Back to Netherlands Netherlands

Published on February 9, 2026

Keukenhof Gardens: The Complete Guide to Tulip Season

Nestled in the heart of the Netherlands' bulb region,Keukenhof Gardens stands as the undisputed champion of spring beauty, drawing millions to witness its breathtaking floral displays. This guide provides everything you need to plan an unforgettable visit to the world's most famous flower park during the vibrant tulip season.

Why Visit Keukenhof?

Keukenhof is not just a garden; it's a spectacular celebration of spring, showcasing over seven million flower bulbs across 32 hectares. For a few short weeks each year, this historic estate transforms into a canvas of vibrant hues, meticulously designed to delight visitors with an unparalleled sensory experience. From classic tulips to exotic orchids, hyacinths, and daffodils, the sheer scale and artistry of the displays are truly mesmerizing.

The park features various themed gardens, inspirational displays, and magnificent indoor pavilions, each offering a unique perspective on the floral world. It's a place where horticulture meets art, creating an ever-changing landscape that captivates gardeners and casual tourists alike.

When to Visit: Navigating Tulip Season

Keukenhof opens its gates for a limited period each spring, typically frommid-March to mid-May. The exact opening and closing dates vary slightly each year, so it's always wise to check the official Keukenhof website closer to your travel dates.

Peak Bloom Times Explained

While the gardens are stunning throughout the entire season, the "peak bloom" for tulips usually occurs aroundmid-April. However, this is heavily dependent on weather conditions. An early spring can mean tulips bloom sooner, while a cold snap can delay them.

  • Early Season (Mid-March to Early April):You'll primarily see crocuses, daffodils, and hyacinths in full glory. Some early tulips will also start to emerge, particularly in the indoor pavilions.
  • Mid-Season (Early to Late April):This is when the majority of tulips are expected to be at their best, creating those iconic vibrant landscapes. The outdoor gardens truly come alive during this period.
  • Late Season (Late April to Mid-May):Many tulips will still be blooming, especially the later varieties. The indoor flower shows often feature lilies and other stunning blooms, ensuring there's always something beautiful to see, even as the outdoor tulip season wanes.

Regardless of when you visit within the opening window, Keukenhof’s expert gardeners ensure there's always a spectacular display, with different varieties blooming in succession.

Planning Your Trip to Keukenhof

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable visit to Keukenhof.

Getting There

Keukenhof is located in Lisse, easily accessible from major Dutch cities.

  • Public Transport:The most popular and convenient way to reach Keukenhof is by using the special "Keukenhof Express" buses. These direct services operate from various locations, including Amsterdam RAI, Schiphol Airport, Haarlem, and Leiden. Combination tickets (entry + bus) are often available and can save you time and hassle.
  • Car:If you prefer to drive, Keukenhof has ample parking facilities available for a fee. Be aware that roads around Lisse can get congested during peak times, especially on weekends and public holidays.
  • Organized Tours:Many tour operators offer day trips to Keukenhof from Amsterdam and other cities, often combining the visit with a stop at nearby flower fields or windmills.

Best Time of Day

To avoid the largest crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience, aim to arrive eitherearly in the morning (before 10:00 AM)orlate in the afternoon (after 3:00 PM). Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends.

Tickets and Entry

It is highly recommended topurchase your tickets online in advance. This not only guarantees your entry but also often allows you to bypass ticket queues upon arrival. Keukenhof operates with time slots for entry to manage visitor flow, so booking ahead is essential.

What to Wear and Bring

  • Comfortable Walking Shoes:You'll be doing a lot of walking across paved paths and grassy areas.
  • Layers:Spring weather in the Netherlands can be unpredictable, so dress in layers to adapt to temperature changes. A light waterproof jacket is also a good idea.
  • Camera and Power Bank:With so much beauty, you'll want to take plenty of photos. A power bank ensures your devices stay charged.
  • Small Backpack:For carrying essentials, water, and perhaps a snack.

Exploring the Gardens: What Not to Miss

Once inside, a world of floral wonder awaits. Allow at least 3-4 hours to explore the park properly, though many visitors happily spend a full day.

The Iconic Flower Displays

The layout of Keukenhof is designed to offer continuous visual delight.

  • Indoor Pavilions:Don't miss the spectacular indoor flower shows in pavilions like theOranje Nassau Pavilion(daily changing flower shows), theWillem-Alexander Pavilion(tulips and lilies), and theBeatrix Pavilion(orchids and anthuriums). These provide shelter from potential rain and showcase different floral themes throughout the season.
  • Outdoor Themed Gardens:Wander through unique concepts like the Historical Garden, the English Landscape Garden, the Japanese Garden, and various inspirational gardens that change annually.
  • The Windmill:Climb the historic windmill for panoramic views over the surrounding flower fields – a quintessential Dutch experience. From here, you can also catch a whisper boat tour for a different perspective of the park and its surroundings.

Beyond the Tulips

While tulips are the stars, Keukenhof offers much more:

"Keukenhof is the international and independent showcase of the Dutch floricultural sector, with a special emphasis on flower bulbs. In eight weeks, Keukenhof shows what the Dutch floricultural sector has to offer. The focus in the park is on the 7 million spring-flowering bulbs."

Discover an incredible variety of other spring blooms, including fragrant hyacinths, cheerful daffodils, and exotic orchids. The park also features impressive art sculptures, fountains, and serene water features that enhance the beauty of the floral displays. For families, there's a petting zoo, a labyrinth, and a playground.

Combining Your Keukenhof Visit with Other Dutch Delights

A trip to Keukenhof can be wonderfully combined with exploring other iconic Dutch attractions, especially given its location.

  • Flower Fields:Rent a bike near Keukenhof and cycle through the adjacent flower bulb fields for stunning photo opportunities (remember to stay on the paths!).
  • Dutch Windmills:Visit the iconic windmills of Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for another quintessential Dutch landscape.
  • Amsterdam's Charms:Explore the vibrant capital city, with its famous Canals of Amsterdam, world-class museums like the Rijksmuseum,Van Gogh Museum, and the poignant Anne Frank House.
  • Historic Cities:Discover the charming city of Delft, famous for its blue pottery and historic center. Or explore The Hague, home to the Mauritshuis, featuring masterpieces like Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring."
  • Nature and Art:Venture to Hoge Veluwe National Park for a mix of nature, free-to-use white bicycles, and the Kröller-Müller Museum's impressive art collection.
  • Miniature Holland:For a fun family outing, visit Madurodam, a miniature park showcasing famous Dutch landmarks.

Tips for a Memorable Keukenhof Experience

  • Book Everything in Advance:This includes entry tickets, bus transfers, and any accommodation, especially if you're traveling during peak season.
  • Check Bloom Reports:Keep an eye on online bloom reports closer to your travel date to get an idea of what's currently in bloom.
  • Be Patient with Crowds:Keukenhof is a popular attraction. Embrace the atmosphere, and if you seek solitude, head to the quieter corners or visit during off-peak hours.
  • Respect the Flowers:Admire the beauty, but please stay on designated paths and do not pick the flowers, either inside Keukenhof or in the surrounding fields.
  • Savor the Local Flavors:Enjoy traditional Dutch snacks and meals available at the various restaurants and food stalls within the park.

A visit to Keukenhof Gardens is more than just seeing flowers; it's an immersion into a vibrant, fragrant world that epitomizes the beauty of spring in the Netherlands. Plan your trip carefully, and prepare to be enchanted by the unparalleled splendor of tulip season.