The Netherlands is world-famous for its vibrant tulip fields and breathtaking floral shows. Each spring, vacationers flock to this floral paradise to witness the Keukenhof Gardens, discover the Bollenstreek tulip area, and cycle via countless rows of rainbow-colored tulips.
This information supplies all the pieces it’s essential know about visiting the tulip fields within the Netherlands—from the most effective places and bloom seasons to insider suggestions on avoiding crowds and getting that good Instagram shot!
The Netherlands is a small nation in Western Europe famend for its picturesque tulip fields and vibrant springtime blooms. Yearly, 1000’s of tourists flock to the tulip fields to soak up the sight of vibrant, rainbow-colored flowers stretching out throughout the horizon. From biking via the tulip fields to exploring the native villages and tulip festivals, there are many methods to immerse your self within the Netherlands’ colourful tulip tradition. On this information, you’ll discover ways to discover the tulip fields of the Netherlands and profit from your go to in Holland!
Whether or not you need to see the tulip fields close to Amsterdam, discover the long-lasting Keukenhof, or simply see as lots of the good Dutch tulips as potential, this submit will provide help to see all of the colourful flower fields!
One thing thoughts blowing occurs each March via Could in Holland: straight traces stretching for miles of essentially the most good colours you’ve got ever seen come to life. The tulips are in bloom! I knew I needed to see these unimaginable fields and flower arrangements in individual.
I made a plan to go to the Keukenhof in Holland, one of many world’s largest flower gardens in Lisse, The Netherlands. I additionally wished to try to squeeze the tulip fields round The Netherlands in on the identical day.
One did not occur.
However typically the most effective of plans are those that go awry.
Why Are Tulips So Particular in The Netherlands?
The Dutch tulip fields have a fascinating historical past. Tulips arrived within the Netherlands within the sixteenth century, originating from the Ottoman Empire. By the seventeenth century, “Tulip Mania” took over, and tulips turned some of the coveted and costly flowers in Europe. At this time, the Netherlands produces over 3 billion tulip bulbs yearly, making it the world’s largest exporter.
That is why I’ve created the last word information to tulips in Holland in addition to all of the tulip fields round The Netherlands to make sure you make the most effective plan and get to see as many tulips as potential. On this submit I will share with you learn how to see the tulips totally free, when and the place to see them, information to Keukenhof, and extra!
It was a stunningly beautiful day in Central Europe. Residing in Heidelberg, Germany, we deliberate to easily drive the 5 and a half hours from our dwelling to the Keukenhof tulip backyard in The Netherlands. Nonetheless, these plans have been foiled when our canine sitter’s bus was over 2 hours late. Regardless of already buying tickets to Keukenhof, it closes at 7:30 and we arrived simply previous 8pm. With the blazing solar setting, we determined as an alternative to go to the tulip fields close by at sundown.
Performing some fast analysis, I discovered that many of the fertile tulip fields have been situated in Lisse, Flevoland, and Noordoostpolder.
I headed to Flevoland and located an ideal little route of fields stretching for miles which promised miles of tulips. This web site really supplies a useful route of the place you may cease and admire the tulips as you drive or bike.
I assumed with this beautiful mild and the variety of vacationers coming to see the tulips the fields could be coated with individuals. To my delight, we have been the one ones, save for just a few farmers tending to their tulips, who have been admiring the fields.
The colours of the tulips have been so vibrant it nearly hurts your eyes. Deep saturated reds, vibrant pigmented yellow, gentle flamingo pink, and good orange in straight as an arrow rows blanket the panorama. I’d seen photographs on-line and thought for positive the images have been over-saturated with Instagram filters, however I used to be flawed. It’s onerous to seize the superb colours in individual. The colours are so wealthy I might stare for hours.
As a result of nobody was round it was simple to snap all the images your coronary heart might want of the true tulip farm! Remember- there are indicators to not stroll within the fields. We spoke with the farmers and particularly requested how far we might stroll in. They simply need to be sure that persons are not trampling their valuable and exquisite livelihood. Ask them questions- they’re pleased to inform you extra about their tulips.
The following day, we received up vibrant and early to be a number of the first guests of Keukenhof and once more, beat the crowds.
We went to the fields the Thursday earlier than Easter- one of many busiest occasions of the yr. Nonetheless, we dodged the crowds and this final information to the tulips Holland provides you with some very helpful suggestions.
You may frolick to your coronary heart’s content material via the free tulip fields throughout The Netherlands. To me, that is the easiest way to stand up shut and private with the fields and actually see how the tulips bloom.
