Netherlands tulip travel guide

The Netherlands tulip travel guide tells you the best time to visit for tulip bloom and talks about tours to go for and places to put up.

This is a photo we have all seen at some stage of our life. Rows and rows of vibrant tulips swaying in the wind as a windmill stands mute witness to its beauty. It’s been there in our books, travel brochures or in magazines.These photos have caught on to our imagination transporting us to a place of wonder and beauty.

But have you ever thought that photos might not do justice to a place? You have to stand in the middle of a tulip garden in the Netherlands to know what we mean.

Netherlands stands for windmills, canals and cheese, it’s also the world’s tulip capital. And that’s not for a reason. From breathtaking tulip fields to charming villages and vibrant cities, a trip to the Netherlands during tulip season is a feast for the senses.

Especially in places like Keukenhof or Bollenstreek, you experience the magical beauty of a flower. And the best part is apart from tulip gardens and fields, you witness it bloom by the sidewalks, in hotel gardens or inside the green patches of official buildings.

In this guide, we will cover:

1. A brief history of tulips in Netherlands

2. The best time to visit Netherlands

3. Tulip festival in the Netherlands

4. Where to stay across all budgets

5. The top package tours

6. Other incredible places to visit

7. FAQs

A brief history of tulips in the Netherlands

Tulips are not native to the Netherlands; they originally come from the mountains of Central Asia, particularly around present-day Kazakhstan. From there, they were brought to the Ottoman Empire (modern-day Turkey), where they became a symbol of wealth and beauty.

In the late 16th century, tulip bulbs made their way to Western Europe via trade routes and diplomatic exchanges. They were introduced to the Netherlands by the famous botanist Carolus Clusius, who planted them in the botanical gardens of Leiden in 1593. His efforts helped tulips gain popularity among wealthy Dutch merchants and collectors.

By the early 17th century, tulips became so highly priced that they sparked a speculative frenzy known as Tulip Mania. Rare tulip bulbs were sold for exorbitant sums. At the peak of Tulip Mania around 1636-1637, a single tulip bulb could cost more than a house in Amsterdam

But the market crashed soon and despite the economic collapse, the Dutch people’s love for tulips endured. Over the centuries, tulips became a symbol of Dutch culture, resilience, and connection to nature. The Netherlands developed a thriving floriculture industry, becoming the world leader in tulip cultivation and export.

Today, the Netherlands exports billions of tulip bulbs worldwide every year. The Bollenstreek (Flower Strip), Flevoland, and Noordoostpolder are key regions for tulip cultivation. Events like the Keukenhof Gardens festival and various tulip festivals celebrate this rich heritage, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe.

Quick Reference Summary

Best time to visit	Mid-April for peak tulip bloom.
Top tulip spots	Keukenhof, Bollenstreek, Flevoland, Goeree-Overflakkee.
Where to stay	Options for all budgets in Amsterdam, Lisse, Haarlem.
Best tours	Half-day, full-day, cycling and private tours.
Other places to visit	Amsterdam, Giethoorn, Rotterdam, The Hague, Zaanse Schans.

Best time to visit the Netherlands for tulips

If tulips are your main reason to visit the Netherlands, timing is crucial. The Netherlands has four distinct seasons, each offering its own charm, but spring is undeniably the best time to witness the country’s world-famous tulips in full bloom.

The tulip season in the Netherlands officially kicks off in mid-March and lasts until mid-May, but the most breathtaking displays of tulips occur during a narrow window between mid-April and late April. This is when the vibrant carpet of colorful tulips stretches across the Dutch countryside, creating postcard-perfect scenery. This is when tourists flock to witness the tulips in Amsterdam.

Tulips in September in Amsterdam

Many travelers wonder if they can see tulips in September. Unfortunately, tulips are spring flowers and bloom only between March and May. However, Amsterdam remains vibrant in September, offering alternative floral experiences such as dahlia fields at Keukenhof Castle Gardens and year-round flower markets like Bloemenmarkt in Amsterdam.

Weather considerations

March: Early spring, cool temperatures (8-12°C), with crocuses and early tulips starting to bloom.
April: Pleasant spring weather (12-18°C), peak tulip bloom, longer daylight hours, making it ideal for sightseeing and photography.
May: Warmer temperatures (15-20°C), late tulips and other spring flowers, perfect for those who prefer fewer crowds.
September: Early autumn, temperatures around 15-19°C, no tulips but excellent for cultural activities and exploring cities.

