and over the years, they’ve become a symbol of Dutch culture and identity.

The popularity of tulips in the Netherlands has also led to numerous events and festivals being organized to celebrate these beautiful blooms. For example, the annual tulip festival, held in April, is one of the largest flower festivals in the world. Visitors come from all over to enjoy the colorful displays of tulips in full bloom.

Another must-visit spot for tulip enthusiasts is the Keukenhof Gardens, where over seven million tulips (and other flowers) are on display every year. This world-renowned garden is located in Lisse and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually.

Aside from being a tourist attraction, tulips have a significant economic impact on the Netherlands. The country’s flourishing flower industry generates millions in revenue every year. Moreover, the tourism industry also benefits greatly from the popularity of tulips, with visitors from all over the world specifically coming to see the beautiful fields of colorful blooms.

Tulips in the Netherlands have become famous due to their historical and cultural significance, perfect soil and climatic conditions, events and festivals, and their economic impact on the country. If you’re ever in the Netherlands, be sure to add a trip to see the beautifully vibrant and iconic fields of tulips to your itinerary!

Where are the best tulip fields in the Netherlands

In the Netherlands, even in the heart of the capital, you can see the best tulip fields in squares and parks. But to enjoy the tulips, you will have to go far away from the center of Amsterdam, except during the Tulip Festival. You will mainly choose between 2 possibilities: visit the very famous Keukenhof park or go to one of the most beautiful tulip fields in the Netherlands.

🤩 Visit the famous Keukenhof Park and book a Keukenhof, Tulip Fields and Delft Day Tour from Amsterdam

Keukenhof Gardens – The Most Famous Dutch Flower Garden

Keukenhof is located in the municipality of Lisse, about 30 kilometers from the capital of the Netherlands. The Keukenhof gardens welcomes more than one million visitors every year. The garden is open to the public only from mid-March to mid-May.

This park, which has been in existence for over a century and is home to over 7 million tulip bulbs, is the largest and most famous flower park globally. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful. If you go to the Netherlands during spring, a visit to Keukenhof is an absolute must. In addition to tulips, you can also see a lot of daffodils, roses, orchids, lilies, and many other flowers.

This park is not just an ample space where many tulips are planted. There, everything is done so that the flowers can bloom in the best conditions. The soil has been entirely developed to meet the tulips’ needs perfectly. Every year, between October and December, the gardeners plant each of the 7 million bulbs by hand, averaging 80,000 bulbs per day.

In the park, you can find four different pavilions. You will have the opportunity to see floral shows created by the country’s leading specialists, where throughout the season, more than 8,000 varieties of tulips and hundreds of types of other flowers are displayed.

In the park, you can also find several fields of tulips, each more colorful and fragrant than the other.

🤩 You can visit this park freely, but if you wish, you can also take a guided tour to learn more about these flowers and be sure not to miss anything.

History of the Gardens

The Keukenhof Gardens were originally established in 1949 as a way to showcase the Netherlands’ rich floral heritage on an international stage. The gardens were built on the grounds of a former kitchen garden, or “keukenhof” in Dutch, which lent its name to the new attraction.

The early years of the gardens showcased a variety of tulip and hyacinth displays, along with other spring flowers. Over time, the gardens expanded to include a wider variety of seasonal flowers, as well as themed gardens that celebrate Dutch culture and history.

Today, the Keukenhof Gardens are widely considered to be the most famous Dutch flower garden, and attract hundreds of thousands of tourists and locals alike each year. Their significance in the Netherlands cannot be overstated — not only do they showcase the country’s passion for all things floral, but they also serve as an important economic driver.

Over the years, the Keukenhof Gardens have been the site of a number of notable events, including flower shows, music festivals, and art installations. These events have helped to cement the gardens’ place as a top tourist destination, and have contributed to their continued popularity.

Within the borders of the Keukenhof Gardens, visitors can explore an array of stunning features and attractions. The Dutch windmill is a particularly iconic sight, offering a glimpse into the rich history of the Netherlands. Meanwhile, themed gardens celebrate everything from Dutch street art to sustainable gardening practices, making for a truly diverse and engaging experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned flower enthusiast or simply looking to soak up some Dutch culture, the Keukenhof Gardens offer something for everyone. So why not step into history and explore their wonders for yourself?

Opening hours and prices of Keukenhof

The park is open daily during the tulip season from 8 am to 7:30 pm. The ticket office closes at 6 pm.

The prices for the visits to the park are as follows:

• 16 € for adults
• 8 € for children from 4 to 11 years old
• The visit is free for children three years old and under
• The guided tour will cost you an additional 5 €, and parking expenses 6 €.

