How to Visit Tulip Fields in the Netherlands

Last Updated on February 7, 2025

Every spring, the Netherlands bursts into a vibrant sea of tulips, with endless fields stretching across the countryside. Having lived in Amsterdam, I’m here to share tips on visiting the tulip fields in the Netherlands.

The tulip fields in the Netherlands are are of those things you need to see once in a lifetime. Endless rows of technicolor blooms blanket the Dutch countryside, with the aroma of flowers wafting the air. The weather is warming up after months of winter, and there’s so much color all over the green fields.

When we were living in Amsterdam, we would make the most of the tulip season (April-May) cycling around multi-colored tulip fields, weaving in and out of gorgeous floral gardens that stretch for miles. We loved buying tulips from these family-run farms and running free in the plantations.

But the tulip season is a short window and it’s an extremely popular time to visit the Netherlands. Many of the popular spots like Keukenhof get packed with tourists. Visiting the tulip fields requires some advanced planning. Whether you’re looking to wander through the tulip fields, snap some photos or simply buy big bouquets of flowers, here is our guide on how to visit the tulip fields of the Netherlands.

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Tulip Fields Netherlands Travel Guide

The Netherlands has built a reputation as a floral wonderland. Rows upon rows of tulips—scarlet, gold, violet, and every shade in between—stretch toward the horizon. The country is one of the leading global producers of tulips and biggest importers of flowers to Germany, Belgium, France and beyond.

For cyclists, the thrill of riding for miles on charming Dutch bicycles never gets old. Also, tulip festivals are quite common in and around Amsterdam, celebrating everything from bulb farming to flower-inspired cocktails. It’s a riot of color, a feast for the senses, and possibly the most cheerful place on Earth.

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Brief History of Tulip Fields in the Netherlands

Tulips, though now synonymous with the Netherlands, actually have their roots in the Tien Shan Mountains of Central Asia. They were cultivated for centuries in the Ottoman Empire before making their way to Western Europe. While the exact person responsible for bringing tulips to the Netherlands remains uncertain, many credit Oghier Ghislain de Busbecq, an ambassador of Emperor Ferdinand I.

He is believed to have sent tulip bulbs to his friend Carolus Clusius, a Flemish botanist. Clusius, studying medicinal plants at the time, planted these bulbs in his Dutch garden. By the early 17th century, tulips had transformed from a botanical curiosity into a coveted luxury item.

These flowers sparked the “Tulip Mania” in the 17th century because they became so valuable in the Netherlands. At the time, a single bulb cost as much as a house! Today, the tulip fields are as much an obsession but for entirely different reasons.

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When to Visit Tulip Fields in the Netherlands

The best time to visit the tulip fields in the Netherlands is typically from mid-April to early May. April is typically the best month to see the blooms in the Netherlands. Late March is also okay but the weather might still be cold and dreary. A warm, sunny season can cause the tulips to bloom earlier, while a colder or rainier spring might delay their peak.

The famous Bollenstreek region provides updated bloom maps to help you find the best spots. If you’re a little early, you still won’t be disappointed because daffodils and hyacinths bloom before the tulips. So, you’ll spot endless fields of beautiful scents and color.

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Where to Find Tulip Fields in the Netherlands

Let’s first talk about the areas in the Netherlands where tulips are usually grown, and then we’ll zoom in on exactly where the tulip fields are in the next section.

Bollenstreek

The Bollenstreek (Flower Bulb Area) is one of the most iconic tulip regions in the Netherlands. Situated between the bustling cities of Haarlem and Leiden, this area comes alive in spring with vibrant rows of tulips in every conceivable color. The fields are meticulously cultivated by local growers and offer an immersive experience for those eager to explore them by foot, bike, or even by car.

At the height of tulip season, the Bollenstreek is the most visited area as it’s easy to visit on a day trip from Amsterdam. It is home to the iconic Keukenhof Garden. However, there are also several tulip farms in the area like Tulip Experience, Tulip Barn, and De Tulperij, among others.

Goeree Overflakkee

This quiet yet vibrant island is home to some of the Netherland’s most stunning tulip fields. Many local farmers cultivate tulips here. In fact, about 10% of all Dutch tulips come from these fields! From late March to May, the island blossoms into a kaleidoscope of color, with vast expanses of tulips in every imaginable hue. This natural wonder remains a well-kept secret among the locals.