The place Are the Tulip Fields In The Netherlands
If you make your manner round The Netherlands, you are more likely to see the tulip fields alongside your route in all places. Nonetheless, there are just a few particular places that boast dozens of fields, concentrated in a single space. Should you head right here, you’re assured to see tulips through the season.
Should you’re seeking to discover tulip fields within the Netherlands, the most suitable choice is to go to the world-famous Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse. This is likely one of the largest flower gardens on the earth, protecting an space of 32 hectares, and it’s dwelling to a formidable number of tulips. The gardens are solely open for just a few weeks annually – often from late March till mid-Could – so you will need to plan forward if you wish to go to. Different locations you will discover tulips within the Netherlands embrace Noordoostpolder and Flevoland, in addition to the bulb fields of the North Holland province.
You’ll see fields scattered all through all of Holland, however notably in Bollenstreek, which is named the “Bulb Area” with tulip farms in lots of the cities and likewise close to Keukenhof. Noordoorstpolder is a beautiful space dotted with many tulips within the northern a part of The Netherlands.
The principle fields of tulips are situated in Noord-Holland (North Holland, Flevoland), Zuid-Holland (South Holland), and Bollenstreek close to Keukenhof. Keukenhof is about half-hour from Amsterdam.
Some cities with tulip fields in or close by are Lisse, Noordwijk, Noordwijkerhour, Leiden, The Hague, Haarlem, and Katwijk.
This map reveals the place all of the completely different tulip fields are and supplies updates of blooms.
You’ll find out when the bulb flower parade takes place (often mid April).
How To Get To The Tulips
The perfect and best method to see the fields is to drive. You’ll have the ability to see tons of fields and get away from the crowds. In fact, biking can also be an choice. You may take a bus from Amsterdam Airport on to Keukenhof. You will discover locations in all places to hire bikes however Keukenhof additionally provides bikes close to their fields.
Finest time to see the tulips
The tulip season goes from mid March to the tip of Could. Usually, and this modifications relying on the season, the most effective time of the yr to go is mid April.
That is once we went and it appeared just like the tulips are in full bloom with out dropping their luster or petals. When planning your journey I recommend going early or later within the day, in direction of sundown. The enchanting colours of the petals appear to come back to life because the solar units. In fact, you may go any time all through the day and nonetheless keep away from the crowds. Should you see a subject, maintain trying, there are extra doubtless extra close by if you would like a subject all to your self.
The fields current a patchwork quilt of gorgeous colours that blanket the fields. It is an incredible sight to see and one thing everybody ought to add to their bucket checklist! Spring is a gorgeous time to go to Europe basically, wisteria is rampant, daffodils are popping up, and quite a lot of flowers will intoxicate your senses.
There’s additionally a pageant of tulips that takes place in mid April referred to as the Bulb flower parade. You may as well attend the flower market referred to as Aalsmeer which is the most important on the earth!
When is the Finest Time to See Tulips in The Netherlands?
The tulip season runs from mid-March to mid-Could, however the finest time to go to is often mid-April, when tulip fields attain their peak bloom.
📅 Tulip Bloom Calendar: ✔ Mid-March – Early April: Early bloomers (crocuses, daffodils, hyacinths) ✔ Mid-April: Peak tulip bloom 🌷✨ ✔ Late April – Early Could: Fields begin getting minimize for bulb harvesting
🌅 Finest Time of Day to Go to:Early morning (avid crowds!) or sundown for essentially the most magical views and finest pictures lighting!
Why tulips within the Netherlands?
As a result of this space of The Netherlands is 4 meters beneath sea stage, it is properly fitted to the cultivation of the tulips. A few of the land, resembling in Flevoland, is reclaimed land, so it really was once a part of the ocean. These are prime circumstances to develop tulips so far as the attention can see.
Information to Keukenhof
Annually, tens of millions of vacationers flock to Keukenhof to see the magnificent show of tulips of each shade possible. 7 million bulbs make Keukenhof some of the well-known locations to see tulips. Nicknamed the “Backyard of Europe” it is no shock that guests are intoxicated by the fantastic thing about the this lovely, meticulously created panorama of tulips in each form and dimension.
One of the simplest ways to expertise Keukenhof is to get there early, and if in any respect potential, keep away from the weekends. That is when it is exceptionally busy. We occurred to go on the Thursday earlier than Easter, so it was packed. However getting there at opening time meant there have been little crowds and site visitors. Additionally, parking was simple.
You will see essentially the most number of tulips right here – flamingo pinks, deep purples, feathered edges, tulips the dimensions of each your fingers, and lots of extra.