Be careful, though! There are a LOT of people every year who visit Keukenhof! So it’s best to book your tickets as soon as you know the dates of your stay. Availability goes very fast.

Generally, the tulips are at their most beautiful in Keukenhof during April, especially around April 15. Earlier, in the early spring, you can also admire some of the other flower species, but to see most of them at their best, I advise you to make your visit in April or early May.

As I said before, I also recommend you avoid visiting this park in the middle of the day and prefer the morning or the end of the afternoon to be quieter. The light will also be more favorable for taking beautiful pictures.

🤩 If you come to visit Amsterdam in April, I highly recommend going to Keukenhof park! It is unique in the world!

When to Visit Keukenhof Gardens

As with any popular tourist attraction, it’s important to choose the right time to visit in order to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the beauty of the park.

The ideal time to visit Keukenhof Gardens is during the peak tulip season, which typically lasts from the second half of April to the first two weeks of May. This is when the most stunning displays of tulips and other spring flowers are in full bloom, making for an unforgettable experience.

However, it’s crucial to avoid visiting on weekends or public holidays if you can. These are the most crowded times, and you may find yourself struggling to navigate your way through the throngs of tourists. Instead, plan your visit on a weekday if possible.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to arrive at the park early in the morning to beat the crowds. This will give you the best chance to fully enjoy all of the park’s wonders without feeling rushed or crowded.

When you do visit, you’ll be treated to a stunning array of flower displays in all shapes and sizes. The park is home to millions of flower bulbs, most of which are tulips, and the different sections of the park each offer something special.

For example, the outdoor gardens offer a chance to stroll among the flowers and take in the scents and colors of springtime. Meanwhile, the indoor pavilions showcase unique exhibitions and themed displays that celebrate the beauty of different flower species.

Overall, to get the most out of your spring visit to the Keukenhof Gardens, plan to visit during the tulip season, on a weekday, and arrive early in the morning. Doing so will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the flowers, without the crowds or rush.

Netherland tulip fields season

The tulip fields season in the Netherlands is from mid-March to mid-May. If you travel to the Netherlands in spring, you have an excellent chance to see them during this period.

Beyond the possibility of observing them, in my opinion, the experience can be different depending on the period chosen. The best time to see tulip fields in the Netherlands is between mid-April and the end of April. That’s because not all bulbs are planted at the same time. Tulip bulbs planted early in the season will be harvested in early May. On the other hand, some plantings may not yet be in bloom at the very beginning of the season.

By opting for mid-April / end of April, you will be at the peak of the flowering in the Netherlands. Especially around Amsterdam. Moreover, most of the trees have leaves in this period, and the landscapes are stunning, beyond the famous colorful flowers.

So if you have a free hand on the dates of your stay to enjoy the flowering plots, I recommend you plan your trip for the second half of April. It is also an outstanding season to visit Amsterdam, a city close to the places mentioned here.

Of course, the tulip season in the Netherlands can change slightly every year, depending on the weather. Nevertheless, these differences are minimal. By focusing on April, you have a maximum chance to enjoy these beautiful landscapes!

How to get to the tulip fields from Amsterdam 

How to get to the tulip fields from Amsterdam? Two Keukenhof Express bus lines (852 from Amsterdam RAI or 858 from Schiphol airport) take you directly to the Keukenhof park in about half an hour. Remember to buy your ticket on the online store to get a bus + entrance combo price. If you don’t want to visit the park, it’s better to go to Schiphol and take line 361 direction Noordwijk to get to the center of Lisse.

• By train: you can rent bikes in Amsterdam and take the train with them to one of the surrounding cities (Haarlem or Aalsmeer, for example) by paying an additional bike pass of 6,90€ per person. Once you arrive, hop on your bike for at least 20 kilometers to Lisse! Alternatively, take the train to Leiden Centraal and then the 50 bus to Haarlem.

🤩 Prefer a bike tour? Book a Bike Tour of Amsterdam’s Highlights and Hidden Gems!

• The more athletic can choose to cycle the whole way there and back by bike. Count on about thirty kilometers to go, thirty kilometers to return, and possibly a few tens of kilometers of walks on the spot.

• By car: if you come to the Netherlands with your vehicle or decide to rent one in Amsterdam, the access to Lisse is very simple. It takes about half an hour in normal circumstances. You can park in the village, for example, near the town hall or in the Keukenhof parking lot (6€ per day).

