How to Visit Tulip Fields in the Netherlands: A Simple Guide for Staff and Students

17.01.2025

Make the Most of Spring by Visiting the Stunning Tulip Fields in the Netherlands

The Netherlands is world famous for its vibrant tulip fields, particularly during the spring season when they bloom in a stunning display of colour. If you’re planning to visit the tulip fields, here’s a simple guide to help you make the most of your trip.

Best Time to Visit the Tulips

Tulip season in the Netherlands typically runs from mid-April to early May, though the exact timing can vary depending on the weather. For up-to-date flower forecasts, you can check the Tulip Festival Amsterdam website.

Top Locations to See Tulips

Keukenhof Gardens: Located near Lisse, Keukenhof is one of the most famous spots to see tulips in full bloom. It’s open from March 21 to May 12 and offers visitors miles of walking trails and vibrant gardens. Tickets should be booked in advance, especially around busy periods like Easter.

Bollenstreek: Just a short drive from Amsterdam, Bollenstreek is a beautiful area between Lisse, Hillegom, and Noordwijkerhout. It’s home to many of the Netherlands’ famous tulip fields and can be explored easily by car or bike.

Flevoland: If you prefer a quieter experience, head to Flevoland, located about 45 minutes from Amsterdam. It has the largest area of flower farms in the country and is less crowded than other tulip hotspots. It’s perfect for cycling through peaceful fields.

How to Get to the Tulip Fields

Keukenhof: From Amsterdam, you can take the Keukenhof Express Bus to the gardens. Alternatively, drive there (parking costs around €10 per day). The gardens are also easily accessible from Schiphol Airport and cities like Haarlem and Rotterdam.

By Bike: A fun way to explore the tulip fields is by bike. You can rent a bike from Hillegom station and cycle through the fields at your own pace.

Tulip Experiences to Enjoy

Tulip Barn: Visit the Tulip Barn, where you can take photos among 500,000 tulips in a designated selfie garden. The tulips bloom throughout the season, offering different photo opportunities.

Guided Bike Tours: Consider booking a guided bike tour. These tours take you through the flower fields, Keukenhof Castle, and nearby greenhouses, with insights from a local guide.

Flower Parade: If you’re in the Netherlands in April, don't miss the Bloemencorso Bollenstreek flower parade. The parade travels through Noordwijk, Lisse, and Haarlem, showcasing incredible floral floats. You can watch it for free or book a seat in the grandstands.

Tips for a Smooth Visit

To make the most of your tulip visit, it’s best to arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon, particularly on weekdays, as popular spots like Keukenhof can get quite crowded. Be sure to respect the fields, as tulip farmers cultivate the flowers for their bulbs, not for walking through; always stick to designated areas to avoid damaging the crops. Additionally, the weather in spring can be unpredictable, so it's a good idea to bring layers and a waterproof jacket to stay comfortable throughout your visit.