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Day trip
From: Hull
To: Rotterdam
 
 
Day trip
 
Day trip
Why should you visit the heart of the Tulip Festival?

Keukenhof Gardens. Often referred to as the Garden of Europe, this world‑famous park is the ultimate showcase of Dutch horticulture and a must‑see during tulip season.

Located near the historic town of Lisse, just south‑west of Amsterdam, Keukenhof sits at the heart of Holland’s tulip fields, making it the perfect base for exploring the wider flower‑growing region.The Keukenhof Gardens Flower Festival opens for just a few weeks each spring, transforming 32 hectares into one of the most spectacular tulip gardens in the world. With over seven million bulbs planted annually and hundreds of varieties on display, it’s no surprise that Keukenhof is the highlight of Holland’s tulip festival.


Exploring the Garden of Europe

A Brief History of the Garden of Europe

The name Keukenhof literally translates to “kitchen garden.” In the 15th century, the land was used to grow herbs for the kitchen of Countess Jacqueline of Bavaria. Over time, the estate expanded and was later redesigned in the 19th century by the same landscape architects behind Amsterdam’s Vondelpark.

Today, Keukenhof Gardens is both a cultural landmark and a global symbol of Dutch flower‑growing expertise, welcoming more than a million visitors every year during tulip season.

What to See and Do at Keukenhof?

While tulips take centre stage, Keukenhof offers far more than rows of colourful blooms. Indoor pavilions showcase rotating floral exhibitions, including lilies, orchids and roses later in the season. Scenic walking paths, water features and sculptures make the gardens feel immersive and peaceful, despite their popularity.

One of the highlights of Holland’s tulip festival is the annual Flower Parade, when elaborately decorated floats travel through nearby towns and past Keukenhof, filling the region with colour, music and celebration.

Romantic corners, themed gardens and photography spots make Keukenhof especially popular with couples, first‑time visitors and anyone experiencing the tulip festival Amsterdam region for the first time.

Exploring Holland’s Tulip Fields Beyond Keukenhof

Keukenhof may be the most famous tulip garden in Holland, but it’s also the gateway to the wider countryside. Cycling or driving through the surrounding fields reveals endless stripes of colour stretching across the landscape, a truly unforgettable sight and one of the best ways to experience Holland’s tulip fields up close.

Many visitors combine Keukenhof with nearby coastal towns, flower farms or a short trip into Amsterdam, making it easy to build a full spring itinerary around the tulip festival.

Planning Your Trip to the Tulip Festival

The tulip season typically runs from late March to mid‑May, with peak blooms often falling in April. As Keukenhof is only open for a limited time, planning ahead is essential.

Travelling by ferry and road offers a relaxed and scenic way to reach the Netherlands, making it easy to explore both Keukenhof and the surrounding regions at your own pace.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or building a longer spring break, the tulip festival is one of the most rewarding seasonal experiences Europe has to offer.

Planning Your Trip to the Tulip Festival

The tulip season typically runs from late March to mid‑May, with peak blooms often falling in April. As Keukenhof is only open for a limited time, planning ahead is essential.Visitors can wander through carefully designed landscapes filled with tulips, daffodils, hyacinths and other spring blooms. Each year brings a new theme, adding a fresh creative twist to the displays and making repeat visits just as rewarding.

Travelling by ferry and road offers a relaxed and scenic way to reach the Netherlands, making it easy to explore both Keukenhof and the surrounding regions at your own pace.

Whether you’re visiting for a day or building a longer spring break, the tulip festival is one of the most rewarding seasonal experiences Europe has to offer.

Things to do in Keukenhof FAQs

1 When is the best time to visit Keukenhof Gardens?
The best time to visit is usually April, when tulip season is at its peak. Bloom times can vary slightly depending on the weather, so checking forecasts before travelling is recommended.
2 Where is Keukenhof located?
Keukenhof is located in Lisse, around 40 minutes from Amsterdam, right in the heart of Holland’s tulip fields.
3 Is Keukenhof suitable for first‑time visitors to the Netherlands?
Absolutely. Keukenhof Gardens is one of the most accessible and visually impressive attractions in the country, making it ideal for first‑time visitors.
4 Are there other tulip gardens to visit nearby?
Yes. While Keukenhof Gardens is the most famous, the surrounding countryside is filled with smaller tulip gardens and flower farms that can be visited during the tulip festival season.