Ways to get around

Once there, there are several ways to get around. You can go for a walk along with the fields (for example, this 2-hour itinerary) and a bike ride if you have one or want to rent one at Keukenhof (example of a tour here). Of course, you can go by car on a larger scale to see more of the region – but traffic jams are common on weekends.

Public Transportation Options for Exploring the Fields

The Dutch tulip fields are a must-see for any visitor to the Netherlands, and fortunately, there are many easy ways to get there. Whether you’re in Amsterdam, Rotterdam or Haarlem, you can hop on a train or bus and be in the middle of the colorful blooms in no time.

For those staying in Amsterdam, the train is one of the most convenient options. From Amsterdam Centraal, you can take a train to Haarlem or Leiden, both of which have easy access to the tulip fields. If you’re in the mood for a scenic route, taking the bus from Amsterdam to Keukenhof Gardens is also a good choice.

In Rotterdam, the train is again the preferred method of transportation. You can take a train directly to Leiden, where you can catch a bus or rent a bicycle to explore the tulip fields. If you prefer to drive, car rentals are also available in Rotterdam.

Haarlem is perhaps the most convenient city to access the tulip fields, as it’s only a short distance away. From Haarlem Station, you can take a bus or rent a bicycle to reach the nearby Bollenstreek region, which is famous for its tulip fields.

If you’re feeling adventurous, renting a car or bicycle is also an option. This will give you the freedom to explore the fields at your own pace and take in the stunning scenery. Just be sure to check the public transportation schedules and routes if you’re relying on them to get around.

So there you have it – plenty of public transportation options to get you to the Dutch tulip fields. Whether you’re taking the train, bus, or renting a car or bicycle, don’t miss out on the chance to see these iconic flowers in all their glory.

Exploring the Dutch Tulip Fields

Are you ready for an adventure to remember? Exploring the Dutch tulip fields is an unforgettable experience that should be on every nature lover and flower enthusiast’s bucket list.

From the vibrant colors of the fields to the scent of the flowers in the air, there’s no shortage of sensory delights to enjoy. I’ll take you on a journey through the Netherlands’ most beautiful tulip fields and share tips on how to make the most of your trip. Get ready to be swept away by the beauty of Dutch tulips!

North Holland Route – From Amsterdam to Alkmaar to Volendam and Back Again

Are you planning a trip to the Netherlands and looking for a scenic drive that showcases some of the top tourist attractions along the way? Look no further than the North Holland Route, which takes you from Amsterdam to Alkmaar to Volendam and back again. In this article, I’ll highlight the top sights and experiences to enjoy along this picturesque route.

Starting from Amsterdam, the drive to Alkmaar takes you through the Dutch countryside, passing by fields of vibrant tulips (which are especially beautiful during peak tulip season). Once you arrive in Alkmaar, be sure to visit the famous cheese market, which takes place every Friday morning from April to September. Watch as vendors in traditional dress weigh and barter cheese wheels, and take some time to sample Dutch cheeses like Gouda and Edam.

Next, head to Volendam for a taste of traditional Dutch fishing village life. Take a stroll along the harbor and admire the colorful boats, then head to a local seafood restaurant for a taste of fresh herring or smoked eel. You can also visit a clog-making workshop to learn about the history and craftsmanship of these iconic wooden shoes.

On the return trip to Amsterdam, make a stop at Zaanse Schans to see working windmills and learn about the area’s rich history of chocolate and spice production. Take a tour of a windmill to see how it was used for grinding spices, or visit a chocolate museum to learn about the region’s cacao industry.

The North Holland Route is a perfect day trip from Amsterdam, with plenty of opportunities to experience traditional Dutch culture and enjoy the scenic countryside. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or nature lover, this route has something to offer. So pack up your car (or rent a bike!) and hit the road for a fun and memorable adventure.

Tulip Festival Amsterdam

If you’re only spending a weekend in Amsterdam, enjoying the Tulips without going out of town is entirely possible. Of course, you won’t have the view that the fields in bloom offer, but nothing beats a shot of Amsterdam with tulips and a canal, and Dutch houses in the background. For this, don’t miss the Tulip Festival in Amsterdam!

The Tulip Festival in Amsterdam is an initiative of the Tulip Festival association, whose mantra is “To every citizen his tulip.” The idea is to decorate the streets of Amsterdam with thousands of tulips every spring to remind the city of its special bond with this flower. Thus, 850,000 tulips planted in autumn bloom in spring in many gardens, streets, and buildings of the town: the roof of the science museum NEMO, the forecourt of the Rijksmuseum, canal bridges.

