Keukenhof
The Keukenhof near Lisse is the most famous flower park in the world — and it's only open 8 weeks a year (mid-March to mid-May). On 32 hectares, 7 million flower bulbs bloom: tulips in every conceivable color, daffodils, hyacinths, crocuses, orchids. A feast for the senses.
What You Will Experience
- Themed Gardens: A different theme each year. Formal gardens, woodland paths, water gardens, and pavilion exhibitions with artistic flower arrangements.
- Tulip Fields: The fields around Keukenhof (not in the park itself, but in the surrounding area) are the iconic tulip fields from postcards. Best explored by bike (rental available on site).
- Flower Parade: Once a year (usually mid/late April), a flower parade moves from Noordwijk to Haarlem — decorated floats, music, and the scent of millions of flowers.
Practical Information: Admission: 19.50€ (online only, no ticket sales at the gate!). Access: Combo bus 858 from Amsterdam Schiphol (airport, 35 min) or from Leiden/Haarlem. There are also combo tickets (bus + admission from 30€). Note: During peak bloom (mid-April), up to 30,000 visitors per day come. Visiting during the week and in the morning is the best strategy. Allow 3–4 hours.
💡 Tipp
Keukenhof is at its most beautiful in the second and third weeks of April — that's when most tulips are in full bloom. In early March, it's the turn of the crocuses and daffodils, and in late April, the late tulips. Check the bloom calendar at keukenhof.nl for the current situation.