Other seasonal highlights

King’s Day (April 27): One of the biggest festivals in the Netherlands, marked by street parties, markets, and a sea of orange everywhere.
Spring Canal Cruises: Amsterdam’s canals are beautifully lined with blossoming trees in spring, making for serene and photogenic boat rides.
National Tulip Day (January): While not within the traditional tulip season, Amsterdam celebrates the official start of tulip season in January by creating a massive picking garden on Dam Square where visitors can pick a free bouquet.

So the best time to visit the Netherlands for tulips is mid-April to late April. For those looking for cultural experiences and pleasant weather beyond tulip season, May and September offer excellent alternatives.

Tulip Festival in the Netherlands

The Tulip festival in Amsterdam is held throughout April, with tulips blooming across the city, in parks, museums, hotels, and public squares. The Bloemencorso Bollenstreek (Flower Parade) is a spectacular parade of flower-covered floats traveling from Noordwijk to Haarlem on April 12, 2025.

The Netherlands offers a variety of stunning locations to witness tulip fields in all their colorful glory. During the tulip season in Amsterdam the flowers flourish in iconic gardens and sprawling countryside. Here are the best places to immerse yourself in the beauty of tulips:To enjoy the tulip festival these are the must-visit places:

Keukenhof Gardens, Lisse

Arguably the most famous tulip destination in the world, Keukenhof Gardens is located in the town of Lisse, just 40 minutes from Amsterdam. Spanning over 32 hectares, the park features themed gardens, floral art installations, and more than 7 million blooming bulbs. You’ll find not only tulips but also daffodils, hyacinths, and crocuses.

Check out: Themed gardens, pavilions, flower shows, boat rides around adjacent tulip fields.

Bollenstreek (Flower Strip)

Known as the Flower Strip, this region stretches from Haarlem to Leiden and is famous for its endless tulip fields. Towns like Lisse, Noordwijkerhout, Hillegom, and Sassenheim are dotted with vibrant tulip farms, making it an ideal area for cycling tours.

Check out: Bike rentals, tulip picking gardens, picturesque Dutch villages.

Tulip Museum in Amsterdam

For travelers based in Amsterdam, the Tulip Museum in the Jordaan district offers a compact but fascinating history of the tulip trade, including the famous Tulip Mania of the 17th century. Though there are no fields, it provides important cultural context to the tulip’s significance in Dutch history.

Check out: Exhibits on tulip history, Dutch Golden Age and bulb industry.

Flevoland and Noordoostpolder

If you prefer to avoid crowds, head to Flevoland, especially the Noordoostpolder region. This area features the largest tulip fields in the Netherlands, with the famous Tulpenroute (Tulip Route), a scenic drive or cycle through kilometers of blooming tulips.

Check out: Long scenic routes, fewer tourists, self-guided drives and bike routes.

Goeree-Overflakkee (South Holland)

This lesser-known gem in the province of South Holland is located on an island with beautiful tulip fields, providing a more peaceful experience away from the main tourist routes.

Check out: Tranquil countryside, photogenic landscapes, hidden tulip farms.

Zeeland

In the southern province of Zeeland, you can combine tulip spotting with visits to beaches and charming coastal towns. The region features several tulip farms and is perfect for a more laid-back tulip experience.

Check out: Tulip fields by the sea, fewer crowds, coastal attractions.

Drenthe and Groningen

In the northern parts of the Netherlands, tulips bloom later than in the west. The provinces of Drenthe and Groningen offer smaller but equally picturesque tulip fields, ideal for those wanting to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Check out: Late-season tulips, rural Dutch charm, peaceful countryside.

For great photographs arrive early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer people. Avoid walking into the fields without permission; stick to designated paths or book guided tours.Many farmers offer designated photo spots and even mini-workshops on flower photography.

Best places to stay: Budget, mid-range & luxury hotels

It could be a good idea to stay near the tulip gardens so that you can quickly reach the spots.

Budget Hotels

Amsterdam: The Flying Pig Downtown Hostel – sociable atmosphere, central location.
Lisse: Hotel de Duif – simple rooms, walking distance to Keukenhof.
Haarlem: Joops City Centre Hotel – affordable and charming in a historic setting.

Mid-Range Hotels

Amsterdam: Hotel Estherea – cozy boutique hotel along the Singel canal.
Leiden: Boutique Hotel d’Oude Morsch – modern, central, close to Bollenstreek.
Haarlem: Amrâth Grand Hotel Frans Hals – stylish and within walking distance to top sights.

Luxury Hotels

Amsterdam: Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam – lavish canal-side mansion with Michelin-starred dining.
Noordwijk: Grand Hotel Huis ter Duin – beachside opulence near tulip routes.
Haarlem: Brasss Hotel Suites – spacious suites with luxury amenities in a historic town.