You can find the many points of interest on the official Tulip Festival map.

Flevoland 

If the Netherlands is famous for its tulips, in Flevoland, these flowers are everywhere. 

In the spring, you can walk or cycle along with fields decked out in beautiful colors. Flevoland has the longest tulip route in the Netherlands. In 2009, National Geographic named it one of the most beautiful driving routes globally. However, the best way to discover it is to get on your bike, follow the 100 km marked route, admire the tulips at your leisure, and soak up the colors.

And then there is the Spring Festival in the North-East Polder (Noordoostpolder). From April to May, you can attend the Tulip Festival. Here you can admire 2,000 varieties of this typical Dutch flower in extraordinary gardens and exhibitions. In addition to the main activities, you can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride and stop by one of the short-lived cafés.

If you think that discovering all this splendor is limited to spring, I suppose you might be wrong: many gardens are open all year round. The Kwekerij Joosten nursery, for example, has a 4,000 m² exhibition garden. In Hanneke’s Pluktuin, you can even compose your bouquet.

But that’s not all, because you can enjoy the tulip all year round. Go to Tulpeiland (literally, the tulip island) and relax in the charming village of Zeewolde, on the shores of Lake Wolderwijd. Why such a name when the island is mostly home to orchids? A quick look from the air and you’ll see: the island is shaped like a tulip! Visit the Orchideeën Hoeve, home to exotic flora and fauna and the most extensive butterfly garden in Europe.

Bollenstrek

The Dutch flower fields have been the symbol of the Bollenstreek region for over 400 years. It is also famous for the beautiful Keukenhof gardens and the flower parade.

The old dunes have proven to have precisely the right ingredients to grow the best flower bulbs in the world. The area has become the center of the world trade in flower bulbs. Every spring, millions of visitors come to enjoy the blooming flower fields. Also popular are the world-famous flower park Keukenhof and the annual bloemencorso Bollenstreek.

The most famous bulb flower in the region is the Dutch tulip. But besides the tulip, there are many more flower bulb species grown in the bulb growing region. Daffodils, hyacinths, and summer bulbs like dahlias and callas are produced. The flower fields are mainly located between the charming villages of Hillegom, Noordwijkerhout, and Voorhout. The area is only 30 minutes drive from the city center of Amsterdam, Haarlem, Leiden, and The Hague. 

Every year millions of visitors come to enjoy the flowers of Keukenhof and the surrounding flower fields. The small-scale character of the flower fields in the bulb growing area has an extra attraction. You will soon see several landscape variations on your route on your bike and foot. There are also numerous monuments and points of interest where you can learn about the flower fields’ rich history. The extensive cycling and walking nodes network make it easy to follow a route.

Would you like to relax and enjoy the flowers in the bulb growing area? Enjoying tulip fields in the Netherlands is almost a ritual. Then consider booking a hotel or bed and breakfast. There is a wide range of choices, from luxury hotels to comfortable beds and breakfasts.

For families, there are beautiful vacation parks and campsites. And what about an overnight stay on the beach? There are more than 80 beach houses on the beach every beach season where you can fall asleep with the sunset in the sea. In short, there is a suitable night place for everyone.

More reasons to come to the Bollenstreek:

• The Dutch flower fields are beautiful, but there is much more to discover in the Bollenstreek.

• Dutch beaches and dunes – The beach and dune areas are magical. You imagine yourself in a different world. The healthy sea air and the hilly dune landscape let you discover how beautiful and memorable the Netherlands is.

• Dutch polders and lakes: In the east of the Bollenstreek, you will find the most beautiful polders and lakes in the Netherlands. That’s the region with most of the windmills in the Netherlands. There are many small farms where you can discover typical Dutch products like cheese, milk, and tulips.

• Dutch cities: Around the Bollenstreek, you will find the oldest cities in the Netherlands. You can visit cities like Amsterdam, Haarlem, Leiden, and The Hague within a half-hour drive. But also Delft, Rotterdam, and Utrecht can be seen within an hour.

🤩 Check the best hotels in Amsterdam!

Tulip fields near Amsterdam 

The sensory spectacle of millions of petals – many tulips, but also hyacinths, daffodils, crocuses… – is easy to enjoy from Amsterdam, because one of the key regions of this industry is located around the small town of Lisse, a 30-minute drive from the capital, in the heart of the “Bollenstreek” or “Bulb District.”

Noordoostpolder

Less known than the Bollenstreek region, the fields of the Noordoostpolder are no less spectacular. That’s where most of the tulip farms in the Netherlands are located. With more than 5000 hectares of tulip fields, Flevoland is one of the most spectacular areas in the Netherlands in spring!