Noord-Holland

This charming province in the Netherlands is renowned for its vast, vibrant tulip fields. This area stands out due to its picturesque blend of traditional Dutch windmills and colorful tulip rows. The region is home to the largest interconnected tulip fields in the Netherlands.

Located an hour north of Amsterdam, you can reach the fields by driving along the A9 highway to Alkmaar, and then continuing on the N9 or N245 roads. The area around the Callantsoog–Schagen axis (between N9 and N245) was my favorite thanks to its expansive tulip vistas. Most fields in Noord-Holland are free to access while others charge a small fee (between $10 and $15).

Flevoland

Flevoland is one of the Netherlands’ most expansive tulip regions and hosts some of the best spring festivals. Encompassing towns like Dronten, Lelystad, and Zeewolde, the Noordoostpolder is home to some of the most stunning tulip fields you’ll ever see. I particularly loved Zeewolde because it felt like a tulip island.

The region also hosts several exciting events, such as the Tulip Route Flevoland and the Tulip Festival Noordoostpolder. The Tulip Route Flevoland allows cyclists to savor picturesque routes through the tulip fields of Eastern and Southern Flevoland. The festival goes for around $5 but you can pick the route, day, start time, and start location.

Meanwhile, the Tulip Festival Noordoostpolder is a fantastic way to delve deeper into the tulip trade, offering insightful exhibitions and local knowledge. If you’re in the area during the season, it’s an experience that’s not to be missed.

Drenthe

Drenthe is often overlooked by tourists in the tulip season but it’s just as endearing as the other zones on our list. Most of the Dutch locals have kept it as a secret, making it one of the few places across the country for serene adventures. While the region is still developing, it’s slowly winning the hearts of tulip enthusiasts, especially around the town of Smilde.

The tulip fields here are far much less crowded compared to other famous areas like Bollenstreek. One of the highlights is the Tulpenpracht bij Nacht (Tulips by Night event). On this tour, you’ll enjoy the stunning sight of tulip fields illuminated after dark—a magical spectacle.

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Famous Tulip Fields to Visit

Here we’ll talk about the specific tulip fields you can visit. Sadly many of them are private farms and they’re not opened to the public. There are signs saying ‘no entry’ and yet many people still walk all over the fields to snap photos. Please don’t be these people and try to visit only the tulip fields that are open to tourists.

Keukenhof Gardens

Located in Lisse (about 30 minutes from Amsterdam), Keukenhof Gardens are easiest tulip fields to access from the capital. You can get there on a bus, taxi, tour, or by driving. Known as the Garden of Europe, it spans 79 acres and showcases a dazzling array of tulips in every color and shape imaginable.

The gardens are only open for a limited time every year, typically from late March to mid-May, so it’s essential to plan your visit accordingly. Admission prices are $22.20 for adults when purchased online, or $27.60 at the ticket office. For children aged 4 to 17, tickets are $9.70 online and $15.40 at the gate, while children under 3 years old can enter for free. For those driving to the gardens, parking is available starting at $9.70.

The fields outside the gardens are just as breathtaking but heavily protected by the local farmers. You won’t be able to get too close to the blooms because the fields are fenced. However, you can take a guided tour to veer off the trail on this bike tour from Lisse.

Tulip Experience

Located in Noordwijkerhout, the family-run Tulip Experience is a must-visit. Home to nearly a million tulips, this immersive attraction lets you wander through fields bursting with color, featuring over 700 unique varieties. Beyond admiring the flowers, you can hand-pick your tulips to take home.

There is also an on-site tulip market where you can buy tulip-inspired products. Here, you’ll find everything from fragrant soaps and decorative vases to quirky finds like tulip-infused vodka, beer, and even Aperol Spritz.

The experience is both educational and immersive, with an optional audio tour (€2) available in 11 languages. Admission is €12 for adults, €6.50 for kids aged 3–11, and free for kids under 3, with free parking included.

Tulip Barn

Located just 30 minutes from Amsterdam, the Tulip Barn in Hillegom offers a vibrant and immersive tulip experience for entire family. There are over 750,000 tulips spread across its scenic gardens and production fields. Designed with photography in mind, this attraction is particularly popular among younger travelers looking to capture the perfect Instagram-worthy shot.