Enable for no less than just a few hours to get pleasure from Keukenhof. There are many issues to do. You may seize a chew to eat, discover the assorted tulips, and loosen up indoors on the market corridor. You may even buy tulips.
Price – Costs for Keukenhof begin at €17 for adults, €8.50 for youths, and should you’re in a big group they’re €14.75 every.
Parking – You may park on website and I recommend that you simply purchase parking forward of time. Parking is €6 and once more, I recommend that you simply buy this forward of time.
Prime Locations to See Tulips in The Netherlands
1️⃣ Keukenhof Gardens 🌸
📍 Location: Lisse, South Holland ⏳ Opening Dates: March – Could 💰 Entry Payment: €17 (adults), €8.50 (youngsters)
Keukenhof is one of many largest flower gardens on the earth, spanning 32 hectares with over 7 million bulbs in bloom. The backyard options distinctive tulip varieties, picturesque windmills, and vibrant flower exhibitions.
🚲 Insider Tip: Hire a motorcycle exterior Keukenhof and cycle via the encircling tulip fields!
2️⃣ Bollenstreek (Bulb Area) – Holland’s Most Well-known Tulip Fields
📍 Location: Between Haarlem and Leiden 🚲 Finest Technique to Discover: By bike or automobile
Bollenstreek is the most iconic tulip-growing area, recognized for its countless rows of colourful tulips. The annual Bloemencorso Bollenstreek (Flower Parade) in mid-April is a must-see!
🚗 Really useful Routes:
Leiden to Haarlem – 40 km of breathtaking tulip fields 🌷
Lisse to Noordwijkerhout – Finest for pictures 📸
3️⃣ Noordoostpolder – The Largest Tulip Fields in The Netherlands
📍 Location: Flevoland (1.5 hours from Amsterdam)
Not like Bollenstreek, Noordoostpolder provides wide-open tulip fields with fewer crowds. That is the finest place for immersive tulip subject experiences with farm excursions and strolling trails.
🌟 Native Spotlight: The Tulip Route Flevoland, a 100 km drive via essentially the most scenic tulip fields!
4️⃣ Amsterdam & The Floating Flower Market (Bloemenmarkt)
📍 Location: Amsterdam Metropolis Middle 📆 Open Yr-Spherical
Should you can’t go to the tulip fields, Amsterdam’s Bloemenmarkt is the subsequent neatest thing! This historic floating flower market sells contemporary tulips, bulbs, and souvenirs all yr lengthy.
🏡 Tips on how to Go to Tulip Fields Respectfully?
Tulip fields are personal property owned by farmers. Right here’s learn how to get pleasure from them responsibly: ✅ Keep on designated paths – Do NOT stroll between rows 🚷 ✅ Don’t decide the tulips – They’re grown for bulbs, not bouquets ✅ Ask permission – Some farms enable guests inside for a small charge ✅ Assist native farms – Purchase tulip bulbs or go to farm cafés
✨ Tip: These occasions appeal to massive crowds, so e-book tickets prematurely!
🚗 Tips on how to Get to the Tulip Fields?
🚄 By Public Transport
✔ Keukenhof Specific (Bus 858) – Direct from Schiphol Airport ✔ Prepare + Bike Combo – Take a prepare to Leiden, Haarlem, or Almere, then hire a motorcycle 🚲
🚘 By Automotive (Finest for Flexibility!)
✔ Bollenstreek Route: 30 min from Amsterdam ✔ Noordoostpolder: 1.5 hours from Amsterdam
🚲 Finest Different: Hire a motorcycle close to Keukenhof or Haarlem for a gradual journey expertise!
🏨 The place to Keep Close to the Tulip Fields?
🌟 Finances-Pleasant: ✔ Stayokay Haarlem – Reasonably priced & near tulip fields ✔ The Flying Pig Noordwijk – Close to Noordwijk tulip fields
🌟 Mid-Vary: ✔ Van der Valk Lodge Sassenheim – 10 min from Keukenhof ✔ Boutique Lodge Leiden – Nice location + canal views
📍 Keukenhof Windmill – Traditional Dutch vibes 📍 Lisse Tulip Fields – Beautiful rows of multicolor tulips 📍 Noordoostpolder Route – No crowds, solely flowers! 📍 Schiphol Airport Tulip Discipline – Free & good for layovers
🌷 Closing Suggestions for an Unforgettable Tulip Expertise!
✅ Go to in Mid-April for peak bloom ✅ Go Early within the Morning to keep away from crowds ✅ Hire a Bike for an genuine Dutch expertise ✅ Gown in Layers – Dutch climate is unpredictable! ✅ Respect the Fields – Persist with pathways & take solely images 📸
🌸 Whether or not you go to Keukenhof or the hidden tulip fields of Noordoostpolder, it is a bucket-list expertise that can go away you in awe!