Package tours for tulip season

Visiting the tulip fields on your own can be a wonderful adventure, but package tours offer convenience, knowledgeable guides and often include multiple destinations in a single trip. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the most popular types of package tours available in the Netherlands for tulip season:

Half-day tours from Amsterdam

These tours are ideal for those short on time. They offer transport from Amsterdam to Keukenhof Gardens and sometimes include quick stops at nearby tulip fields.

Keukenhof Express Bus: Direct non-stop bus service from Amsterdam, including skip-the-line entrance to Keukenhof. Duration: 5-6 hours.
Keukenhof + Windmills: Combines Keukenhof visit with a short trip to Zaanse Schans, where you can see traditional windmills and wooden shoe workshops.

Full-day guided tours

If you want to explore more than just Keukenhof, opt for full-day tours that also include other iconic Dutch destinations.

Tulip Gardens + Zaanse Schans + Volendam: Includes tulip fields, windmills, cheese tasting, and charming fishing villages.
Tulip Fields + Giethoorn Day Trip: Combines a visit to vibrant tulip fields with a canal cruise in Giethoorn, known as the “Venice of the North”.

Cycling tours

Experience the tulip fields the traditional Dutch way—on a bicycle.

Self-Guided Cycling Tours: Routes with GPS maps around Lisse, Hillegom, and Noordwijkerhout. Many rental companies offer picnic baskets and route suggestions.
Guided Cycling Tours: Join a small group with a guide who shares historical insights while you cycle past colorful fields and through quaint villages.

Private chauffeur-driven tours

For a luxurious and personalized experience, private tours with a dedicated driver and guide are perfect.

Customizable Itineraries: Tailor your tour to include Keukenhof, exclusive visits to private tulip farms, hidden photo spots, and luxury dining experiences.
VIP Tulip Experience: Some companies offer behind-the-scenes access to tulip growers, bulb warehouses, and curated flower arranging workshops.

Multi-day tulip and culture tours

These tours span several days and provide a comprehensive Dutch experience beyond tulips.

4-Day Tulip Experience Tour: Includes Keukenhof, Bollenstreek cycling, windmills, Delft pottery workshops and Gouda cheese tasting.
7-Day Grand Netherlands Tour: Combines tulips with cultural highlights in Amsterdam, Rotterdam, The Hague, Utrecht, Giethoorn and Friesland.

Tips for choosing the right tour

For a quick visit, choose half-day tours.
For immersive experiences, opt for full-day or multi-day tours.
For flexibility, private tours offer maximum customization.
For active travelers, cycling tours provide a unique local touch.

No matter which package you choose, touring the Netherlands during tulip season offers unforgettable memories of vibrant fields, charming towns, and the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful country.

Witnessing the tulips in full bloom is a lifetime experience. From package tours to tulip fields to sightseeing in the Netherlands, we have got you covered. Just tell us how your dream Dutch holiday looks and we will make it a reality for you.

Other must-visit places in the Netherlands

While tulips are a major attraction, the Netherlands offers much more to explore. Here’s a comprehensive list of other must-visit places to enrich your trip:

Amsterdam

The capital city is a cultural hub with world-famous museums, picturesque canals, and lively neighborhoods.

Rijksmuseum: Home to masterpieces from Dutch Golden Age artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer.
Van Gogh Museum: A must for art lovers, housing the largest collection of Van Gogh’s works.
Anne Frank House: A powerful and moving historical museum.
Canal Cruises: See Amsterdam from the water, especially beautiful in spring with blooming trees.
Jordaan District: Chic boutiques, cafés, and the Tulip Museum.

Zaanse Schans

A traditional Dutch village just outside Amsterdam, Zaanse Schans is like stepping into a postcard.

Historic Windmills: Working windmills you can tour.
Cheese Farms and Clog Workshops: Discover how traditional wooden shoes and famous Dutch cheese are made.
Photogenic Scenery: Iconic green houses and bridges ideal for photos.

Giethoorn

Known as the “Venice of the North,” Giethoorn is a unique, car-free village with canals instead of roads.

Canal Boat Tours: Glide past charming cottages and over 180 wooden bridges.
Cycling and Walking Trails: Explore surrounding nature reserves.
Quiet Getaway: Perfect for a peaceful escape from bustling cities.

The Hague (Den Haag)

The political heart of the Netherlands with beautiful architecture and seaside attractions.