Beyond the stunning tulip displays, the site features a greenhouse, a terrace, and play areas for children, making it a family-friendly destination. Admission prices vary depending on when you visit, with regular tickets costing €10 on weekends (Monday to Thursday) and €8.50 on weekdays (Friday to Sunday). Children’s tickets go for €3.50 on weekdays and €4.50 on weekends.

De Tulperij

Located in Voorhout, De Tulperij is a delightful family-run tulip farm that offers an immersive experience into the world of Dutch floriculture. The farm boasts a vibrant show garden featuring a stunning array of spring blooms, including tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths. One of the unique experiences is the opportunity to walk through the fields with an experienced bulb grower.

They’ll demonstrate the intricate process of cultivating tulips—from planting to harvesting. You’ll see firsthand how bulbs are nurtured throughout the year to produce the breathtaking floral displays that the Netherlands is famous for.

For those enchanted by the blossoms, De Tulperij offers the option to order flowers from the show garden for fall delivery. General admission to the farm is free but guided tours pay a small fee.

Annemieke’s Pluktuin

Annemieke’s Pluktuin in Hillegom is run by the passionate husband-and-wife duo Annemieke and Pieter. The name Pluktuin translates to “picking garden,” perfectly describing the interactive experience at this farm.

Unlike the large, commercial tulip fields where picking is off-limits, here you can carefully pluck tulips—bulb and all—and take them home. It’s an especially fun activity for families, as kids are always eager to pick flowers.

My daughter was super excited to pick her flowers and this was her highlight of our time in the Netherlands. The farm charges no admission but you pay for every tulip picked. I paid €0.30 per tulip.

Hortus Bulborum

Located beside a quaint church in Limmen near Alkmaar, the Hortus Bulborum is a living museum dedicated to preserving the rich history of tulips. Founded in 1924 by schoolteacher Pieter Boschman, the garden safeguards centuries-old tulip varieties that might otherwise have disappeared.

Some of its 2,600 cultivars date back to the era of Tulipmania like the extravagant Zomerschoon, which once fetched astronomical prices in the 17th century. The garden also houses rare daffodils, double hyacinths, and striking fritillaries. Admission is €5.50 for adults while children under 12 can explore for free when accompanied by an adult.

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How to Visit Tulip Fields in the Netherlands

The best way to explore the tulip fields is on two wheels. The Dutch love cycling and there are bike lanes literally everywhere in the Netherlands. Plus, the fields are quite spread out and there aren’t anywhere to park (for those who are driving), and cycling is the most convenient way to get from one field to the next. There are several rental shops near Keukenhof but the gardens also offer bike rentals for visitors. Bike rental prices in Amsterdam start at around $14 for 24 hours ($18 with insurance).

For those who aren’t experienced bikers, it might be best to opt for guided tours to save you the headache of planning logistics. When we explored Keukenhof on this tour, we gained a deeper understanding for the artistry behind the tulip fields. Here are other guided tours to tulip fields to elevate your experience in the Netherlands;

Amsterdam: Tulip Farm Full Day Tour with Cruise

If you’re planning to visit Keukenhof—and you absolutely should—this full-day guided tour from Amsterdam is the perfect way to do so. The adventure begins with a visit to a charming tulip farm, where you’ll gain insight into the fascinating history of the tulip trade. As a delightful bonus, you’ll be treated to a slice of delicious homemade apple pie while taking in the vibrant surroundings.

From there, the tour continues to Keukenhof, where you’ll have the entire afternoon to wander through the world-famous gardens. To top off the day, you’ll embark on a picturesque canal cruise through quaint Dutch villages, passing by storybook windmills that seem straight out of a painting.

With round-trip transport from Amsterdam, this tour is a stress-free, immersive way to soak in the Netherlands’ most iconic spring scenery. Book the tour here.

Keukenhof: Flower Fields Small-Group Bike Tour

If cycling through endless rows of vibrant tulips sounds like a dream, this tour is the perfect way to do it. This tour departs from the Keukenhof parking lot to the fields and lasts around 3 hours. The organizers love to keep things intimate by keeping the group small (typically under ten people), for a more personal and relaxed ride.

