Here's everything you need to know for planning a trip to Keukenhof Gardens in Holland:
Overview of Keukenhof Gardens
Open Season: Keukenhof is a seasonal garden open from mid-March to mid-May, with the peak bloom period typically occurring in April. This is when the tulips and other flowers are at their most vibrant.
Tulip Season: The garden is world-renowned for its tulip displays, but it also showcases millions of other flowers like daffodils, hyacinths, and lilies.
Size: Covering 32 hectares (79 acres), Keukenhof features approximately 7 million bulbs that bloom each spring.
 What to See
Flower Fields: The vast flower fields surrounding the garden are an iconic sight. Rows upon rows of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths stretch as far as the eye can see, creating a colorful patchwork of blooms.
Flower Shows and Pavilions: Throughout Keukenhof, there are several pavilions (such as the Oranje Nassau Pavilion and Willem-Alexander Pavilion) that host themed flower shows, displaying different varieties of tulips, orchids, roses, and other seasonal blooms.
Themed Gardens: Keukenhof features themed gardens like the Japanese Garden, Natural Garden, and Historical Garden, offering different landscaping styles and a variety of plant species.
Windmill: There's a traditional Dutch windmill on-site where you can climb to the top and get a fantastic view of the surrounding tulip fields. This is one of the most picturesque spots in the garden.
Boat Tours: You can take a boat tour through the canals that run alongside the flower fields for a unique and tranquil perspective of the tulip fields.
Sculpture Gardens: Scattered throughout Keukenhof are numerous outdoor sculptures and artworks that blend beautifully with the natural surroundings.
Children's Farm and Maze: For families, there’s a petting zoo, a maze, and a fun playground area to keep kids entertained.
Best Time to Visit
April is generally the best time to visit, as this is when the tulips are usually in full bloom. However, the exact timing of peak bloom can vary depending on the weather, so it’s good to check the garden’s website for bloom updates.
Morning or Late Afternoon: To avoid crowds, it’s best to visit early in the morning when the park opens or later in the afternoon, closer to closing time.
How to Get There
From Amsterdam: Keukenhof is about 40 minutes from Amsterdam by car.
Bus: You can take a direct bus from Schiphol Airport (Bus 858) to Keukenhof. There are also combination tickets that include transportation and entrance fees.
Tours: Many companies offer day tours from Amsterdam that include transportation and a guided visit to Keukenhof and surrounding flower fields.
Admission and Tickets
Online Tickets: It’s highly recommended to book tickets in advance online, especially during peak season, to avoid long lines at the entrance.
Combination Tickets: Some tickets combine entrance to Keukenhof with transportation from Amsterdam or other cities, which can be convenient.
Prices: Entry prices vary but are generally around €19-€20 for adults and €9-€10 for children.
Dining and Amenities
Cafés and Restaurants: There are several cafés and restaurants throughout the gardens where you can enjoy Dutch snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. Many areas offer outdoor seating with lovely views of the flowers.
Picnic Areas: You’re also welcome to bring your own food and enjoy a picnic in the designated areas.
Souvenir Shops: You’ll find plenty of places to buy tulip bulbs, seeds, and other flower-related souvenirs to take home.
Practical Tips
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the garden is vast, and you’ll want to explore as much of it as possible.
Weather: The weather in spring can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or raincoat, just in case.
Photography: The gardens are a photographer’s paradise, so be sure to bring your camera. Early morning light is perfect for capturing stunning flower-filled landscapes.
Nearby Attractions
Flower Fields by Bike: If you want to explore more of the surrounding tulip fields, you can rent a bike at Keukenhof and cycle around the scenic countryside. Several routes take you through the flower-growing areas.
Castle Keukenhof: Near the gardens is Keukenhof Castle, a historic estate with beautiful grounds and various exhibitions.
Festivals and Events
Flower Parade (Bloemencorso): One of the highlights of the spring season is the annual Flower Parade, which usually takes place in late April. This parade features elaborately decorated floats made entirely of flowers. The parade route passes through nearby towns and culminates in a display at Keukenhof.
Visiting Keukenhof Gardens is an unforgettable experience, offering breathtaking views of Holland’s famous tulips and other blooms. Whether you’re a garden enthusiast or just looking for a relaxing day trip, Keukenhof is a must-see destination during the spring season in the Netherlands. |