Binnenhof: The world’s oldest active parliament building.
Mauritshuis Museum: See Vermeer’s “Girl with a Pearl Earring.”
Scheveningen Beach: A popular beach resort with a lively promenade and pier.

Rotterdam

A dynamic city known for modern architecture and innovation.

Erasmus Bridge: An architectural landmark.
Markthal: A foodie’s paradise under a giant horseshoe-shaped building.
Cube Houses: Quirky architecture you can explore.
Maritime Museum: Reflecting Rotterdam’s status as Europe’s largest port.

Utrecht

A hidden gem that combines medieval charm with a youthful vibe.

Dom Tower: The tallest church tower in the Netherlands.
Canal-Side Cafés: Unique wharf cellars converted into restaurants and shops.
Less Crowded: Enjoy the canals and historic sites without the large crowds of Amsterdam.

Friesland

A province with its own language, distinct culture, and abundant lakes.

Elfstedentocht Route: Famous ice-skating route in winter.
Charming Towns: Visit Harlingen, Sneek, and Dokkum.
Water Sports: Ideal for sailing and boating enthusiasts.

Gouda and Delft

Gouda: Famous for its namesake cheese, historic market square and beautiful town hall.
Delft: Renowned for blue pottery, historic canals and connections to the Dutch Royal family.

Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, art aficionado, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, the Netherlands offers a diverse range of attractions beyond the tulip fields. You can mix and match these destinations with your tulip adventures for a well-rounded and unforgettable Dutch holiday.

Plan your tulip trip in Netherlands

The Netherlands is a perfect spring getaway, offering a vibrant mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern attractions. With the tulip season in full bloom, scenic cycling routes, world-famous gardens, and charming towns, your Dutch adventure is sure to be unforgettable. Whether you are on a budget or looking for luxury, love nature or history, the Netherlands has something for everyone.

We will book tickets for your tulip tours so that you can avoid the long queues, we will arrange transportation from Amsterdam to the gardens and we will curate sightseeing tours too.

At Flying Squirrel Holidays we believe in curating holidays that will become memories you will cherish forever. A curated Netherlands tulip trip is just a phone call away. Just call us and relax. We will do the rest.

Call us at ‪+91 33 40525777‬ / ‪+91 833 697 8737‬

Email us at connect@flyingsquirrelholidays.com

FAQs

When is the Tulip Festival in the Netherlands?

The tulip season runs from mid-March to mid-May, with the Tulip Festival peaking in April. Keukenhof Gardens is open during this period, typically from the third week of March to mid-May.

Where is the best place to see tulips in the Netherlands?

Keukenhof Gardens in Lisse is the most famous destination. For open fields, Bollenstreek (Flower Strip), Flevoland, and Noordoostpolder are ideal. Goeree-Overflakkee and Zeeland offer lesser-known but beautiful tulip experiences.

Is it better to visit Keukenhof or tulip fields?

Keukenhof offers manicured gardens, floral shows and artistic displays. Tulip fields provide a more natural, expansive, and peaceful experience. Ideally, visit both for the complete experience.

How can I travel to the tulip fields from Amsterdam?

You can take direct buses like the Keukenhof Express from Amsterdam, or book day tours. Trains to nearby towns like Leiden or Haarlem also connect you to tulip areas, with options to rent bikes and explore.

Can I visit tulip fields for free?

Yes! Most tulip fields are free to view from public roads and cycling paths. Just be respectful—don’t walk into the fields unless it’s a designated visiting spot or farm.

Do I need to book Keukenhof tickets in advance?

Yes, it’s highly recommended to book Keukenhof tickets online in advance, especially during weekends and peak bloom periods in April. You can also book combination tickets with transportation.

Are there any tulip festivals besides Keukenhof?

Yes! Many regions celebrate tulips with their own festivals. Tulip Festival Amsterdam includes activities across the city. Noordoostpolder Tulip Route is famous for scenic driving and cycling tours.

What should I wear when visiting tulip fields?

Spring weather can be unpredictable. Dress in layers, wear comfortable walking shoes (fields can be muddy), and carry a rain jacket or umbrella just in case.

Is April very crowded in the Netherlands?

April, especially mid-April, is the most popular time to visit. To avoid crowds, visit early in the morning on weekdays, and consider exploring lesser-known regions like Flevoland or Goeree-Overflakkee.

What are some travel tips for a tulip trip?

Book transport and accommodation early.Consider guided tours to avoid the hassle of planning transport.

Cycling is the best way to enjoy the flower fields up close. Combine your tulip trip with cultural experiences like windmill visits, cheese tasting, and canal cruises.