Led by your guide, you’ll pedal through the picturesque Dutch countryside, fully immersing in the beauty of the fields. You’ll also gain fascinating insights into tulip farming, learning about the history and cultivation of these iconic flowers. Plus, there’s plenty of time for photo-ops, so you’ll leave with stunning snapshots of your time among the blooms. Book the tour here.

Amsterdam: Tulip Tour Keukenhof & City Tour Delft

Embark on a vibrant journey through Dutch culture and history with this 8.5-hour tour. You’ll arrive at Keukenhof Gardens before noon and then step into a floral paradise where millions of tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths bloom. Your guide will share fascinating insights into the history of tulips and their deep-rooted connection to the Netherlands.

In the afternoon, the tour takes you to the charming canal city of Delft, known for its Delftware pottery and rich artistic heritage. The exploration continues in Delft’s market square, a lively hub surrounded by historic landmarks, including the Old Church, City Hall, and New Church. Book the tour here.

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Famous Events and Festivals Centered around Tulips in the Netherlands

The Netherlands hosts several annual festivals that celebrate these beloved flowers in vibrant style. The Dutch have a deep appreciation for tulips, and each spring, the country bursts into color as festivals and gardens showcase millions of blooming bulbs.

Keukenhof Tulip Festival

The Keukenhof Tulip Festival is one of the Netherlands’ most celebrated spring events. Located in Lisse, Keukenhof is home to the largest flower garden on the planet, where millions of tulips bloom in a dazzling array of colors. While the festival is undeniably a feast for the eyes, it is also one of the most touristy experiences in the country.

So, you’ll definitely encounter large crowds and long queues, especially during peak hours. The festival typically runs from late March to mid-May, with exact dates shifting slightly each year depending on the weather.

Amsterdam Tulip Festival

With thousands of tulips blooming across more than 80 locations, the festival showcases the Netherlands’ deep-rooted love for this iconic flower. The event not only highlights the beauty of tulips but also embraces an ambitious goal: planting one tulip bulb for each resident of Amsterdam.

As you stroll along canals lined with vibrant blooms or explore hidden gardens bursting with color, you’ll experience a city that fully embraces the magic of spring. The event happens from 1^st to 30^th of April every year.

National Tulip Day

Every third Saturday of January, the Dutch celebrate National Tulip Day. It’s a vibrant celebration to mark the start of tulip season in the Netherlands. Organized by tulip growers, it takes place in Dam Square, where a big tulip garden is created. More than just a visual spectacle, the event brings together family and friends to bask in one of the Dutch’s most treasured plants.

Bloemencorso Flower Parade

For an unforgettable experience during tulip season, don’t miss the Bloemencorso Flower Parade. It’s a dazzling spectacle that brings the Dutch countryside to life with a riot of color and creativity. Held annually on the third Saturday of April, this grand procession winds its way from Noordwijk to Haarlem. It passes through the famous Bollenstreek region and Keukenhof’s floral wonderland.

Featuring around 20 elaborately decorated floats, lively marching bands, and festooned vehicles, the Bloemencorso Flower parade turns each town along the route into a vibrant celebration. Crowds gather early, some staking out their spot hours in advance, eager to secure the perfect view.

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How to Get to the Tulip Fields in the Netherlands

Getting to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is well-connected to the rest of Europe and the world, with direct flights to many major cities. Schiphol Airport is one of the busiest airports in Europe and is located just a few miles outside of the city center. You can fly from New York to Amsterdam for just US$479 return or Los Angeles to Amsterdam for US$713 round-trip.

It’s really cheap to fly to Amsterdam from other parts of Europe. If you’re flying from other parts of Europe,  flights from London to Amsterdam are incredibly cheap (around US$133 each way).

Amsterdam is also well-connected to many European cities by high-speed trains, including Paris, London, and Brussels. We’ve taken the Thalys train to Paris several times and it’s always comfortable and punctual (costs around the same as flights though).

Search for flights to Amsterdam here!

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Getting to Tulip Fields from Amsterdam

By Bus

To reach the stunning Keukenhof Gardens from Amsterdam, you can hop on one of the convenient Keukenhof Express buses. These run regularly from multiple locations including Schiphol Airport, Haarlem, and Leiden. The service is both affordable and efficient, making it a popular choice for many heading to the famous tulip fields.