Take a train from Amsterdam to Lelystad and cycle the Flevoland Tulip Route to get off the beaten track. This marked route was voted one of the most beautiful driving routes globally by National Geographic in 2009. Along this colorful route, several tulip farms open their doors to tourists, and it is possible to visit some gardens and even pick tulips.

Alkmaar

In the “Kop van Noord,” the northern part of the province of Noord-Holland, north of the city of Alkmaar, is a very flourishing area. This piece of land between the North Sea and the IJssel lake has the largest uninterrupted field of flower bulbs globally and rural landscapes that are particularly typical of the Netherlands. 

South Holland Route – From Rotterdam to Delft, Leiden, The Hague and Back Again

If you’re looking for a scenic drive that takes you through some of the most beautiful tulip fields in the Netherlands, then the South Holland Route is perfect for you! Starting from Rotterdam, this drive will take you on a journey through some of the country’s most charming cities, including Delft, The Hague, and Leiden.

Apart from the colorful blooms of the tulip fields, each city on this route has its own unique character. Rotterdam, for instance, is filled with contemporary architecture and modern art, while Delft is known for its historic monuments and picturesque buildings.

But what makes this route truly special is the stunning view of tulip fields along the way. Imagine driving through breathtaking stretches of blooms in myriad colors – it’s an experience you’ll never forget!

When you get to Delft, make sure to take some time to visit the Delftse Hout woods, which features scenic walking trails that are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Plus, there’s also a petting farm where you can feed and play with some adorable animals.

The Hague is the next city on the list, and it’s home to some of the most famous landmarks in the country. From the impressive Palace Noordeinde to the Peace Palace, there’s plenty to see and marvel at. And don’t forget to check out the miniature town of Madurodam, which is sure to delight both kids and adults alike.

Finally, you’ll reach Leiden, which is renowned for its rich history that dates back to Roman times. The city is also famous for its picturesque canals which make for a truly idyllic scene. Take a stroll alongside the canal or relax in one of the many charming cafes – either way, you’re sure to fall in love with this charming city.

So if you’re in the Netherlands during tulip season and looking for a memorable trip, the South Holland Route is a must-do. From Rotterdam to Delft, Leiden, The Hague, and back again, this route offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

Where to Get Bulbs and How Much They Cost

If you’re looking to get your hands on some tulip bulbs in the Netherlands, there are a variety of options available depending on the time of year and your location.

One thing to keep in mind is the cost considerations. While tulip bulbs can be purchased relatively cheaply in the Netherlands, it’s important to remember that they are often more expensive when purchased outside of the country. Additionally, premium or rare varieties can also be more costly.

One popular option for purchasing tulip bulbs is at the Amsterdam floating flower market. However, it’s worth noting that this market typically sells bulbs after the summer, so it’s not the best place to go if you’re looking to plant bulbs right away. It’s also advisable to avoid purchasing bulbs during the first few months of the year as they are often not of the best quality.

Another option is to visit the Bulb Region near Leiden. This area is known for its vast tulip fields and is home to many bulb farms where visitors can purchase bulbs directly. Prices can vary depending on the farm, but many offer affordable options for those looking to take some bulbs home.

For those who can’t make it to the Bulb Region or Amsterdam floating flower market, Bloemenmarkt Amsterdam is a great alternative for off-season buyers. This market operates year-round and offers a wide variety of bulbs for purchase. However, it’s important to remember that tulip bulbs should ideally be purchased in the fall before the ground freezes for optimal planting conditions.

No matter where or when you choose to purchase tulip bulbs in the Netherlands, it’s worth considering the cost and doing some research beforehand to ensure you get the best deal possible.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Netherlands is home to some of the most beautiful tulip fields in the world. Boasting a rich history and an annual peak season that attracts tourists from all over the globe, the fields of tulips offer a stunning display of color that is sure to leave visitors breathless.

Throughout this article, I’ve covered the popularity of tulips in the Netherlands, the best time to visit the tulip fields, and how to explore them.

If you’re planning to visit the tulip fields, it’s important to keep in mind that public transportation is readily available, and bike rentals are also an excellent option. Additionally, there are several must-see attractions, including the famous Keukenhof Gardens and the annual Tulip Festival.

I hope that this article has provided you with valuable insights into the beauty and wonder of the tulip fields in the Netherlands. If you have any further questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. And, if you’ve had the pleasure of visiting the tulip fields yourself, I’d love to hear about your experiences!

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