Here, avant-garde architecture, breathtaking nightlife, and creative marvels combine with centuries-old windmills, tulip meadows, and romantic candlelight cafés. We’re obviously talking about the Netherlands! And when is the best time to visit? Of course, it's tulip season! The Netherlands' tulip fields are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for floral enthusiasts due to the annual covering of tulips in nearly every colour. Some preparation is required for a perfect tulip garden trip in the Netherlands. To witness the tulips in the Netherlands in full bloom, here is how to organize the ideal getaway!
Netherlands tulip season—when are the best months?
If visiting the Netherlands' national flower is high on your list of things to do, then you should plan your trip to the Bollenstreek (Bulb Region) between the middle of March and the middle of May to witness the vibrant blooms that adorn the countryside like enormous crayon streaks. If you're a fan of tulips, you won't want to miss the Bloemencorso (Flower Parade) in mid-April. It travels 42km (26 miles) around the region, and on Decoration Days, you can even see the floats decorated with flowers up close.
There is a hugely colourful event in the Netherlands that takes place in April as well. On April 27 (or April 26 if the 27th is a Sunday), the Dutch celebrate King's Day (Koningsdag), the national day, by honouring the royal family of Orange. People throughout the nation don orange costumes to get into the festive mood for tulip season in the Netherlands! Do not even consider visiting the capital city of the Netherlands without first reserving lodging; it is home to the largest celebrations. Accommodations may be in high demand and expensive due to drawcards like these.
March often reaches a high of 10ºC (50ºF), April reaches 13ºC (55ºF), and May reaches 17ºC (62ºF), so make sure to pack warm clothing to keep comfortable for extended periods outdoors. The days get noticeably longer, particularly after the last Sunday of March marks the arrival of Daylight Saving Time.
Tulip season in the Netherlands—things to do
Biking along the 35-kilometre Bloemenroute through Bollenstreek (Bulb Region) amid fields of vividly colourful flowers is an experience that will captivate all your senses. A two- to three-hour bike ride along this aromatic "Flower Route" ensues. Dutch tulips, jonquils, and daffodils are on display in the spring, while sunflowers and dahlias are part of the summertime floral extravaganza.
Notable attractions along Bollenstreek include the fascinating Museum De Zwarte Tulp (Museum of the Black Tulip) in Lisse, the breathtaking Keukenhof Gardens, and the neighbouring flower farm De Tulperij in Voorhout. With several bike rental options in the city and surrounding areas, Leiden is a wonderful jumping-off point for tulip-themed adventures.
Best places to visit in the Netherlands for tulip fields
Many people go to Keukenhof to see the tulips, and rightfully so. To guarantee a decent hibernation period and spring blooms, the garden's landscaping experts plant seven million bulbs every year. The bulbs must be planted before Christmas. But this is a genuine endeavour that continues all year. The crew spends the summer and fall collaborating with designers and gardeners to collect enough bulbs and assemble the stunning patterns. Additionally, the bulbs are planted in layers to extend the time it takes for them to blossom. Flower exhibitions and Holland Heritage Days are only two of the many seasonal events held at the grounds. Adult tickets begin at approximately $25. The most convenient ways to reach Keukenhof from Amsterdam are by public transportation (a bus), private transportation (a rental car or cab), or a prearranged guided trip. The garden is situated near Lisse, which is around 40 minutes away by car.
A 12-mile length of tulips, daffodils, crocuses, and hyacinths that stretches from Haarlem to Leiden is called the Flower Strip, of which Keukenhof is a part. Bollenstreek is another name for this area. Cycle through charming Dutch towns, including Sassenheim, Hillegom, Lisse, and Noordwijkerhout, for an authentic Dutch experience. Renzy also offers the option to hire an electric vehicle that can accommodate two people.
Noordwijkerhout is a town famous for its flower fields; thus, taking a train from Haarlem to Leiden is another way to observe the enormous bloom. The Nederlandse Spoorwegen operates this route. One of the few operational tulip farms that offers visits is De Tulperij, where you can also learn more about the agricultural process. Even better, you get to choose the flowers for the arrangement you bring back to your room. Visit the Tulip Barn, a garden with over 2.5 million blossoms and 250 different types of tulips, if you're seeking the ideal location for your Instagram post. Tractors and a windmill are among the photogenic items you might find there. After your picture shoot, you may relax in the barn's greenhouse café or enjoy the playground.