The buses depart from various train stations in the Netherlands and typically cost between $34 and $38, depending on your departure point. While the buses are often crowded, especially during peak hours, standing room is available to accommodate all passengers. For those seeking an extra level of comfort, the Keukenhof Shuttle Bus offers a direct, non-stop ride from Amsterdam city center.

These offer guaranteed seating and depart every 30 minutes with flexible return times, allowing you to stay at the gardens as long as you’d like. A round-trip ticket for this premium service starts at around $30, while a combi ticket is priced at $38. This typically includes skip-the-line entry to the Keukenhof Gardens. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience, the Tulip Festival Card (priced at $66) offers additional perks like a canal cruise and discounts on other tours.

By Taxi

Getting to the Keukenhof tulip gardens by taxi from Amsterdam is a convenient option if you’re looking to avoid public transport. Taxis in Amsterdam are widely accessible and can be found at designated taxi stands or hailed on the street.

Official taxis are easily identifiable by their blue license plates and a sign on the roof. Taxis generally accept credit cards, but it’s always a good idea to confirm with the driver beforehand to avoid any surprises. However, it’s worth noting that taxis can be quite costly—expect to pay around $16 for a trip within the city center.

The Keukenhof garden is 42 km away from downtown Amsterdam, expect to pay around $95. If you’re going straight from Amsterdam Schiphol Airport to the gardens, it’s just 22 km, and the fare begins at around $54. However, you can negotiate rates with the driver for better deals.

By Car Rental

Driving to the tulip fields is a seamless experience, thanks to the country’s top-notch road system. With an extensive network of well-maintained motorways, traveling between cities and countryside attractions like the famous flower fields is smooth and efficient. However, the country has a strong commitment to cyclists, so always be alert especially in and around Amsterdam.

To rent a car in the Netherlands, you must be 21 or older, though certain car categories may require a higher age. Also, keep in mind that drivers under 25 may incur an underage fee. This can range from $15 to $30 per day, depending on the rental agency. For car rentals, we always use Discover Cars, as they consistently offer the best rates and customer service, with rentals typically starting from as low as $19 per day. Search for car rentals in Amsterdam here!

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How Much Time to Visit Tulip Fields Netherlands

The ideal amount of time to spend in the tulip fields depends on your interests, but generally, 2-4 hours is fine. This allows enough time to wander through its meticulously designed floral displays, take photos, and perhaps even explore the nearby fields.

Those who love nature walks might find themselves lingering longer. If you’re exploring expansive tulip regions like Noord Holland or Drenthe, you might want to dedicate a half or even a full day to driving or cycling between fields.

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Rules of Tulip Fields in the Netherlands

When visiting tulip fields in the Netherlands, it’s important to respect both the beauty of the flowers and the hard work of local farmers. To ensure a responsible and enjoyable visit, keep these guidelines in mind:

• Stay on designated paths: Always stick to roads and pathways adjacent to the fields to avoid trampling crops.
• Do not walk through the flowers: Entering the fields without permission is not only harmful to the tulips but is also considered trespassing.
• Respect signage: Pay attention to posted signs, as they indicate where visitors are allowed.
• Take photos from a distance: Capture stunning pictures while remaining outside the field boundaries.
• Visit designated areas: If you want an up-close experience, consider visiting tulip farms that offer official picking areas.
• Be mindful of farmers: Remember that these fields are a livelihood for many farmers—always treat them with care and respect.

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Where to Stay in the Netherlands

Most of the tulip fields are just 1-2 hours from Amsterdam, so most people base themselves in Amsterdam and do day trips from there. Amsterdam has a wide range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Be sure to book well in advance, particularly during peak travel periods, to secure your ideal accommodation. 

Hotels in the center are expensive; those on a budget can find much better hotel deals if you go further out, to areas such as Oud West, Jordaan, and the up-and-coming Noord neighborhood. Check out Rentola Amsterdam for well-priced apartments in central locations.

Unique:  Crane Hotel Faralda

For a truly unconventional experience, book a stay at this crane-top hotel by the harbor, boasting luxurious suites overlooking the entire city. I have always wanted to stay here but still haven’t had the chance. Let me know how your stay goes! Check rates here.