What different sorts of flowers will be present in tulip fields within the Netherlands?
The Netherlands is famend for its lovely tulip fields, with vibrant colours popping up in springtime. However do you know there are different sorts of flowers within the Dutch tulip fields? Along with their signature tulips, the Netherlands is dwelling to a number of different sorts of flowers, together with daffodils, irises, hyacinths, and lilies. Moreover, a number of the extra decorative varieties, resembling alliums, fritillarias, and muscari, may also be discovered rising within the flower fields. The mixture of those various and exquisite blooms create a really gorgeous sight that may’t be discovered wherever else on the earth.
How massive are the tulip fields within the Netherlands?
The tulip fields within the Netherlands range in dimension relying on the place they’re situated. A lot of the bulb fields are discovered within the province of Noord-Holland and measure wherever from eight to twenty acres in dimension. Nonetheless, a number of the bigger fields such because the Keukenhof Gardens situated in Lisse, Netherlands, can measure as much as seventy acres.
Are there any particular occasions within the Netherlands associated to tulip fields?
In fact! The Netherlands is well-known for its tulip fields and there are a number of particular occasions associated to them all year long. Essentially the most well-known is the annual Keukenhof Tulip Pageant, held in Lisse in late March and April. This pageant options over 7 million tulips in over 800 completely different varieties, and guests can get pleasure from actions like guided excursions of the tulip fields, workshops, artwork and craft exhibitions, and extra. The annual Tulip Pageant in Noordoostpolder is one other widespread occasion, that includes a parade of colourful floats and the coronation of a Tulip Prince and Princess. There are additionally a number of different smaller festivals and occasions all through the nation, such because the Bloemencorso in Aalsmeer and the Bollenstreek Flower Parade in Zuid-Holland. Keep in mind, it may get crowded so finest guess is to go through the week.
How a lot do tulips price within the tulip fields within the Netherlands?
It is determined by the time of yr and the kind of tulips you’re searching for. Typically, when tulips are in season (March-Could), you should purchase bouquets of tulips from the tulip fields within the Netherlands for round 3-4 Euros. In case you are searching for particular person tulips, you may often discover them for about 0.50 – 1 Euro. Because the season begins to finish and the tulips begin to wilt, the costs will drop considerably. You may completely purchase tulips in Amsterdam, however simply BE CAREFUL! I received my tulips taken from me in customs upon arrival within the USA.
Are there any restrictions on coming into tulip fields within the Netherlands?
Sure, there are restrictions on coming into tulip fields within the Netherlands. And it is SO vital to be respectful. Typically, it’s not allowed to enter personal tulip fields. Nonetheless, some tulip fields could also be open to the general public throughout particular festivals just like the Keukenhof Gardens or the Noordoostpolder Flower Pageant. Moreover, there are some tulip fields which can be open to the general public year-round. You will need to examine with the native vacationer info workplace earlier than visiting any tulip subject to be sure to are allowed entry.
Are there any excursions of tulip fields within the Netherlands?
Sure, there are excursions of tulip fields within the Netherlands! Tulip fields are one of many nation’s most iconic and beloved sights, and there are many completely different tour choices out there for vacationers seeking to discover them. From bike and strolling excursions to organized bus journeys, you will discover a tour that matches your schedule and funds. Irrespective of which tour you select, you will you should definitely have a gorgeous and memorable expertise within the Netherlands’ gorgeous tulip fields. Personally, I loved renting a automobile to see the fields.
Are there any environmental initiatives to guard tulip fields within the Netherlands?
Sure, there are a number of environmental initiatives to guard tulip fields within the Netherlands. One instance is the “Pollinator Paths” undertaking, which was began by the Dutch authorities in 2018. This undertaking goals to extend the variety of bees, hoverflies, and different pollinators within the tulip fields of the Netherlands. Measures embrace the planting of flowering crops alongside the routes and the creation of nesting websites for pollinators. Moreover, the Netherlands is making a community of biotopes to assist protect biodiversity and defend the tulip fields from pests and illnesses. Lastly, the Dutch authorities has applied a “Nature Pleasant Farming” initiative, which promotes sustainable agricultural practices and encourages farmers to develop tulips in an environmentally pleasant manner. It is an effective way to make sure the safety of this lovely phenomenon!
Backside line: I recommend you make time to do each. Get pleasure from Keukenhof’s manicured shows of tulips and luxuriate within the far-as-the-eye-can-see flower fields. Each are completely price it.