Luxury: Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam 

This luxurious hotel is housed in a series of historic canal houses in the heart of Amsterdam. The rooms are elegant and spacious, and the hotel boasts an indoor pool, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant. Check rates here.

Luxury: Pulitzer Amsterdam 

This stylish and sophisticated hotel is located in a set of converted 17th-century canal houses, and features chic rooms with contemporary decor. The hotel also has a garden courtyard, a restaurant and bar, and a fitness center. Check rates here.

Mid Range: The Hoxton, Amsterdam 

This trendy boutique hotel is located in the heart of the city, and features stylish rooms with unique design touches. The hotel also has a buzzing lobby bar, a chic restaurant, and a rooftop terrace with views over the city. Check rates here.

Mid Range: CitizenM Amsterdam Amstel

This trendy budget-friendly hotel offers compact yet stylish rooms, featuring sleek and modern design. The hotel also has a 24-hour canteen, a chic bar, and a rooftop lounge with stunning views of the city. Check rates here.

Budget: Stayokay Amsterdam Vondelpark

This modern and eco-friendly hostel is located right next to the beautiful Vondelpark, and features comfortable and colorful dorms and private rooms. The hostel also has a bar and restaurant, a game room, and a spacious terrace. It’s known for its friendly staff and lively atmosphere. Check rates here.

Budget: Cocomama

This cozy and charming hostel is housed in a historic building in the trendy De Pijp neighborhood, and features comfortable and uniquely decorated dorms and private rooms. The hostel also has a fully-equipped kitchen, a cozy lounge, and a lovely outdoor garden. It’s known for its homely feel and helpful staff. Check rates here.

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Where to Eat in Amsterdam

• De Kas – Located in a set of greenhouses in Park Frankendael, De Kas offers a farm-to-table dining experience featuring seasonal produce grown on site. The daily changing menu includes meat, fish, and vegetarian options, and the airy, greenhouse setting is both beautiful and unique. Read reviews here.
• Restaurant Blauw – We used to come here often on weekends! This is the best place for authentic Indonesian food. The star of the show is the rijsttafel, a multi-course meal of small plates that’s perfect for sharing. The restaurant’s colorful decor and friendly service make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Read reviews here.
• Cannibale Royale – If you’re in the mood for some hearty comfort food, Cannibale Royale is the place to go. They specialize in burgers, steaks, and ribs, all cooked to perfection on a charcoal grill. Read reviews here.
• Bakers & Roasters — This cozy cafe is known for its delicious breakfast and brunch options, with a menu that features everything from avocado toast to American-style pancakes. The cafe also serves excellent coffee and fresh juices, and has a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Read reviews here. Read reviews.
• The Avocado Show — A true pioneer in the avocado trend that has swept the world, this avocado-focused cafe celebrates the humble avocado, with aethestically pleasing dishes that taste as good as they look. Read reviews here.
• Pluk – This cute and colorful cafe is located in the trendy Nine Streets neighborhood and is a great spot for breakfast or brunch. The menu features healthy and fresh options like acai bowls, smoothies, and avocado toast, as well as sweet treats like homemade cakes and pastries. Read reviews here.
• De Bakkerswinkel – This bakery and cafe has several locations throughout the city and is known for its fresh bread, pastries, and sandwiches. The breakfast menu includes options like yogurt with granola, quiche, and croissants, and the atmosphere is cozy and inviting. Read reviews here.

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Plan Your Visit to Tulip Fields Netherlands

Thank you for reading this far! I hope you’ve enjoyed this tulip fields Netherlands travel guide and found it helpful.

When are you planning to visit? Which tulip farms interest you the most? Feel free to ask any questions in the comments below—I’d be happy to answer them! Here are more of my articles from Amsterdam and other parts of Europe:

• Best Day Trips from Amsterdam
• Oud West Amsterdam
• Moving to Amsterdam
• Best Christmas Markets in Germany
• What to Eat in Germany
• Weekend in Porto
• Weekend in London
• Weekend in Bucharest
• Weekend in Amsterdam

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links to companies I use and trust. I get a small commission when you click on my links, at NO EXTRA COST TO YOU.

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